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Going to the mountains with your dog is one of the most beautiful experiences. But it carries specific risks that require preparation: altitude, cold, wildlife, and technical trails.

Preparation

Pre-Trip Veterinary Visit

  • Vaccination status (rabies, leptospirosis always)
  • Updated antiparasitic treatment
  • Heartworm prophylaxis if in endemic areas
  • Tetanus vaccine for dogs that frequent woods

Progressive Training

You don't start with a "city walk" and then do 4 hours of trekking. Prepare with:

  • Longer walks in the weeks leading up to the trip
  • Trails with moderate elevation gain before tackling technical ones
  • Consider that your dog gets tired before you do (thermal fatigue + effort)

What to Bring

Essentials

  • Water + collapsible bowl (dogs drink a lot on the way up)
  • Dog food
  • Energy snacks (for fatigue)
  • H harness + leash (never a collar while trekking)
  • Hygiene bags

Safety

  • Veterinary first aid kit (gauze, disinfectant, tick tweezers)
  • Local veterinary contact numbers
  • Emergency blanket
  • Paw protection shoes (for snow, ice, rocky trails)

For the Cold

  • Jacket (for short-haired, small breed dogs)
  • Towel for drying them off

The Risks

Heat + Altitude

It can get hot in the mountains during summer. Altitude reduces oxygen, and your dog tires quicker.

Cold and Hypothermia

Small dogs, elderly dogs, or brachycephalic breeds are at risk of hypothermia even at 5°C with wind.

Wildlife

  • Wild Boars: your dog may chase one and find itself in danger
  • Wolves: in alpine or Apennine areas, documented attacks
  • Vipers: dangerous bite, antidote available at local veterinarians
  • Processionary Caterpillars: fatal if ingested (in pine areas)

Ticks

Very high density in wooded areas. Antiparasitic treatment is mandatory + manual checks after every outing.

The 30% Rule

Your dog tires about 30% before you do. If you are halfway through the trek, your dog is already at 60-70%. Plan your outings considering your dog.

Trails to Avoid

  • Via Ferrata: prohibited for dogs for obvious reasons
  • Trails above 2,500 m if not acclimatized to altitude
  • Sections with chains or metal stairs: risk of slipping
  • Exposed trails in intense heat with no shade

In Conclusion

The mountains with your dog are extraordinary with the right preparation. Start with short outings, train progressively, and equip yourself for emergencies. And remember: your dog cannot tell you, "I'm tired." It’s up to you to understand.

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