Re: Good Dog Breed for Hikers

The time you spend at home is much greater than the time you go hiking. Therefore the main question is to find a dog that fits into the daily situation. Living alone in a farmhouse or with 4 children in an appartment makes great difference, also in choice of dog breed. Is the dog left alone when you are at work, or is there someone at home. Some breeds may chew on carpets or shoes if they are alone and bored.

Most medium sized dogs make a good companion on hiking trips. If you want the dog to carry some of the gear and food, the weight of the dog should be 15 kg or more. Extremely great dogs like Great Dane or Newfoundlander take so much space that you must consider them as a extra person in the tent.

Some dogs have short hair, and will freeze in winter conditions. They must have an extra coat even when they walk. Only the polar breeds may sleep in the snow without freezing when they are used to it.

Yes there are many things to consider, but the main is the the family and daily living situation. The trips on a hike is just the sugar on the cake. Right now I'm on night shift, but to morrow I will go for my long skiing trip this year. Wish me good weather folks, Ill be back in 10 days.
/Otto