Safety & First Aid

Emergency preparedness, trail hazards, and first aid for hiking dogs.

42 articles available

Buying Guides

The Ultimate Dog Hiking Gear Checklist for 2026

Our complete field-tested gear guide covers harnesses, boots, packs, hydration, and everything else your dog needs on trail.

By Kelly Lund

Fi Collar vs Garmin T5X: Cellular or Satellite GPS?

We tested both GPS technologies in the backcountry. One works everywhere. The other needs cell towers.

By Kelly Lund

Product Reviews

Ruffwear Web Master Review: The Ultimate Scrambler

After 200+ miles testing the Ruffwear Web Master with Jasper, my 95-pound German Shepherd, I learned why avalanche rescue teams trust this harness in life-or-death situations.

By Kelly Lund

Garmin T5X Dog Device Review: Pro-Level GPS Tracking for Wilderness Hiking

We tested the Garmin T5X GPS tracker over 200 miles of backcountry terrain. Here's whether the 9-mile range and 80-hour battery justify the pro-level price.

By Kelly Lund

Mushers Secret Paw Wax Review: Real Protection?

We tested Musher's Secret on 200+ trail miles with a 95 lb German Shepherd. Here's whether this paw wax actually protects against salt, ice, and hot pavement.

By Kelly Lund

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Dog Salmon Poisoning Symptoms (The 14-Day Fatality Window)

Raw salmon carries a parasite that kills 90 percent of untreated dogs. Learn the day-six symptom timeline, PNW risk zones, and why immediate vet care is required.

By Kelly Lund

Dog Trail Grades Explained (The 10 Percent Rule)

Learn how to calculate trail steepness from topographic map contour lines and why sustained 15 percent grades risk dog shoulder injuries on descents.

By Kelly Lund

Stopping Dog Paw Ice Balls (Why Bare Paws Fail in Snow)

Prevent abrasive ice balls from forming between a dog's toes on winter hikes. We break down paw trimming methods, barrier waxes, and on-trail removal.

By Kelly Lund

Checking Dog Paws After a Hike (The 2-Minute Wheelbarrow Method)

Inspect your dog's paws systematically after every hike. Learn the wheelbarrow technique to find hidden cuts, abrasions, and debris before they cause a limp.

By Kelly Lund

What Is Limber Tail in Dogs (Why Hikes and Cold Water Cause It)

Your dog's tail went completely limp after a hike or a cold swim. Learn what causes limber tail syndrome, how to spot it, and when you need a vet.

By Sarah Keller

Do Long Lines Work on Hikes? (Stop Tangling the Leash)

A 15-foot long line gives your dog freedom on strict leash trails, but it requires active handling. Learn how to prevent tangles and manage slack safely.

By Sarah Keller