Val di Fassa with your dog: practical tips for walking
Walking in the mountains with your dog is one of life's simple pleasures. Before you set off, though, it's worth bearing in mind a few simple rules. They're designed to protect nature, respect life in the mountain pastures, and encourage sensible and considerate behaviour on the trails - for your own sake, for your dog's, and for anyone you meet along the way.
Our tips
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Keep your dog on a lead (ideally no longer than 1.5 metres) and under control. Keep your dog close to you when you encounter other people, whether they have a pet or not, and whether they're on foot or on a bike.
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Obey the signage. Take care around children's playgrounds and mixed-use paths, which are used by both walkers and cyclists. Many trails pass through protected areas inhabited by wildlife or pastures with free-grazing livestock, often guarded by herding dogs.
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A muzzle and a lead are mandatory on public transport and ski lifts.
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Follow the marked trails. Don't take shortcuts and respect private property.
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Pick up after your dog. This is important because dog waste can contaminate meadows and pastures grazed by ruminants. Don't leave dog waste bags in the countryside. Dispose of them in designated bins.
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Check your dog's skin after walks to look for any small wounds, ticks or insect bites. During the colder months, it's important to protect your dog's paw pads from cracking. If your dog doesn't like wearing booties, you can apply special protective waxes or balms.
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Keep your distance from livestock and ensure your dog is kept close to you: barking, running or sudden movements can startle free-grazing animals.
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Take a bowl and a water bottle with you: you won't always find fountains or streams along the trails where you can give your dog a drink, especially at high altitudes.
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Don't cycle with your dog on a lead: this is prohibited by the Highway Code and can be dangerous for both you and your dog. If you want to enjoy activities with your dog, stop and continue on foot.
Approached with respect and mindfulness, every walk can become a meaningful encounter - with nature, fellow hikers, and the people who look after the mountains day after day.
