SATURDAY RUCK 🐾⛰️
It’s Saturday and you know what that means, our weekly ruck with the dogs 🐾⛰️
We’re getting ready for our backpacking trip at the end of September, so these have become part of our weekend routine. Last week we did 1.5 miles with the dogs, and this week we wanted to see how two felt. Mileage is a helpful metric for us to track, but hitting a number is never the goal.
Today we have a heat advisory with temps around 95° plus an air quality alert, so we got out early while it was still cloudy and before the sun really came out. Stormi does noticeably better in those conditions, which is especially important while he’s still a puppy.
Based on the guidance we’ve gotten, we’re paying attention to his breathing, pace, energy, how he’s walking, whether he starts looking for shade or water, and how he recovers during breaks. Weather, energy and recovery tell us just as much as the mileage does.
A few things we always bring: plenty of water, high-value treats for training, and adjustable leashes that we can shorten when we need the dogs a little closer.
You can always add another mile next week. The goal is always to make sure everyone gets home and gets home feeling good. 🥾🐾🏔️
#DogHiking #BackpackingPrep #RuckingWithDogs #HikingWithDogs #OutdoorDogs
Embarking on regular rucks with dogs, especially when preparing for a backpacking trip, demands careful attention not just to mileage but to factors like weather, air quality, and the wellbeing of your canine companions. From personal experience, starting early in the day when temperatures are cooler and the air quality is better can make a huge difference in how enjoyable and safe the hike is for your dogs, particularly puppies still acclimating to strenuous activity. Monitoring your dog's breathing, pace, and behavior is crucial; signs such as seeking shade frequently or slowing down indicate the need for a break or possibly ending the ruck early. I always carry plenty of water—not just for hydration but also to cool down my dogs during rest stops—and high-value treats to keep them motivated and engaged during the walk. Adjustable leashes are invaluable because they allow quick control adjustments, keeping dogs close in tighter or more challenging sections of the trail. One key lesson I’ve learned is to avoid fixating on hitting a specific distance. Sometimes the conditions mean you cover less ground, but that's okay—the priority is that everyone arrives home happy and healthy. Adding a mile next time is always an option when the environment and energy levels are right. Lastly, keeping track of your weekly progress by mileage and how your dogs respond physically and emotionally helps tailor future workouts, ensuring your pack is ready for longer adventures. These ruck preparations not only strengthen the bond between you and your dogs but also build resilience and stamina for the exciting backpacking trips ahead.