How to Bond With Your Dog in the Great Outdoors

Shooting stars, moss-covered canyons, the hours after an ice storm when every tree branch glistens within a layer of glass — there are few things in life that count as truly magical — but the bond between a woman and her dog is at the top of the list. 

If you’ve ever loved a dog, you know just what we mean. There’s an unspoken connection that goes far beyond loyalty. Research shows that when we spend time with dogs, we get a surge of oxytocin, and that dogs get that same boost when we pet them and look into their eyes. 

Plus, there’s the pure joy we can’t help but feel vicariously when we watch them play in the waves, dig furiously in the sand, and just revel in their unadulterated dogginess. Dogs encourage us to be present, to explore fearlessly, and to embrace the simple pleasures. 

In celebration of this transportive women-dog bond, we’ve created a guide to hiking with your dog and making the most out of exploring the great outdoors with a puppy by your side. Ready to deepen your connection and explore more together? Here’s how to make every outdoor adventure safe, fun, and fulfilling for both you and your pup — and don't forget to pack your naturally sustainable Merino Innerwear to keep you comfortable, too! 

Tips for Outdoor Adventure with Your Dog 

Getting outside with your dog is thrilling and freeing, but it’s important to be prepared. Consider these pro tips for your next outdoor adventure. 

1. Scout dog-friendly areas. There’s no bigger buzzkill than packing up the car and driving to the trailhead only to find a sign reading “no dogs allowed.” Before you go, do some dog-friendly research. Apps like AllTrails and BringFido make this easy. The National Parks Service has an area of their website dedicated to pet owners, too. 

2. Mind the weather. Dogs have more difficulty regulating their body temperature than humans, and are especially sensitive to heat. The American Kennel Club advises that dogs can overheat easily in temperatures 80 degrees and up. If it’s hot outside, it might be best to postpone. 

3. Pack for two. Your dog needs gear too! Essentials include: collapsible water bowl and plenty of water, leash or harness, snacks or kibble, poop bags, and a doggy first aid kit. 

4. Consider dog hiking booties. Yes, they might look a little silly, but hiking booties can provide important protection for your dog’s sensitive paws. They can be especially useful on sunny days when the ground will be warm, navigating icy areas which can slice tender paws, and hiking exposed areas above the treeline which can cause sensitivity due to rough terrain. Paw wax can provide great protection, as well. 

5. Stop and smell the roses. Ever wonder why your dog is sniffing around when you just want to keep on trekking? Dogs explore the world through smell. In fact, they have a special scent organ called the vomeronasal organ and the olfactory area of their brain is 40-times larger than humans. Check your summit fever and tune in with your pup. Let them take plenty of sniff breaks to ensure they have a great time, too. 

   

6. Watch out for wildlife. Keeping your distance from wildlife is a good rule of thumb for any sort of hiking, but it becomes more critical when you're hiking with your dog as the laws of nature can take over. If you’re in a bear zone, carry bear spray and watch for snakes on the trail who could bite if your dog gets too close. 

7. Teach a “trail signal” command. Train your dog to respond to a unique sound—like a whistle, clicker, or specific word—for trail recall. This is especially helpful in off-leash areas. 

8. Clip on a carabineer. Having a carabiner for your backpack or belt loop can come in handy on uneven terrain, so you can free up your hands to grab rocks or pull out your trekking poles while keeping your dog’s leash securely attached. 

9. Monitor hydration. Dehydration can be dangerous for your pup and contribute to heatstroke. Make sure to offer water frequently and take a break if you notice excessive panting or hanging back. 

10. Enjoy the journey. Yes, there’s some preparation necessary to make sure your adventure is safe and enjoyable—but once you're out there, let the worry fade and soak up the moments with your furry friend. The best hikes aren’t measured by distance, but by the memories—and paw prints—made along the way.

Your and Your BFF’s Adventure Checklist 

Need a little inspiration? Try seeing how many of these adventures you can check off your list. 

• Catch a sunset together from your favorite trail. 

• Swim in an alpine lake, doggy paddle required. 

• Paddleboard, canoe, or raft with your pup as co-captain.

• Stargaze side-by-side on a clear night. 

• Camp for a weekend in a dog-friendly national forest.

• Find a wildflower field and take some frolicking photos. 

• Celebrate with a post-hike nap in a hammock together.

• Visit a dog-friendly beach and run along the shoreline.

Dogs of BRANWYN 

To know dogs is to love them—and know them we do! Enjoy these photos of the dogs of BRANWYN adventuring (and resting). Please show us yours! We’d love to see you and your pup. Reach out to @branwynofficial on Instagram or email us anytime at info@branwyn.com.

Archie

Ljubica

Banksy

Finn

Ali

Poppy

Sasha 

Tommy