THE BACKROAD JOURNAL

Dog hiking boots are useful in the right conditions, but not every trail requires them. Learn when paw protection helps, how to check fit, and how to acclimate your dog.

There is no one-size-fits-all trail-water number. Learn how weather, distance, dog size, exertion, and route access should shape your hiking water plan.

Before you hit the trail, use this dog hiking checklist to plan the route, pack water and safety gear, protect paws, manage wildlife encounters, and leave the trail better than ...