Cleaning Up After Your Dogs and Being Mindful of Other Trail Users

Hiking with your dogs is one of life’s greatest pleasures, offering quality time in nature and a chance to strengthen your bond. However, this privilege comes with responsibilities. Practicing good trail etiquette ensures that everyone—humans, dogs, and wildlife—can enjoy the outdoors safely and harmoniously. By respecting the environment, cleaning up after your dogs, and being considerate of other trail users, you contribute to a welcoming and sustainable outdoor space for all.

Let’s explore how we can keep the trails clean, safe, and enjoyable while setting an example for others.

1. Cleaning Up After Your Dogs

Dog waste isn’t just unpleasant for fellow hikers; it can also harm ecosystems, spread diseases, and attract unwanted wildlife. Being diligent about cleanup is one of the simplest yet most impactful ways to practice trail etiquette.

Always Pack Waste Bags

• • Bring biodegradable waste bags for all your dogs, and carry extras for longer hikes or unexpected situations.

  • Keep bags easily accessible—consider attaching them to your leash, backpack, or belt for quick use.

Dispose of Waste Properly

• • Use designated trash bins when available. If none are nearby, pack the waste out with you until you can dispose of it responsibly.

  • Never leave bagged waste on the side of the trail, even if you plan to pick it up later—it’s easy to forget and leaves a negative impact on the environment.

For Backcountry or Remote Trails

• • When trash facilities aren’t available, use odor-proof bags to pack out waste.

  • In rare cases where packing out isn’t feasible, bury the waste at least 6 inches deep and 200 feet away from water sources, campsites, and trails to minimize environmental impact.

2. Managing Your Dogs Around Other Trail Users

Not everyone you encounter on the trail will feel comfortable around dogs, so it’s important to be considerate and proactive in managing their behavior.

Respect Personal Space

• Keep your dogs leashed or under close control whenever you encounter others, especially on narrow or crowded trails.

• Step off the trail to allow hikers, bikers, or equestrians to pass, positioning your dogs on the side farthest from the other party.

Handling Greetings

• Always ask for permission before allowing your dogs to greet other hikers or their dogs. Some people may have allergies, fears, or just prefer to avoid interactions.

• If a greeting is welcomed, ensure your dogs are calm and keep the interaction brief and positive.

• If your dogs are overly excited or reactive, it’s best to keep moving and avoid unnecessary stress for everyone.

3. Following Trail Rules and Regulations

Every trail has its own set of rules, and many are designed to protect wildlife and ensure the safety of all visitors. Familiarizing yourself with these guidelines helps you avoid unintentional harm.

Leash Requirements

• Adhere to posted leash laws, which are often in place to minimize conflicts and protect the surrounding wildlife.

• Use a sturdy, non-retractable leash for better control, especially in areas with leash requirements or potential hazards.

Check Trail Accessibility

• Before setting out, confirm that the trail is dog-friendly. Some areas, especially national parks and fragile ecosystems, may have restrictions or prohibit dogs altogether.

• Be mindful of off-leash areas and ensure your dogs have a reliable recall before letting them roam freely.

4. Sharing the Trail

Understanding who has the right of way and how to manage interactions is key to creating a positive experience for everyone on the trail.

General Trail Etiquette

• Yield to uphill hikers when descending, as climbing requires more effort.

• When encountering equestrians, step off the trail on the downhill side and keep your dogs calm and quiet to avoid startling the horses.

Meeting Other Dogs

• Keep interactions with other dogs brief and positive if both parties agree to a greeting. Otherwise, maintain distance and continue walking calmly past.

5. Minimizing Environmental Impact

Being mindful of the environment ensures that the trails we love remain beautiful and accessible for future generations.

Stick to the Trail

• Keep your dogs on designated paths to avoid damaging vegetation or disturbing wildlife habitats.

• Prevent them from trampling delicate plants or veering into protected areas.

Avoid Wildlife Disturbances

• Use commands like “leave it” or “stay close” to prevent your dogs from chasing or harassing wildlife.

• Remember, even a curious sniff can disrupt the balance of an ecosystem.

6. Setting a Positive Example

As responsible dog owners, we set the tone for how others perceive dogs on trails. By practicing good trail etiquette, we show that dogs and nature can coexist peacefully.

• Be prepared, proactive, and respectful of the environment and others.

• Encourage fellow hikers with dogs to clean up, follow trail rules, and keep their pets under control.

Trail etiquette is about more than just following rules—it’s about creating a harmonious experience for everyone who shares the trail. Cleaning up after your dogs, managing their behavior, and respecting the environment are simple but powerful actions that make a big difference.

When we prioritize respect and mindfulness, we protect these spaces not only for ourselves and our dogs but for the entire outdoor community. Let’s lead by example and keep our trails safe, clean, and welcoming for generations to come. Happy hiking!