7 rules to proper outdoor etiquette with your dog
Whether you’re hiking, biking, or lounging on the greens, follow these guidelines to respect the outdoors and your neighbors.
The days are getting warmer, the sun’s out longer, and people are getting antsier and antsier for this year’s outdoor season. As dog parents and Austinites, the team at Maev is no stranger to the stresses of organizing a full day outdoors. There’s the snacks, the itinerary, the gear — and the preplanning for every possible trail scenario gone wrong.
Those include considering and caring for the people around you, most of whom are strangers to you and your dog. Trail and outdoor etiquette makes this easier on everyone, and ensures that everybody (including our four-legged friends) has the most seamless and fun experience possible. Before you head out on the first excursions of the season, take a second to refresh yourself on these golden rules for outdoor etiquette.
Keep your dog on a leash at all times.
You’re bound to encounter all sorts of people and activity out on the trails — some faster or more intense than others. As a dog owner, this requires sharp wit and speedy reaction times to reign in your dog and keep all parties out of harm’s way. The general rule of thumb is to keep your dog leashed or under strict voice command, for everyone’s sake.
Keep in mind, experts highly recommend against using retractable leashes while hiking. The cords are often not effective or strong enough at controlling your dog or helping them learn restraint.
Always respect other strangers’ space.
Unlike at a dog park, trails and the great outdoors are designed to be enjoyed by people of all kinds. Before you let your dog run free, consider those with allergies, young children, fears, or simply the desire for a distraction-less hike. While you can’t control everything, it is a dog owner’s responsibility to look out for the comfort of others.
Always mind the trail signs.
Stay alert to trail signs or markers that help guide you and your dog the right way. Some trails have designated off-leash areas near the route’s end. Other trails warn when you’re approaching a particularly narrow or steep section. So when in doubt, follow the signs!
Know your right of way.
Yes, there is a hierarchy of right of ways that most trail enthusiasts follow. With a dog by your side, it’s even more important to know when to let others pass. Generally speaking, the order goes:
People on apparatus or moving at high speeds. (Think bikers.)
People hiking or enjoying the trails on foot.
People with dogs!
No 💩 left behind.
You know what this means: Make sure you pack extra bags, and keep that poop radar on high. Even though you’re in the great outdoors, basic bathroom rules still apply — if your dog goes #2, it’s your responsibility to clean up.
Stay hydrated.
An afternoon outdoors can be exhausting, and sun exhaustion is no joke. Be sure to pack enough water for you and your dog — plus some high-value treats to help incentivize good behavior.
You are your dog’s keeper.
This is really what it all comes down to. The golden “Leave No Trace” rule extends far beyond just picking up poop or keeping your dog close. It’s about consciously minding others and staying aware of your surroundings — even if for complete strangers or when no one’s watching.