Hiking is an excellent way to keep both yourself and your dog fit, motivated, and healthy. However, when it comes to endurance and intense physical activity, it can be difficult to gauge how your beloved corgi would cope.
Can corgis hike?
Corgis are a herding breed with great endurance and high energy which makes them a great dog for hiking. They should be limited to shorter hikes with less rough terrain. Since Corgis are a smaller breed of dog, you should always use a leash when hiking to be as safe as possible.
If you are a corgi owner and you are currently contemplating whether to take her with you during your next outdoor hiking adventure, you are in the right place.
Keep reading to find out why corgis are surprisingly great hiking companions!
Hiking With Corgis
Corgis are incredibly intelligent pets and ideal for pet lovers who want an agile and active companion to keep them on their toes.
Don’t let their diminutive size fool you; corgis are active and lively pets and can make great hiking partners thanks to their above-average strength and stamina.
However, it is worth noting that they will only hike better under the right conditions, and this means there are certain factors that you’ll need to take into account.
Corgis will only hike well on easy terrain that is majorly flat since it’s tougher for them to climb. If the terrain you have chosen is somehow simple, then your lovely Pembroke Welsh corgi should just be fine!
Limitations When Taking Your Corgi Hiking
Corgis are generally known to be among the most intelligent, joyful, and extroverted dog breeds. And hiking is a fantastic way to stimulate their agile minds. Sufficient physical activity will help keep your pet healthy and happy.
While corgis are generally highly energetic pets, their physique means they are also limited in some way. First and foremost, their legs are more suitable for easy and flat terrain.
What’s more, the fact that their legs are short puts them at risk for arthritis, heap dysplasia, and other elbow and knee problems.
It is also imperative to note that corgis are predisposed to intervertebral disk disease because of the stress their backs undergo over a lifetime of being supported by short limbs.
Can Corgis Climb Mountains?
Corgis can climb mountains as long as there is a minimal incline while going up. It’s important that the Corgi goes at a comfortable pace while climbing. For steeper mountains it’s recommended to lift and carry the Corgi over the section since too much climbing could increase the risk of injuries.
It’s also important to note that Corgis who aren’t adults should be watched carefully when climbing since it will be much more difficult when they’re younger.
Tips for Hiking With a Corgi
Choose a Dog-Friendly Trail
Before you set out for your hiking journey, you should first confirm that your chosen hiking spot is a dog-friendly zone. This will help avoid any unwanted confrontations as well as fines from the authorities.
Because of their low back and short legs, corgis will usually find it quite difficult to navigate steep terrains. To be on the safest side, you should research your hike ahead of time to assess the terrain to see if it is indeed safe for your dog.
Corgis are at their prime when running on flat ground, particularly grasslands.
Give Your Corgi Some Essential Gear
Just like humans, dogs too need the necessary gear to help them brave nature and remain comfortable during the hiking adventure.
Some useful hiking gear you would want to make available for your dog include a harness, first aid kit, canine footwear, collars with added functionality, cooling vest, antibacterial wipes, paw wax, corgi backpack, food as well as water kits.
Avoid Bodies of Water
In case you didn’t know, corgis have a deeper chest compared to other dog breeds. While this makes them great hiking pets, it also, unfortunately, make them bad swimmers! This is because their deeper chest means they are heavier in their upper bodies, so they find it hard to balance while in water.
Unless your corgi is an excellent swimmer, you should get her a life jacket. Also, your corgi should not drink water from lakes and rivers, as such sources can potentially be breeding grounds for parasites and bacteria.
Conclusion
Generally, corgis are amazing hiking pets and nothing should deter you from hitting the trail with your dwarf furry friend. They have a ton of energy and can hike for quite a while before getting tired!
However, because of their physique, great caution should be taken when walking your corgi in the wilderness to ensure a problem-free and safe hiking experience. Always start with short and easy hikes to make sure your Corgi is in good enough shape to join you on your adventure!
