LitePack.com Hiking tips, camping tips campfire cooking.

Question by John Doe: How necessary are protective “boots” for my dog when hiking in rocky areas in the mountains of New Mexico?
I just moved to Santa FE, NM. I’ve taken my dog (an 11 year old Vizsla) hiking twice on trails in the nearby foothills of the Santa Fe National Forest. My dog seemed to be her usual happy, energetic self on the trails that are much more rocky than what she was used to back east on stream valley trails in the Maryland suburbs of Washington, DC. Other dogs I’ve seen on the trails weren’t wearing boots, but I’m wondering whether they might be a good idea. I’m guessing that boots are not necessary, but I welcome any comments.

Best answer:

Answer by RoVale
I would do it because the sharp edges of the rocks will tear up the dog’s foot pads. I have seen dogs that have walked on sharp surfaces for long periods of time and it isn’t pretty.

What do you think? Answer below!