There’s nothing quite as relaxing like an old-fashioned hike in the woods, local park or nearby water hole with your dog. “Relaxing?” you scoff kicking your feet up on the couch. “It’s just too cold and windy outside right now,” you grumble to your dog lying patiently by your side.

At some point your dog is likely to get restless. You feel a pair of brown eyes staring intently while you try to stare at the TV or iPad screen.  “Lie down,” you command.   Five quiet minutes’ pass.  Now Fido’s head is in your lap, eyes begging, body squirming, tail wagging all conveying a message of…………… “Let’s Go!”

Of course, “hiking” for many people is just a sugar-coated word for exercise. Most of us have a great excuse list already prepared for such occasions. Dogs, however, crave exercise as FUN times with you.  It’s just not fair to let your dog’s life slip by as nothing more than a lap pillow or rug ornament. Go have some fun.

Make your hiking a light, enjoyable form of down-time for both. Bonding with your pack should also be another goal of your excursion. Trained dogs can be left to wander along with you. Beginners, those who do not come in reliably when called, will benefit from a long drag line or retractable leash. Incorporate a few minutes of sit and here drills but don’t overdo it.

The lousier the weather the better. It’s a calling card to go hike. Every trail, lake or park will be empty and yours to freely roam. Schedule your walks on your calendar if that’s what it takes to get outside.

Don’t forget to take some scenic selfies with your four-legged friend to remind yourself of the good times together.   Next time Fido starts pestering you, he just might find you willing and ready to go with leash in hand.