Hiking with dog in winter
Pure fitness:
In winter, snowshoeing is the optimal activity to train endurance, strength, mobility and cardiovascular system and to burn calories. Snowshoeing strengthens the entire musculature and promotes balance. It is more strenuous than hiking, because walking in the snow burns up more energy - at medium intensity around 500 calories per hour. In addition, the risk of accidents and injuries is low and the joints are spared.
When calculating a hike, there is an additional charge of approx. 25% for winter hiking and 50% for snowshoeing.
Caution, however, with snow activities:
Please always check before your tour the Avalanche Bulletin and the local pages of the tourist information offices! Just because "others have also" passed through there, despite considerable danger, please do not make the same mistake. Summits such as the Fliegenspitz in Amden (SG) are explicitly warned not to be climbed in WINTER.
Protecting nature - the game needs rest:
The winter offers of SwitzerlandMobility and H-und.ch respect the valid game rest areas and game reserves in Switzerland. Anyone planning their own tours must inform themselves about the location of wildlife rest areas and game reserves as well as the protection regulations that apply to the respective areas. The necessary information from the Federal Office for the Environment FOEN and the cantons can be found at of the SwitzerlandMobility Web Map will be.
Even if there is no official leash obligation, please always remember: "just a short jump behind" or "he won't come behind anyway" can lead to the painful death of the animal! Especially in the forest and in the vicinity of the forest you have to pay special attention to this.
Checkliste
Equipment dog:
Well-fitting crockery (Y-harness/train harness), treats, enough water (lukewarm) for on the way, dry towel/dog coat for e.g. restaurant stays
Good to know:
for long-haired dogs, shorten and grease the coat between the toes a lot (paw protection cream), coat protection to avoid ice lumps and be aware: eating snow can lead to gastro-intestinal upset.
Equipment human:
Breathable and wind-/waterproof clothing, good shoes, shoe spikes (great in icy conditions), gaiters (in deep snow), belly belt / belt for dog sports, pulling leash / bungee leash (2-3m), warm drink on the way, snacks (power bar), sun protection (even if cloudy), map of the area.
Safety equipment:
Avalanche transceiver /LVS, shovel, probe, headlamp .
NOTE: there are many providers in your region who offer avalanche courses for beginners. If you are out and about in the snow a lot in winter, you should not miss this opportunity.