On tour with a dog

Lena Schindler was out and about in Saalfelden Leogang with her husband Michael and their dog Luggi. In this article, she tells you what to bear in mind when holidaying with a dog and how they spent their short break in the SalzburgerLand.

Out and about

Being outdoors, breathing in fresh air and getting plenty of exercise – it’s not just good for us humans; our four-legged friends usually enjoy it too! So, especially when holidaying in mountainous regions, it’s a great idea to travel with your furry friend and have a lovely time together. 

Planning walks with your dog

However, if you want to take your dog on a mountain hike, there are a few basic things you should bear in mind beforehand – things that should really go without saying if you plan sensibly. Point number one: treat your dog as a full member of your hiking or running group and be considerate of them! You should also think about the following points:

  • Which route will you choose? Are all participants fit enough for the distance and elevation gain ahead? What are the trail conditions like? If in doubt, ask the tourist information centre for advice if you’re unsure how challenging the walking trails you’ve chosen are.
  • Check the weather forecast! Extreme conditions such as cold and heat aren’t just a problem for us hikers and trail runners. In summer, adjust your start time if necessary so that you’re not out and about during the hottest part of the day, or choose a route that’s shaded.
  • Make sure to pack enough supplies for your dog too: water and perhaps something to eat – depending on how long you’ll be walking or hiking. Are there places along the way where you can top up your water (such as a mountain hut) or streams or springs you can use for this?
  • What are the local regulations? Where is the dog required to be on a lead, and where might there be off-lead areas? Remember that you must also pick up and take away any waste (especially in pasture areas!).
  • Bear in mind that there may be cows grazing along your route. Other wildlife (chamois, marmots, etc.) may also catch your dog’s attention. Be prepared for this!

Out and about with Luggi

How does it work for us? My dog Luggi has been used to accompanying me on my hiking and trail running trips for years. I’ve gradually increased the distances – just like humans, dogs need to be well trained to cope with long trips. Setting off on a day trip straight away isn’t a good idea, even for four-legged friends. We’re now a well-coordinated team and I know what he’s capable of and what he enjoys..

A weekend in Saalfelden Leogang with your dog

During our weekend in Leogang (my husband Michael, our dog Luggi and I), the weather wasn’t exactly on our side and conditions were wet and damp, though not too cold. As dog owners, we’re used to being out and about not just when the sun’s shining, so the forecast didn’t put us off. However, the routes I’d actually planned to do beforehand were rather rocky and challenging, so they’ll unfortunately have to wait until our next – hopefully drier – trip to the region. In the end, we opted for two walks that are also recommended by the tourist board. They’re classified as ‘moderately difficult’ and seemed suitable for us and the conditions. We found inspiration on the tour portal at www.saalfelden-leogang.com.

Listen to the locals

We were very lucky that Andreas from the Tannenhof was able to give us very detailed information about the trails (he even had a little idea on how to make the routes even more enjoyable), and so, with a loop up to the Spielberghorn and on to the Birnbachloch, we had two wonderful and very different walks that will stay with us for a long time. The dog towel in the car was also worth its weight in gold on this occasion! Getting wet whilst on the move isn’t such a problem, but once the four-legged friends stop moving, they can quickly get chilled.

There’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad kit

The rain also had good sides: On Saturday we actually met no one during the almost four hours and we were alone all the time on the road. In addition, the colors of the many flowers below the Spielberghorn shone especially beautiful and created together with the clouds a great atmosphere. The little Luggi didn't mind the rain either, he especially thrives then, as he doesn't like really warm temperatures that much. Sunday morning remained contrary to the weather forecast even almost completely dry and the rock scenery that accompanied us on the way to the Birnbachloch, was really impressive! Due to the abundant rainfall of the last few days, the stream naturally had a lot of water and literally roared into the valley. The rather short tour was ideal for the departure day, as we could still start the journey home in a relaxed atmosphere. It was really a wonderful weekend in Saalfelden Leogang and we will be very happy to come back - maybe then also with some sunshine!

Pictures & text by Lena Schindler