2023-11-22 02:38
It all happened when I met Charlie.
I fell for him immediately.
He was fun, handsome, engaging, and loved to eat and play–a welcome change to what I’m used to. … Read More
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Long Haul Trekkers Blog
longhaultrekkers.com
We are Dave, Jen, and Sora, aka the Long Haul Trekkers from Portland, Oregon, USA.
Follow along on our journey as we cycle the world with our dog.
2023-08-10 20:42
I rarely walk my dog.
Because I’m a trail runner, I run with him, but even when injuries stop me from running, I still don’t walk my dog.
In fact, many dog trainers I know… Read More
2023-05-31 17:37
Hand feeding your dog their daily meals is one of the most powerful tools to train your dog new skills. In addition, you will build motivation, develop a stronger bond, and improve their beh… Read More
2023-04-11 22:34
Running with your dog is a great way to provide regular exercise, prevent obesity and also bond with them.
Dogs are truly the best running partners, and as long as you approach the t… Read More
2023-04-11 22:19
Until I had traveled to Park City with an old dog several years ago, I had never wondered about altitude sickness in dogs. My dog, who had a heart murmur, was running around happily, and the… Read More
2023-03-22 17:44
The first step in successful training a dog is through clear communication. In order to do this, we teach the dog a set of marker words that pair a sound or word to a behavior through classi… Read More
2023-02-25 02:04
Aversive tools in dog training are a controversial topic. Certain dog training tools and methods, namely prong collars and e-collars are regularly cited as abusive and unnecessary in dog tra… Read More
2023-02-15 04:12
Sitka and I recently spent a few days exploring some of the dog-friendly winter activities in Spokane, Washington with Visit Spokane.
Despite growing up in Washington, I had never really… Read More
2023-01-07 01:46
Fees at pet-friendly hotels can add up quickly, so knowing which hotels allow dogs to stay for free can keep vacation budgets down. Fortunately, there are some great options for those travel… Read More
2022-12-19 19:12
Hypothermia in dogs is a serious medical emergency that requires immediate veterinary treatment if the symptoms are severe. The best way to prevent this problem is to monitor your dog when y… Read More
2022-12-14 05:56
Have you ever wondered how cold is too cold for your dog?
I love winter hiking with my dog. The scenery changes, there are fewer people, and we can participate in different activities, l… Read More
2022-12-06 23:17
There are many reasons someone would want to use an e-collar with their dog that has nothing to do with behavioral issues. A lot of dog owners think that e-collars are only for “b… Read More
2022-11-05 01:05
I generally do not allow strangers to approach or pet my dog, and I never allow on-leash greetings with other dogs.
The culture in the dog world has created the assumption that it i… Read More
2022-09-10 00:59
With rising temperatures and record heat waves across the planet, we are seeing an increase of blue-green algae blooms in bodies of water. Sometimes, these blooms are toxic and can be harmfu… Read More
2022-06-26 20:37
Like humans, dogs can become dehydrated and it can be serious.
Learning how to recognize the symptoms of dehydration in dogs can save your dog’s life. This is especially impor… Read More
2022-05-30 00:39
If you’re a runner with a dog, chances are you like to bring your dog along with you. Long distance runners might wonder how far a dog can run.
Is it safe for their four-legged pal… Read More
2022-03-23 22:17
If your dog isn’t a bite risk, why would you ever need to muzzle train your dog?
Because muzzles rock. Truly.
They have a poor connotation associated with aggressive dogs… Read More
2022-03-01 23:33
When you’re short on time or the weather is uninviting, enrichment activities are a great way to give your dog some mental stimulation when you can’t give them physical activity… Read More
2022-02-15 06:08
Knowing what I know now about dog socialization, the dog park is a place I avoid entirely, unless I’m sticking to the outside to work on training.
The purpose of dog parks is to cre… Read More
2022-01-18 22:53
During the end of a long trail run, on an on-leash trail, I learned the hard way that my dog was not ready to hike off-leash. Sixteen miles into an 18-mile run, Sora and I came upon a group… Read More
2022-01-08 01:40
Teaching your dog impulse control is an important life skill that can help keep them safe and curb unwanted behaviors like darting out of doorways or jumping on people. Impulse control means… Read More
2021-12-27 23:16
Working with a professional dog trainer after I adopted Sitka was one of the best decisions I made for the both of us. I felt resistant at first because I believed that needing to hire… Read More
2021-12-15 21:32
Like many, I learned about balanced dog training and the use of aversive tools like the prong collar and e-collar after exhausting the use of positive reinforcement only training with a chal… Read More
2021-12-06 02:03
Visit Bend hosted me on this amazing trip to Bend to celebrate Bend Ale Trail Month. All opinions are my own. Did you know that the Bend Ale Trail was the first ale trail in the west? It sta… Read More
2021-11-29 04:47
Gunner Kennels kindly sent me the G1 Medium to test out. I can truly say that this kennel is life changing. I feel so much safer driving knowing that Sitka is contained and will be protected… Read More
2021-10-14 18:29
This post is sponsored by Dexas International, creators of some of my favorite travel and camping essentials for dogs. I only work with brands I use and would personally recommend, and I thi… Read More
2021-09-10 22:21
Thank you Crystal Mountain Resort for hosting Sitka and me in exchange for this honest review of our experience. Spoiler alert: we can’t wait to go back. Crystal Mountain Resort, a ski… Read More
2021-09-08 23:09
This post is sponsored by TailTrax, an innovative app for pet parents that allows you to store all of your pet’s most important information to access anytime, anywhere. All opinions ar… Read More
2021-08-27 21:09
It’s here, it’s here! It’s the REI Labor Day sale with all the fun items for your future outdoor needs. I am definitely all about scoring a good deal and will often wait fo… Read More
2021-08-12 23:41
This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I earn a small commission. As you know, I do my research when I recommend products! I have either used or would personally purchas… Read More
2021-08-05 12:47
SPOT LLC sent me the SPOT X 2-Way Satellite Messenger for me to test and provide an honest review. All opinions are my own. I spend hours trail running in the woods alone with Sitka most wee… Read More
2021-08-03 23:33
Bend, Oregon is a popular year-round destination for anyone who enjoys being active in the outdoors. It is especially popular for those who travel with their dogs! I lived there for about ei… Read More
2021-07-20 22:36
Many dog owners talk about crate training benefits, but if you’re new to dog ownership or you’ve always had a dog that does well free roaming in the home, then you may wonder wha… Read More
2021-06-24 17:46
I partnered with Hotels.com to bring you this dog-friendly guide to Gatlinburg, TN Straddling the border between North Carolina and Tennessee, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is known fo… Read More
2021-06-17 00:26
Like many unknowing dog owners, I used to allow my dogs to ride in the back seat or hitch of the car without worrying about their safety. They lay down and were calm, so I never saw a need t… Read More
2021-06-04 18:48
We received a complimentary stay from Basecamp Tahoe South in exchange for an honest review and posts on social media. All opinions remain my own. Lake Tahoe has always been on my list of pl… Read More
2021-05-26 22:03
I partnered with Hotels.com to bring you this dog-friendly guide to El Paso El Paso, Texas sits in the westernmost corner of the state, squeezed in between the border with New Mexico and Mex… Read More
2021-05-14 16:48
This post is sponsored by one of my favorite adventure dog gear brands, Kurgo. I’ve used their gear for years and would never recommend anything that I wouldn’t use myself! My op… Read More
2021-04-08 16:44
If you have a reactive or nervous dog, it can make life a bit more challenging. It can be especially stressful when it comes to introducing your nervous dog to other dogs and people. I have… Read More
2021-03-25 01:19
Disclaimer: Voyagers K9 Apparel sent me this Rain Coat to test and review. I have purchased other jackets from the brand previously because I love the quality and design. I test my products… Read More
2021-03-18 21:10
I partnered with Hotels.com to bring you this dog-friendly guide to the Florida Keys. If you’ve been wanting to escape to the tropics, planning a dog-friendly visit to the Florida Keys… Read More
2021-03-06 01:00
Disclaimer: Diggs sent me a Revol Dog Crate and a Snooz Pad to test and write an honest review on my blog. My opinions are my own and I think this crate rules. This post contains affili… Read More
2021-02-23 01:30
Disclaimer: We received the Burley Tail Wagon as part of a sponsorship for our bike trip. The opinions expressed in this post are entirely my own and we were in no way compensated for this r… Read More
2021-02-21 19:41
I partnered with Hotels.com to bring you this dog-friendly guide to Yosemite National Park. Yosemite was California’s first national park and is a designated UNESCO World Heritage site… Read More
2021-02-13 18:37
Hiking with a dog that has leash reactivity can be extremely frustrating. From owners who do not obey leash laws to those who allow their dogs off leash with no recall, finding safe spaces t… Read More
2021-02-04 01:27
I partnered with Hotels.com to bring you this dog-friendly guide the Grand Canyon. The Grand Canyon is the second-most visited national park in the US, and for good reason. The mile-deep gor… Read More
2021-01-17 02:10
Teaching a few basic dog training commands right off the bat goes a long way in terms of obedience, relationship building, and leadership. The biggest keys to success for teaching these esse… Read More
2021-01-07 15:10
Disclaimer: Voyagers K9 Apparel sent me a Winter Coat to test and review. I have purchased other jackets from the brand previously because I love the quality and design. I test my products t… Read More
2020-12-18 19:39
Many dog owners have the idea that meeting every dog you pass during a walk is an essential part of dog socialization. It is not. On-leash greetings are actually the opposite of what y… Read More
2020-12-10 21:20
This post contains affiliate links and is sponsored by Hugo Coffee Roasters. I carefully hand-select the brands I choose to partner with and I think Hugo Coffee Roasters rules. All opinions… Read More
2020-11-27 20:31
Need some dog stocking stuffer ideas for your adventure pup? I’ve put together a great list of unique items that will enhance your outdoor excursions with your favorite four-legged pal… Read More
2020-11-18 18:35
Lake Tahoe is the most-visited national forest in California and one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Sierra Nevada. This dog-friendly guide to Lake Tahoe will reveal the best… Read More
2020-11-16 21:33
If you’re looking for a great gift idea for the adventure dog parent in your life, this list includes 10 useful suggestions that they might not realize they need, but will soon wonder… Read More
2020-11-05 14:13
These days, a warm winter coat is just part of several items I include for my dog when we head outdoors for a winter adventure. I used to think dog coats and sweaters were only for small dog… Read More
2020-10-28 14:15
Over the years, I have learned much of what I know about dogs from my favorite social media platform, Instagram. When I was struggling with Laila’s training, I was introduced to the wo… Read More
2020-10-13 21:50
One of the draws of Jackson Hole, WY is its proximity to National Parks like Yellowstone and Grand Tetons. Of course, if you travel with a dog, like I do, then visiting the parks becomes a b… Read More
2020-10-05 17:26
Disclaimer: Voyagers K9 Apparel sent me this Tummy Warmer to test and review. I have purchased other jackets from the brand previously because I love the quality and design. I test my produc… Read More
2020-09-14 17:14
I hadn’t visited the Olympic Peninsula much until recently. Since I had dogs and much of the region is a national park, I just assumed that it didn’t make sense to plant a trip… Read More
2020-09-05 19:06
You can SUP with a Dog? Yeah, you can! And it’s super fun. Paddle boarding is one of my favorite warm weather activities to do with my dog. It is a very special sport to me because it… Read More
2020-08-25 20:33
Like many, I once believed that e-collar training was cruel. I thought positive reinforcement was the only right way to train a dog, until I had Laila. As much as I learned and worked with h… Read More
2020-08-17 18:32
A coffee review? Don’t worry, you’re in the right place. Grounds & Hounds isn’t just any coffee, it’s coffee for dogs. Um. Coffee is poisonous for dogs, Jen… Read More
2020-08-10 14:43
The first day you bring home a new dog is exciting, especially if this is your first dog. I’ve learned so much about dogs since Sora and have completely changed how I behave around my… Read More
2020-07-16 16:13
I don’t know how I ever lived with a dog before I knew the Place Command. Today, it is among my most important commands for my dogs and was the first thing I taught Sitka after I adopt… Read More
2020-07-06 21:31
This post contains affiliate links. Figuring out what food to pack for yourself for a backpacking or camping trip can be a struggle. At least I know it is for me! But it doesn’t need t… Read More
2020-06-10 01:03
Laila, the dog I never wanted, the dog that I struggled to love, the dog I wanted nothing to do with, led me to learn more about dogs and dog training than I ever imagined I would. Her… Read More
2020-05-19 16:30
While I prefer to run with my dog off leash when possible, there are times when you need a leash. I use and prefer to wear a hands-free dog leash when I hit the trails with my pup. I have be… Read More
2020-05-10 21:14
If you’ve ever had a dog that has pulled during walks (and let’s face, that’s probably most of us), then you know full well just how unpleasant the outings can be. I have b… Read More
2020-05-02 22:10
Dogs count as children when it comes to Mother’s Day, right? In my book, absolutely. In fact, Dog Mom’s Day is even now a national holiday, celebrated the second Saturday in May… Read More
2020-04-17 22:51
Over the many years I’ve run with a four-legged friend by my side, I have tested several hands-free running leashes and certainly have my favorites. Iron Doggy is a small company based… Read More
2020-04-09 22:37
Many people don’t realize that bloggers, such as myself, are small businesses. Since I am a part of that world, I do what I can to recommend products from small, sustainable businesses… Read More
2020-04-01 20:39
Stuck inside due to an injury, bad weather, or social isolation? During Coronavirus stay at home orders, I found myself at the crossroads of several factors that kept me from running: an ann… Read More
2020-03-15 19:20
Sometimes, the most challenging part about camping is putting together all the gear you need and making sure you don’t forget anything important for a night outside. To help you head o… Read More
2020-03-04 19:03
This post contains affiliate links. Flying with a dog as cargo is a stressful experience for both the dog and their human. While the media report tragic incidents as a result of flying, the… Read More
2020-02-16 02:30
Harsh weather conditions like snow and ice, heat, or rough surfaces like sand can burn, tear, or cut your dog’s paws. Dog paw wax provides a barrier between your dog’s paw and th… Read More
2020-02-09 21:41
A friend recently gave me an extra BioThane dog leash she had when I adopted Sitka. I had seen them all over Instagram, but didn’t really get what the big deal was over these leashes… Read More
2020-02-01 02:43
There is truly no coast as special as the Oregon Coast. I may be biased, but nowhere else have I found such expansive seashore available entirely to the public, for free. While a white-sand… Read More
2019-12-13 00:20
This post is sponsored by Dexas International. You can trust that I have used the products mentioned here and am providing an honest opinion and recommendation. All opinions remain my own an… Read More
2019-11-28 03:30
During the holiday season, I try my best to shop small for gifts and Etsy is a great place to do just that! You can shop by location to find a maker in your region or discover work created b… Read More
2019-11-23 21:28
The rain and gray skies during the winter months tend to keep most visitors away from the Pacific Northwest, which is exactly why it’s a great time to visit and plan a winter vacation… Read More
2019-11-14 20:27
This post was done in partnership with Kurgo, a dog product company who has spent years perfecting the design for their gear, including the safety items mentioned today. I don’t just w… Read More
2019-11-08 05:12
Please forgive me for publishing a Christmas post so early. I have already started to see advertisements for Black Friday stuff, which I think is crazy. While I personally choose to head out… Read More
2019-11-01 22:27
The popularity of CBD Oil for dogs has surged in recent years since the passage of the Farm Bill in 2018. The bill legalized CBD derived from hemp containing no more than 0.3% THC. Wit… Read More
2019-10-18 16:26
In 2017, a fire ripped through the Columbia River Gorge, leaving 153 hikers stranded overnight six miles into the Eagle Creek Trail. After this happened, there was a lot of talk about the im… Read More
2019-10-12 22:21
We’re just entering fall in the Pacific Northwest, which means the rainy weather isn’t all that far away. Hiking in the rain scares off a lot of people, however I don’t min… Read More
2019-10-01 16:13
On October 10th, 2018, we said an incredibly painful goodbye to Sora. I knew that day would be the worst of my life, and I also felt so much relief freeing her from that insipid recurring ca… Read More
2019-09-17 21:52
This post is sponsored by GlampingHub.com and we were guests of Finca Les Coves. Finca Les Coves offers eco-friendly and pet-friendly glamping in Spain. The luxury accommodation is located i… Read More
2019-09-15 16:35
Lightweight, portable dog beds are an essential travel item for adventure dogs. It seems that just about every outdoor company is coming out with a dog travel bed, some more travel-friendly… Read More
2019-08-30 13:43
After returning to the Pacific Northwest once we finished our bicycle trip, I wanted to take the opportunity to better explore the region where I grew up. One weekend, Dave was in Portland a… Read More
2019-08-23 16:13
Finding hotels that allow pets while traveling can be hit or miss. It can be especially challenging when you’re traveling in a foreign country that may not be so pet-friendly or where… Read More
2019-08-19 14:22
Despite the added cost, stress, and paperwork, it’s becoming more common for passengers to be flying with a dog. For some, leaving the dog behind on certain vacations, moves, or other… Read More
2019-08-08 13:20
If you want to start a heated conversation among dog owners, just ask about their encounters with other dogs on the trail. Hiking with dogs comes with a set of responsibilities that some sim… Read More
2019-07-31 13:54
We were guests of the Outdoor Capital of the UK and the Lochaber Chamber of Commerce during our visit. We are grateful for their hospitality and for the opportunity to explore their beautifu… Read More
2019-07-25 14:15
I’ve been doing some research for a future project I have in mind, which has required me to read as many books as I can find featuring dogs. I had no idea there were so many great read… Read More
2019-07-20 15:20
You may be surprised to learn that your favorite hikes may contain several common plants, insects, and other parasites that are toxic to dogs. Before you head out on the trail, be sure you u… Read More
2019-07-17 16:10
Few of us care to admit when we start to notice signs of aging in our senior dogs. I know I denied the inevitability in Sora as she became older (pro tip: blue merle dogs really hide the gra… Read More
2019-07-12 16:13
One of the main reasons we enjoy camping trips so much, aside from our love of sleeping outdoors snuggled in our sleeping bags in the tent, is because they are almost always dog-friendly. Mo… Read More
2019-07-04 16:13
I never thought much about eye protection for my dogs until we were in a teeny, tiny village on the Chile/Bolivia border preparing to pedal across the Salares de Coipasa and Uyuni. We read a… Read More
2019-07-02 16:13
Despite the airlines’ best efforts to dissuade pet travel, more and more dog parents are considering bringing along their pets on their travels to Europe. Given the popularity of the c… Read More
2019-06-28 17:20
When my parents planned a long layover in Paris en route to their dream trip to Africa, we drove our van to meet them there with the dogs. Since we were so close to the UK, we figured that w… Read More
2019-06-24 14:07
Bend, Oregon is a favorite year round destination for adventure enthusiasts. A three hour drive from Portland, many head to the Central Oregon vacation spot in search of sun during the rainy… Read More
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