7 Best Dog Breeds for Hiking and Outdoor Adventures

If you have an active lifestyle and enjoy spending time outdoors, having a dog that shares your love for adventure can add an extra layer of excitement to your experiences. Whether you enjoy hiking, exploring trails, or engaging in outdoor activities, choosing a dog from the working, herding, hunting, or mountain dog categories can greatly enhance your outdoor adventures. In this blog, you will discover a variety of dog breeds that are well-suited for accompanying you on your hikes, along with recommendations for amazing parks and trails to explore with your loyal hiking companion.

Best “HYPOALLERGENIC” Dogs for Hiking

Australian Mountain Doodle (amd)

The Australian Mountain Doodle, or AMD, is an excellent choice for your cold-weather hiking adventures. Bred from Australian Shepherd, Bernese Mountain Dog, and Poodle lineage, they inherit a blend of traits that make them ideal companions for outdoor activities during colder seasons.

Versatile Build: AMDs possess a sturdy yet agile build, inherited from their Australian Shepherd and Bernese Mountain Dog ancestry. This equips them to handle various terrains, ensuring they can navigate rugged landscapes and accompany you on extended hikes.

Weather-Resistant Coat: With a coat that often combines the low-shedding and weather-resistant qualities of Poodles and the insulation of Bernese Mountain Dogs, AMDs are well-suited for different weather conditions. Their coat provides protection against rain, snow, and cooler temperatures, making them reliable partners for winter hikes.

Balanced Temperament: Known for their intelligence and adaptability, Australian Mountain Doodles display a friendly and devoted nature, making them fantastic companions on hiking trails. Their calm demeanor can be comforting during challenging hikes, ensuring a pleasant experience.

Loyalty and Affection: AMDs form strong bonds with their owners, showcasing loyalty and a strong sense of devotion. This translates into a dependable hiking partner who enjoys staying close and ensuring your safety during outdoor adventures.

Endurance and Agility: Combining the stamina of the Australian Shepherd and the robustness of the Bernese Mountain Dog, AMDs possess surprising endurance and agility. They can cover significant distances without tiring quickly, making them well-suited for longer hikes, particularly in colder climates.

Adaptability and Sociability: With their Poodle lineage, AMDs often inherit adaptability and a friendly disposition. Their willingness to explore and interact extends not just to their owners but also to fellow hikers and other dogs, making hiking experiences enjoyable for everyone involved.

For anyone seeking a versatile, cold-resistant hiking companion with a blend of intelligence, loyalty, and adaptability, the Australian Mountain Doodle proves to be an excellent choice for outdoor adventures, providing strength, reliability, and a friendly spirit on your expeditions.

The Australian Mountain Doodle is a hybrid dog breed that is a mix of Australian Shepherd, Bernese Mountain Dog, and Poodle. These dogs are typically medium to large-sized, making them ideal for hiking as they can handle the rough terrain and long walks that come with the activity.

Furthermore, Australian Mountain Doodles are known to be highly intelligent and trainable, which makes them well-suited for hiking as they can be trained to follow commands and stay close to their owners while on the trail. They are also typically energetic and active, which means they can keep up with their owners during long hikes and won't tire easily.

In addition, this breed is known for its friendly and affectionate nature, which means they are well-suited for interacting with other hikers and dogs on the trail. They are also loyal and protective of their owners, which makes them good hiking companions for those who venture into remote areas.

Finally, like many doodle breeds, Australian Mountain Doodles are typically hypoallergenic, which means they produce less dander and are less likely to cause an allergic reaction. This makes them a great choice for those who suffer from allergies but still want a furry companion to join them on their hiking adventures.

Also consider the versatile Unfurnished variety of the Australian Mountain Doodle (AMD) — a hybrid breed merging the Australian Shepherd, Bernese Mountain Dog, and Poodle. These medium to large-sized dogs aren't just great for hiking; they're tailor-made for it, thriving on rough terrains and long jaunts that define outdoor adventures.

Renowned for their intelligence and trainability, AMDs are ideal trail companions. Their knack for following commands and sticking close to their owners makes them a breeze to handle while hiking, ensuring a harmonious experience on the trail. Energetic and active by nature, these dogs match your pace, enduring lengthy hikes without losing steam.

Their friendly and affectionate demeanor extends to fellow hikers and their canine companions, making interactions on the trail enjoyable. Their loyalty and protective instincts add a layer of security, especially for those exploring remote areas.

What sets the Unfurnished AMD apart is their ‘hypoallergenic trait’, akin to many doodle breeds. Producing less dander, they are less likely to trigger allergic reactions, catering perfectly to allergy sufferers seeking a low-maintenance furry partner for their hiking escapades. These dogs really are the best of both worlds and tend to only have a single coat.

Unfurnished AMD Puppy Tri Blue Merle Coat

AMD Breed Information

AMD Litters

F1B Standard Parti Blue Merle Tri Bernedoodle Puppy

Bernedoodle Breed Information

Bernedooodle Litters

Bernedoodle

The Bernedoodle, a charming mix of the Bernese Mountain Dog and Poodle breeds, is an exceptional companion for your hiking escapades, particularly during colder seasons. This delightful hybrid inherits a blend of traits from its parents, making it an excellent choice for outdoor adventures.

Versatile Build: Bernedoodles typically inherit the sturdiness of the Bernese Mountain Dog and the athleticism of the Poodle, resulting in a versatile build perfectly suited for various terrains. Their sturdy frame allows them to handle rugged landscapes and longer hikes with ease.

Weather-Resistant Coat: Often combining the hypoallergenic, low-shedding qualities of the Poodle with the Bernese Mountain Dog's thick, weather-resistant coat, Bernedoodles are well-equipped for different weather conditions. Their fur offers excellent insulation against rain, snow, and cooler temperatures, ensuring comfort during winter hikes.

Balanced Temperament: Known for their intelligence and gentle nature, Bernedoodles make wonderful companions on hiking trails. Their calm and affectionate demeanor provides reassurance and enjoyment, even on challenging routes.

Loyalty and Warmth: Bernedoodles form strong bonds with their owners, displaying unwavering loyalty and affection. This translates into a reliable hiking partner, always by your side and ready for an adventure.

Endurance and Agility: Combining the Bernese Mountain Dog's endurance with the Poodle's agility, Bernedoodles possess impressive stamina and agility. They can cover considerable distances without getting fatigued quickly, making them suitable for longer hikes, especially during colder months.

Adaptability and Sociability: With their Poodle lineage, Bernedoodles often inherit adaptability and a friendly disposition. They enjoy interactions with fellow hikers and dogs, contributing to a pleasant and harmonious hiking experience.

For those seeking a reliable, affectionate, and sturdy hiking companion that thrives in colder climates, the Bernedoodle proves to be an excellent choice. Their blend of intelligence, loyalty, and endurance makes them perfect partners for outdoor adventures, providing both reliability and a loving spirit on your hiking expeditions.

Golden Mountain Doodles (GMD)

The Golden Mountain Doodle is a crossbreed that is a mix of Golden Retriever, Bernese Mountain Dog, and Poodle. These dogs are known for their loving and friendly personalities, which make them great companions for hiking adventures.

One of the reasons why Golden Mountain Doodles are good for hiking is because of their energy level. Golden Retrievers are known for their high energy levels and love of exercise, while Bernese Mountain Dogs are known for their strength and endurance. Poodles, on the other hand, are highly intelligent and trainable. All of these traits combine to create a dog that is well-suited for hiking and can handle long walks and rough terrain with ease.

In addition, Golden Mountain Doodles are typically friendly and social, which means they can interact well with other hikers and dogs on the trail. They are also loyal and protective of their owners, which can be beneficial in remote hiking areas.

Another reason why Golden Mountain Doodles are good for hiking is because of their hypoallergenic coat. This breed typically produces less dander, which means they are less likely to cause an allergic reaction in those who suffer from allergies. This can be important for hiking companions, as many people spend extended periods of time in the outdoors and may be exposed to allergens.

GMD Breed Information

GMD Litters

Brown Tri Chocolate Red Merle Aussiedoodle with Blue Eyes

Aussiedoodle Breed Information

Aussiedoodle Litters

Aussiedoodle

The Aussiedoodle, a delightful mix of the Australian Shepherd and Poodle breeds, is a wonderful choice for accompanying you on hiking excursions, especially during cooler seasons. This hybrid breed inherits traits from both parents, making them fantastic companions for outdoor adventures.

Adaptable Build: Aussiedoodles inherit a blend of the Australian Shepherd's agility and the Poodle's athleticism, resulting in a versatile build that's well-suited for various terrains. Their agility allows them to navigate trails and rugged landscapes with ease.

Weather-Ready Coat: Sporting a typically low-shedding coat that often combines the Poodle's hypoallergenic qualities with the Australian Shepherd's weather-resistant fur, Aussiedoodles are prepared for diverse weather conditions. Their coat provides excellent protection against rain, snow, and cooler temperatures, ensuring comfort during winter hikes.

Balanced Temperament: Known for their intelligence and sociability, Aussiedoodles possess a friendly and adaptable nature, making them fantastic companions on hiking trails. Their amiable demeanor and intelligence make for enjoyable hiking experiences, even on challenging routes.

Loyalty and Companionship: Aussiedoodles form strong bonds with their owners, displaying loyalty and affection. This translates into a reliable hiking partner who enjoys exploring alongside you and ensuring a safe and enjoyable trek.

Endurance and Agility: Combining the energy of the Australian Shepherd and the athleticism of the Poodle, Aussiedoodles boast impressive endurance and agility. They can keep up on longer hikes, reveling in the opportunity to explore and cover considerable distances.

Adaptability and Sociability: With their Poodle lineage, Aussiedoodles often inherit adaptability and a friendly disposition. Their willingness to engage with other hikers and dogs makes interactions on the trails pleasant and harmonious.

For those seeking an adaptable, friendly, and energetic hiking companion that thrives in colder climates, the Aussiedoodle stands out as an excellent choice. Their blend of intelligence, loyalty, and agility makes them perfect partners for outdoor adventures, offering both reliability and a cheerful spirit on your hiking expeditions.

Best non-HYPOALLERGENIC Dogs for Hiking

Bernese Mountain Dog

This dog breed can be your hiking buddy during cold seasons. Their bodies can tolerate cold temperatures. Bernese Mountain Dogs are also great worker dogs. They were originally bred to help farmers with the workload in the Alps. Their energy level allows them to thrive doing farm and pasture work for their owners. They can be an excellent companion when you want to go for a hike during colder months.

Robust Build: Bernese Mountain Dogs are sizable, sturdy, and powerful, perfectly equipped for tackling rugged terrains and enduring long hikes.

Weather Resistance: Their thick, double coat provides excellent insulation, making them well-suited for various weather conditions. While not hypoallergenic, their coat offers protection against rain, snow, and cooler temperatures.

Steady Temperament: Known for their gentle and affectionate nature, Bernese Mountain Dogs make wonderful companions on the trails. Their calm demeanor can be reassuring, especially during challenging hikes.

Loyalty and Bonding: They form strong bonds with their owners, showcasing loyalty and a strong sense of devotion. This translates into a reliable hiking partner who stays close and keeps an eye out for their human companion.

Stamina and Endurance: Despite their size, Bernese Mountain Dogs possess surprising agility and endurance. They can cover significant distances without tiring quickly, making them great for longer hikes, especially during the winter! Did we mention they love snow!

Adaptability: While not as agile as some smaller breeds, their adaptability to different terrains and their willingness to explore make them excellent companions for various hiking experiences.

Friendly Nature: Their friendly disposition extends not just to their owners but to fellow hikers and other dogs, making interactions on the trails pleasant and enjoyable.

So, if hypoallergenic traits aren't a primary concern, the Bernese Mountain Dog stands out as an ideal hiking companion, offering strength, reliability, and a friendly demeanor on your outdoor adventures.

Bernese Breed Information

Bernese Mix Planned Litters

Australian Mountain Dog Aussie x Bernese Mix Breed Info

Bernese Mix Litters

Australian Mountain Dogs (Bernese x Aussie Mix)

If you're looking for a reliable and beautiful companion for your outdoor adventures, the Australian Mountain Dog is an excellent option. This breed is a cross between the Bernese and Australian Shepherd, and it offers several benefits for hiking enthusiasts. Here are some reasons why you might consider choosing an Australian Mountain Dog as your hiking partner.

Stamina and Endurance: Australian Mountain Dogs inherit the robustness and endurance of both the Bernese and Australian Shepherd breeds. They have boundless energy, which means that they can keep pace on long hikes without getting tired easily.

Agility and Surefootness: With the Aussie lineage, these dogs possess remarkable agility and are surefooted on various terrains. They can navigate challenging landscapes with ease, from steep ascents to rocky paths and uneven trails.

Intelligence and Trainability: Both parent breeds are highly intelligent, and this mix inherits the smarts. Australian Mountain Dogs are easy to train for hiking etiquette, such as staying close, heeding commands, and being responsive to trail hazards.

Strong Bond with Their Human: Australian Mountain Dogs have a strong sense of loyalty and form deep bonds with their owners. This companionship ensures they stay close and attentive while hiking, making them excellent partners on the trails.

Weather Adaptability: Bernese Mountain Dogs are known for their thick, weather-resistant coats. Combined with the Australian Shepherd's adaptability, Australian Mountain Dogs can handle various weather conditions. They can accompany you through rain, snow, or sunshine.

Versatile Size: Typically, Australian Mountain Dogs are a medium to large-sized breed. This means they strike a balance between being robust enough to handle challenging terrains but not too large to impede your hiking experience.

Friendly Disposition: These dogs often inherit the friendly nature of both parent breeds. They are great companions not just on trails but also in social settings, making interactions with other hikers and dogs pleasant.

Alertness and Protective Instincts: With their alert nature and a touch of protective instincts from the Bernese side, they can be excellent trail companions, ensuring you feel safe and secure during your hiking adventures.

Australian Shepherd

Aussies, as they're affectionately called, are fantastic companions for your outdoor adventures, particularly during cooler seasons. Their resilience to cold temperatures and their energetic nature make them exceptional hiking buddies, ready to explore the trails with you.

All-Terrain Capability: Australian Shepherds boast a nimble build, perfect for navigating various terrains. Their agility and strength equip them for long hikes and traversing rugged landscapes, ensuring they keep up with any trail enthusiast.

Weather Endurance: With their dense double coat, they're well-prepared for weather variations. While not hypoallergenic, their fur provides excellent protection against rain, snow, and chilly climates, making them a reliable choice for winter hikes.

Steadfast Temperament: Known for their intelligence and devotion, Australian Shepherds make for steadfast hiking partners. Their loyal and affectionate nature shines through even on challenging trails, offering companionship and reassurance.

Devotion and Companionship: Aussies form strong bonds with their owners, embodying unwavering loyalty. This translates into a hiking buddy who stays by your side, ensuring a secure and enjoyable trek.

Endurance and Agility: Despite their medium size, Australian Shepherds possess remarkable stamina and agility. They thrive on longer hikes, especially during colder months, relishing the chance to play in the snow as they cover impressive distances.

Adaptability: Their keen intelligence and adaptability make them versatile hiking partners. While perhaps not as large as some breeds, their eagerness to explore new trails and terrains makes them an excellent fit for various hiking experiences.

Sociable Nature: Aussies are not just friendly with their owners; they extend their amiable disposition to fellow hikers and other dogs. Their affable nature makes interactions on the trails enjoyable for everyone involved.

If you're not concerned about hypoallergenic traits, the Australian Shepherd emerges as an ideal hiking companion, offering resilience, reliability, and an amiable demeanor on your outdoor escapades.

Mini Aussie Mini American Shepherd — Mini Aussie

Australian Shepherd Breed Information

Aussie Planned Litters

Top 15 Dog-Friendly Hiking Locations in the Midwest

Starved Rock State Park
- Address: 2668 E 875th Rd, Oglesby, IL 61348
- Accessibility: Easy parking and trail access.
- Scenic Views: Breathtaking vistas and canyons.
- Dog Facilities: Pet-friendly areas and waste disposal.
Superior Hiking Trail
- Address: Multiple trailheads, check specific trailhead addresses.
- Accessibility: Clear trailheads and parking.
- Scenic Views: Stunning vistas of Lake Superior.
- Dog Facilities: Rest areas and water stations.
Ice Age Trail
- Address: Multiple trailheads, check specific trailhead addresses.
- Accessibility: Accessible trails and ample parking.
- Scenic Views: Unique glacial landscapes.
- Dog Facilities: Waste disposal and rest stops.
Ozark Trail
- Address: Multiple trailheads, check specific trailhead addresses.
- Accessibility: Easily accessible paths.
- Scenic Views: Scenic woodlands and valleys.
- Dog Facilities: Stations for waste disposal.
Cuyahoga Valley National Park
- Address: 1550 Boston Mills Rd, Peninsula, OH 44264
- Accessibility: Convenient trail access and parking.
- Scenic Views: Valley views and waterfalls.
- Dog Facilities: Pet-friendly zones and rest areas.
Indiana Dunes National Park
- Address: 1215 N State Rd 49, Porter, IN 46304
- Accessibility: Trail access from parking areas.
- Scenic Views: Lakefront and dune vistas.
- Dog Facilities: Waste stations and rest spots.
Kankakee River State Park
- Address: 5314 W State Rte 102, Bourbonnais, IL 60914
- Accessibility: Easy access to trails.
- Scenic Views: Riverfront trails and woodlands.
- Dog Facilities: Pet-friendly areas and waste bins.
Matthiessen State Park
- Address: 2500 IL-178, Oglesby, IL 61348
- Accessibility: Well-marked trails and parking.
- Scenic Views: Canyons and waterfalls.
- Dog Facilities: Stations for waste disposal.
River Trail
- Address: Multiple trailheads, check specific trailhead addresses.
- Accessibility: Accessible paths from parking.
- Scenic Views: Riverside trails and wooded areas.
- Dog Facilities: Waste disposal stations.
Devil's Lake State Park Wisconsin
- Address: S5975 Park Rd, Baraboo, WI 53913
- Accessibility: Clear trails and parking lots.
- Scenic Views: Lake and cliff vistas.
- Dog Facilities: Pet-friendly spots and waste bins.
Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie
- Address: 30239 S State Rte 53, Wilmington, IL 60481
- Accessibility: Accessible trails and parking.
- Scenic Views: Prairie landscapes.
- Dog Facilities: Waste disposal stations.
North Branch Trail
- Address: Multiple trailheads, check specific trailhead addresses.
- Accessibility: Easy access from parking areas.
- Scenic Views: Woodland and river views.
- Dog Facilities: Rest areas and waste stations.
Apostle Islands National Lakeshore
- Address: Multiple islands, check specific locations for access.
- Accessibility: Trails are reachable from parking.
- Scenic Views: Lakefront views and islands.
- Dog Facilities: Pet-friendly areas.
Aztalan State Park
- Address: N6200 County Rd Q, Jefferson, WI 53549
- Accessibility: Clear paths and parking.
- Scenic Views: Historic sites and trails.
- Dog Facilities: Waste disposal available.
Black Hills National Forest
- Address: 1019 N 5th St, Custer, SD 57730
- Accessibility: Accessible trails and parking.
- Scenic Views: Forested landscapes.
- Dog Facilities: Pet-friendly areas.

Dog Breeds, FurparentJames StokesApril 16, 2023Stokeshire Designer Doodlesoutdoor