Do good boys and girls really belong at the crag? That’s a can of worms we’re about to open. Last year, Outside Magazine ran an article which argued that all dogs should be left at home.
Why? The reasons ranged from dogs stealing other climbers’ food (annoying and completely unacceptable, of course), environmental concerns over owners not picking up after their dogs (yes, of course, pack out your dog poop), dogs distracting belayers (why is your dog trying to get a catch from a stranger), barking incessantly (‘quiet!’), or not being properly trained for the setting…
Are these concerns valid? Totally. And if you’re a dog owner and avid climber, you’ve probably heard them before. But we’ll still argue that yes, dogs should be welcome at the crag. To keep everyone safe and happy, here’s what you’ll want to consider.
Train your dog first
Like with everything training related, exposure is important. But the only way your dog can learn about an outdoor climbing setting in the first place is if they actually spend time there. That’s why it’s best to start this kind of training and exposure on quiet days at more secluded spots.
Choose unpopular times when crowds of climbers won’t be gathered at the base. Work on things like sit, stay, and reassuring them when they see you on the wall. Some dogs can get anxious at the crag as owners climb to staggering heights or are suspended mid-air rapping down. The more they can get used to seeing you in this setting, the more they’ll calm (and quiet) down.
Just like with teaching your dog any other activity, you can expect the first sessions to be mostly training.
Do a pre-workout on crag day
If your dog arrives at the crag already a bit tired, you’re going to have an easier and more enjoyable day. (As will those around you.) A recommendation for all dog owners would be to take them to get the energy out before you start climbing.
A longer walk, quick run, or game of fetch is better if you have a bigger or high-energy breed. If the zoomies are gone, they’re less likely to disrupt other climbers with barking, digging, or any kind of mischief. If the sun’s out, hopefully they’ll just soak up the rays and nap.
Show them their zone
And make them stay put! The biggest concern for dogs at the crag is safety—theirs, yours and others climbers’. There are a lot of hazards to watch for: falling rocks or debris, equipment, ropes, belayer and climber’s space, etc.
That’s why when you get to the crag, it’s a wise idea to scout out a space for your dog where they are in your line of vision but away from others’ equipment and personal space. A dog crossing in front of a belayer or getting tangled in a rope is a big no and of course you want them far away from beneath the area where people are climbing.
We like to bring our dogs’ sleeping bags. We’ve trained them to know ‘place’, and that place is on their sleeping bag. Depending on the spot and the crowds, sometimes a leash is necessary. Always have a third person on the ground to corral the dog if needed, and never go on a multi-pitch climb and leave the dog on the ground.
Keep them comfy!
Bringing the right gear to keep your dog comfortable, fed and occupied will result in a better day for everyone. Your dog will be less restless when they’re gnawing on a bone or playing with an engaging enrichment toy like our conifer toy. You know what works best whether it’s extra treats, a cozy camping corner for a lazy pup, or an activity that’ll have them forgetting to bark or hunt for sticks. Of course, make sure they have enough water and shade especially if it’s a hot one!
Packing out the poop is a must
As a climber and lover of outdoor activities, you probably already observe Leave No Trace principles, so it probably isn’t a surprise that dog poop should be packed out. Most responsible dog owners already do this and show up not just to the crag, but the parks, trails, and campsites with baggies at the ready. If you’re looking for durable bags with a convenient holder for when you’re on the go, we’ve got you covered with these.
Get the barking under control
A huge draw to a day at the crag is being outside, in nature and away from daily stresses and city noise. If your dog is barking or whining while you’re on the wall though, that’s going to compromise the peaceful atmosphere for everyone (your dog included!). At best, a dog’s barking is mildly annoying but at worst, it could distract a climber or belayer.
Getting them properly settled, comfortable and engaged will of course help with that, as does reinforcing your “quiet,” command.
Know when to call it a day
Your very good boy or girl very much belongs at the crag on single pitch chiller days. Sometimes there are just too many people, or our dogs are just not having it, and on those days we cut the day short.
We bring our dogs along to adventures like these because we want them to experience the outdoors with us and because they genuinely add to the adventure. Afterall, it’s their first time on earth too, and we all want to have a good time.
