Dogs are a fairly common sight in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. You usually see them nestled in the middle of packs, busy sniffing their surroundings while riding in a canoe. Or you may encounter them on a portage trail carrying a dog pack. They add companionship and memorable moments to a canoe trip, but like us, dogs benefit from a little preparation and planning to stay safe and enjoy the adventure.
Our adventure dog
We began bringing our chocolate Labrador, Hilde, to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) when she was around two years old. From the beginning, we knew she’d become a regular part of our yearly adventures north. She had learned basic commands while we hiked trails near home and had also car-camped. However, she wasn’t accustomed to being in a canoe or camping in the wilderness.
As part of our planning and preparation, we also worked to get her ready. We considered her physical ability, comfort, and safety, as well as how to be “good neighbors” to fellow paddlers we met along the way. I’m sharing what we learned from exploring with her over the past 11 years. I hope it helps as you plan adventures with your furry friend.
Tips for wilderness tripping with a dog
- Start with the basic commands. Our dog was trained to be on and off leash. As you train, it is important to incorporate words like “stay” or “leave it”.
- Build up their endurance. Just as it’s helpful for us to train for the rigors of a wilderness trip, it’s good for dogs, too. Start by taking longer walks, gradually increasing the distance. This can also be a great opportunity to get your dog used to wearing a life jacket or pack.
- Camp locally. Before you head north, take your dog to a nearby campground and get them used to the sights and sounds of the woods, other people, and the campsite.
- Practice in a canoe. We started by placing our canoe in the yard and letting Hilde sniff it and check it out. Using treats, we trained her to get in and out of the canoe with a couple of simple commands. We also read that dogs don’t like sliding around, so we created a spot for her using a cut-down yoga mat where she could lie or sit. Next, we took her to a local lake and practiced the same routine in shallow water. Eventually we moved into deeper water and varied conditions, like rain. We also took day trips, stopping along the shore to let her practice getting in and out of the canoe. While not everyone has a canoe or access to a lake, you can still practice commands at a nearby park.
- Leash up. Our favorite leash is a hands-free leash that fits around our waist. This makes it easier to carry gear. When we travel, one person manages the dog on portages. They’re usually carrying a pack or a few loose items.
- Pack dog food. Our dog wears a pack as she’s a great swimmer and used to being around water. But there are good life jackets for dogs too. We put her food in waterproof bags and use a collapsible bowl, both of which she carries.
- Pack for comfort. Our trips are usually later in the summer and fall. Hilde stays in our tent and uses a closed-cell foam mat and an old kids’ sleeping bag to stay warm. We use an old microfiber towel to wipe off her body and feet.
- Pack for safety. We put together a small first aid kit for our dog after researching online and talking with our vet. We include items for wound and foot care, salve for chafing/skin irritation, tick removal, hook removal, sprain/strain care, and medications. You can make up your own kit or buy a commercially made one. On the trail, we check our dog’s paws daily for tenderness or cuts and her body for bug bites or chafing.
- Protect from bugs. Mosquitoes, ticks, black flies, and gnats are usually prevalent from June through mid-August. Bring pet-safe bug spray and consider using vet-approved flea and tick prevention. You can also use permethrin for your dog, but read and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines before use. Some folks opt to bring a large screened shelter; however, bugs can still get in.
- Do dogs need apparel? Most dogs won’t need anything, but depending on the season, an insulated jacket or rain jacket may help.
- Be sure your dog has ID. Our name and phone number are engraved on a plate that slides securely onto our dog’s collar rather than dangling from it.
- Know your dog’s limits. Consider your dog’s age, fitness, breed, and experience when planning your canoe trip. Choose a distance and difficulty level that match your dog’s abilities.
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Rules and regulations for bringing dogs
For everyone’s comfort and safety, including dogs, the USFS has provided information on regulations for bringing dogs into the BWCAW. According to the federal agency, “Dogs must always be under human control on a 6-foot or shorter leash. Dogs endanger wildlife, and barking intrudes on the experience. Dispose of dog waste 200 feet from water, campsites, portages, or put it in a latrine. Annually, visitors lose dogs within the BWCAW due to a runaway or wildlife encounter; please follow the law to protect your dog and wildlife.” They added that these regulations apply to all “developed recreation sites,” including campgrounds, campsites, boat landings, hiking trails, portages, and fishing piers.
However, there are some exceptions. Dogs don’t need to be leashed while in the canoe or a tent, nor do they need to be leashed if a person is hunting with them. “With respect to hunting, if you are participating in an active hunt, you can have your dog off-leash,” said Cathy Quinn, Assistant Manager of Wilderness for the Superior National Forest. “If you are engaged in an active hunt and you’re out with a hunting dog that’s going to retrieve birds or point birds, you can have your dog off-leash.” The minimum fine for an off-leash dog outside of the exceptions is $50, though a ranger may use the chance to educate and give a verbal warning.
The USFS said these regulations resulted from public feedback and input from rangers and recreation managers. Dogs that have gotten lost in the Superior National Forest, which includes the BWCAW, have also received more press and public awareness in recent years.
After 11 years of canoe trips together, Hilde is much older now. Her muzzle has grayed, but she still comes north with us and loves the relaxing cadence of the canoe and lying on a sun-warmed rock at camp. She has been a beloved part of our canoe trips, and our memories of those journeys will always be intertwined with the joy of having her along.
More info:
- Clarification and FAQs on Dog Leash Rules – USFS – Superior National Forest
- Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness Trip Planning Guide
Wilderness guide and outdoorswoman Pam Wright has been exploring wild places since her youth. Remaining curious, she has navigated remote lakes in Canada by canoe, backpacked some of the highest mountains in the Sierra Nevada, and completed a thru-hike of the Superior Hiking Trail. Her professional roles include working as a wilderness guide in northern Minnesota and providing online education for outdoor enthusiasts.