Hiking with your dog in South Tyrol
South Tyrol offers the ideal conditions for a hiking holiday with your dog. From leisurely walks along the Waalwege canal trails to alpine hikes with stunning views and varied mountain tours, there are numerous routes that are also suitable for four-legged companions.
If you are touring South Tyrol with your dog, there are a few things to bear in mind, such as the compulsory use of a lead.
Internet Consulting | Adam UngerichtImportant Information on Leads, Muzzles and more
In South Tyrol, dogs must generally be kept on a lead in public places and therefore also whilst hiking. Dogs should remain on a lead, particularly on alpine pastures with grazing animals, as well as in nature parks and the national park.
Furthermore, you must always carry a muzzle with you – and the dog must wear it on public transport and on lifts.
Dog waste must, of course, be picked up and disposed of properly in a dog waste bin or a general waste bin.
When going for walks with your dog, don’t forget to take plenty of drinking water and a foldable bowl.
Internet Consulting | Adam UngerichtTips for Hikes with your Dog
Good preparation ensures a relaxing outing: choose hikes that suit your dog’s fitness level, and take enough drinking water and a foldable bowl with you.
Also, make sure to plan plenty of breaks and keep an eye out for any signs of your dog overheating.
On hot days, shaded paths or walks at higher altitudes are more pleasant for both humans and dogs. Furthermore, in summer it’s generally advisable to set off in the early morning – to make the most of the cooler temperatures, avoid the midday heat and steer clear of the risk of thunderstorms.
Anyone walking their dog in the alpine pastures who comes across cows or other grazing animals must follow certain rules of conduct.
IDM/Sennereiverband Südtirol/Marco ParisiWhat to do when Encountering Cows and other Grazing Animals
- Keep a safe distance from the animals.
- Position yourself between the animals and your dog, and lead him past on the side facing away from the herd.
- Avoid sudden movements and do not run, as grazing animals may react sensitively to this.
Continue walking calmly, keeping a constant eye on the animals. - If the animals nevertheless approach in an aggressive manner, you should let your dog off the lead. Off the lead, your dog is more agile, can dodge more quickly and get itself to safety.
- Whilst the grazing animals are distracted by the dog, you can leave the danger zone calmly but swiftly.
In late summer and autumn, going for walks with your dog is particularly enjoyable.
Internet Consulting | Adam UngerichtDog-friendly hikes
Hiking with your dog in the Dolomites offers unique mountain panoramas, but Lake Pragser Wildsee, the Three Peaks and other well-known destinations within the UNESCO World Natural Dolomites are very popular in the height of summer. The following areas offer a more peaceful experience, even during the peak summer season:
- Martell Valley: This unspoilt valley in the Stilfserjoch National Park delights visitors with a variety of hiking trails, alpine pastures offering stunning views and impressive mountain scenery. The varied routes are ideal for anyone wishing to enjoy nature with their dog.
- Sarntal: Vast alpine pastures, dense forests and numerous forest tracks make the Sarntal Valley a popular hiking area for dog owners. Here you’ll find plenty of easy to moderately challenging walks away from the main tourist crowds.
There are plenty of dog-friendly walking routes in the Tauferer Ahrntal valley.
Internet Consulting | Adam Ungericht- Gsies: This unspoilt valley in the Puster Valley offers idyllic alpine pasture walks, shady forest paths and plenty of space for relaxing walks with your dog. The peaceful atmosphere makes the Gsiesertal a real hidden gem.
- Tauferer Ahrntal: Amidst alpine pastures, mountain streams and waterfalls, a variety of walks of varying difficulty await you. Thanks to numerous water sources and shaded woodland sections, the valley is a particularly attractive destination for walks with your dog, especially in summer.
- Ultental: Peaceful woods, rustic alpine pastures and quiet footpaths make the Ulten Valley an ideal hiking area for dog owners. Here, both humans and dogs can enjoy the impressive natural surroundings far away from the hustle and bustle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is my dog allowed to run free on hiking trails in South Tyrol?
No. Dogs must generally be kept on a lead in South Tyrol. Dogs should remain on a lead, particularly on hiking trails in nature reserves and on alpine pastures, so as not to endanger wildlife, grazing animals and other hikers.
Which hikes are suitable for dogs?
Hikes with plenty of water sources, shaded woodland sections or alpine paths without exposed climbing sections are ideal. Waalwege channel trails and many high-altitude trails are also suitable for well-trained dogs.
What should I bear in mind around cows and other grazing animals?
Cows – particularly suckler cows – may perceive dogs as a threat. If grazing animals do approach in a threatening manner, take your dog off the lead so that both you and your dog can get to safety.
Does my dog need a muzzle when hiking?
There is no general requirement to use a muzzle whilst hiking. However, anyone out and about with a dog in South Tyrol must carry a muzzle, as it is compulsory on public transport and on ski lifts, and may also be required in other situations.
What equipment should I take with me for a hike with my dog?
Essential items include a collar or harness, lead, muzzle (only required in certain situations), drinking water, a foldable bowl, poo bags, a small first-aid kit for dogs and, if necessary, paw protection for stony paths. We also recommend bringing your dog’s EU pet passport, a blanket and some treats.
Selected accommodations in South Tyrol
- Surrounded by a dreamlike panorama
- Elegant, bright rooms and suites
- Cuisine for discerning palates
- Wellness area with swimming pool and treatments
- Paradise for summer and winter outdoor activities
- Elegant and relaxing ambience
- Large park surrounding the house
- Indoor pool,infinity pool and whirlpool
- Swimming pond
- Lounge and terrace for pleasant moments
- Close to Meran
- In a quiet & sunny location
- Individually designed rooms
- Wellness area & medical centre
- Organic restaurant
- 5-star wellness hotel
- 5,500 m² Adults Only Premium Spa
- Award-winning cuisine
- Varied adventure & activity programme
- DolceVita Hotels: Book 1 hotel & enjoy 5 hotels