Taking Your Dog Up a Munro: A Complete Guide for Hiking with Your Dog in Scotland

Climbing Munros is one of Scotland’s greatest adventures, but sharing that journey with your dog makes it even more special. Before you hit the trails, it’s important to be fully prepared — for both you and your four-legged companion. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about hiking Munros with your dog, including essential gear, safety tips, and recommended products.

Is It Safe to Take a Dog Up a Munro?

Yes — but only if you’re properly prepared. While many Munros are dog-friendly, some have steep ridges, loose scree, or exposed drops that can be hazardous. Always research the route beforehand, consider your dog’s fitness level, and check the weather.

How Fit Should Your Dog Be?

Your dog should:

• Be healthy and vet-checked for strenuous exercise

• Be able to walk for several hours

• Have solid obedience (especially recall)

• Be comfortable with changing terrain, wind, and heights

If in doubt, start with smaller hills before progressing to full Munros.

Essential Gear for Hiking Munros with Your Dog

Having the right gear ensures a safer, more enjoyable hike. Here’s a full checklist for both the human and the dog:

For Your Dog

1. Dog Hiking Harness with Handle
A secure, padded harness with a top handle allows you to assist your dog on tricky sections.

RUFFWEAR Web Master Harness (Amazon)
Widely considered one of the best hiking harnesses for dogs.

2. Collapsible Water Bowl
Lightweight and easy to pack.

Heouvo Collapsible Pet Bowl (Amazon)

3. Portable Water Bottle
Perfect for topping up water without carrying a full bottle.

LumoLeaf Dog Water Bottle (Amazon)

4. Dog Boots (Optional)
For rough, rocky trails that might hurt your dog’s paws.

QUMY Dog Boots Waterproof (Amazon)

5. Tick Remover
Ticks are common in Scottish hills.

O’TOM Tick Twister (Amazon)

For You (The Human)

1. Hiking Poles
Stabilize yourself on tricky ground, especially when managing a dog.

TREKOLOGY Trekking Poles (Amazon)

2. Proper Hiking Boots
Essential for rocky Munro terrain.

Salomon X Ultra 4 GTX Hiking Boots (Amazon)

3. Lightweight Waterproof Jacket
Scottish weather changes fast!

Berghaus Men’s Paclite Jacket (Amazon)

Safety Tips for Munro Hiking with Your Dog

• Check for Livestock: Many Munros have sheep or deer. Keep your dog on a lead if needed.

• Weather: Conditions change quickly. Avoid summits in storms.

• Paws: Regularly check for cuts, grit, or soreness.

• Hydration: Dogs dehydrate fast, even in cool temperatures.

• First Aid: Carry a small dog first-aid kit.

Munros That Are More Dog-Friendly

Some Munros are more suitable for dogs, especially beginners:

• Schiehallion (1,083m): Wide path, less exposure.

• Ben Chonzie (931m): Gentle slopes, grassy summit.

• Mount Keen (939m): Straightforward approach.

Use Our Munro Time Estimator!

Curious how long your chosen Munro might take? Use our Munro Time Estimator to plan your adventure!

Final Thoughts

Hiking a Munro with your dog can be an amazing bonding experience. With proper preparation, you’ll both enjoy Scotland’s incredible mountain landscapes safely and comfortably.