Hiking with Kilo the Pug
Hiking can be great exercise
It can help burn a few calories and build stamina and fitness. It can also be really fun and help lift the mood, not just because of the exercise, but also because of the light, colours, smells and sights.
We take Kilo for lots of short walks each day, mainly on or near our large block. He loves familiar territory and is terrified of parks where he now knows there are other dogs. However on the weekends, we are starting to get him out hiking longer and further. Luckily, we have a network of ravines and parks across and around Toronto.
Not Every Dog Takes to Hiking Immediately
Pugs are not really built for log runs or hiking in the heat, but he is very agile and loves exploring so we find a good balance for all of us (my knees are very bad so Kilo suits me). We use a 20′ leash so he has a feeling of freedom but is safe. We still do not trust his recall 100% and he can still be reactive. We are hoping the hiking, positive training and exercise will build up his confidence. It is certainly great bonding for both of us.
Our recipe for a great weekend walk with Kilo: 
1) Add a beautiful day, warm and sunny, but not too hot.
2) Add some varied terrain with lots of trees, leaves, and flowers starting to come out.
3) Add views over the ravine, a stream, and a few squirrels.
4) Avoid other dogs and humans.
Mix it all together for a good hour or two and you have one very tired but happy puppy and human. Plus Kilo is finally back in great shape after his brief “porky pug” experience last winter. Not too fat and very strong.
Hiking with your dog is a great way to get out and explore new places you haven’t been before. Kilo and I are working towards exploring the whole city together, one cool spot at a time.
You can see a video of Kilo’s adventures around Toronto HERE:
I laughed when I read your “porky pug” description of Kilo over the winter, lol! It’s tough getting out when the winter is brutally cold but Kilo is looking great out there on the trails. Happy hiking this summer!
Thanks Elaine. It’s so tough for both Kilo and I in winter, plus Kilo responds well to treats in his therapy and training. We are so happy with the weather now in Toronto and luckily he likes raw vegies. Just popped out for a quick walk now. Have a great weekend.
Sounds like he gets lots of fun time outside to workout and explore. We use long leashes too because our recall can be perfect or zero depending on what is going on around us. You are such a little cutie, Kilo!
Thanks Emma- you are pretty cute yourself (I like a sporty girl). Congrats today- you certainly are a talented sniffer. X Kilo
He is such a happy little dude. Beautiful photos.
Omigoodness! Kilo is the cutest thing ever! I’m so glad you’ve found a Pug-friendly way to hike.
Thanks- I’m biased but agree- too cute. XS
Good for you Kilo – get out and about as much as possible. I love your vest!
It looks like you have a beautiful place to hike, and that Kilo really enjoys himself! We don’t hike much anymore…it’s just too tough to do with three dogs, and two can be reactive. I miss it though, and we still do occasionally venture out.
Glad Kilo is back to his healthy form! Mr. N loves hiking as well.
Looking good Kilo!!!
Smileys!
Dory, Jakey, Arty & Bilbo
Getting out & about with our pups is definitely a mood lifter, even if it’s “just” a shorter walk as opposed to a hike. Have a fantastic weekend ~ I worked all of last weekend, so I am going to enjoy being off this one!
Nice- have fun. We have to work a little XS
Aww, Kilo looks great! Looks like a pretty walking spot!
It’s pretty fantastic. Can’t wait for tomorrow. Have a great weekend XS
Kilo looks really great and you got some nice pictures.
Thanks- have a great Sunday!