What is included in a typical group hiking session?

Each hike includes pick-up and drop-off, a one-hour guided hike on local trails, warm-up and cool-down, socialization, and integrated training for obedience and impulse control.

How many dogs are in each group hiking pack?

We limit our group hikes to a maximum of six dogs per pack. This ensures safety, proper supervision, and a positive experience for every dog.

What are the requirements for dogs to join group hikes?

Dogs must be at least 15 months old, fully spayed or neutered, non-aggressive, and pass an initial assessment with our Intro Run.

Are the hikes on-leash or off-leash?

We offer both on-leash and off-leash hikes, depending on your dog’s assessment and your preferences. Off-leash is only for dogs with a reliable recall and owner consent.

What safety measures are in place during hikes?

We use secure transportation, carefully select groupings, follow emergency protocols, and provide full supervision throughout every hike. We’re fully insured for your peace of mind.

Group Hiking | Run the Dog

At Run the Dog, our Group Hiking service is crafted for dogs who crave more than a stroll around the block. We know that for high-energy and anxious dogs, fulfillment means structured adventure—purposeful movement, fresh air, and positive pack dynamics in the forests and trails around Barrie and Midhurst. Led personally by founder Chantal Preston, every group hike is a one-hour journey that blends physical exercise, mental stimulation, and safe, managed socialization.

Our hikes are never chaotic or overcrowded: each pack is carefully curated by size, energy, and temperament, with a maximum of six dogs per hike. We reinforce obedience, recall, and impulse control throughout, turning every outing into a training opportunity. Whether your dog is a social butterfly or working on confidence around others, our group hikes offer a fulfilling experience that addresses behavioral quirks, anxiety, and boredom—providing the structure and challenge your dog needs to truly thrive.

Group hiking with Run the Dog is about more than burning off energy—it's about holistic well-being. Our service is grounded in the belief that running and hiking for dogs go beyond fitness, delivering real fulfillment. Chantal’s experience with her own reactive, anxious dog, Ryder, inspired our approach: structured outdoor adventures can transform even the most nervous or overstimulated pups.

We carefully choose local trails in the Midhurst and Barrie area, offering both on-leash and off-leash options based on each dog's assessment and owner preference. Every hike includes pick-up and drop-off, a thorough warm-up and cool-down, and constant attention to safety, from pack compatibility to emergency protocols. With integrated training and careful supervision, our group hikes help dogs build confidence, practice their skills in real-world settings, and return home calmer, happier, and more balanced. This isn’t just exercise—it’s a lifestyle upgrade for your dog.

Our group hiking service begins with an initial assessment—the mandatory Intro Run—where we get to know your dog’s temperament, energy level, and social skills. Once your dog is ready, they join a small, founder-led pack for a one-hour group hike on Midhurst’s scenic woodland trails or Barrie’s local green spaces.

We manage every detail: safe transportation with a ramp for easy loading, thoughtful grouping by size and temperament, and ongoing reinforcement of good behavior. Dogs enjoy both the challenge of new environments and the stability of routine, as hikes are available several times weekly. All group hikes are limited to six dogs, with strict age, breed, and spay/neuter requirements for everyone’s safety. We support certain training tools, including owner-supplied e-collars (with consent) for off-leash reliability. If your dog is working through reactivity, shyness, or just needs an outlet for high energy, our group hiking service delivers the structure, adventure, and personal care that sets Run the Dog apart.

If you’re a Barrie or Midhurst dog owner with a high-energy or nervous pup, group hiking could be the game-changer you’ve been searching for. Our service isn’t just about giving dogs a workout—it’s about enrichment, confidence, and fulfillment. With Chantal’s hands-on leadership and our commitment to safety, you can trust your dog is not only getting exercise but also learning essential skills and making positive connections.

From pick-up to drop-off, every moment is managed with care and expertise. Our small packs, personalized attention, and local trail knowledge mean your dog’s well-being comes first. Don’t settle for generic walks or crowded daycares—choose a hiking experience that’s as unique and special as your dog.

What is included in a typical group hiking session?
Each hike includes pick-up and drop-off, a one-hour guided hike on local trails, warm-up and cool-down, socialization, and integrated training for obedience and impulse control.
How many dogs are in each group hiking pack?
We limit our group hikes to a maximum of six dogs per pack. This ensures safety, proper supervision, and a positive experience for every dog.
What are the requirements for dogs to join group hikes?
Dogs must be at least 15 months old, fully spayed or neutered, non-aggressive, and pass an initial assessment with our Intro Run.
Are the hikes on-leash or off-leash?
We offer both on-leash and off-leash hikes, depending on your dog’s assessment and your preferences. Off-leash is only for dogs with a reliable recall and owner consent.
What safety measures are in place during hikes?
We use secure transportation, carefully select groupings, follow emergency protocols, and provide full supervision throughout every hike. We’re fully insured for your peace of mind.