Are the dogs off leash on trips & hikes?

The beauty of going on an adventure up north with your dog is the freedom of being able to let them off leash. At the access meeting points and parking lots we have some responsibility to ensure that our pups are within range, and as a result some dogs may require leashes in these initial stages of a Dog Paddling Adventure. However, once we are out on our site and in the park, the dogs are free to run and play and swim completely off leash. It is a real treat for the dogs (and for their humans) to be able to spend so much time bonding without the need for a leash.

Do the dogs usually get along on trips & hikes?

The great thing about our trips is the fact that the dogs are predominately off leash for the entire adventure. When they first are meeting they are in a neutral location and off leash which immediately takes away any territorial issues that you may see at your dog parks. The dogs are so curious about their new surroundings and about meeting so many other dogs at once that we rarely ever see any issues between them. From time to time we get a dog who simply doesn't like another dog, in this case we just do our best to keep one at the front of the pack and one at the back and they quickly forget what they didn't like about one another! While they are on trip they are hiking, running and playing together and instantly they form a "doggy pack" of their own.

My dog has never been off leash before…can I still come and participate?

There are a few things that help make an adventure with DPA work out really well in this type of circumstance. First of all, a group of participants quickly form a pack to which the dogs bond. In a forest setting the pups hang around this large new pack full of interesting things to see and smell and rarely go sniffing beyond the boundaries of our campsites. Even dogs with intense 'nose drive' will only go so far, because there is tons of good stuff happening right where they are! Another nice factor is that all participants on the trip are dog lovers (obviously!) and as such, you are not alone in keeping tabs on your pup. While it is true that the ultimate responsibility for your pup belongs to you, our guides and participants are always keeping tabs on the whereabouts of each pup. Watching a dog who has never been off leash enjoying their freedom is really an amazing thing to see!

I have never been paddling before… do I need to know how to canoe?

There is no experience needed to come on a Dog Paddling Adventure. We have many trips that are suited to the first time paddler, and we always include instruction and on going feedback to help you enjoy a successful first time paddling experience!

My dog has never been in a canoe before, and I would like to know how we get the dogs to stay still in the boat?

Most of the dogs have never been in a canoe, and they have always done just fine. We have doggy lifejackets that have a great handle on the back to help us keep our pups in check. As well, our canoes are among the most stable boats on the market, and once you load a few packs into them they become nearly impossible to tip. Also, we paddle relatively small lakes and stay near shore, which allows us to hop out of our canoes whenever the dogs (or the people!) need to stretch our legs. And finally, after the dogs have had the opportunity to run around for a while, they are usually quite content to relax and let the swaying of the boat put them to sleep. It all quickly adds up to a comfortable experience once the initial uneasiness has passed.

What do I need to bring on a canoe trip?

We provide all of the gear that you and your dog need for a canoe trip. We provide a waterproof canoe pack, tents, canoes, paddles, lifejackets for you and your dog, full instruction and deliciously prepared meals. All you have to bring are your clothes, your dog and dog food. We also send you a detailed suggestion list of what to pack for your clothes and extras for your adventure.

Can I come along with just me and my dog?

Of course! Our trips are always a wonderful blend of singles, couples, or friends who decided to come along together. Everyone has one common bond, and that is the love they share for their dogs! The interesting mix of people on each trip makes for a dynamic experience of more than just dog fun, but learning from and meeting new people all the time.

How many dogs can I bring with? Do more dogs cost more money?

The dog(s) always travel with mom or dad for free. The costs outlined are per person, and the dog(s) are just along for the ride, so to speak. The amount of dogs a participant can bring on an adventure will depend on the type of trip, and also the number of other participants on the same trip with multiple dogs as well. Canoes generally hold two people and two dogs per boat, so if one client brings a single dog, and another client brings three dogs, it would work out. Generally, our land programs have room for as many dogs as we want to include, and our canoeing program is very flexible to accommodate most groups.

What do we need to bring with us?

One of the nicest things about taking a guided trip is that all gear is provided for you. Depending on the season and the type of adventure you are participating in, all you will need is your clothes, dog food, and a few other odds and ends (i.e. bug spray, sunscreen, dog blanket, etc.). We provide the canoes, tents, lifejackets, paddles, backpacks, food, skis, kicksleds, etc. etc. Our outfitting is modern and comfortable.

What is a portage?

Portages are over-land trails that connect the waterways that we are traveling on. Lakes are only so big and then we must carry our gear over land to the next lake. Portages vary in length and difficulty but everyone in your group assists with carrying canoes and packs. Rain Lake Algonquin park location does NOT have a portage. At Dog Paddling Adventures we realize that you may not have any experience with portaging and our guides provide individual support and fosters a sense of group effort for each portage. We have selected routes that do not have portages that are too difficult for the average beginner canoeist. The portages are also a terrific way to let your dog burn off some energy and enjoy a great hike (we just have to figure out away to get them to carry the boats!!).

Are there washroom facilities on trip?

On trip we have solar showers that can be used for a quick shower in the woods and always available to wash up in the morning ,at night and after meals etc. Toilet facilities on trip are basic. The parks have what we call 'thunder boxes'. Think of them as an outhouse with no walls. Although basic they are located in a private area in the woods and are quite comfy for a camping experience.

What is a typical 3 day trip like?

Our 3 day weekend trips are a wonderful way to get out of the city and really immerse you and your dog into nature! Our 3 day adventures begin usually on a Friday morning where the group meets and greets by the Lake. We then re pack all your clothes into our waterproofed canoe packs. After our meet and greet and pack up we partner up and get our dogs and ourselves suited up in our human and doggy lifejackets , get our paddles and hop in the boats. We begin with a full paddling lesson to help you and your pooch get used to the boats and paddling. We then set out on the open lake and enjoy a wonderful paddle to our destination (some locations include a nice hike over the portage) We stop a few times to let the dogs get some play time and swimming time in and to have a quick snack as well. Then we carry on, enjoy the views and make our way to our site. Once we arrive at our campsite we unpack, help you set up your tents and get you and your pooch all settled. The rest of the day is free time to enjoy swimming, relaxing and deliciously prepared meals. (see our Meal Description below).

Our evenings are spent with a glass of wine by the campfire enjoying the company of fellow dog lovers and our very sleepy pups under the stars. The 2nd day of our adventure is always a day trip. Day trips include a variety of options depending on the location such as a hiking location, visit to a beach or waterfall or out onto the bay for a paddle and an island picnic lunch. Each day outing is special and unique. Our final day of the trip includes a lovely buffet lunch, a morning swim or some free time to just enjoy the lake before we have to start packing up and paddling out back to our cars.

What types of meals are provided?

At Dog Paddling Adventures we take pride in our delicious meals! A meal cooked on the open fire always by a serene lake always tastes better and not your typical camp food. Our goal is to provide healthy, varied menus based on familiar, easy to prepare home-style foods with quantities to satisfy the hungriest of dog paddlers. You won't find tasteless freeze dried foods here. Our food continues to get rave reviews year after year. Many of our clients are very surprised at what can be accomplished over a campfire or stove. As with other aspects of our trips everyone is welcome to take part in the preparation of the meals.

Most dietary concerns (of both you and your pooch) can be accommodated with prior notice. Be sure to let us know your requirements on your personal information form.

Here are some typical Dog Paddling Menu items.

BREAKFAST is always a great way to start the day so you have to enjoy a nice hearty meal some of the typical items you will enjoy are: Bacon and eggs with English muffins , Pancakes with fresh seasonal berries and maple syrup , Granola, Oatmeal with dried fruit, muffins, buffet of fresh fruit, tea & Coffee..

LUNCH: Most often we head onshore at a scenic spot for lunch breaks during our outings: Here is a sample of our lunches.
Fresh pitas & wraps with salami and cheeses
Tuna -Cabbage salad served in a pita
Warm Quesadillas
Sandwiches with fresh toppings such as tomatoes, cucumber and a variety of cheeses and breads
Old stand-bys such as peanut butter and jam and nutella
In cooler weather soups are served with lunches
On longer trips, fresh bean sprouts Tabouli and Hummous etc.

APPTETIZERS: After a wonderful day of hiking or paddling what could be better than a delicious appetizer to snack on while our Dinner is being prepared and the dogs are enjoying a swim in the lake.  Some of the delicious appetizers you can expect are:
Campfire Nachos
Tomato and Bocconcini on pita
Cheese with crackers and assortment of olives
Hummus and flat breads

DINNER: Dinners are the highlight of the day's menu. Evenings afford us more time to devote to preparation and presentation. Cooking the meal over a campfire becomes an event where everyone has something to contribute. All trips are outfitted with a spice kit which features a variety of seasonings to create a theme or to simply provide enhancement. Cooking outdoors over a fire, on a stove, in a reflector oven or in a Dutch oven is an art form. Timing, orchestration and creativity are as essential as the ingredients. You will be surprised with the variety of dinners and desserts that can be created! Here is a sample of our dinner menu. Dinners always end with a yummy dessert including make your own smores, rice krispie squares, upside down cake or apple crisp!

Fettuccine Alfredo served with snow peas & Mushrooms, salad & garlic bread

Chicken and fresh vegetable stir-fry with rice or Cous Cous: Green peppers, broccoli, snow peas, zucchini, carrots and onions are the ingredients in this fresh favorite. Try it curried, sweet and sour, or let your imagination work with our abundant spice kit.

Pizza: Imagine enjoying a pizza on a camping trip. A popular meal with our guides and clients alike this meal will surprise you with how easy it is to prepare and savour a home-cooked pizza in the wilderness.

Vegetarian Shepherd's pie: Another favorite made with red lentils, yams, potatoes and our secret spices. Simple and fast to prepare this meal is often saved for the end of the trip as it is light and uses spoil free vegetables.

Pea soup with bannock dumplings: Pea soup was a staple for the voyagers but we dress it up with spices, smoked ham (optional), and fresh bannock dumplings. This hearty, tradition soup is always a welcome meal after a day of paddling

What precautions do you recommend to protect myself and my dog against West Nile?

WNV is a disease mostly affecting birds. It is spread among birds to mosquitoes. These mosquitoes can sometimes bite a person, but most people do NOT become very sick. There has been no documented cases of the disease affecting dogs and cats. The best way to protect yourself and your dog is to avoid perfumes and use a mosquito repellent when on trip. We have a wonderful pet mosquito repellent as well that we provide for the dogs on all of our trips that is an all natural blend with no harmful ingredients for the dogs.

What is skijoring?

Skijoring is a Norwegian word that means "ski-driving", that is a cross country skier utilizing a dog, or dogs as draft animals. Skijoring is a fast growing winter sport combining mushing and cross-country skiing. It's a sport that can be enjoyed on many levels, from jaunts with the family dog, to non competitive fun runs to all out racing!

What kind of dog do I need to skijor?

You don't need a husky or a specific winter dog, many types of dogs can enjoy skijoring. Although the Northern Breeds are naturals, many other breeds can learn to enjoy skijoring. One popular group of nontraditional dogs is field dogs getting some exercise in the off-season, but many other breeds participate as well. One rule of thumb is that the dog should be over 30 pounds or so. If you go to a local race, you'll see all kinds of dogs getting in on the action and it is a sport that is a ton of fun and a wonderful bonding experience for you and your pup.

Do I need to know how to ski to come on one of your winter adventures?

Absolutely not, we teach you everything you need to know about cross country skiing as well as how to use the harness systems and how to get your dog ready for a day of skijoring. We start off with a full ski instruction followed by a skijoring lesson, by the end of your first day you are ready to skijor with your pup thru trails and become a real "musher"!