Can you go for a walk with a dog in Sälenfjällen?

For many people, walking with a dog in the mountains is the whole point of the trip – the dog gets to run to its heart’s content in a landscape free from traffic, and you have a companion who never hesitates when faced with an uphill climb. Around Sälen, the answer to the question is a resounding yes: dogs are welcome in the countryside, on the trails and in most of our homes. But there are rules to be aware of, and a few considerations specific to the mountain environment. We have compiled dog-friendly holiday cottages in Sälen For those of you travelling with a four-legged companion – this guide explains what you need to bear in mind once you step out of the door.

If it’s the accommodation itself you’re wondering about – the rules regarding dogs in the house, cleaning and fees – we’ll answer those questions separately in the guide on dog-friendly holiday cottages to rent. This is about the dog in the mountains.

Short answer: yes – walking with a dog in the mountains requires a lead and planning

The right of public access applies to both of you, and there is no general ban on dogs on the hiking trails around Sälen. Instead, the guiding principles are consideration for wildlife, reindeer herding and other people using the land. In practice, this means that the dog must be kept on a lead for most of the year and that you need to plan your trip according to the dog’s needs – terrain, temperature, water and distance. With that in mind, mountain hiking with a dog is one of the simplest and most enjoyable activities the area has to offer, and one of the few that works just as well in June as it does in September.

The rules of conjunction and why they exist

Under Swedish law, between 1 March and 20 August, dogs must be kept under such supervision that they are prevented from running loose in areas where there is wildlife. This period coincides with the animals’ most vulnerable time – breeding, calving and rearing – and applies everywhere, not just in nature reserves. This responsibility does not cease during the rest of the year: dogs must always be kept under such control that they cannot harm or chase wildlife. In addition to this, there may be local regulations – for example, in nature reserves, national parks and reindeer herding areas – where stricter rules may apply all year round. Always check what applies where you are going – the County Administrative Board in Dalarna publishes the regulations for the county’s protected areas. The simple and always sound advice: keep your dog on a lead.

Reindeer, elk and predators – showing consideration out in the countryside

The mountain landscape is not empty. Elk and roe deer roam the woodland, and reindeer are also found in parts of the area; we have explained how this all fits together in our guide to the reindeer in Sälenfjällen. A dog that startles a reindeer or a female elk with a calf causes stress that can have serious consequences for the animal, and it is forbidden to allow a dog to chase game. The predator perspective applies in the opposite direction: a dog off the lead that encounters a predator may return towards you with the animal in pursuit, which is the situation described as the most dangerous by those who manage wildlife. The lead therefore protects not only the wildlife but also the dog and yourselves. If you encounter reindeer – stop, shorten the lead and walk calmly around them in a wide arc.

Leashes and surfaces suitable for dogs’ paws

The terrain determines how far the dog can go. Soft forest paths and marshy ground are gentle on their paws; rocky mountain terrain, sharp stones and long stretches of gravel are considerably harder on them. Many dogs will happily carry on walking until their paws are sore, so it’s up to you to keep an eye on them – check their paw pads after every walk, especially during the first few days. In summer, heat is the most common reason for having to cut a walk short: dogs are less able to cool themselves down than humans, and on open, bare mountain terrain there is neither shade nor water. In such cases, plan your walk for early in the morning or late in the evening, and choose routes that pass by streams. In winter, however, it is the cold and clumps of snow between their toes that are the main concerns. An overview of what’s on offer can be found in our guide to the paths around the villages.

Packing for the dog: water, paw protectors and warmth

The dog’s kit is minimal but essential. Water and a collapsible bowl are the most important items – don’t count on there being water along the trail, especially on the bare mountain during a dry summer. Bring paw protectors or at least some paw balm and something to wrap them in, plus an extra lead or rope in case the regular one breaks. During the colder months, short-haired dogs need a blanket, and after a wet walk, all dogs need to be dried off. Also pack food or energy supplements if the walk is going to last longer than a couple of hours; a dog that has been walking all day in the mountains burns significantly more energy than at home. And don’t forget dog waste bags – picking up after your dog is just as important on a mountain trail as it is in a park.

After the walk – accommodation where dogs are just as welcome

A wet, muddy and happy dog needs the same things as you do: warmth, a dry place and rest. A house with a hallway where paws can be wiped dry, space for a dog bed and, ideally, direct access to the outdoors makes the whole week easier. Check in advance what the rules are for the specific house you’re booking – rules vary from property to property, and some houses have restrictions on the number or size of pets. We’ve put together everything you need to know about travelling here with your four-legged friends on our page about with a dog in Sälen, from accommodation to practical tips for your stay. A little tip to boot: a dog that’s had a good walk during the day makes for an unbeatably pleasant dinner guest in the evening.

Summary – hiking with your dog in the mountains the right way

Here’s how it works when hiking with a dog in the mountains around Sälen:

• Dogs are welcome on the trails – but they must be kept on a lead as a general rule, particularly from 1 March to 20 August.
• Check with the County Administrative Board for local regulations in nature reserves, national parks and reindeer herding areas.
• If you come across reindeer or elk: stop, shorten the lead and walk around them in a wide arc.
• Choose soft ground, check your paws and avoid the hottest part of the day in the open mountains.
• Make sure you pack water, a bowl, paw pads, an extra lead and dog waste bags – always.
• Book a holiday home where dogs are allowed, and check the property’s own rules in advance.

With the lead in your hand and a bit of forward planning, a trip to the mountains will be just as much a holiday for your dog as it is for you.