By Sushant Agarwal
Published on | Jul 28, 2025
You're hiking peacefully, and suddenly — a friendly mountain dog starts following you. Not lost, not scared, just walking beside you. Why?
Mountain dogs are instinctively social. They’re pack animals and may see solo or small-group trekkers as temporary companions to join.
Dogs associate humans with food. On cold, remote trails, they may follow you hoping for a meal or warmth from your group.
Your scent, gear, and pace might intrigue a dog. Their strong sense of smell helps them track and stay with trekkers they find interesting.
Some dogs follow not for company — but to watch or guard their territory. They’ll trail you until you’re out of their zone, then return.
Mountain dogs are used to the terrain and often guide hikers naturally. But they aren't domesticated pets — avoid overattachment or dependence.
Feeding is kind, but be mindful. It encourages following, which can exhaust dogs on long trails. Share only if you're on a short route.
Tempted to adopt? Mountain dogs are hardy, semi-wild, and adapted to cold. Taking them to cities often leads to poor adjustment or illness.
Let them come and go. Most dogs vanish after a day or two, returning to familiar villages or trails they've known for years.
They’re more than strays — they’re part of the trekking ecosystem. If one walks with you, consider it a quiet blessing from the mountains.