Open hillsides, new ground to sniff, and the company of the pack — I lead off-leash hikes through the Lamorinda hills, plus a park stop for the dogs who'd rather chase a ball.
My German Shepherd turns into a detective the second he's off-leash — nose down, tracking every scent, running back and forth — he's fully alive. We're lucky enough to live somewhere with beautiful off-leash hills just minutes away, and I want as many dogs as possible to have that same experience.
Routes shift with the season, the weather, and how busy a trail's likely to be — I take dogs to some of the best off-leash areas in and around Lafayette, with pickup and drop-off in my own van. I also use a tracking app so you always know exactly where we are.
Bear Creek & Lafayette Ridge staging areas have open grassland, oak woodlands, and ridge views (I'm EBRPD permitted, and I cap each hike at 5 dogs).
A peaceful spot with a wide field of green grass, timed to the seasonal off-leash hours.
Great hiking hills with miles-wide views and a nice breeze once you get up a bit.
The more I know a dog, the better I can tailor the hike — where we go, how long, how fast. I pair personalities that form a cohesive pack, and keep it exciting but comfortable: real off-leash time, water breaks, and a pace the dogs set. That only works with a steady group, which is why there's a minimum of two hikes a week.
The same rate however often you book.
Before a dog joins a pack hike, they come to Rancho Laguna Park (with our crew) so I can get a sense of their temperament and how their recall is off-leash. If a dog seems like a good fit, they're ready to hike. The first park visit is free.
To join a pack, dogs need to: