French Way from Sarria: how to prepare your dog for the route
Doing the French Way from Sarria with your dog can be one of the most rewarding experiences you live. You will not only share with them one of the most emblematic routes of the Camino de Santiago, but you will also enjoy the Galician nature, rural villages and the coexistence with other pilgrims, all alongside your most faithful companion.
However, for the experience to be positive, it is essential to prepare the dog physically, mentally and logistically. The Camino is not just a walk: it involves several days of walking, changing weather and new stimuli. With the right preparation, your pet will be able to enjoy it as much as you do.
➤ Assess whether your dog is readyBefore planning the trip, consult your veterinarian to make sure your dog is in condition to complete the route. Not all dogs are suitable for long walks: age, breed, weight and overall health have a big influence.
Young, active dogs used to walking are the ones that adapt best. Large breeds or short-snouted dogs (such as bulldogs or pugs) may have more difficulty, especially in the heat.
- Consult the veterinarian at least a month before the trip.
- Make sure vaccinations and deworming are up to date.
- Check their endurance by doing progressive walks before the Camino.
The French Way from Sarria is about 115 kilometers that are normally completed in 5 or 6 days. Your dog will also need preparation to get used to walking long distances. Start with longer daily walks and gradually add weight or hills.
If your dog is not used to walking on different terrains, spend time training them on dirt, stone or grass surfaces similar to those on the Camino. This will strengthen their paws and prevent injuries.
- Gradually increase the length of the walks.
- Take frequent breaks and observe their behavior.
- Practice half-day routes before the trip.
- Get them used to wearing their own harness and a light backpack (if they use one).
Just like the pilgrim, the dog must travel light but with everything necessary for its well-being. There are backpacks or bags designed especially for them, although ideally you should carry most of the weight.
- Comfortable harness (better than a collar) and strong leash.
- Foldable food and water bowls.
- Basic canine first-aid kit (gauze, saline, tweezers, antiseptic, paw protector).
- Light towel and waste bags.
- Regular food or kibble (to avoid digestive issues).
- Mandatory identification and microchip.
- Updated veterinary card.
You can also include a reflective vest or LED light for early morning or evening hours. Galicia is green and humid, so a small raincoat for dogs may be useful.
➤ Take care of their paws: their most valuable toolThe Camino de Santiago crosses varied terrain: asphalt, gravel, dirt and cobblestone paths. Your dog's paw pads must be prepared to withstand several days of walking. In the weeks before, you can apply hardening cream or natural balms to strengthen them.
On the Camino, check their paws every night. If you notice cracks or wounds, wash with water and neutral soap, dry well and apply protector. If the terrain is very hot or rough, consider using protective booties.
- Apply protective cream before and after each stage.
- Clean and dry the paws well at the end of the day.
- Avoid stages with too much asphalt or stones if you notice discomfort.
Dogs need more water than we imagine, especially on hot days. Always carry an extra bottle for them and offer water every 30–45 minutes. Avoid letting them drink from rivers or puddles, as they may contain bacteria or parasites.
During the walk, make frequent stops in the shade. Dogs regulate heat worse than humans, so a timely rest can prevent heatstroke.
- Bring fresh water and a portable bowl.
- Avoid walking during the central hours of the day (12:00–17:00).
- Allow them to rest in quiet, cool places.
- At night, make sure they have a comfortable place to sleep.
The stretch between Sarria and Santiago has more and more pet-friendly accommodations: private hostels, guesthouses and rural houses that accept dogs. It is important to book in advance and confirm the conditions: some accept only small dogs, others charge a small supplement.
Upon reaching each stage, find a place where your dog can rest indoors, away from noise and cold. Remember that although they are a good travel companion, they also need their own rest.
- Check in advance which accommodations accept pets.
- Avoid leaving the dog alone or tied up outside.
- Respect the coexistence and cleanliness rules in each place.
The French Way from Sarria is safe to walk with dogs, but basic precautions should be taken. Keep them always on a leash, especially when crossing roads or in areas with other animals. Pick up their waste and remain respectful towards other pilgrims and nature.
Remember that some accommodations and transport do not accept pets, so it is advisable to organize reservations well and, if necessary, count on the support of a specialized agency.
- Use a short leash in urban areas and a long one on rural paths.
- Do not allow them to bother other pilgrims or animals.
- Always carry bags to clean up after them.
Doing the Camino de Santiago with your dog is more than a trip: it is a shared experience that strengthens the bond between you. Each stage is a lesson in patience, trust and companionship. Your dog will remind you that there is no need to rush, that the present is enjoyed step by step and that happiness is found on the path, not just at the goal.
When you reach Santiago de Compostela, there will be no Compostela for them, but there will be an unforgettable memory: having walked together toward the same horizon.
The French Way from Sarria with your dog is possible and wonderful. With planning, care and respect, you will enjoy an unforgettable experience together along the green paths of Galicia.