i never ride without my buddy bart(2 yr old queensland/lab mix) i totaly agree with other post, teach your pup to drink from their own water bottle. also be watchfull for sores on your dogs pads, i've had problems with sores caused by very dry, abrasive trail conditions and too many miles. as for trail etiquette bikes and hikers yield to horses, bikes yield to hikers, another words bikes yield to everyone. be courtious, have fun!