RESPONSES TO DOG POLICY QUESTIONNAIRE

The Board of Directors for the Spokane Mountaineers is establishing a "Dog Policy" for Mountaineer events. Following are the responses to a survey sent to the membership in April 2002. The response rate was 20.3%.

1. Do you agree that dogs should be allowed on certain, appropriate Mountaineer events?
__59___ Yes __58____ No __12____ I don’t care

2. Due to the current, mostly unwritten "no dogs" policy, have you ever chosen NOT to participate in certain Mountaineer events that otherwise you would have attended?
___26__ Yes (I didn’t attend) ___87___ No (I still attended) 1_ Other

3. If you knew that dogs might participate in a certain Mountaineer event, would you choose NOT to attend because of them?
___59__ Yes (I wouldn’t attend) ___68___ No (I would still attend)

4. What events do you consider appropriate for dog participation?
Short/day hikes ________45_ Yes __48_ No __38_ Some
Backpack trips ________25_ Yes __72_ No __34_ Some
Flat water kayaking _____11_ Yes __91_ No __12_ Some
(If the question had been "flat water paddling", it may have yielded a different answer)
Double-track mt biking ___6_ Yes _102_ No __12_ Some
Single track mt biking ____4_ Yes _103_ No __11_ Some
Off-track Nordic skiing __22_ Yes __89_ No __16_ Some
Back country skiing _____18_ Yes __86_ No __18_ Some
In-line skating __________6_ Yes __94_ No __17_ Some
Winter camping ________26_ Yes __67_ No __26_ Some
Summer outing _________37_ Yes __58_ No __26_ Some
Chalet _______________17_ Yes __79_ No __20_ Some
Car-based camping _____27_ Yes __58_ No __35_ Some
Other (write in) _________5_ Yes ___9_ No ___2_ Some
(Yes - scramble climbs, canoeing, bird hunting, dog events) (No - schools)

COMMENTS

(All items within each bullet are from a single respondent. They have been grouped to reflect similar sentiment.)

I. Definite no

Dogs are pets and do not have any business to be in a public place.

Leave Rover at home.

In general, I think people should leave their pets at home.

No dogs.

I love dogs. I have a dog. I don’t think it is a good idea to have them on any Mountaineer activity. I can predict with a high degree of certainty that there will be problems, sooner or later, if dogs are allowed, possibly serious problems. These problems could include (1) dogs biting, attacking, or scaring other people or other dogs, (2) dogs chasing wildlife, (3) dogs running off or getting lost, (4) dogs developing injuries or ailments needing attention, (5) legal liability issues from incidents with dogs.

Preferably "no dogs."

Absolutely no dogs on Mountaineer events.

Dog behavior has a lot to do with the breed, the owner, and the training. Most dogs do not belong on trips. No dogs should be allowed on climbing trips. Dogs dislodge rocks, fall off cliffs, trip up humans etc. at climbs. We have a dog but we know his limits and realize that people that do not have dogs don’t for a reason. If dogs are allowed on trips, they should be highly controlled by their owners and spend most of their time roped or leashed. Dogs that dig or destroy natural environments should be left at home. Non-dog lovers, and there are lots of them, are thoroughly annoyed by loose dogs roaming circles around their stuff, camp, the dinner table, etc. Unfortunately, most dog owners think that "Since I love my dog, everyone else will too." Wrong! Us dog owners, including myself, need to think of the non-dog owners constantly when we take our dogs out with others. This includes picking up all dog droppings. I hate stepping in dog droppings! No one likes it. Dogs in the backcountry are more prone to injury. Rescuing an injured, medium-to-big dog is more work than a person. This is something to consider. In a nutshell, dogs should not be allowed on most outings with other people. We have a big dog, but we know his limits, we know he intimidates non-dog people (all dogs do), we know his rescue would be tons of work, we know he chases wildlife and digs, we know he loses his manners when away from home. We love our dog, therefore, we leave him at home when we go out with others. This is an important issue. Thanks for addressing it.

The club is for Mountaineers, not mountain dogs.

Formalize the "no dogs" policy for Mountaineer events. Thanks.

When I recently joined, I was not aware dogs would be involved. I am very disillusioned if dogs are to be allowed. 2 New member. I would not participate with dogs.

I think dogs make any event less pleasant.

If I wanted to be around dogs, I would have joined a kennel club. I feel the worst disciplined dog you will ever see belong to people who think they can’t be left at home. I dread the thought of tracking dog feces into my tent. I’m also not happy with dogs sniffing at my crotch or drooling all over me. I don’t go camping to listen to dogs barking . Don’t tell me your dog doesn’t bite, I heard within the last week that there were just under 100,000 reported treated dog bites in the U.S. last year.

No dogs. I love them, but not appropriate!

For club-sponsored trips, do not feel that dogs should come. For personal trips and friends, dogs ok.

More and more people attend Mountaineer events and I can only see dogs as in the way. Besides they chase wildlife, poop on the trail, and I don’t like to spend my time in the mountains with them.

Family-oriented events where the family pet is on a leash would be ok. I do feel that a few dogs (only a few) should be allowed out in public or "off the farm." Experience = no dogs-no dog problems. The problem is not necessarily the dogs. Some dog owners are difficult to train. It’s not dogs in general, it’s that there is always one dog around that is not well trained or creates problems for everyone. Hikes and backcountry do not lend themselves well to dealing with dog issues. I have seen nothing good come of dogs with hikers and prefer not to see them on outings. 1 No, with rare exceptions allowed.

No dogs.

Dogs have been included on various trips that I have attended over the years backcountry skiing, mountain climbing, kayaking and they were consistently an annoyance running in the way, barking and ruining the solitude, pooping right on trails, in pristine snow. If dogs were included in "certain" events, for dog lovers, I am afraid that the attendance and participation in the event might dwindle. Some events already have such small groups that I hate to see this happen to our club events.
4 Backpacking trips: Some. Many times dogs aren’t allowed in national parks.
Mountain biking: Dogs would get in the way of the bikes.
In-line skating:Dogs have to be on a leash on the Centennial Trail.

I hate it when people bring their dogs on trips.

Dogs scare wildlife and ruin the outdoor experience.

Dogs poop. End of subject.

I have been on a few day hikes where people have brought dogs and unless the dog is extremely well trained, it is more of a hindrance than a pleasure. Also, what about people allergic to dogs? Also, the owners tend not to bury dog waste. What about liability to the Mountaineers if the dog bites someone? Hiking and dogs are great together but the dog owners should do it on their time. That way, all concerned would have a more pleasant time. Especially if more than one dog shows up and they really, really don’t like each other. What guidelines would you put in place that would be fair to both the dog and others on the event? Would you allow only certain breeds and not the ones people typically think of as dangerous i.e. doberman’s or rotweillers? What about people might be afraid of dogs? I think the overall potential to distract from the enjoyment of the events would be tremendous if dogs were allowed to join in. And if the majority of people disagree with that, I still believe the liability issue is a serious concern. [Signed]

None!

Mountaineers are a very diverse group of people. The common thread that brings us together for an event is a shared love of a sport, or the nature experience, or the company. Dogs don’t add to any of these, but actively detract from all of those for some people. I think it’s a simple courtesy or show of respect to fellow travelers not to bring pets along. I don’t even think it should be left to leader discretion in most cases. A leader doesn’t have the right to decide for participants if they have to share their outing with dogs. Nor should they have the responsibility to do so. One exception: Having any trip designated as "pets okay" and published like that in the KK is ok. That way, potential participants can make their own decisions whether to attend or not. [Signed]

What about cats, rats, and boa constrictors?
4 Events based at campgrounds: No more than 1 dog total. Small group where everyone knows ahead of time that the dog will be there. Depends on the dog. No dogs in wilderness settings. Not on recreation activities. The heck with it. No dogs.

I joined the Mountaineers because of its commitment to preparation and participation in outdoor activities I always leave my dog at home because it is inappropriate to bring her.

Still remember frustration (and danger) of having a German shepherd constantly underfoot while packing in-out (full pack) from weekend climbing trip in Mt. Stuart area. Barking of attendee’s dog kept me awake (others too) on N. Cascades summer outing. Dogs are both a nuisance and a danger in bear country (particularly grizzly).
4-Other: Events organized and listed only for dogs and owners.

4-In-line skating: I have a good friend who was tripped on his skates by someone else’s dog and fell.

Barking, chasing wildlife, dog fights, dog feces and urine, lost dogs? Another worry for trip leaders: inappropriate dogs.

Mountaineering events are for people and not animals. Dogs are not only distractive, but are a distinct liability to the owners and Spokane Mountaineers.

Make explicit a "no dogs" policy.

No dogs, please. People don’t clean up after them.

There is a "no pets" rule for the Chalet. (See Chalet regulations in winter Kinn., p. 15.)

I know dogs are almost people, but the could certainly wreck at trip by barking, by chasing and scaring the animals, making messes, stealing food/begging, fighting other dogs, running back and forth on trails, jumping on you, chewing your stuff, peeing on your tent. They’re like kids every once in a while, you ge a well-behaved dog, but would the dog be having fun? Just let the dog people have their own group(s).

People who bring dogs don’t always supervise them adequately e.g. let dog off leash dog wanders away others have to look out for dog.

II. Definite yes

1 Yes. With leash. 3 No, I would still attend. If dogs were on leash.

Dogs, in general, are [more?] or as pleasant as people. They do not graffiti, do not overconsume alcohol, and are who they are, loving individuals.

I have been on several mt. bike double-track rides where a dog came also. It was absolutely no problem and everyone on the ride enjoyed having him there. I have often not participated in hikes because I felt I couldn’t bring my dog. In addition to being an activity club the Mountaineers is also an important social outlet for many people. For those who consider their dog to be part of their family or their only local family, it’s really tough to have to choose being with people or being with their dog.

I absolutely adore dogs and have never liked the "no dogs" policy. Please read above notes and call if you can’t read or have questions. Thanks! (Signed) 1. Yes. As long as trip leader monitors the quantity of dogs, that they are kept on lead, and are friendly and nonaggressive. Baggies brought and poop packed out!

Do some controls agreeable to many different people types. If initiated badly, dogs could turn off a lot of participation. I am for it! (Dogs!!) Do it right-ask tons of questions. Good luck.

I like dogs and like to attend events where dogs are welcome. The dog owner should be responsible for their dog, just like dog owners should be. How did Mountaineers get involved with this issue? Many areas are regulated by dog policies and all mountaineers dog owners should abide by these rules. I feel it is inappropriate for Mountaineers to have more [restrictions?]
4 Backpacking trips: Yes, if dogs are permitted in area.
4 Mountain biking: Some, unless dogs goes in a basket, which I have seen.
4 Nordic skiing: Some, mostly because most areas don’t allow.

Some dogs are more acceptable than some people I know.

Dog owners have their rights too! This club is becoming way too restrictive. If someone doesn’t like dogs along, don’t go. This represents the views of two members. Frankly, we don’t take our dogs on club activities, but why shouldn’t we have the option? We have as much right as others. I’ve not known dogs to be a real troublesome issue on club activities. Do we have to have another rule? We’re getting pretty regimented considering the fact that given the self-sufficient and independent–capable of taking care of ourselves and others.

III. Leader option

Trip leader should have the right and responsibility to dismiss poorly handled dogs and their two-legged companions. 4-Summer outing. What is policy of site owners?

The dog must be well-behaved and under complete control of the owner. Leashes may be appropriate. I often pursue activities with my dog instead of club events since I don’t know if she is welcome and for fear of injury to her by another dog. Perhaps the trip leader should hold the ultimate authority.

I don’t mind dogs as long as their owners are conscientious. The only problem is if too many people bring dogs to an event. Should those people be required to call the trip leader and get permission ahead of time, so it’s decided on a case-by-case basis? 4 Biking-I would think it could be dangerous (to dogs and people!) Skiing-Don’t like dog poop in the snow.

My concern is that some owners do not have command of their dog and the dog runs [around?]. In that case, I say NO. Some dogs are wonderful and totally behaved on the trail. In that case, I say YES. The problem is that it is hard to tell beforehand which case exists. 4 Short/day hikes and backpacking trips--if approved by leader.

I think it should be up to the leader of the activity to decide if a dog should come along.

I think it should be up to the trip leader to specify if dogs are welcome or not. I would opt for a policy where the default rule would be no dogs, unless specified by the leader. To make sure the leader considers dogs, we could add a line to the event write-up form on the web site with a "yes" or "no" for dogs. While I would mostly prefer non-dog events, others in the club may enjoy them and want to lead them.

As for the schools, the dog policy should be up to the directors. (Signed) What about cats? Who will speak for the cats?

Dogs always at rear, always leashed, always cleaned up after. Must have leader’s permission.

Should be leader’s choice. Short day hikes, summer outing, events at car campgrounds and off-track Nordic most important.

IV. If event listed in Kinnickinnick as dog-friendly

I don’t think I’d like a general policy to allow dogs at all events, but to have some events that dogs may participate in. Definitely not winter camping.

Events may be specified as appropriate for owners of dogs. These should also be appropriate for dogs, e.g., no Nordic or backcountry skiing, hikes, or backpacks, etc. 1. I don’t care. Only if the event is specified in the beginning as being "dogs welcome." 2. No. But no dogs have been on any Mountaineer events that we have participated in!

I don’t dislike dogs, but depending upon the dog, its disposition, behavior, etc., it can make or break and event. Why don’t you have events just for dogs and events without dogs?

I’m allergic to dogs/cats. If it was listed as an "ok for dogs event," I wouldn’t attend. It is fine with me to have dog participation, just warn us ahead of time. Thank you for asking.

Please: Multiple use only works for those who have the unpopular option, whether it is jet skis, dirt bikes, snowmobiles, infants, and dogs. Declare special events for the dogs and their owners, but please no more "multiple use" [failures?]. I appreciate your bringing this issue to the table, and the way the club is handling it. 1 I don’t care. Call them events for the dogs so I know not to go.

I believe dogs should not be included in group bike or ski activities. It’s a rare dog that has the skill to maneuver around fast-moving skiers and bikers without creating a hazard to dog and person. If dogs are allowed at certain hikes or social camping, it should be clearly announced as such an event. I personally would probably not attend. Some dog owners are very considerate of others and manage their dogs well. Others do not. How will you control the poorly managed dog from being a nuisance to others attending the event? [Signed] RE: Summer outing. It may be a good place for a trial "dogs allowed" and evaluate if there are problems. May be certain hikes at the outing would be appropriate and others not. There should definitely be some guidelines in place prior to initiating dogs allowed at events. 1 I don’t care as long as clearly advertised as "dog event."

I am not opposed to dogs accompanying members. However, the majority are not trained well enough and there could be an issue if more than one person decides to take their animal. I just lost mine, but she would be one I could take anywhere; she would heel, was not bothered by other animals, and basically minded and did accompany me places. So...guess it would depend on the dog! 1 Yes. As long as people know so they can elect to attend or not. 4 Backcountry skiing. Wouldn’t think so.

The difficulty is that not all owners are responsible and not all dogs are well trained. While some activities should definitely exclude dogs, well-trained dogs with responsible owners might be welcome to other activities. Unfortunately, dogs that are not trained or do not have responsible owners could spoil these same activities for participants. Realistically, I think a policy allowing dogs would have to be extremely limited. The club could continue to have a no-dog policy or even make it a formal written policy. People with dogs can organize activities not sanctioned by the club. If the club chooses to include dogs in some activities, these activities should be clearly defined subset of all activities. A provision for banning bad citizens should be included. At activities that dogs would be allowed on should be clearly labeled as such. (Signed)

I don’t object to people with dogs scheduling events that include dogs as long as everyone accepts liability and responsibility for making their dog behave and the event is properly advertised so that people can decide whether or not they want to participate knowing that there will be dogs.

We believe that dogs should only be allowed on events led by fellow dog owners. If people want to hike with their dogs, then they can contact the Hiking Committee and get the ok. to lead hikes or even backpacks that would clearly say "This is a hike/backpack for us dog lovers." The beauty of our club is we can have any event that someone is willing to lead. Rather than saying "We can’t bring our dogs," why can’t they unite and plan some "doggie events." That way everyone can hike in the environment that seems appropriate, be that with or without dogs. I have led hikes where people brought their dog and it was not a good situation. Dog owners most remember that not everyone will feel about their dog as they do.

Dogs should be allowed on a trip-by-trip basis with the participants well aware a dog attending. No one should just show up with their dog.

I believe as a general rule dogs should not be allowed at events, but would agree that if there were specific events designed and designated for people to bring their dogs, events could be scheduled as such and listed in the Kinnikinnick. That way, the "dog people" would have events to meet their needs and the "nondog" people could choose not to attend. As a general rule, if there are to be specific events that dogs could attend, I think there needs to be very specific rules about the appropriateness of dogs participating in activities. Considerations: (1) Number of dogs allowed, (2) safety of the dogs mixing with other dogs (dogs fighting), (3) safety of people around other dogs (people being bitten or dogs interfering with the activity, i.e., biking and the dog running into you. Other concerns: Liability issues, (1) people being bitten, (2) dogs being hurt.

I think certain short day hikes identified as dog friendly (on leash) (so those who dislike dogs can choose not to go) with criteria for being asked to leave if problems, would be a wonderful compromise. Worst scenario: if dogs were barred in all other events, I would be happy with this compromise. 4 Chalet: Can foresee problems with multiple dogs or irresponsible owners.

V. Leader option and listed in Kinnikinnick

In[?] our wonderful club activities are determined by those who lead the activities for those who want dogs at activities should schedule and state in the write up that is an activity in which dogs are welcomed 4 Chalet. Definitely not

If it decided to have a policy for dogs, I recommend that if an event leader does not want dogs for any reason, that the even description on the Kinnikinnick should state "no dogs." Otherwise it would be allowable to bring a dog if a participant wanted to do so. A policy should state that dogs are to obey voice commands, be nonaggressive to people and other dogs and wild animals. I have been mountain biking, cross-country skiing, day hiking, paddling, and backpacking with dogs-up to 3 on some activities. I have never had a problem with dogs on any activity and have rather enjoyed having them along. I am not a dog owner. There are some activities where dogs are not appropriate, such as mountain biking with larger groups (4 or more people) because they create a safety problem. There are also wilderness areas that do not allow dogs. If the activity is a day hike or backpack for the purpose of seeing animals, dog should not go. Again it should be up to the event leader to specify "no dogs" in the event description if dogs are not wanted.

If leaders choose to allow dogs and clearly states his/her choice in write-up. I feel it is my responsibility to choose to attend or not, not the club’s.

VI. Maybe, Sometimes, If.....

Leash law OR strict verbal control should be maintained at all times. The owner could/should be required to announce their willingness to put it on a leash, at any time (anyone requests) at the beginning of the trip.

Not knowing the written "no dogs" policy, I brought Casey to several events. People were nice about it. I felt badly when I found out. Since then, I don’t attend many activities because I take him hiking and backpacking and often mountain biking. I might join summer evening short activities, but no weekend events where I’d have to leave him home. I certainly understand why people who don’t have dogs would not care for them along, however. Thanks for this survey, though. (Signed). 4 Flat-water kayaking. Take Casey canoeing, not in a kayak. 4 Backcountry skiing. Depends on snow conditions.

4 Depends on the activity and behavior of the dog.

Dogs, like people, are often very different. Just as some people are not physically or mentally capable of completing certain climbs, rides, routes, etc., some dogs are not suited to these activities. A great deal of discretion on the dog owner’s part will need to be used. I don’t think anyone would want to see a basset hound show up for a mountain bike ride. However, there are few activities that a well-trained suitable-breed dog would not be able to participate in (I have a very small dog, but I never let him belay). Overall, I think it is a great idea to consider a new pet policy. (Signed)

I love dogs, but so much of my pleasure of their company is dependent upon the training they have received. I would not enjoy any trips with ill-behaved animals.

4 Flat-water kayaking. ?Some. No comment, no experience. Backcountry skiing. ?Some. No comment, no experience. Car camping. Some. Too much barking.

Dogs would be welcome in grizzly bear country, the Cabinet and Selkirk mountains.

I think the factors that need to be considered are the dog’s temperament, can a person control their dog, and in some circumstances-if a person has allergies. (Personally, in most cases, I wouldn’t mind dogs.)

I’m a dog person, but not everyone is. Most groups are diverse, so I feel it would be most appropriate to continue a "no dog" policy. The definition of a well-behaved, controlled dog is not the same for everyone. Let’s keep events people-centered. If a dog gets out of control and destroys property or injures someone, we don’t need the legal issues that may arise.

I was severely bitten by a neighbor dog and own a dog, so I enjoy them but hopefully they are "people friendly."

This assumes a responsible dog owner and a friendly dog.

Depends mainly on the dog, as long as it is well behaved, doesn’t fight with others and is familiar with the activity, i.e., knows to stay out of the way of skies or bikes, knows how to behave in a canoe, etc.

I would worry about dogs not getting along. Dogs that are not disciplined. People might have allergies to dogs, or fears.

If you allow dogs, please write up a handout telling dog owners what is expected of them. Some dog owners, even if their dog is on a leash, are not alert to the physical and psychological protection of their dog and of other people. I love dogs, but some owners just don’t get it! 4 Some. Depends a lot on location and how densely populated the camp is.

Most parks do not allow dogs or discourage them. I personally say leave them at home. They (the dogs) may be like your/their children but I would not bring my children on most things either.

I think there are safety concerns with these events (mountain biking, backcountry skiing, in-line skating). Chalet-No!

I like dogs-some events I believe they should be welcome-other events, no.

One dog at leader’s discretion may be appropriate on some day hikes. [Signed-TH]

Tom Horne had disastrous results with dog and owner activities at the chalet and day hikes a few years ago! I do not want to step in dog shit, trip, or do a "flying buttocks dismount" of a dog, be bitten nor have a bear brought back to me by a dog! [Signed] Dog policy: Have "dog and owner" special events. Leash-trained dogs only and kept on a short leash. Dogs that have to be socialized to people and other dogs.

Phil and I think that the dogs should have some sort of obedience training [Signed]

The main problem I see is "How do you limit how many dogs are out on an event?" Is there a sign-up sheet to limit the amount of dogs? No problem with one or two dogs, but what do you do for 10-20 dogs, fights, and the mess?

4 Backpacking trips: Some. Not in bear country. Backcountry skiing: Some, depending on avalanche conditions.

I’ve never been on a Mountaineers trip with dogs, but I don’t do many trips, and the ones I do are peak climbs, etc., where they would not appropriate anyway. However, I have been skiing, snowshoeing, and hiking with dogs and find them annoying because the get in the way and have to be constantly watched. Since I don’t like dogs, I would prefer not to have to deal with them when trying to recreate.

Please consider that some people are allergic to dogs and cats. Thanks.

One problem I have is that some dogs and some owners are not appropriate and many owners are not objective-so? I don’t know. I would speak up if a [mutt?] is bothering me or causes safety/enjoyment concerns. 1 I don’t know: Depends on the dogs and owners.

No attack dogs, pleas, or growling ones. 4 Flat-water kayaking/in-line skating: Must be some dog if it can do this.

I love animals, especially dogs, and feel if the owner watches the dog carefully and acts responsibly for it, they should be at some events. I don’t think they should be allowed up at the Chalet for health reasons—some are allergic to dogs.

All this [the answers here] assumes that dogs are well trained, obedient, not hostile, and not annoying (like jumping up on or sniffing around or licking other people).

Dogs can be wonderful additions to a group outing ONLY if they’ve been well socialized and obedience trained. Not everyone likes dogs, some are allergic, and these participants’ needs should be considered. I approve of the policy that it must be a group consensus whether dogs be allowed or not. This does require more coordination by the leader, but Mountaineer events are group events and everyone wants to have a good time. I also suggest that the Mountaineers keep a list of members who have brought dogs on trips before and had no problems, a "preapproved" list of dogs. Or another way to at least check that a dog has been obedience trained and well socialized to group events is to ask for proof that the dog has completed at least 2 obedience classes. I appreciate that the Mountaineers are making an effort to better understand the club’s general sentiment toward dogs. I myself have a dog and take him everywhere with me. Having a dog, especially in a social situation, can lead to some not so desirable behaviors. It takes a savvy, responsible owner to recognized and control the stress a dog us under in unfamiliar environments. I appreciated that the hike leader listed his expectation of the dog’s behavior and my responsibility in handling my dog. He listed these behaviors as acceptable. No begging. Doesn’t bark when tied up Leaves wildlife alone Can walk on leash if needed on the trail Nonaggressive Nondestructive to environment (no digging) If you’d like more assistance in developing a dog policy, I’d be more than happy to help you. [Signed]

What does it matter? Those with dogs just tend to show up at the same places for planned events..but I wonder do they bring baggies and pack it out?

What happened to number 5 and can there be a web page questionnaire in the future?

I was upset last year when one family brought 3 dogs (to Mt Bike School) one of which was NOT socialized and threatened me. I own 2 super friendly Lab but I observed the "no dogs allowed" policy. This woman and her dogs were allowed to stay. I lived in Norway for two years and have been back several times since. Dogs are a common sight on the x-country trails.