The Bear Trail is one of the most spectacular routes in Asturias. But before loading the car with leashes, sandwiches, and bags, there is a key question very few ask: is my dog really prepared for this route? The answer depends more on them than on you.
How to do the Bear Trail with a dog according to its size and personality
Not all dogs enjoy the Bear Trail in the same way, and forcing an inadequate experience can end in frustration or exhaustion. Identify your pet's profile before planning.
Small or Low-Stamina dog
Chihuahuas, Shih Tzus, or seniors with delicate joints won't complete 20 km walking without consequences. That doesn't mean they stay at home!
The solution is a bicycle trailer. This allows them to travel safely with their favorite blanket, enjoying the landscape and the breeze without physical effort. It's the most respectful option for their well-being.
Athletic and High Energy dog
Border Collies, Malinois, or Vizslas can greatly enjoy the trail, especially the bike descent from Entrago. Running alongside the bike is a stimulating aerobic exercise for them.
Critical points: Watch their paw pads on asphalt (it gets hot in summer) and check for signals of fatigue before they become obvious. They must always remain leashed.
Overexcited or Hard to Control dog
If your dog gets upset by bikes, other dogs, or livestock, the walking modality is much more suitable than cycling. Walking gives you real control of the situation and lets you manage encounters calmly.
Practical tip: Work on exposure to cyclists in less crowded routes before visiting the Bear Trail. It often has heavy bike traffic.
Calm and Balanced dog
For peaceful dogs, walking the trail is an extraordinary experience. The slow pace lets them explore with all their senses: the Atlantic forest smells different in every section, and the sound of the Trubia river follows the path.
If they are in good physical shape, they can complete the full 20 km section without issues using a fixed leash (max 1.5m).
⚠️ Attention Point: The Bear Enclosure
When passing the Bear Enclosure in Proaza, keep your pet calm and at a prudent distance from the fence. The scent of a dog can stress the bears Paca and Molina, and vice versa.
What are the regulations for leashed dogs on the Bear Trail and in Asturias in general?
The Bear Trail runs through Teverga, within the Las Ubiñas-La Mesa Natural Park. This has specific legal implications for your pet:
LEGISLATION AND ANIMAL WELFARE (ASTURIAS)
Spanish Law 7/2023 on Animal Welfare states that dogs must be leashed in all public spaces, including natural trails. In a natural park, this protects wildlife and prevents conflicts with livestock and guard dogs.
- Identification: Mandatory microchip and register in the Principality of Asturias.
- Health: Up-to-date Rabies vaccination (mandatory in Asturias from 3 months of age).
- Cleaning: Waste collection is mandatory throughout the route, without exceptions.
For more information on accessible natural spaces in Asturias: Turismo Asturias.
The Essential Equipment to hike the Bear Trail with a dog
✅ Mandatory
- Portable water bowl and extra water (river access isn't always safe).
- Waste bags (mandatory by law).
- Comfortable harness for biking.
- Basic kit: disinfectant, gauze, and paw pad cream.
⭐ Highly Recommended
- Energy snacks to recharge during the route.
- Fixed leash (max 1.5m). No extensible leashes in protected areas.
- Comfort blanket if using a trailer.
- Sunscreen for short-haired or pink-nosed dogs.
Bike or Walking: Which to Choose?
🚴♂️ On Bicycle
The top choice for athletic dogs or for taking senior/small dogs in a trailer. They enjoy the breeze and scenery without risks. Check our bike guide.
🥾 On Foot
The best option if your dog is overexcited or needs extra control. Walking allows managing encounters calmly. Find more tips in our guide for kids.
Visiting with family? In our guide for kids you'll find tips to combine adventure with children and pets on the same day.
🚨 If your Pet Needs Help
We hope you don't have to use them, but just in case a problem arises during the route, here are the nearest emergency contacts in Teverga:
Pharmacy Teverga
+34 985 76 42 12
Mon-Fri: 9:30-13:30 | 16:00-19:30
Sat: 10:00-13:30 | Sun: 11:00-13:00
Veterinarian Teverga
Cristina Álvarez Santamaría
Barrio Barzaniella, 10 Bajo Izda.
33111 Entragu, Teverga (Asturias)
Where to Stay with your Dog
Asturias offers pet-friendly rural houses in Teverga, Proaza, and Quirós with gardens and dog wash areas. Plan ahead in our Where to Sleep section.