Hiking with your dog around the Auvergne Volcanoes: 5 dog-friendly hikes not to be missed
Do you want to hike in the great outdoors with your dog? Do you love hilly terrain? I have the perfect destination: the volcanoes of Auvergne! The Chaîne des Puys is a great place to explore with your dog. Here are my 5 favorite hikes in the region.
Let me tell you right away: I haven't yet had the chance to go to the Auvergne Volcanoes with Musher . I had everything planned, everything arranged… and then bam, I got sick. The kind of little setback that keeps you in bed when your backpack is packed. Since then, this destination has been on my mind. And I can tell you one thing: I'm going to make up for it very soon!
First of all, because you, the Wouafer’s , make me want to go so badly! Between the photos, stories, videos, and reels you share with the #emmenetonchien hashtag, I'm seriously getting itchy paws 🐶🥾
And then, it's not just any destination, after all. We are literally walking on volcanoes! Magnificent landscapes, craters, high-altitude lakes... all that in a natural but accessible atmosphere, far from the oppressive world of the high mountains.
Personally, I'm not a fan of peaks that cut off the horizon: I feel enclosed, compressed. Here, Auvergne offers space, air, openness, with this unique sensation of walking on a living earth, sculpted by fire.
And the cherry on top (😜), a QUALIDOG destination has recently emerged in the area! This means a territory that is committed to welcoming your dog like a true member of the family, with top-notch accommodation, great deals, and everything you need to feel at home… even on four legs.
So if, like me, you're craving nature, craters, and cani-hiking, I've put together a selection of 5 perfect hikes for you and your dog. Let's go on a volcanic adventure! 🧭🌋🐾
But before choosing your route, a quick but essential look at your gear: in this area, you can quickly go from a shady path to an exposed section, from a family stroll to a real workout. And with a dog, it's best to be well-equipped. I've put together a gear guide for you.
Summary
What equipment do I need for hiking with my dog?
In the Auvergne Volcanoes, you don't just set off for a leisurely stroll around the block. Between the volcanic trails, the forest paths, the lakes, the waterfalls, the grazing areas, the wind on the higher ground, and the rapidly changing weather, it's best to plan ahead.
The idea isn't to fill your trunk (or backpack) as if you were going to cross the Himalayas. But with a suitable harness, a comfortable tether, water, a small first-aid kit, and a few well-chosen accessories , you'll already be much more at ease.
Here are 3 clever Decathlon pieces of equipment for a successful hike.
The essential selection for a successful hike
Musher's tip: don't confuse a "walking harness" with a "pulling harness." For a leisurely stroll around a lake, the Outdoor 500 harness is perfectly adequate. For a serious hike with a dog pulling in front, it's best to go for the combination: X-Back harness + bungee leash + waist belt . Your back will thank you. So will your dog's.
The Outdoor 500 walking harness
The simple and comfortable choice for walks, leisurely hikes and everyday outings.
From 49,99 €
The 2-in-1 saddlebag harness
The perfect companion if you're going on a longer hike where your dog is carrying their belongings. With its removable pouches, it easily transforms into a simple hiking harness.
From 54,99 €
The x-back traction harness
If your dog naturally pulls or if you want to try cani-hiking, you need to switch to suitable equipment: a pulling harness, an elastic leash and a harness for you.
From 34,99 €
Harness, pack bag, lead rope, harness, first aid kit , bathrobe , dog travel mat , waterproof dog coat for when the weather turns bad, lights for early morning or late evening walks… we help you choose the right equipment for your dog and your needs. Discover all our gear reviews or browse Decathlon's entire canine sports range on their website.
🌋 The top 5 dog-friendly hikes around the Auvergne Volcanoes
Now that the harness is adjusted, the water bottle filled, and the treats slipped into the bag, it's time for some walk ideas! Here are 5 hikes to discover around the Auvergne Volcanoes with your dog.
🧐 How did I make my selection?
Choosing recommended hikes isn't just a matter of ticking boxes… When I select routes to suggest, I really put myself in your shoes … or rather, in the shoes of your human-dog duo. And, to be honest, I even choose a little selfishly so that it matches what I would like to do with Musher if I were going out alone with her or if I were sharing the outing with my family, including my 4-year-old daughter.
So I started by contacting the Decathlon Outdoor team , the free hiking app from Decathlon that I discussed in detail in the ultimate guide to hiking with your dog. I asked them which hikes in the Auvergne Volcanoes region were the most popular with their community. Then, I applied a few personal filters :
✔️ presence of water or shaded area to avoid heatstroke
✔️ no ladders, walkways or ropes (⚠️ guaranteed hassle with a dog)
✔️ trails off the beaten track
✔️ loop if possible (because the round trip is less fun 🐾)
✔️ and obviously: accessible with a dog, kept on a leash, as required by regulations in the Monts d'Auvergne Regional Natural Park
🐶 1. Walk along the shores of Lake Siauve
📍 Start Point: Lanobre (Cantal)
📏 4,5 km | ⏱️ 1h40 | 🔁 Loop | 💪 Easy level | ⛰️ Elevation gain: 142 m
An easily accessible loop along the shores of Lake Siauve, perfect for a refreshing walk with your dog. The path is shaded, well-maintained, and follows the shoreline with several ideal spots for a picnic or a dip. It's calm and peaceful, perfect for relaxing away from the crowds in the woods. Along the way, you'll have a stunning view of Val Castle.
💡 Great for senior dogs, children or for a gentle return to exercise after a long car journey.
🎒 Good gear tip: on a refreshing outing like to Lake Siauve, remember to pack a towel or a dog bathrobe in the car. After a dip, your trunk will thank you.
🥾 2. Ascent of Puy Pariou via the Fontmagnie woods
📍 Start Point: Orcines (Puy-de-Dôme)
📏 9 km | ⏱️ 3h35 | 🔁 Loop | 💪 Difficult level | ⛰️ Elevation gain: 351 m
Puy Pariou is one of the iconic volcanoes of Auvergne… But here, you approach it via a more discreet and shaded path , through the Fontmagnie forest. The climb is gentle, and the view from the summit is truly breathtaking! There's a staircase leading to the crater, but it's wide and well-maintained, safe for dogs if you go at their pace. You'll likely encounter some less adventurous hikers at the start, as you're departing from the cog railway station that takes you to the summit: the Panoramique des Dômes (which is also accessible with a dog).
🌋 Best avoided in very hot weather, but perfect early in the morning or late in the day.
🎒 The right gear tip: on a more challenging hike like the Puy Pariou, especially if your dog tends to pull uphill, avoid a standard walking harness. For greater comfort, opt instead for a pulling harness , an elastic leash, and a waist belt. This keeps your hands free, absorbs shocks more effectively, and makes the climb more enjoyable for everyone.
🌋 3. The Puys de la Vache and Lassolas
📍 Start Point: Saint-Genes-Champanelle (Puy-de-Dôme)
📏 4,3 km | ⏱️ 1h55 | 🔁 Loop | 💪 Easy level | ⛰️ Elevation gain: 236 m
A hike steeped in history and breathtaking volcanic landscapes ! This route circles two ancient twin volcanoes: Puy de la Vache and Puy de Lassolas. The trail is varied, winding through lava flows, forests, and offering panoramic views of the Cantal and Sancy mountains, as well as the Chaîne des Puys. It's a truly cinematic setting, but without the crowds of Puy de Dôme.
🐕 Dogs will find their happiness there, but be careful in summer, there may be some livestock guardian dogs.
💦 4. Hike to the Saliens waterfall
📍 Start Point: Nébouzat (Puy-de-Dôme)
📏 13,5 km | ⏱️ 4h40 | 🔁 Loop | 💪 Moderate level | ⛰️ Elevation gain: 287 m
A superb walk leading to a wild and easily accessible waterfall. The path alternates between fields, forests, and sunken lanes. There's little traffic, making it a real gem for couples seeking tranquility . Swimming is possible for adventurous dogs: the path follows several streams!
💡 A beautiful outing in summer or autumn, with amazing colours in the woods.
🎒 Good gear tip: On longer outings like the Saliens waterfall hike, with its sunken paths, water, forest, and sometimes damp terrain, remember to pack a dog first aid kit. Irritated paw pads, small cuts, foxtails, misplaced branches… it's often these minor injuries that spoil long walks.
🌊 5. Tour of Lake Pavin
📍 Start Point: Besse-et-Saint-Anastaise (Puy-de-Dôme)
📏 3,1 km | ⏱️ 1h10 | 🔁 Loop | 💪 Easy level | ⛰️ Elevation gain: 105 m
Lake Pavin is a natural wonder , formed in an ancient volcanic crater. This short loop trail circles the entire lake, shaded by fir trees, along a well-maintained path. Perfect for a peaceful stroll with your dog. The atmosphere is magical, almost mystical, especially on a cloudy day… Be warned, swimming is not permitted here. This walk was on the agenda for my last trip to the Sancy Massif to meet with the tourist office. I arrived in the middle of a storm, making it impossible to walk in the forest without risking being hit by a branch: so I canceled my outing, and I can tell you I was quite disappointed because this place looks AMAZING, but I'll definitely be back.
🧙 It's even said that the lake is cursed… but not for dogs 😄
⚠️ What you need to know about hiking in the Auvergne Volcanoes with your dog
Hiking in a natural park is a privilege… but it also requires a little more attention and respect for the rules 🐾
Here you are in the Auvergne Volcanoes Regional Natural Park , a protected area where dogs are allowed, but must be kept on a leash at all times . This is non-negotiable, and it's important: to protect the local wildlife, other hikers, and the safety of your dog.
🥾 In summer, some trails can be very exposed and quickly become hot for the pads. Remember to choose your departure times carefully, bring plenty of water, and adapt the pace according to your dog's fitness.
If you are planning a multi-day trek in the Regional Natural Park, please note that wild camping is prohibited; however, bivouacking is tolerated (except at Lake Guéry and in the Chastreix-Sancy and Chaudefour nature reserves where it is strictly forbidden) only as part of a multi-day hike. For more information, please refer to the Auvergne and Sancy Volcanoes tourism website.
🐕 Finally, for everything concerning hiking risks (changing weather, Pyrenean Mountain Dogs, ticks, unsuitable climbs, equipment to bring…), we've gathered all the useful information in our complete guide : 📖 Read the ultimate guide to hiking with your dog . Read it before you leave to be fully prepared on the trail and avoid any mishaps along the way. You'll also discover two other inspirational articles with a selection of hikes in the Jura Mountains or along the Dordogne River.
🏡 Where to sleep with your dog around the Auvergne Volcanoes?
After the exertion, the reward! And what could be better than settling into accommodation where your dog is welcomed with open arms? I recommend a QUALIDOG-certified place, W'ouf course! These hosts truly love dogs and await their guests with little extras that make all the difference (food bowls, walking information, swimming spots, etc.).
Whether you are rather cozy cottage, nature campsite or guest room with a view of the volcanoes, you will find your happiness.
And your dog's too, I promise 🐶💚
📍 Find our selection here:
Rentals Les Prenards
With enclosed garden of 6m500
The Yurts of the Five Paths
✨ Unique family experience ✨
👉 See all QUALIDOG-certified accommodations around the Auvergne Volcanoes
Good news: in this corner of Auvergne, you can also enjoy the Sancy Massif, which will be awarded the QUALIDOG Destination label in 2025! Head to the tourist office: Virginie and her dog Tina will be there to welcome you and have prepared a very long list of great tips for you and your dog!
🎒 Ready to explore volcanoes with your dog? All you have to do is:
✔️ Choose your favorite hikes
✔️ Book your QUALIDOG accommodation
✔️ Pack your bag… and your dog's 🐕 Get equipped on the Decathlon dog sports store
✔️ And above all: enjoy this volcanic adventure as a couple or with your family!
See you soon on the trails! And don't forget to share your best memories with #emmenetonchien 🌋🐾
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It's great all these ideas you give us! Thank you so much!