CARNIVORES --  Wolves have posed little threat to humans as the predators recover in their native range of the Northern Rockies, but they are known to be aggressive toward dogs that enter their territory. 

What could have been a tense encounter recently with two wolves during a hike in North Idaho turned out to be a pleasant experience for me and my Brittany, Ranger, for several reasons:

• The dog was close by when I ran into wolves along the trail.
• Ranger came to my call immediately when I spotted a wolf off the trail.
• I had a leash to keep Ranger close as the wolves approached to investigate.
• I had bear spray handy for peace of mind even though I didn't need to use it to defend my dog.

Check out this video of the encounter along with useful information gained from wolf experts on hiking safely with a dog in wolf country -- which is all around us here in the Inland Northwest.