For many pet parents, sharing outdoor adventures with their dogs is perhaps one of the best parts of having a furry companion. Fresh air, new trails, and plenty of smells create a bonding experience that goes far beyond the usual daily walk. For young dogs, though, the excitement of a first outing often comes with the need to stop and recharge. That’s exactly what one puppy did on his debut hike, and the adorable video has quickly won over hearts online.
Instagram video shows puppy seated and resting during his first hike
Apollo, a young Australian Cattle Dog, recently joined his mom on his very first hike. The video, shared on Instagram, shows the pup taking a well-earned break along the trail. Instead of bounding ahead, Apollo sits down and calmly leans against his owner, almost as if she’s his personal couch. His curious eyes wander across the landscape as he takes in the unfamiliar surroundings with a mix of calm observation and puppy wonder.
According to his owner, this was Apollo’s “first little hike.” And while the puppy gave it his best shot, he had to be carried for much of the way. Even so, the short adventure was more about the experience than the distance. His mom explained that seeing him explore, sniff around, and grow comfortable in nature was “such a beautiful treat.” The video quickly gained traction, pulling in over 45K likes and nearly 400K views in a short time.
The Australian Cattle Dog, also known as the “Blue Heeler” or “Queensland Heeler,” is a working breed originally developed in Australia to herd cattle across long distances. Known for their stamina, intelligence, and loyalty, these dogs are highly energetic and thrive when given both physical and mental challenges.
While Apollo is still just a pup learning the ropes, his breed is famous for being resilient hiking companions once they mature. They typically bond strongly with their owners and require consistent training and plenty of activity to stay happy. For now, Apollo’s “little hikes” are just the beginning of what’s likely to be an active and adventurous life.
