If you’re a dog lover and like to spend time outdoors hiking, you know that bringing your furry friend along can make the experience even more enjoyable. But what gear do you need to take with you on your next hike? In this blog post, we will discuss the best gear for hiking with your dog, including essentials like food and water bowls, leashes and collars, and tents or shelters. We’ll also recommend some great products to help keep your dog safe and comfortable on the trail!
Top Tips for Hiking with Your Dog
Hiking with your dog can be a great way to bond with your furry friend and get some exercise at the same time. However, there are a few things you should keep in mind to make sure both you and your pup have a safe and enjoyable hike. First, choose a trail that is appropriate for your dog’s fitness level. If your dog is not used to hiking long distances, start with a shorter trail and work up to longer ones. Second, bring plenty of water (see also ‘How Long Can A Dog Go Without Water?‘) for both you and your dog, and take breaks often to rest and drink. Third, be aware of your surroundings and watch for hazards like snakes or steep drop-offs. And fourth, make sure your dog is wearing a collar with ID tags in case he gets lost. By following these tips, you and your pooch will be able to hit
Essential hiking gear to include when hiking with your dog
Before you head out on the trail, there are a few things you’ll need to make sure you have in order to keep your furry friend safe and comfortable. Here’s a list of essential gear for hiking with your dog.
A collar or harness with ID tags
In case your dog gets lost, it’s important to have them wear a collar or harness with ID tags that include your contact information. You may also want to consider investing in a GPS tracker so you can locate your dog if they wander off.
Our Pick for Best Dog Collar for Hiking (with Apple AirTag Holder):
AirTag Reflective Dog Collar – Adjustable – Durable
Our Pick for Best GPS Tracker for Dogs:
Tractive Waterproof GPS Dog Tracker
Our Pick for Best Dog Harness for Hiking:
Auroth Tactical Dog Harness No Pull Adjustable Pet Harness
Our Pick for Hands-Free Leash and Harness for Hiking:
SHINE HAI Retractable Hands-Free Dog Leash with Dual Bungees for Dogs up to 150lbs
A Leash
A leash is a must when hiking with your dog. Choose a leash that is comfortable for both you and your dog and that is the appropriate length for the trails you’ll be walking on.
Our Pick for Best Dog Leash for Hiking:
MayPaw Heavy Duty Rope Leash for Dogs
Water & Food
It’s important to bring enough water and food for both you and your dog. Dogs can get dehydrated quickly, so make sure to bring along extra water. And, don’t forget the snacks! Dogs burn a lot of energy when hiking, so it’s important to keep their energy levels up with some good canine-friendly treats (see also ‘ Why you should never feed your dog rawhide ‘).
Our Pick for Best Collapsible Dog Bowl for Hiking:
Ruff Products BarkBowl (800ml) – Collapsable Dog Bowl
Our Pick for Best Water Bowl for Hiking:
lesotc 2022 Upgraded Pet Water Bottle for Dogs
Our Pick for Best Pet Treat for Hiking:
Merrick Backcountry Big Game Lamb + Venison Jerky Dog Treats
Waste (or ‘Poop’) Bags
Be sure to bring along some waste bags to clean up after your dog. Most people hike in areas where dogs are required to be on a leash, so having waste bags can help you keep the trails.
Our Pick for Best Poop Bags for Hiking:
Earth Rated Dog Poop Bags, Guaranteed Leak Proof and Extra Thick Waste Bags
Optional Gear for Dog Hiking
Dog Hiking Boots
Dogs’ paw pads are sensitive, so it’s important to invest in a good pair of hiking boots to protect their feet from hot pavement, sharp rocks, and other potential hazards.
Our Pick for Best Dog Hiking Boots:
QUMY Bog Boots Waterproof Shoes with Reflective Straps Rugged Anti-Slip Sole
Dog Backpack (Wearable)
Our dog loves to wear a backpack – it lets her know that we’re going on a hike and gives her a sense of purpose by carrying her own water and treats (see also ‘7 Best Puppy Treats Reviewed, and How to Train Your Puppy with Them‘) .
Our Pick for Best Dog Backpack:
OneTigris Dog Pack Hound Travel Camping Hiking Backpack – Saddle Bag – Rucksack
A Doggie Backpack Carrier
If your dog is small enough, carrying them in a doggie backpack can help them save energy on longer hikes. And, it’s the perfect place to store all their gear!
Our Pick for Best Dog Carrier:
K9 Sport Sack – Dog Carrier Adjustable Backpack
A first aid kit specifically for your dog
This kit should include items like bandages, antiseptic cream, and pain medication.
Our Pick for Best Portable Dog First Aid Kit:
Kurgo Portable Dog First Aid Kit – Pet Medical Kit
A dog sweater or coat
You may want to include a sweater in case you go out on a particularly cold day, plan to stay overnight, or if there’s a chance that your dog gets wet.
Our Pick for Best Dog Sweater for Hiking:
Tent or Shelter
You should also pack tents or shelters for both you and your dog, as well as dog beds or sleeping bags to keep them comfortable at night (see also ‘Are Dogs Nocturnal?’).
Our Pick for Best Dog Portable Shelter:
SENADA Mini Tent Sun Shelter Small Popup Portable Tent
Other Optional Hiking Gear for Your Dog:
Tie Out Cable for Camping:
XiaZ Dog Tie Out Cable for Camping
Tick Removal Kit:
TickCheck Premium Tick Removal Kit
Paw Cleaner:
Dexas MudBuster Portable Dog Paws Cleaner
Dog Sleeping Bag:
Waterproof Outdoor Dog Bed:
Dog Sunglasses / Goggles:
PEDOMUS Dog Sunglasses / Dog Goggles
Light Up Dog Collar:
Blazin LED Light Up Dog Collar
Paw Protection Balm:
Natural Dog Company PawTection Balm Stick for Dogs
Sunscreen for Dogs:
SAFETY FIRST PET PRODUCTS Organic Sunscreen & Moisturizer for Dogs
Conclusion
In conclusion, there is a lot of gear to consider when taking your dog hiking. However, the most important thing is to make sure your dog is comfortable and safe. Choosing the right gear (without overpacking) will help ensure a safe and fun encounter for both you and your dog!