10 Must Haves For Hiking With Your Dog
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As a Washingtonian, most people hike year-round, with each season offering its many natural wonders. In the fall, the forests are adorned with warm colors, creating a stunning landscape, similar to when the forests are blanketed in white in the winter, creating a heavenly sight. Meanwhile, spring arrives with new life, bringing a refreshing sense of energy to those who venture outdoors, and summer follows, allowing for warm nights under the stars for those who camp.
Hiking can be an incredible experience, especially in well-known hiking destinations like my home state of Washington. However, it can also present challenges, both positive and negative. To help ensure you have a fulfilling and safe trip, especially when hiking with your dog, I've created a list of essential items to bring. This will elevate your hiking experience for both you and your furry friend!
Car Safety First!
Before your hike begins, getting you and your pup to your destination is the first important step! Most people don’t realize the significance of providing safety not just for you but for your dog as well. Kurgo has a great car harness called the ‘Kurgo Impact Car Safety Harness’. This harness underwent 8 years of testing and improvements to ensure it is perfect for your dog. It is easily adjustable for all chest sizes of dogs and crash-tested for dogs weighing up to 108 pounds. The harness is made from high-tensile tubular webbing, ensuring maximum strength in the event of a crash. Additionally, there's no need for a separate piece for the seat belt; the seat belt in your car easily weaves through the harness, eliminating any extra hassle and annoying extra pieces, I know I would personally appreciate that since I tend to lose things that have too many moving parts!
Get your Kurgo Impact Car Safety Harness Here Via Amazon.
Check out this Mighty Paw car seatbelt restraint Here Via Amazon. If you already have a harness for the car to use.
Next for your car, I’d recommend a seat cover for your dog so that after your hike when you are all wet and covered in mud your seats don’t need to suffer—at least muddiness is a sign of a good day! As a fan of Kurgo products, I've received great reviews from pet parents about them. That's why I want to recommend the Kurgo Rover Bench Seat Cover for your car's back seat. This cover is both scratch and water-resistant, and it even features slots for attaching seatbelts for your dog and a baby car seat. It offers protection for everyone, including your seats!
Kurgo Rover Bench Seat Cover Here Via Amazon
URPOWER Dog Car Seat Cover Here Via Amazon- I really really like this cover; it's reasonably priced given the features and quality it offers. There’s also an option that blocks access to the floor of your car, providing full protection from messes in all areas, not just the seats. If you prefer, you can flatten the flap to allow your dog access to the floor. It can even be adjusted to cover the trunk of an SUV! There are definitely many ways to use this cover!
FURHAVEN Deluxe Pet Barrier Here Via Chewy- This barrier is a bit more padded and sturdy if you prefer that feature for your pet.
Protecting The Body
Hiking can be full of smooth and scenic trails but every now and then it gets a bit rocky! (No pun intended). If you're an avid rock climber or log jumper and your dog is joining you, it’s important to ensure that they are prepared for the possibility of tough paths, just as you are. This preparation includes getting dog hiking boots, rain jackets, and food and water containers for longer hikes. Below is a list of my recommendations.
Dog Boots
Flex Shell Water-Resistant Dog Boots Here Via SPARKPAWS- These boots are longer than others ensuring even better protection from the elements. These boots also have a bungee like the Kurgo boots so you can tighten it more if needed.
Kurgo Blaze Cross Dog Shoes Here Via Amazon- These boots are awesome and easily adjustable with a bungee cord to tighten to the correct fit, unlike other boots that easily slip off without the proper tightening mechanisms. I’ve seen dogs try on dog boots many times and they are either too tight or not tight enough and the dog ends up flinging them off. You don’t want them losing a shoe on your hike, even though its funny to watch them do it!
YAQUHO Dog Suspender Booties Here Via Amazon—If you’re still having a hard time keeping booties on your dog, I recommend these dog suspenders for added support in keeping the boots on, especially during a hike. The suspenders clip on the back and are longer than boots to add extra protection from rain, snow, and mud!
Tip for Dog Shoes: If your dog is not used to wearing boots, take some time to help them adjust at home for a few days before your hike. Reward them with treats after putting the boots on, and use toys to distract them from chewing on the boots!
Rain Jackets
Breatheshield™ Human & Dog Raincoats Here Via SPARKPAWS- These rain jackets are an excellent addition to your dog's gear, as they help protect your pet from the elements, keeping them drier and more comfortable. This rain jacket boasts several great features, including a hood with a tightening strap to shield your dog's face while ensuring it doesn’t obstruct their vision. Additionally, it has an adjustable bungee strap on the backside to make it easier for your dog to go to the bathroom! And you can even get a matching rain jacket if you want to twin with your baby! How fun is that? Just look for the Breathshield Matching Set here Via SPARKPAWS.
Slip-on Insulated Jacket Here Via SPARKPAWS- Need a jacket that’s a little more fluffy on the inside? Look no further than the slip-on insulated jacket via SPARKPAWS. The inside is lined with sherpa for added warmth and insulation for those cold snowy days. Available in many different colors.
BRKURLEG Dog Raincoat Here Via Amazon- This jacket comes in fun colors like pink and purple. It also features longer legs that cover most of your dog's legs, which is very helpful in preventing messy hikes.
Food & Water Containers
Kalimdor Dog Water Bottle Here Via Amazon- I absolutely love this type of dog water bottle! It’s incredibly easy to use and helps conserve water. You simply press a button to release only the amount you need at the moment, which reduces overpouring and minimizes waste. Plus, it’s an all-in-one design, so there’s no need for a separate bowl and bottle. This style of bottle has gotten the best reviews in my store!
Cibaabo Dog Water Bottle and Food Container Here Via Amazon- Similar to the bottle above, this one also features a food container for easy packing of both food and water if needed.
Kate Spade New York Raining Cats & Dogs Collapsible Travel Bowl Here Via Chewy- I had to include this bowl because its such a cute design and very fitting for being outdoors! It opens into two bowls, one for food and one for water.
Collapsible Silicone Portable DOG CAT Food Water Bowl By GlacierMtnSupply Here Via Etsy- These silicone bowls are probably the simplest out of the bowls in terms of how quickly they can pop out and be used. These all have some fun quotes that I know some hikers and joke lovers will appreciate!
Mighty Paw Dog Treat Bag - Drawstring Closure Pouch Here Via Amazon- This pouch goes around your waist and has compartments for treats/kibble and a waste bag dispenser! A great two-in-one option.
An Easier & Safer Trek
Whenever you go hiking with your furry friend, you want the experience to be safe and enjoyable. The goal is to appreciate the tranquility of nature without any hassle or injuries. Finding easier ways to travel with your dog can involve using hands-free leashes for a more hands-off approach on the trails or providing additional support with harnesses that have handles to assist them in navigating challenging areas. Below, I will list some of my favorite options for ensuring safety and efficiency while hiking with your dog.
Hands-Free Leash
iYoShop Hands Free Dog Leash Here Via Amazon- Hiking can be a very hands-on experience, especially when it involves climbing or lifting your dog over obstacles. To do this effectively, it's important to have your hands free. This is where a hands-free leash comes in handy. It allows you to focus on walking without having to hold your dog, particularly if they are prone to pulling. A hands-free leash wraps around your waist and features shock absorbers to protect you from being pulled over if your dog suddenly pulls. The iYoShop hands-free leash is highly regarded for its shock absorption and durability, allowing for a more enjoyable walking experience without the need to constantly hold your dog. This gives both you and your dog more freedom to focus on your hiking adventure. Plus, it comes with an attached compartment for treats and poop bags!
Harness With Handles
Kurgo Journey Air Dog Harness Here Via Amazon- Now that we've discussed the benefits of a hands-free leash, the next important hiking tip is to equip your dog with a strong harness that includes a handle. This is especially useful if you need to lift them over obstacles. Back again with my favorite brand for dog travel gear is Kurgo! Their harness features a handle, reflective lining for nighttime walks, and two leash clips. One clip is located on the chest to help discourage pulling, while the other clip is on the back for dogs that don’t pull. It also features extra padding and breathable mesh to ensure maximum comfort for your dog while on your journey.
Doggy Backpack Sack
K9 Sport Sack | Dog Carrier Backpack Here Via Amazon- If you want to take your small dog on a hike or bike ride, this backpack is perfect for dogs weighing under 20 pounds. It is made from lightweight material for your comfort, while also providing cozy padding inside for your furry friend. Additionally, it features two side pockets that are ideal for storing small items you may need, such as a first aid kit or styptic powder. This backpack is also a good price for the quality while other similar backpacks are in the 100 dollar range! Lastly, a fun option for this backpack is you can get custom-made velcro name patches for it on Etsy which adds a personal touch.
First Aid
Adventure Medical Kits First Aid Kit for Dogs Here Via Chewy- This medical kit has bandages, anti-bacterial wipes, tick and splinter removers, anti-histamines, and a muzzle if you need to apply treatments to your dog safely. Its also small enough to carry without getting in the way.
Miracle Care Kwik-Stop Styptic Powder for Dogs Here Via Chewy- I thought of this powder because we often use it at work for animals that have been nicked. It quickly stops bleeding on nails and wounds and alleviates pain quickly! Its also small enough to bring along in a pouch.
Honorable Mentions
Kurgo Ridgeline Dog Tie Out for Camping Here Via Amazon- If you plan to camp for more than one day, this dog tie-out and zip line kit provides your dog with a safe space and ample room to roam securely between two anchor points and fastens securely. It also has a bungee cord with a swivel that connects to your dog and doesn’t give them the option to be tangled due to the swivel which is a great touch. This kit includes a travel pouch with a latch for easy carrying, which can be attached to a backpack or waist belt.
Vet's Best® Dog Flea + Tick Spray Here Via PetSmart- Prevent fleas and ticks before you even start your hike. Spray this on your dog before a hike to make sure your dog avoids bringing bugs home, nobody wants that! This spray is also plant-based and doesn’t contain harsh chemicals like other flea treatments do.
Hike ‘n Strike 950,000 Volts Stun Gun with Flashlight & Stun Device Here Via Amazon- When you're out on a hike, it can be unpredictable who or what you might encounter, so it's important to be prepared. This walking stick is designed with a stun gun at the top to help you handle any unwanted situations and also a flashlight which may help with low-visibility walks. For added safety during my neighborhood walks with my dog, I also decided to buy a stun gun for myself!
