Lacing up your hiking boots to hit the trails with your furry best friend? There’s no better way to experience the great outdoors than with your loyal pup by your side!
But before you venture out on your adventures together, make sure you’re prepared with the proper hiking gear. These 7 must-have items are essentials for keeping your dog safe, hydrated, and happy on the trails.
#1: Doggie Backpack for Carrying Supplies
Your pup may be a good hiker, but you don’t want to overload them carrying too much weight. That’s where a well-fitted doggie backpack comes in handy!
It allows your dog to comfortably carry some of their own supplies like extra food, water, toys, and waste bags, taking a load off you. Just make sure not to overstuff it—the backpack shouldn’t exceed 25% of their body weight.
Get a doggy backpack here.
#2: Collapsible Water Bowl and Extra H2O
Keeping your canine hiking buddy hydrated is a top priority on the trails, especially in warmer weather. pack a collapsible water bowl that’s lightweight and portable yet sturdy enough to hold plenty of water.
Don’t forget to also bring along extra water (way more than you think you’ll need!) and offer your pup frequent drink breaks in the shade.
#3: High-Calorie Nutrient-Dense Trail Snacks
Hitting the hiking trails burns a ton of calories for both you and your four-legged pal. Pack some high-calorie, nutrient-dense trail snacks and dog treats specifically formulated for stamina.
This extra fuel will help keep their energy levels up and their muscles functioning properly as you rack up the miles together out on the trails.
Get doggy trail snacks here.
#4: Lightweight, Packable Rain Jacket
Whether you’re hiking in spring showers or freak summer storms, having a lightweight, packable rain jacket on hand for your dog is crucial. Look for one that’s waterproof yet breathable with reflective strips.
Not only will this keep them dry and comfortable, but it makes them more visible to other hikers in low-light conditions when clouds roll in.
#5: Doggie Paw Wax or Booties for Rough Terrain
Those delicate doggie paw pads are no match for rough, rocky, or extremely hot terrain on the trails. Protect your pup’s feet with either an all-natural paw wax or booties made for hiking.
This helps prevent cuts, blisters, cracked pads, and burned pads so they can keep on trekking by your side comfortably no matter how rugged or scorching the path gets.
#6: Dog-Specific Outdoor First Aid Kit
When you’re miles away from the trailhead, having a pet first aid kit packed with supplies like bandages, antiseptic, and medications (with dosages cleared by your vet) can be a literal lifesaver.
You’ll be prepared to take care of any cuts, stings, or emergencies while you’re out on the trails until you can get your pup to proper medical care.
#7: Bright LED Safety Light or Glow Collar
If your hikes ever run past dusk or through low-visibility conditions, an LED safety light or glow collar lets you keep an eye on your dog at all times. Those reflective strips only go so far!
These bright lights attach securely to their collar or harness so you can monitor exactly where they are, preventing them from wandering off the trail and getting lost.
Conclusion: With a bit of preparation and these 7 must-have items packed, you and your pup can have the best time tackling the trails together!
No more unsafe situations or cut adventures short due to dehydration, injuries, or getting stuck in bad weather. Now get out there and soak up those “Ahhh” moments in nature with your loyal furry hiking buddy!
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