Trekking through the wilderness, experiencing thrilling views, and climbing mountains with your pup, who is anxious to see the next turn or newest smell – Exploring the world with your animal is an enjoyable and fulfilling way to bond with your pet.
Having the best hiking gear when out in the wild will set you up for a successful trip. You will be prepared for a situation that could’ve been avoided or made more manageable. When we hike, anything can happen, such as injury, unpredictable weather, or losing our way. Follow this guide and prepare before your next beautiful hiking destination with your loyal companion; you won’t regret it!
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The value of being prepared on a hike
Knowing you’re well-prepared for any circumstance also provides a sense of security and peace of mind. Bringing enough food, snacks, and water can help you avoid situations that leave you and your animals feeling drained, exhausted, and unable to continue the journey.
Always bring enough dog food to cover your dog’s daily meals, and remember to pack some high-energy treats. When your dog needs a quick energy boost, you can give them snacks such as high-protein training treats or homemade treats with a good balance of protein and carbohydrates.
Like you, your dog needs water and food while you’re out, so bring enough based on their weight and activity level. According to VCA hospitals, “dogs may drink a half-ounce to one ounce per pound per day—more if it’s hot and humid or your hike involves an elevation gain. Pack more than you think you’ll need. Offer water to your dog every 30–60 minutes.”
Below, we’ve found some of the most convenient and compact storage containers for your dog’s food and water on your next excursion.
Dog Food and Water Holders
The Moab convertible pack is just what you need for a day of travel with your pet. This lightweight day pack holds 6 to 8 cups of dry food, is water resistant, and can be converted into a dog bowl. After use, you can fold them up easily and tuck them away without all the bulk.
The Asobu water bottle is great for outdoor activities with your dog. It’s designed with a double-insulated interior to keep water cold for up to 24 hours, has a 1-liter capacity, and BPA free. The screw-off water bowl at the bottom makes it easy to share a drink with your pet.
Dog Backpack
Once you add up all your pup’s essentials, how will you carry it all? Why not let your dog carry their own gear for a change? Dog saddlebags serve as a harness as well as a doggie backpack, allowing them to share the load on the trail. The option below promotes better balance, reduces neck strain, and allows easy carrying of essentials for a streamlined hiking experience.
The Kurgo Baxter Dog Saddlebag Backpack is an excellent option. It has a sturdy harness and is lightweight, with ample storage space for food, snacks, or even some of your belongings. It is also equipped with a large handle that can help your dog along difficult trails.
Dog Outerwear Protection
Depending on your adventure, you may need specific equipment to keep your dog safe. Dogs can be susceptible to heat and cold, so it’s important to be prepared with the right gear to help regulate their body temperature during extreme weather conditions.
Maxbone has designed a raincoat of water-repellent fabric in an adorable traditional anorak style. The Talon Raincoat is fashionable and functional, with features such as a sturdy snap-off hood, adjustable cuffs, and drawstrings. Enjoy the outdoors with this comfortable and fully adjustable raincoat.
The Brooklyn raincoat offers another stylish raincoat designed to keep your dog dry and comfortable during light showers. Made of Lannel nylon fabric, the coat is both breathable and water-resistant. The coat features stretchy sleeve ends, adjustable hood and collar, and can be easily packed into a pouch attached to the liner.
The Ruffwear Swamp Cooler Vest is a great solution for keeping your dog cool during outdoor activities in hot weather.
It features enhanced air mesh for durability and water absorption, a relaxed fit for shade, UPF 50+ sun protection, and an inner mesh lining that will keep your dog dry and comfortable.
Soaking the vest in water activates it and remains cool until it dries. Remember to have a water source nearby to keep the vest cool on hot days.
Outdoor Dog Beds & Coverage
Depending on your adventure, you may need specific equipment to keep your dog safe. Dogs can be susceptible to heat and cold, so it’s important to be prepared with the right gear to help regulate their body temperature during extreme weather conditions.
This plush outdoor travel bed from Furhaven will improve your pet’s comfort during nap times while on a trail, camping, or any outdoor experience.
The outdoor travel bed is designed to be lightweight and easy to pack that makes it an ideal travel essential. Cleaning up after our pets has never been easier, thanks to the machine-washable materials that make it a hassle-free task.
The Scout & About Outdoor Dog Tent is the perfect accessory for outdoor adventures with your pet. It features a durable and waterproof design of high-performance fabrics, preventing water seepage and discoloration. The tent has a fully enclosed floor for security and a water-resistant roof, ensuring your dog stays dry. Its lightweight, collapsible design and carrying case make it easy to travel. Give your pet an independent and comfortable home wherever your adventures take you.
Outdoor Safety and First Aid
It is always better to be over-prepared than under-prepared for any situation that may arise. This is especially true when we are most active, as accidents and injuries can happen anytime. In addition to your own medical kit, there are some extra items you should have on hand for your dog, depending on specific situations. Review these items and see if there is anything you can add to your kit to be fully equipped.
Dive into water adventures with confidence using the Maxbone Life Jacket. This life vest is designed for flexible movement, allowing your dog to move effortlessly. Safety is paramount, with sturdy buckles and enhanced visibility through reflective accents. This life jacket can keep your pet safe with less worry and is perfect for dogs that love water excursions.
With any rough terrain, your dog’s paws can crack and dry out. DOG by Dr Lisa was created for the typical dry spots dogs get, such as paws, elbows, skin, and noses. The smoothing balm is made with organic and soothing ingredients to aid in healing those areas that need it most.
If you’re new to using boots for your dog, it’s important to know that they can protect your dog’s paws in extreme conditions. Grip Trex boots are handy for hiking on rough terrain, in harsh weather conditions, or if your dog needs extra reinforcement.
Ruffwear Grip Trex Boots are crafted with a resilient Vibram outsole and provide exceptional grip and support. The breathable mesh prevents dirt and debris from entering while keeping your dog cool and comfortable.
The Adventure Medical Kit is essential in your gear, as it contains what you need to care for yourself and your dog. With this kit, you can have peace of mind knowing that you are well-equipped to handle any emergency, from treating shock and hypothermia with the SOL Emergency Blanket to cleaning wounds efficiently with the 10 CC Irrigation Syringe, and much more. Bringing this item with you will be a decision you won’t regret.
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