Dog Walking Must-Haves

Springtime is the best time, especially if you’re a dog! We as humans are all itching to spend more time outdoors in the sunshine, and your dog will benefit from this when you’re especially eager to go on an evening walk. Before you go, it’s important to make sure you have everything you could need, especially if your dog is leading the way (taking the long way home!). See our list of dog walking must-haves, including a few of our favorite picks.

A Checklist of Dog Walking Must-Haves

• Proper Gear

At the most basic level, while walking any dog, it’s important to have a few key things: a sturdy leash, a well-fitting collar or harness, and identification tags. You don’t want to be stuck with a faulty item that will allow your pet to run off, but in case they do, it’s SO important that they have proper identification to get them home safely to you!

You can get adorable custom dog tags on Etsy! We love this simple and affordable option.

• Poop Bags

It’s a dirty job, but somebody’s got to do it! Bring poop bags to clean up after your dog while on a walk. Always bring more than you think you will need, as you never know if they’ll make a couple of different bathroom breaks along the way. In the unlikely (and unpleasant) event of your bag ripping, you’ll be safe with a back-up!

We love this stylish kit from Wild One, which comes in multiple colors. It includes a collar/harness and leash with a matching poop bag carrier!

• Weather-Related Items

Some dogs love taking walks no matter the weather, but as the owner, you need to be prepared with anything your pet may need! If it’s extremely hot or humid, on long walks, bring along water with a portable bowl to quench your pup’s thirst. In the winter, especially for smaller dogs, sweaters can be a welcome touch. In the snow, booties can help keep your dog’s feet from getting frozen and protect their paw pads from the salt used to melt ice!

It doesn’t get cuter than this “profesh cuddler” sweater from Max Bone!

• Cell Phone

Even the sweetest dog can get scared and try to pull away from you. What if you end up with an injury from the leash? Or your dog runs away? Or you have a different medical emergency? Having your cell phone with you on a walk is imperative for both your safety and that of your dog!

• Treats

Especially with a food-oriented dog, treats can be the perfect trick for getting your dog to listen while walking, particularly if you’re in an unfamiliar area or around strangers. These can be used to praise good behavior or distract from bad behavior! Practice using them in a home setting so your dog knows what to expect when you pull a treat out.

Keep treats small in case you have to give your dog a few throughout your walk… Riley’s Organic Dog Treats are the perfect size, and organic!

• Flashlight or LED Lights

If you tend to walk your dog after dark, be sure to have a flashlight, an LED light collar for your dog, or something similar to show drivers where you are! This will help keep you AND your pet safe.

You may not think much about taking a walk around the block but being sure that you have these items with you will ensure a safe and happy stroll for you both! Make your life easier by stowing these dog walking must-haves in a tote bag near your front door for easy access.

This Rifle Paper Co. tote is a good reminder to stop and smell the flowers on your walk!

Tell us in the comments: where is your favorite place to take your dog for a walk?