Made For Adventure: Tails and Trails – Your Dog Walking Activity Guide

As part of Made For Adventure, we're showcasing our favourite outdoor activities and why we think you should try them out. Our aim is to inspire you to get out and make the most of the great outdoors!

Walking your dog is an essential part of their daily routine. It's a great way to bond with your furry best friend whilst soaking in the beauty of the great outdoors together. Here at Millets, we know it's important to enjoy quality time with your beloved companion and create memories that will last a lifetime! With that in mind, we've come up with a list of helpful tips and tricks and must-have gear for both you and your pup – complete with plenty of cute dog pics to enjoy!

Tips and Tricks

Whether your pooch loves hour long hikes or a quick stroll around the block, we'll walk you through our most useful tips and tricks to make sure you and your furry friend have a safe and enjoyable walk every time.

Let Your Dog Take a Whiff

Dogs are known for their heightened sense of smell which is at least 10,000 times greater than ours! Letting your dog sniff around during their walk is a natural way to let them explore their surroundings and gather information about the world. It offers them mental stimulation and can make your dog's walks more fun and interesting by letting them take a few extra minutes to sniff around.

Hydration Is Key

Whether you walk on two legs or four, walking, running and exploring can be thirsty work! Longer walks (over 30 mins) or walks in hot weather necessitate water. Dogs can easily become dehydrated in these conditions so be sure to bring plenty of water for your dog and encourage them to take frequent breaks to drink water. A lightweight packable water bowl is a useful bit of kit to have on hand and makes it easier to offer water to your thirsty buddy.

Who’s a Good Boy?

Offering treats can be an effective way to communicate with your furry friend whether you're a new dog owner or a veteran. It's a good idea to bring treats to reward your pup when they show good behaviours to acknowledge and help reinforce those positive behaviours. A treat bag serves as a convenient accessory during walks, allowing you to carry not only treats but also other essentials like your phone, keys and poop bags.

Pick Up Their Poop!

Always clean up after your dog. It's not just common courtesy to pick up after your dog but it's also a legal requirement and can create health hazards. Be sure to carry poop bags with you and dispose of them properly.

Meet and Greet

It's always fun meeting other dog walkers and watching your pup make a new best friend! But it's important to remember that not all dogs are friendly, some can be shy and timid whilst others may be boisterous. Be vigilant of your surroundings and keep a safe distance from other dogs.

Accessories for Your Dog

By investing in the right accessories, you can make your daily walks with your furry friend safer and more enjoyable for the both of you. With a variety of options available, from collars to leashes to toys and treats, you can customise your dog walking experience to fit your dog's specific needs and personality.

Leads

When you're out and about with your pup, a dog lead is essential to keep them safe and under your control. The ideal lead length depends on your dog's age, size, temperament, level of training and where you're walking them. You may want a long lead in quieter spaces and a short lead in busy areas.

We advise against using retractable leashes, even though they may appear convenient for energetic dogs. These leashes can be quite risky since they're more challenging to handle and can easily tangle or snap, putting your dog in danger, particularly in high traffic areas.

Collars

What makes a good collar? A good dog collar should fit comfortably on your four-legged friend. Choose collars that are sturdy and resilient while also made from soft, padded materials that are easy on your dog's skin and won't irritate them. It's important to have a sturdy buckle and adjustable features too for added convenience.

For evening walks, consider light-up collars or reflective collars as they offer visibility in lowlight conditions. Alternatively, you can also buy light-up accessories that can be easily attached to your dog's collar for added convenience.

Harnesses

A dog harness serves the important purpose of guiding your canine while reducing tension on their neck when they pull. Comfort is key when it comes to choosing the right harness, so we recommend an adjustable harness that ensures a perfect fit. A harness with padding or a soft lining can help prevent rubbing, chafing, and discomfort, while sturdy and durable materials ensure it can withstand daily wear and tear.

The EzyDog Quick Fit Dog Harness is our top choice due to its ease of use and the comfort and protection it provides. It offers a variety of options with three different sizes available for small, medium and large dogs. By selecting a comfortable and sturdy harness, you can make walks a more enjoyable experience for both you and your canine.

Toys

Keep your dog entertained for hours with dog toys! Ideal for training younger pups and having fun together, ensure you're picking toys that are appropriate for your dog's size, age and breed. For pups who love to chew or play tug of war, consider durable materials that can withstand tough play such as the Latex Blackberry from Petface or consider tennis balls for pups who love to fetch! Remember to always supervise your dog when they're playing with toys.

First Aid Kit

When embarking on longer walks or weekend getaways with your precious pup, it's wise to anticipate the possibility of your dog getting injured. There's also the potential risk of ticks and other pests. To be prepared for such situations, the Dog First Aid Kit from Mountain Paws is an excellent choice. It comes with a plethora of useful tools, all conveniently stored in a compact, water-resistant case that can be easily carried with its handle and belt loop.

Cold Weather Wear

Dog coats are more than just a fashion statement, they offer protection against wet weather conditions to keep your furry friend warm and dry. Additionally, dog coats can be especially beneficial for short-haired or small breeds that are more susceptible to the cold.

The Comfitec Windbreaker Free Dog Coat from WeatherBeeta is a durable and functional fleece-lined coat that keeps your dog warm and dry in unpredictable weather. Its showerproof 420 denier outer fabric withstands the elements, while the boa fleece lining ensures maximum comfort. With a contoured back seam, wrap-around freedom front and harness compatibility, this coat provides a snug and secure fit.

Post Walk Cleaning

For dogs who love splashing through muddy puddles on their walks, an after-walk bath becomes an essential part of their routine. The Dogs Body Dog Shampoo from Animology is a versatile grooming solution for dogs of all breeds. This general-purpose shampoo features a mild yet effective cleaning formula, making it suitable for regular use.

Infused with Animology's delightful 'signature scent,' it leaves your dog smelling great after every wash. With its easy rinse formulation and reduced foaming, this shampoo ensures quick washing time without stripping the coat of its essential oils. The built-in conditioner and pro-vitamin B5 promote a healthy coat, while its compatibility with all breeds makes it a must-have grooming essential.

Dress Appropriately

Dressing appropriately for your dog walks and being prepared for the weather can make all the difference. For longer walks on challenging terrain, it's crucial to wear comfortable and sturdy walking shoes or boots as a baseline. If you're dealing with unexpected rain or strong winds, a lightweight and waterproof jacket is the way to go.

To make things easier for you and your family, we've created some outfits that are perfect for your next dog walking journey!

Fleeces and Hoodies

We all know sunny days are a rare treat here in the UK, which is why every dog walker needs a trusty fleece. Not only do fleeces add a much-needed layer of warmth to your outfit on those cold and windy days, but they also provide comfort and are usually stretchy making them excellent for playing fetch or running around with your pup.

Jackets

In the rainy and unpredictable weather of the UK, a good quality waterproof jacket is an essential companion for dog walkers. With unexpected downpours just around the corner, staying dry and comfortable becomes paramount. Investing in a reliable waterproof jacket ensures that you can enjoy your dog walks, regardless of the weather, while keeping yourself protected from the elements.

Trousers

A proper pair of trousers that can withstand drizzles and splashes is essential so you can embark on your doggy adventures with confidence, knowing you're shielded from the elements.

Footwear

Whether you're strolling down smooth paved paths or on rugged lands, choosing the right footwear will ensure comfort and safety on different terrains. Remember, your pup may lead you off the beaten path so having reliable footwear that can handle unexpected adventures is essential!

Adventure Awaits

Now you've got our top tips and tricks and must-have items for both you and your pup, it's time to head out and make some memories. Don't forget to capture and share your delightful dog walking moments on our Instagram page because, let's be honest, what's better than adorable pictures of dogs? Happy dog walking!