Dog Hiking Gear: Top Picks for Adventurous Pups

Dogs make great hiking companions, but they need the right gear to stay safe and comfortable on the trail.

We love taking our furry friends on outdoor adventures. We’ve learned that having the proper equipment can make all the difference.

From paw protection to portable water bowls, there’s a wide range of dog hiking gear available to suit every canine explorer.

When choosing hiking gear for your dog, it’s important to consider their size, breed, and the type of terrain you’ll be tackling.

Comfort and safety should be your top priorities. Look for products made from durable materials that can withstand rough trails and playful pups.

It’s also crucial to ensure that any gear fits your dog properly to prevent chafing or discomfort during long hikes.

We’ve spent many weekends hitting the trails with our four-legged friends, testing out different products to find the best dog hiking gear.

Our goal was to identify items that make outdoor adventures more enjoyable for both dogs and their human companions.

Best Dog Hiking Gear

We’ve sniffed out the top dog hiking gear on Amazon to make your outdoor adventures with your furry friend a walk in the park. Our list includes comfy harnesses, portable water bowls, and paw protectors that’ll have your pup wagging their tail with joy. Get ready to hit the trails in style and comfort!

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links and might earn us a small commission if you make a purchase at absolutely no extra cost to you. Pawsome, right?!

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Vet’s Best Natural Mosquito Shield

We think this natural mosquito repellent is a smart choice for pet owners looking to keep the bugs at bay without harsh chemicals.

Pros

• Gentle, plant-based formula
• Works for both cats and dogs
• Pleasant lemongrass scent

Cons

• Needs frequent reapplication
• Strong smell may bother some pets
• Spray nozzle can be tricky

This summer has been brutal when it comes to mosquitos. We’ve been using Vet’s Best Mosquito Repellent on our dogs, and we’re actually pretty impressed!

The natural blend of lemongrass and citronella oils keeps mosquitoes away without any nasty chemicals.

It’s a relief to find something that’s safe for both our pups and kitties.

The spray has a nice, fresh scent that reminds us of summer. We love that it’s not overpowering like some bug sprays can be.

Our pets don’t seem to mind it either, which is a big plus. We just give them a quick spritz before heading out for walks or playtime in the yard.

One thing to keep in mind is that you’ll need to reapply it every couple of hours for the best protection. We found this out the hard way on a longer hike!

The spray nozzle can also be a bit finicky, so it takes some practice to get an even coat. But all in all, we’re happy to have found a natural way to keep our furry pals mosquito-free.

OneTigris Dog Adventure Pack

We think this pack is a must-have for any pup who loves to hit the trails, offering comfort and convenience for both dogs and their humans.

Pros

• Durable and breathable materials
• Plenty of storage space
• Adjustable for a great fit

Cons

• May be bulky for smaller dogs
• Zipper can snag long fur
• Takes some getting used to

We tried out the OneTigris pack with one of our hiking pups, and it’s been a game-changer on the trails.

The 1000D nylon is tough as nails, standing up to branches and rocks without a scratch. Plus, the mesh lining keeps our pup cool even on hot days.

The storage space is a dream. We can fit water, treats, and even a collapsible bowl in the main pouches. The side pockets are perfect for stashing poop bags or a small first aid kit.

Our favorite feature? The bungee cords on top let us strap on a light jacket for those chilly mountain mornings.

Putting it on our dog was easy thanks to the adjustable straps. It took a few tries to get the fit just right, but now it stays put even when our pup is bounding over logs.

The hidden zippers are a nice touch – no more worrying about fur getting caught. While it might be a bit much for tiny pups, it’s been perfect for our larger-sized trail buddy.

Handy Poop Bag Holder

We think this nifty gadget is a must-have for any pup parent who loves hiking with their dog.

Pros

• Keeps hands free during walks
• Sturdy metal construction
• Easy to attach to leash or gear

Cons

• May not hold multiple full bags
• Can be tricky to secure empty bags
• Might snag on clothing or fur

We’ve been using this cute bone-shaped poop bag holder on our trail adventures, and it’s been pretty great!

No more juggling leashes and filled bags while trying to enjoy the scenery. The metal construction feels solid in our hands, and we’re pretty sure it’ll outlast even the toughest hikes.

Clipping it onto our pup’s leash was easy, thanks to the included carabiner.

We love how it dangles there, ready for action whenever nature calls.

The best part? Once we’ve bagged the business, we just tie a knot and slip it onto the holder. Voila! Hands-free hiking resumes.

We did notice it works best with one full bag at a time. Trying to load it up with multiple bags can be a bit of a balancing act.

Also, securing empty bags can be a tad fiddly – we’re still perfecting our technique there. But these are small hiccups in an otherwise fantastic product. If you’re tired of the poop-bag shuffle on your walks, give this little helper a try!

SHINE HAI Hands-Free Dog Leash

We think this leash is a game-changer for dog owners who love to stay active with their furry friends.

Pros

• Frees up your hands
• Shock-absorbing bungees
• Reflective for night safety

Cons

• Small water bottle pocket
• Tricky poop bag dispensing
• May not suit very large dogs

We’ve taken this leash out for a spin, and boy, does it make a difference!

The hands-free design is a treat. We could check our phones, sip coffee, or even push a stroller without feeling tied down.

The dual bungees are super clever. They soak up those sudden tugs when our pup spots a squirrel or another dog. No more worrying about being pulled off our feet!

The extra handles came in handy too. When we needed quick control, we just grabbed them.

Night walks feel safer with this leash. The reflective stitching caught our eye (and car headlights) in the dark.

The waist bag is handy, but we wish the water bottle pocket was bigger. Our standard bottle didn’t fit.

We had a bit of trouble with the poop bag dispenser. It’s not the smoothest to use on the go.

But overall, this leash has made our walks way more enjoyable. It’s great for medium to large dogs but might be overkill for tiny pups.

Paw-fect Pooch Protectors

These dog boots are a must-have for any pup who loves outdoor adventures!

Pros

• Tough, anti-slip soles
• Easy to put on and adjust
• Reflective straps for nighttime safety

Cons

• Sizing can be tricky
• May take time for dogs to adjust
• Might not fit all paw shapes

We gave these booties a try on a recent hike and they made a big difference.

The rugged soles gave our pup amazing traction on rocky trails. No more slipping and sliding for our four-legged explorer!

Putting them on was drama free thanks to the wide opening and adjustable straps.

We loved how the reflective bits on the straps lit up in the evening! The cute paw print design made us smile.

One thing to keep in mind – make sure you measure your pups paws carefully before ordering.

Our first pair was a tad too snug, but once we got the right size, it was smooth sailing.

Some dogs might need a bit of time to get used to wearing shoes, but ours adapted pretty quickly with some treats and encouragement.

While they fit most pups well, dogs with unusually shaped paws might have trouble. But for most canine companions, these boots are a real tail-wagger!

Cibaabo 3-in-1 Dog Bottle

We think this nifty gadget is a must-have for any pup parent who loves outdoor adventures with their furry friend.

Pros

• Combines water bottle, treat container, and poop bag holder
• Leak-proof design prevents spills
• Easy one-handed operation

Cons

• Might be bulky for smaller dogs
• Limited food storage capacity
• Plastic construction may not be as durable as metal

We recently took this clever little contraption on a hike we were we impressed! The Cibaabo bottle is like having a doggy Swiss Army knife. It’s got everything we need in one compact package.

The water dispenser part works like a charm. We just pressed a button, and voila! Fresh water flowed into the bowl. Our pup lapped it up happily.

When he was done, we tilted it back, and the leftover water went right back into the bottle. No waste!

We love the built-in treat container too. It’s perfect for storing kibble or small treats. The poop bag dispenser at the bottom is a nice touch – having them right there is super handy and makes it harder to forget them.

One thing to note: while it’s great for medium-sized dogs, it might be a bit much for tiny pooches. And if you’re planning an all-day excursion, you might need to pack some extra food. But for most outings, this bottle is just the ticket. It’s become our go-to for walks, hikes, and trips to the dog park.

Mi Metty Dog Tie-Out Cable

We think this sturdy cable is a great choice for pet parents who want to give their pups some outdoor freedom.

Pros

• Super strong steel cable
• Versatile uses
• Smooth-rotating hooks

Cons

• Can be stiff at first
• Hooks may rust over time
• Might tangle occasionally

We’ve been using this tie-out cable at campgrounds with our dogs and it’s been super handy.

The 20-foot length gives our dogs plenty of room to explore the campsite without us worrying about them escaping. It’s very tough – the steel cable has held up to our 80-pound dogs excited tugging and running.

One thing we liked was how flexible this cable is. We used it for camping, but it would be perfect for beach days or even in the backyard!

The bright orange color makes it easy to spot, which was handy.

The hooks on each end spin freely, which stopped the cable from getting all twisted up as our dogs ran around. That was a big plus in our book!

We did notice the cable was a bit stiff at first, but it loosened up after a few uses. Just keep an eye on those metal parts – they might rust if left out in the rain too often.

Comfy Paw Protectors

We think these socks are a must-have for any pup who needs extra grip and paw protection.

Pros

• Great traction even when twisted
• Easy to put on and stays in place
• Works for both indoor and outdoor use

Cons

• May wear out quickly on rough surfaces
• Sizing can be tricky
• A bit pricey compared to regular dog socks

We’ve given these DOK TigerToes socks a try on our German Shepherd and were pretty impressed!

We have hardwood floors in our house and our pup would slip and slide. Not anymore! , The grip on these socks is seriously impressive – even when they twist a bit (which happens sometimes), they still keep our pup steady on his feet.

Putting them on is painless, and they stay put pretty well. We love that we can use them both inside and outside.

On hot summer days, these socks help protect our dog’s paws from the hot pavement. They’d also be great for older dogs with joint issues, they provide that extra stability that makes getting around so much easier.

One thing to keep in mind is that they might not last as long if you use them a lot on rough outdoor surfaces. We found the sizing a bit tricky at first, so make sure to measure your dog’s paws carefully before ordering.

They’re a bit more expensive than regular dog socks, but we think the extra grip and versatility make them worth it. Our pups seem happier and more comfortable, which makes us happy too!

Furhaven Trail Pup Travel Bed

We think this portable dog bed is a great buy for pet parents who love adventuring with their furry friends.

Pros

• Lightweight and easy to pack
• Machine washable for simple cleaning
• Comes with handy stuff sack

Cons

• Thinner cushioning than home beds
• May be noisy when dogs move around
• Not chew-resistant

We took this Furhaven travel bed on our latest camping trip, and it was such a handy addition to our gear!

The lightweight design made it a breeze to carry, and the included stuff sack kept everything neat and tidy in our pack. Our pup seemed pretty comfy lounging on it by the campfire.

The reversible design is really clever. We used the camo side when setting up on dirt and leaves, then flipped to the solid color for a cleaner look at our campsite picnic table.

It shook off debris easily, which was great for keeping our tent tidy.

While it’s not as plush as a regular dog bed, it provided a nice barrier between our pooch and the cold ground. The large size fits our 80-pound Shepherd perfectly.

We did notice it made a bit of a crinkling sound when he shifted around at night, but it wasn’t too disruptive. All in all, we’re happy campers with this travel bed!

Collapsible Pet Bowls

We think these portable pet bowls are a must-have for dog owners who love outdoor adventures with their furry friends.

Pros

• Super compact and lightweight
• Comes with handy carabiners
• Dishwasher safe for easy cleaning

Cons

• Might be too small for large breeds
• Can tip over if not on flat surface
• Plastic material may not be as durable as metal

We love these collapsible bowls for hikes with our pups.

The compact design makes it easy to stuff in our backpacks without taking up much space. When our dog got thirsty on the trail, we simply popped one open, and voila – instant water bowl!

The carabiners are a nice touch. We clipped one bowl to our backpack and the other to our dog’s leash, so we always had them handy.

They hold enough water for a medium-sized dog to get a good drink, though larger breeds might need a refill or two.

We love how easy these are to clean. A quick rinse at the campsite was fine, but it’s great that we can toss them in the dishwasher when we get home.

The only downside we noticed was that they can tip over on uneven ground, so be careful where you set them down. All in all, these bowls have become a staple in our dog hiking gear!

ARCA PET Adventure First Aid Kit

We think this kit is a must-have for any pup parent who loves outdoor adventures with their furry friend.

Pros

• Packed with 35 essential items
• Compact and easy to carry
• Reflective and water-resistant pouch

Cons

• Q-tips don’t fit in the bag
• Might be overkill for short walks
• Some items may need replacing over time

We recently took this little lifesaver on a camping trip with our four-legged buddy, and boy, were we glad to have it!

The bright red pouch is super easy to spot in our backpack, which is great when you’re in a pinch. It’s also water-resistant, so we didn’t worry about it getting wet during our creek-side picnic.

Inside, we found a treasure trove of 35 items that cover pretty much any oopsie our pup might encounter on the trail.

The tick remover came in handy when we spotted a little bugger trying to hitch a ride on our dog’s ear. It worked like a charm, and we were back to exploring in no time!

One tiny hiccup we noticed was that the Q-tips didn’t fit in the bag. It’s not a deal-breaker, but it would be nice if everything could stay together.

Despite this small quirk, we feel so much better having this kit with us on our outdoor adventures.

Buying Guide

When we’re gearing up for a hike with our pups, it’s important to choose the right equipment. Let’s take a look at some key factors to consider!

Comfort is Key

We want our pups to enjoy the trail as much as we do.

Look for gear that fits well and won’t rub or chafe. Adjustable straps are a big plus – they let us fine-tune the fit as our dogs grow or shed.

Durability Matters

Our four-legged hikers can be tough on gear.

We should pick items made from sturdy materials that can handle rough terrain and playful pups. Reinforced stitching and water-resistant fabrics are great features to keep an eye out for.

Safety First

Visibility is super important on the trail.

Bright colors or reflective strips help us keep track of our buddies, especially in low light. For longer treks, we might want to consider gear with built-in ID tags.

Practical Features

We love gear that makes our adventures easier! Here’s a quick checklist of handy features:

• Pockets for treats and waste bags
• Attachment points for water bottles
• Quick-release buckles for easy on and off
• Breathable materials to keep our pups cool

Finding the Right Size

Proper sizing is crucial for our dogs’ comfort and safety.

Most gear comes with sizing charts, but it’s always a good idea to measure our pups before buying. Remember, a little room to grow is okay, but too loose can be dangerous on the trail.

Frequently Asked Questions

We’re excited to share some insider tips on dog hiking gear! Our furry friends love hitting the trails just as much as we do. Let’s dive into some common questions about equipping your pup for outdoor adventures.

What’s the coolest gear I can get for my petite pooch to tag along on hikes?

For our tiny trail buddies, we love compact backpacks designed just for them.

These cute packs let them carry their own treats and water. We’ve also found lightweight, collapsible bowls that are perfect for on-the-go hydration stops.

Hey fellow trailblazer, what’s the ultimate hiking gear list for our four-legged buddies?

We never leave home without a sturdy leash, poop bags, and a collapsible water bowl. A doggy first-aid kit is a must-have too.

Don’t forget a cozy blanket for rest stops and some tasty treats to keep your pup’s energy up!

Any tips on finding the sturdiest boots for my dog’s next mountain adventure?

We’ve learned that measuring your dog’s paws is key to finding the right fit.

Look for boots with tough soles and adjustable straps. It’s best to let your dog practice wearing them at home before hitting the trails. Our favorites are Saker Canine’s Compass booties, these are our go-to’s for longer hikes.

Can you point me to some top-notch brands for dog hiking accessories?

We’re big fans of Saker Canine and have purchased multiple items for our dogs. We can’t recommend them enough. Check out our review for their dog boots and harnesses.

Ruffwear is also great for their durable gear.

Kong makes great tough toys for the trail. For smaller items, Kurgo has some clever solutions. These brands have never let us down on our outdoor escapades.

What’s the secret for keeping my furry pal comfy during our camping escapades?

We always pack a cozy sleeping bag or pad just for our dogs.

It keeps them warm and off the cold ground. A pop-up tent or shade shelter is great for daytime naps too. Don’t forget their favorite toy for a touch of home!

How do I gauge if my dog’s ready to tackle some serious miles on our hike?

We start with short walks and gradually increase the distance. Watch for signs of tiredness like lagging behind or panting heavily.

Build up their stamina over time, just like we do with our own hiking fitness. Always bring extra water and take plenty of breaks.