KIT FOR DOGS

There’s something special about sharing hillwalks with your furry friend, but taking your pooch out in mountain terrain takes a bit of preparation. Here’s some ideas for essential gear for dogs that hike... modelled by Jerry.

Hurtta Torrent Coat £42.30 – £57.60

You might think that your dog’s coat is more than adequate protection from the elements, but our pampered pooches are not necessarily used to extended hours in the rain and wind, and so like us might need a bit extra protection from the weather. This Hurtta rain jacket is a quality option, which is worth the investment if you spend a lot of time in the hills with your dog. It’s lightweight, waterproof and breathable, not to mention machine-washable.

3 Peaks silicone travel bowl £7

Light, durable and collapsible – this is a great option for dogs on the hill.

Mountain Paws dog towel £11

This microfibre fabric lightweight towel makes drying easy.

Adventure Medical kit Trail Dog £35

New for 2017 this first aid kit is specifically designed for dogs. For example the plasters are made from rubber – so when removed they don’t take off any fur!

Ruffwear Palisades Pack and Harness £170

Built for use on multi-day backpacking trips, this two-in-one pack and harness could be the ideal solution for dogs who can help carry their own food and water. The pack incorporates the Web Master Harness, with added detachable saddle bags. Integrated water bladders on each side evenly balance up to two litres of water and the harness has an assistance handle to help your dog up and over gates and difficult terrain. This is one flashy bit of kit if your dog is up to it and you like to get out wild camping or on multi-day trips! www.ruffwear.co.uk

Ruffwear Roamer Leash £39

You definitely need more than one pair of hands to take your dog out in the mountains, with maps, walking poles, poo bags – you could end up in a right mess. Unless you have a Roamer Leash, which has a wrist attachment that cleverly converts into a waist attachment. It also has a super-secure clip and a very stretchy bungee section. This is a great addition to your adventure kit list and will revolutionise lead walking with your dog when you need to keep your hands free!

Ruff and Tumble drying coats £23-£58

After a wet, muddy day in the great outdoors, your dog (and your car) will be thankful for this great doggy dressing gown. It goes on over the head, with a cosy neck collar for drying soggy ears. It had a wide belly strap which fastens with Velcro. Made from double thickness cotton towelling, it is washable, and will keep your dog warm and dry them off quickly on the way home. The coats can also be soaked in water to act as a cooling coat for hot summer days (if we get any!). They come in a variety of colours and designs and can be personalised with your pooch’s name.