How to Prepare Before Taking Your Dog Outside?
An outdoor excursion with your dog can be fun, and taking your dog outside for a walk can be an adventure, too. In both scenarios, you’ve got to be prepared. Preparing before taking your dog outside involves knowing what dog gear they need and packing with certain things in mind. Plan for them to get hungry, for your dog to go to the bathroom, and make sure there’s a First Aid Kit with you. Here, we will discuss what all should you do before taking your dog outside.
Table of Contents
- 1 What Should You Do Before Taking Your Dog Outside?
- 1.1 Check the Dog Breed
- 1.2 Make Sure They Have a Collar and ID Tag
- 1.3 Invest in the Right Leash
- 1.4 Consider Reflective Elements
- 1.5 Carry Water with You
- 1.6 Bring a Collapsible Bowl
- 1.7 Pack Some Dog Food
- 1.8 Use a GPS Tracker
- 1.9 Apply a Protective Paw Balm for Rough Terrain
- 1.10 Ensure Your Dog Has Up-To-Date Tick Prevention
- 1.11 Pack Extra Poop Bags
- 1.12 First Aid Kit Is a Lifesaver
- 1.13 Pack Booties for Rougher Terrain
- 1.14 Don’t Ask Too Much of Your Dog
- 1.15 Plan Out Rest Stops
- 1.16 Know Signs That Your Dog Is In Trouble
What Should You Do Before Taking Your Dog Outside?
Here’s more information on keeping your dog safe, happy, and excited while outside:
Check the Dog Breed
Some dog breeds are prone to overheating or may dislike getting wet. Knowing your dog’s personality is certain about specific weather. This is the reason to check the forecast and note the temperature, humidity, and precipitation.
Make Sure They Have a Collar and ID Tag
Don’t let your dog outside if it doesn’t have an up-to-date ID tag with the correct contact information. If the dog is not microchipped, an ID tag can be placed on its collar.
Invest in the Right Leash
Use a durable leash when you take your dog outside. If it’s a hike, pack a longer leash. Use a shorter leash if you’re taking them to a crowded area. For jogging, try a hands-free leash that ties around the waist. For walking in open areas, consider a retractable leash.
Consider Reflective Elements
Consider putting your dog in a reflective collar, vest, or harness. This reflectiveness allows them to be seen in darker conditions. You can find a variety of dog gear at Ruffwear, a brand that offers high-quality products that are versatile and easy to use.
Carry Water with You
Bring water even if you’re only out for an hour or less. If you assume water is available where you’re going, and it turns out there isn’t, and you have yet to pack any, you could be in trouble. Carry water with you so your dog can stay hydrated no matter the conditions.
Bring a Collapsible Bowl
Bring a flat, collapsible bowl that you can unfold and put water in to make it easy to stay hydrated wherever you are.
Pack Some Dog Food
Pack a small bag of dog food or treats if you prefer. When you rest your dog, feed it to let it recover energy. Treats are handy if you need to reward your dog for good behaviour; however, dog food is unquestionably better for managing their health and energy levels.
Use a GPS Tracker
Put a GPS tracker on your dog’s collar if you go on a particularly long adventure or excursion. If your dog runs off, they may not be able to find their way back to you like they can at home. You can easily locate them with a GPS tracker wherever they may be.
Apply a Protective Paw Balm for Rough Terrain
Paws can cut, crack, and become injured in unfamiliar environments. You may apply for a protective paw balm if you know you’re heading out on rough or icy terrain.
Ensure Your Dog Has Up-To-Date Tick Prevention
Ticks and fleas are a risk when your dog is outside. Ensure their flea and tick prevention is up-to-date. After any outing, give your dog a quick brush and inspection, especially if they’ve been in or around tall grasses and wooded areas.
Pack Extra Poop Bags
Any time you leave with your dog to go outside, bring with you poop bags to pick up after them. Biodegradable bags are preferred over plastics. A bag dispenser attached to their leash is the easiest way to keep track of poop bags.
First Aid Kit Is a Lifesaver
Even if it’s just a day trip, bring your First Aid Kit. Pet-friendly first aid kits are easy to make if they are not commercially available locally.
Pack Booties for Rougher Terrain
A dog’s paws are sensitive. Protect their paws if you’re walking on a lot of rocks. Get your dog boots. Consider other rough terrain gear for your pup.
Don’t Ask Too Much of Your Dog
Know your dog’s fitness level. Avoid pushing them past their limits. Assess their energy. A shorter and more relaxed walk may be more suitable for some dogs. Make plans that respect your dog’s age, breed, and current activity level.
Plan Out Rest Stops
Plan for rest stops if you’ll be out longer than an hour. Schedule times when you can slow down with your dog. Feed it, provide it with water, and let it cool down.
Know Signs That Your Dog Is In Trouble
Excessive panting, drooling, and lethargy are signs of overheating. In cold weather, signs of hypothermia include shivering, weakness, and slow breathing. Be attentive to your dog and ensure it isn’t in trouble.
Finally, a few simple steps before you take your dog out can help make sure it is safe and fun. Pack things like water and waste bags and check the weather, but always remember to make sure your dog wears a proper collar and leash. But when you are prepared, you can have fun and stay safe while going out with your dog!