Dog hiking gear: essentials list to buy and what to pack

Updated 28th August 2025

If you’re planning an outdoor expedition with your pooch, look no further than our list of dog hiking gear essentials below. You’ll find a list of suggestions on what to buy, and what to pack for a hike with your dog.

Dog hiking gear: essentials list

• A dog harness. Getting a harness that fits is essential for a comfortable hike - it reduces pressure on your dog’s neck and allows for better control, especially for dogs that pull.
• Collar with tags. Attach an identification tag to your dog’s collar - even if your dog is wearing a harness. Most importantly, your dog’s harness should include your contact number, should the worst happen.
• First aid kit. Bring everything you might need should your dog have an accident, including alcohol wipes, bandages, micropore tape and scissors (explore below for a full first aid kit list).
• Hands-free dog leash. If you plan on running with your dog, a hands-free dog leash can make life easier, and also keep your hands free - should your climb be a steep one.
• Collapsible dog bowl. Keep your dog hydrated by packing enough water, and a collapsible dog bowl for easy serving.
• Dog boots. If you’re going on an extensive hike with rough terrain, consider investing in a set of dog boots to protect your dog’s paws.
• Dog-safe sunscreen. Pack sunscreen that’s made for dogs if you’re hiking in the sun.
• LED or fluorescent dog collar. If you’re camping with your dog, a dog collar that can be seen in the dark is a great way to keep your pooch secure.

Dog hiking pack

Available in sizes for extra small dogs through to larger breeds, this handy Ruffwear Approach Dog Pack can be filled with everything you need for a day hiking or even a night or two camping with your dog outdoors. It has plenty of pockets for furry friends to bring treats and poop bags, but remember that dogs should never carry more than 25% of their own body weight (including the weight of the dog pack). 

The frame of the backpack is padded for comfort and can be adjusted at five different points to find the perfect fit for your pup. With two leash attachment points, additional loops on the outside to attach further hiking gear to, and a reflective trim to keep pups safe when it’s dark outside, this is one of the most popular dog hiking backpacks for outdoor adventures. If you’re looking for a little more versatility, theRuffwear Palisades Dog Pack has removable saddlebags and a bit of extra space.

A dog water bottle

A dog water bottle is an handy piece of dog backpacking gear; they should be leakproof, durable, and compact, making it perfect for traveling and outdoor adventures. 

The MalsiPree Dog Water Bottle is a dog water bottle and a bowl in one - simply press the button to fill the bowl with water. Plus, if your furry friend doesn’t lap up every last drop, just press the button again to let the water flow back into the bottle so you’ve got enough for the rest of the day. 

Dog First Aid Kit

Unfortunately, accidents can happen anywhere, but when you’re out in the wilderness it can be even more of a concern. This handy dog first aid kit comes with the following: 

• x2 Alcohol Wipes
• x2 Crepe Bandages
• Scissors
• Tweezers
• Micropore Tape
• Gloves
• Emergency Blanket
• x2 Wide open Weave Bandages
• x2 Melolin Dressings

It can be useful to pack a dog first aid kit in case of injury, illness, or emergency situations, but remember that it’s not a substitute for professional vet care. In serious or uncertain cases, it’s always best to consult a vet for proper guidance and treatment. 

A dog harness

Ruffwear produces some of the best hiking gear for dogs, and that’s why it features more than once on this list of dog hiking gear. This heavy-duty dog harness is padded with foam for comfort and has four adjustable straps. There are two leash attachments, one at the center of the dog’s back for everyday walks, and one on the chest to relieve pressure for pups that pull on the leash. It also features an ID pocket for dog tags, reflective strips, and a light loop to boost visibility in the dark. 

A hands-free dog leash

Keep your hands free for running and scrambling over rocks with a hands-free dog leash. The four-foot leash clips easily onto the adjustable waist belt allowing for freedom of movement and better control over your furry friend. The shock-absorbing bungee rope minimizes the risk of injury for both you and your pooch, and the bright reflective stitching shows up after dark. It ticks all the boxes for outdoor adventures!

A smart dog collar

Follow your furry friend as they venture off the beaten track with this GPS dog collar, and track every step they take in lost dog mode. It’s solid, chew-proof, and has a quick-release buckle to keep your pooch pal safe when on the go. As well as enabling you to keep track of your furry friend, pet parents can use this collar to record the number of steps their Fido is taking, monitor their sleeping patterns, and ensure they get the correct balance of activity, rest, and sleep.

A collapsible dog water bowl

Having a water bottle with a bowl attached isn’t for everyone, and this collapsible dog bowl is just as handy for when you’re on the go. It’s made from thick, durable silicone and is FDA-approved, lightweight, and dishwasher-safe. It can be clipped to a backpack or collapsed and tucked away into a pocket, ready to assemble in just a few seconds.

An LED dog collar

Keep your pooch pal safe when adventuring in low-light conditions with this LED dog collar. Choose from six colors and two adjustable sizes, and change the light mode from rapid flashing to slow and steady with just the click of a button. After five hours of continuous use, simply recharge the battery with a USB cable and you and your furry friend will be good to go!

A pup tent

Measuring 28 x 35 x 45 inches, this pup tent is perfect for small-medium-sized pooches and a few dog hiking accessories,too. Ventilation panels keep the air fresh and flowing, and you can rest easy knowing your four-legged friend is safe and protected from the elements. Reviewers have pointed out that the tent does not appear to be waterproof, so we recommend keeping it under the extension of your own tent so your pup stays warm and dry.

Dog-safe sunscreen

If your pooch pal’s prone to sun damage due to fair skin or thin fur, keeping them safe in the sun is particularly important. Vets have developed this sunscreen formula to prevent sun damage, which can result in autoimmune disorders, dermatitis, and cancer in dogs. It’s water-resistant and easy to apply, simply spray it onto sunburn-prone areas such as the face, ears, back, belly, tail, and paws, and work through the skin and coat with your hands or a brush.

A backpack dog carrier

Whether your dog has mobility issues or your chosen mode of transport is on two wheels, with the help of this dog bag, adventures don’t have to be put on pause. Small to medium-sized dogs can keep an eye on things from up top while being securely fastened inside the bag with the safety clip and collar enclosure. A sternum strap is clipped across your chest and the durable Cordura® fabric and ventilated mesh side panels keep you and your pooch pal comfortable while out and about. Plus it’s sure to get a flurry of “awws” from passers-by! What’s not to love?!

A set of dog boots

Made for dogs who love hiking, running, and exploring alongside their favorite humans, these dog boots protect all four paws on all sorts of terrain. The outsole is made from resilient Vibram which offers both grip and flexibility, and the tightly woven air mesh which makes up the upper part of the shoe keeps furry paws clean and comfortable. A hook-and-loop closure system fastens the boots securely around your furry friend’s legs, but it’s a good idea to check they’re properly fitted after a few minutes of running around.

Despite being equipped with all this outdoor dog gear, we know there are times when it’s not feasible to bring Fido on your expeditions. That’s where TrustedHousesitters comes in! Our in-house pet sitters take care of pooch pals and other furry friends while owners are away, meaning pet pals can enjoy all the home comforts and loving care they’re used to. Find out more about how it works or get inspired by what our members are chatting about on our community forum today!

Useful resources

• Poisonous plants for dogs to avoid - a complete guide
• 6 dog cookie recipes
• Do dogs get sad? How to help your downhearted dog
• Dog safety in the car: tips for how to travel with a dog