Guide: The Best Products for Hiking With Your Dog
Earlier this year on Instagram we asked you about the hiking products YOU love that make hikes easier and more enjoyable with your dogs. Once again we were blown away by your responses, and decided to turn them into an easy to reference guide. We will keep adding to this list as we get more great recommendations from YOU, the amazing pet parents and pro-trainers in our TOC Fam! PS: One of the easiest ways to be sustainable is to buy less. With that in mind, we compile these lists to try to help you find quality products so you don't have to keep buying things. Just because it is on this list doesn't necessarily mean you need it to hike with your dog. Please feel free to also check around for used versions of these products! [Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning TOC may get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through our links, at no cost to you.]
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Dog Clothing and Accessories For Hiking
A First Aid Kit
From @peevepaisley: “…Have the Kurgo first aid kit in the car and an few key items (mostly for paws) in the pack.”
2. A High Tail Hikes Long Line
From @hounddog_mack: “Fav products: @hightailhikes long lines & safety straps — biothane is a gift in cold, snowy, wet weather!” PS: Use code TAILSOFCONNECTION for 10% off on all products!
3. The Ruffwear Harness
4. The Kurgo Adjustable Lead
From @peevepaisley: “…The Kurgo adjustable lead is great too - has a daisy chain connector so you can hook it to you and go short when it’s crowded to regular when it’s not.”
5. High Visibility Gear
From @wigglebutt_bailey: “Love this post! High visibility gear (we used to use a blaze orange bandana but Bailey’s fur is pretty long so we switched to a harness), especially during hunting season.” Note: TOC found this harness on REI’s site.
6. A Y-Shaped Harness
From @petuniapickles_gsp: “So many things😂. Trying to find a few that might not be on here already. I think one that can get overlooked is a harness that has a Y shape in the front so it allows for natural and safe movement especially in a hiking situation.” Note: TOC found this harness on Amazon.
7. A Collapsible Water Bowl
From @brew_stah_the_dog: “GSI Outdoors Collabsible bowl it’s for human hikers so it has a lid and actually stays upright 👏🏻 every dog specific one I’ve ever gotten…doesn’t…”
8. A Dog Backpack
From @amientus04: “Love my dog’s backpack! I have him carry his own collapsible water bowl and poop bags (as well as a Ziploc that I put the dirty poop bags in. Gotta back out his waste!).” Note: TOC found this backpack on Amazon.
9. The Wilderdog Harness
From @maural33: “…And I usually use the Wilderdog or Kurgo harnesses and clip on the back for extra freedom (normally she’s an easy walk front clip kinda gal 😂).”
10. The Ruffwear Convertible Waste Leash
From @sara.bolds: “Ruffwear leash that converts to a waist leash. Great for downhill sketchy spots where you need both hands…”
11. A Water Bottle that Doubles as a Bowl
From @brimounteer: “…I bought a water bottle on Amazon that doubles as a water bowl so I don’t need a collapsible bowl as well…” Note: TOC found this water bottle on Amazon.
12. Extra Balls
From @pheebadoodle: “Lots of extra balls. This is her highest reward so I can always use it as back up if I see she has own ideas…”Note: TOC found these balls on Amazon.
13. A Dog Sleeping Bag
From @rescuedog_lady: “…your dog deserves the same sleeping conditions as you - that means if *you* need an insulating sleeping pad or a cool-down coat, so does your dog...”Note: TOC found this sleeping bag on Amazon.
14. A Tick Key
From @ebpertner: “Tick key!! I find it much easier to use to remove ticks (from dogs and humans) than regular tweezers.” Note: TOC found these tick keys on Amazon.
15. A glow collar
From @chanzmcmanus: “Also, a glow collar! This is more for us TBH. Our pup has good recall but when we are out at night the collar makes him easier to see so he can explore more freely and we can still see him and not call him back unnecessarily.” Note: TOC found this glow collar on Amazon.
16. The Fido Pro Rescue Harness
From @karliemarianne: “We bought a @fidopro rescue harness in case our guys gets hurt and needs to be carried out of the woods. Haven’t had to use it yet but I don’t leave home without it.”
17. An outfox hood
18. A Dog Rescue SLing
From @daysofdarby: “…For really long adventure hikes I also throw in a sling in case D gets hurt and I have to carry her out.” Note: TOC found this sling on Fido Pro.
19. A Spare Dog ID Tag
From @dug_the_adventurer: “A spare ID tag! In the UK dogs must wear ID tags by law when they’re out and about (plus if Dug gets lost I want someone who finds him to be able to call me!), but Dug has lost his in brambles before when it snagged. So now I carry a cheap spare with the correct details on it so if he does lose his tag there’s no change of him going on to get lost without my details on him.” Note: TOC found this tag on Amazon.
20. A K9 backpack
From @bulldognamedcoco: “Our K9 backpack! Couldn’t live without it, as a Frenchie owner she can’t handle big hikes so when she gets tired we pop her in our backpack and carry on.” Note: TOC found this backpack on Amazon.
21. A GPS Collar
From @lulolilbigdog: “My favorite hiking gear if my dog will be off leash are: … a GPS collar…”Note: TOC found this Whistle GPS collar on Amazon.
22. A Kong Safestix
From @manateelotti: “…For playtime and making sure she leaves sticks alone we have a Kong Safestix. Sure gets you some strange looks but our stick-obsessed dog super quickly accepted that instead of wood…”
23. Musher’s Secret
From @chanzmcmanus: “Where we live and hike can get super cold and icy and they often treat the roads and sidewalks with salt so Mushers…on his paws before and after we go out is a must for us. We’ve got a pot of it by the door and a stick applicator for the car.”
24. RollOut Travel Bowl
From @wheresadieroams: “Our @muttruk gear is always a must on adventures! We always carry the…roll up bowl…”
25. A Frisbee
From @miorlanski: “…Frisbees (one of the dogs cannot be on a 20 min off leash walk without having those discs for at least a few throws)…” Note: TOC found this frisbee on Amazon.
26. THe Ruff Rescue Harness
From @camembert.chronicles: ”…Something else I find important is an emergency dog carrier like ruff rescue, this gives me a way to more easily carry my dog if they are ever seriously injured…”
27. Dog Boots
From @camembert.chronicles: “…I also always bring his boots in case he were to have an open wound on his paw to help keep it protected…” Note: TOC found these boots on Ruffwear.
28. An Extra Collar
From @indy_inspired: “…In the backpack we always have a collar and leash (in case something breaks)…”Note: TOC found these biothane collars on Mossy Pawz’s site. They are featured on our friend, Kassidi Jones’, Pet POC Diretory here.
29. A Bear Bell
From @lulolilbigdog: “My favorite hiking gear if my dog will be off leash are: a bear bell…” Note: TOC found this bear bell on Amazon.
Human Clothing and Accessories For Hiking
1. The MuttRuk Sidekick Hip Pack
From @hounddog_mack: “…@muttruk sidekick to carry treats, keys, phone etc— the built in water bottle holder is 👌…”
2. Sandals
From @indy_inspired: “…I also always bring a pair of sandals…”Note: TOC found these sandals on Amazon.
3. A Multi Tool Knife
From @indy_inspired: “…In the backpack we always have a…a multi tool knife…” Note: TOC found this knife on Amazon.
4. A Car Seat Cover
From @hounddog_mack: “…And a car seat cover, important all year between the sand, dirt, mud, and snow 😂…” Note: TOC found this car seat cover on Amazon.
5. The Deuter Fanny Pack
From @manateelotti: “…I found a Deuter that's big enough to hold my camera. That thing was a game changer!” Note: TOC found this Deuter fanny pack on Amazon. Check the size of your camera before you buy this model.
6. An Old Nalgene Bottle
7. The Patagonia black hole 5L waist pack
From @peevepaisley: “The Patagonia black hole 5L waist pack is amazing. Small front pocket for treats, two mesh pockets for water or hauling out 💩. Huge interior and wide band…”
8. A Headlamp
From @hanks.oysterdog: “In our backpack first aid kit (every single hike)…headlamp.” Note: TOC found this headlamp on Amazon.
9. A Waterfly Pack
From @maural33: “Love this thread - I’m interested to hear about what others bring, as we are still learning! So far, I’ve found that Waterfly (found on Amazon) makes a great hiking/walking fanny pack - there’s one that has two water bottle holders so one for her, one for me (and I use their smaller one for neighborhood walks). Great pockets for treats, keys, phone, extra gloves, first aid etc…”
10. A CamelBak with the water pouch removed
From @brimounteer:”…I have a camelbak with the water pouch removed that then hold my car keys and water for the pup…” Note: TOC found this CamelBak on Amazon and it still has the water pouch.
11. A 65L Backpack
12. An Ice Pick
From @cthulu.the.saint: “…For backpacking trips in winter I like to carry an icepick/handshovel/small mallet/hatchet or similar in case gear gets frozen in after a snowfall, we need to drink from a frozen water source, or to collect ice chips for snacking or boiling down.” Note: TOC found this ice pick on Amazon.
13. A Walker Family Goods Fanny Pack Sling
From @one.ear.up.frank: “Fanny pack from @walkerfamilygoods comes with us on all our walks; it's the perfect size for poop bags, a little Stasher treat bag, another Stasher with eye rinse and emergency Benadryl (since apparently Frank is allergic to bees)…”
14. A Small Phone Battery Pack Charger
From @hemorn: “I have a small phone charger in my pack if needed to call out and my phone has died.”Note: TOC found this battery pack on Amazon.
15. A Gardening Vest From Duluth Trading Company
From @the_bramleywolves: “I bought a gardening vest from @duluthtradingcompany and it’s fabulous. Lightweight, and full of pockets and attachment sites. I clip the treat pouch on, and put leashes in the pockets, lens cloth, hat and gloves, Chuckit ball… it’s amazing how much I can carry, have accessible and yet also have my hands free. It’s definitely my fave piece of gear and I hike with a few off leash dogs every day.”
16. A Salomon Vest
From @manateelotti: “…When we go running together I have a Salomon vest with two water reservoirs. One is for me, the other for her so that I can give her some water straight from the tube. That's been super handy. It also has enough space for all kinds of extra stuff I might need, like her frisbee. ;)…”Note: TOC found this Salomon vest on Amazon.
17. The MuttRuk Phoenix Backpack
From @wheresadieroams: “…Our @muttruk gear is always a must on adventures! We…use the Phoenix backpack. The treat pockets are amazing and when I need to carry a larger pack I miss them 😂
18. A Whistle For Recall
19. The MuttRuk Duty Bag
20. A Smaller 25L Backpack
From @camembert.chronicles: “Ooo so many things to mention! I use a small backpack for (25L) which holds water & human snacks, safety and camera stuff…” Note: TOC found this backpack on Amazon.
21. AllTrails App
From @petuniapickles_gsp: “…Another one is using apps to research [trails] and see reviews before you go (I like bringfido and AllTrails) and to navigate when there (AllTrails). It’s also fun to have a record of all the hikes you’ve done and how you’d rate them...”Note on AllTrails from @brew_stah_the_dog: “…Since it’s crowd sourced, it often will send hikers and tourists to sacred Native sites, see @indigenouswomenhike @native_power_rangers for better details.”
22. An Extra Clean T-Shirt
From @indy_inspired: “…I also always bring … a clean shirt to change into for the drive home which is so lovely after a big hike.” Note: TOC found these t-shirt on Black Dog Mom Shop’s site. They are featured on our friend, Kassidi Jones’, Pet POC Diretory here.
Guide: The Best Thing I Ever Bought My Puppy
One of the most popular questions we get is: “Help, I’m bringing home a new puppy. What should I buy?!” A couple of weeks ago we posted on Instagram and asked you about the puppy products YOU loved that made life with your puppy easier and helped you survive the craziness. Once again we were blown away by your responses, and decided to turn them into an easy to reference guide. We will keep adding to this list as we get more great recommendations from YOU, the amazing pet parents and pro-trainers in our TOC Fam! [Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning TOC may get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through our links, at no cost to you.]
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Enrichment
The Rumbl
From @lumosdogtraining: “The rumbl is so versatile. You can put a toy in the top hole, seal the smaller hole with wet food, add a variety of food sizes.”
2. The Kong Wobbler
From @lumosdogtraining: “I absolutely love my @kongcompany wobblers ... I’ve had one of my wobblers since my first guide dog puppy I raised over 10 years ago 🙈.”
3. The Toppl
From @lumosdogtraining: “The toppl is an easy way to provide frozen enrichment and if you have both sizes it can be a good dispensing toy, too!”
4. A Food Dispensing Toy
From @frostbitesleddogs: “Food dispensing toys have been an absolute lifesaver"…” Note: TOC found this Planet Dog Orbee-Tuff Snoop Interactive Treat Dispensing Dog Toy on Amazon.
5. The Puppy Kong
From @eearthchild: “Puppy Kongs!! Freeze a tiny bit of peanut butter inside to make it more challenging to lick out :).”
6. Frozen Wash Cloths
From @bugthestreetdog: “Not something I’ve bought, but freezing old wash cloths to make frozen teething rings. Since we foster, it’s a cheap way to help the baby sharks.” Note: TOC found these wash cloths on Amazon.
7. A Flirt Pole
From @kusherwood: “A dog-sized flirt pole! I had a lot of trouble trying to teach my pup impulse control aka not go after every single bird, squirrel, piece of trash in the wind 😂 with the flirt pole, I’d practice having her stay in “place” command while I would move the flirt pole around. I would reward her with an “ok/free” command to catch the toy at the end of the flirt pole! Also was a great tool for rainy days where she didn’t get as much exercise or outdoor stimulation.” Note: TOC found this flirt pole on Amazon.
8. The Okra Tire
From @the_mojitomoji: “Orka tire. It’s one of the most looked over enrichment toys and gets a stupid amount of attention in our house.”
9. amazon boxes and paper stuffing
From @_shnatalie: “One of the best things I learned with our pup was to give an outlet for their natural puppy behaviors. Ours liked to shred. After finding her with several shredded full toilet paper rolls, we started giving her our Amazon boxes and paper stuffing that came with them so she could happily shred in peace. It was such a great energy outlet for her and I think also helped with her teething (this worked because she didn’t have a desire to eat what she shredded, just spits it out). Find what natural puppy behaviors their exploring and give them a safe way to do it that doesn’t harm your valuable things! “ Note: TOC found these plain moving boxes on Amazon, but if you buy one of the other products on our list from Amazon, you can just use that free packaging for enrichment.
10. The Benebone
11. A Higher Quality Snuffle Mat
From @thesnuffleclub: “I bought a low quality snuffle mat on Amazon, it was awesome til it ripped (they had fun ripping it up though) so I decided to make my own! Loved it so much I have my own snuffle business because I wanted to share it with all the dogs!!” Note: TOC found this snuffle mat on the site that @thesnuffleclub links to in their IG bio!
12. A Food Puzzle Toy
From @lb_and_doggg: “…Lots and lots of enrichment toys were our favorite and best way to get through a day of puppyhood. Food puzzles…I wish I’d known about the canine enrichment page on Facebook sooner.” Note: TOC found this puzzle toy on Amazon.
13. The Busy Buddy Magic Mushroom
From @lcherub121: “I see a lot of kong wobbler and west paw recommendations but none of my favorite enrichment feeder: the Busy Buddy Magic Mushroom!!! The wobbler was way too easy for my dog after a week or so, and when I couldn’t get her to eat filling up the magic mushroom was always a hit.”
14. Carrots, Celery, or Cabbage
From @lumosdogtraining: “…something that cost very little is letting your pup shred carrots, celery, or cabbage! It feels good on their teeth and meets some of those land shark needs!” Note: TOC found these celery sticks on Amazon.
15. The Kong Easy Treat Spray Can
From @untrainablenorahbones: Kong Easy Treat spray cans make filling treat dispensers so much easier.
16. An Old Towel
From @marvelousmaisienj: “Best (mostly?) free things: an old towel for DIY snuffle snacks…” Note: TOC found these towels on Amazon.
17. Kong Ball With Ridges
From @pippinalab: “The toy we really liked was the Kong ball with ridges that can also be filled with treats. It was the best for teaching him how puzzle toys worked because it is not very hard and PB can be smeared on it for extra chewing. We don't use it as a puzzle anymore but we do still use it as a ball!”
18. A Lickimat
From TOC: We found this LickiMat on the Lizo Bandana Co site. They are featured on our friend, Kassidi Jones’, Black Pet IG list here.
For the Home and Management
Baby Gates
Baby Gates
2. A Primo Pad For the Crate
From @mollieandcollieandmerle: “The one that saved my bacon this time around was a Primo Pad for the crate. They are waterproof and highly chew resistant. You can even get them with zip tie attachments so the puppy can’t dig it up or flip it. Anthem had “hunger pukes” in the early am for awhile and had thrown up on his crate pad multiple times. Fortunately all it takes to get the Primo clean is a quick wipe down. And I have never worried about him chewing up or ingesting it because he’s not tough enough to damage it which means he actually has something to lay on when unsupervised (Valor spent awhile laying on nothing but the crate pan because I didn’t trust her)! Great family owned business with good customer service and prompt shipping too! 😁 @primopads.”
3. An X-Pen
From @meghandvolta :”I’ll be real, I packed up an entire ex-pen and brought it to an air bnb for three nights with our puppy a few months ago. When your puppy isn’t fully crate trained yet but you need SOMEWHERE to put the gremlin because you want to shower, they are invaluable. You don’t have to rush because fido will not be eating your shoes when you get out. It also doesn’t allow them access to cupboards/drawer pulls like just gating off the kitchen does (I say that from experience having lost molding to puppy teeth)!” Note: TOC found this x-pen on Amazon.
4. A Crate
From @lindsayeberts: “…Crates! Crates everywhere! (Car, office, bedroom, living room).” Note: TOC found this crate on Amazon.
5. A bed with bolster sides
6. A Water Wicking Mat
From @lindsayeberts: “…water-wicking mats at my door for wet feet…”Note: TOC found this mat on Amazon.
7. A Dog Bed with a Washable Cover
From @untrainablenorahbones: “Investing in a dog bed with a removable, machine washable cover was a game changer. Don't fall for beds simply advertised as "machine washable" as they may mean you have put the entire bed in the machine, which is not very helpful with large dog beds.” Note: TOC found this bed on The Houndry site. PS: Use the code OTIS for 20% off on any order.
8. A Privacy Screen
From @untrainablenorahbones: “When it comes to management: Privacy screens for windows or see-through doors (storm doors, sliding deck doors) has helped minimize passerby distractions…”Note: TOC found this privacy screen on Amazon.
9. An Extra Tall Pet Gate
From @untrainablenorahbones: “…Extra tall pet gates that open and close are great for keeping my dog out of the kitchen.” Note: TOC found this baby gate on Amazon.
10. The Furbo
From @lkee507: “The Furbo! Expensive but worth it with the barking/cry[ing] notifications. It definitely helped my anxiety when I left the house but could still check in on him. Plus the daily video recaps are so cute!!”
11. A Waterproof Bed
From @lb_and_doggg: “One thing I didn’t have that I would get now is a waterproof bed!!! I didn’t know that they were a thing and we lost many a bed because they were the best place to pee 😅…” Note: TOC found this bed on Amazon.
12. Dog Blankets
From @katiestacy: “…We used blankets instead of dog beds because they are easier to wash and she was less interested in chewing…”Note: TOC found this dog blanket on Amazon.
13. A snuggle puppy
From @dntblink: “Heart beat puppy for those first few weeks. When they start using them as a toy instead of a pack member you can remove from bedtime routine.”
14. Krud Cutter Pet Carpet Cleaner
15. Bissel SpotClean
16. A little microwaveable heating pad
From @amystew20: “A little microwaveable heat pad. I had her in with me the very first night but she was crated beside my bed at the start and the heat source kept her sleeping all night from the second night I had her. A must, I think, as small animals cannot regulate their body heat.” Note: TOC found this pad on Amazon.
17. A Waterproof Play Mat
18. A Head Torch
19. A Dog Bandana
From TOC: We found these bandanas that are perfect for the holidays on the FurTheCulture Etsy Page. FurTheCulture is featured on our friend, Kassidi Jones’, Black Pet IG list here.
Leashes & Collars & Harnesses
A Biothane Long line
From @pneuwarum :”A biothane longline. Easy to clean, stands up to wet West Coast weather, and allows my deaf dog to explore and sniff safely on walks.” Note: TOC found this long line on High Tail Hike’s website. PS: Use code TAILSOFCONNECTION for 10% off on all products!
2. A Backclip Harness
From @jacuzzagram : “…Essential dog products I would consider are: 1. Back-clip harness…” Note: TOC found this harness on Amazon.
3. A Biothane Collar
From @catinarium: “…a biothane collar with stainless steel hardware (@canaancollars) that can handle frequent beach adventures…”
4. A a PetSafe 3 IN 1 HARNESS
5. A Ruffwear Front Range Harness
From @catinarium: “…And TWO good harnesses for when one is inevitably wet and dirty! I like @ruffwear front range…”
6. A Rope Leash
From TOC: We found this leash on The Lofty Leash site. They are featured on our friend, Kassidi Jones’, Black Pet IG list here.
Play
An Outdoor Tunnel
From @zoology.rocs: “He LOVES his outside tunnel. Just a cheap kids crawl through tunnel but great for exposing him to small spaces, weird sounds and textures.” Note: TOC found this tunnel on Amazon.
2. West Paw Toys
From @mich_leung_: “Love West Paw toys my Lab can’t destroy them! Has had a few since he was a puppy and lasted over a year and a half now.”
3. Gouhnuts Toys
From @mollykcrandles: “…Our dog is an incredible chewer, and the only brand he hasn’t been able to destroy is Goughnuts…”
4. Toys From Kong
From @untrainablenorahbones: “After months of torn up toys I finally invested in durable and rubber toys from @kongcompany and @westpawus and they have lasted longer and in better shape than other toys, saving me $$. With an AmStaff mix who loves to chew to destruction I had to find toys that would LAST.”
5. A Chuckit! Ball
From @tinesnub: “We‘d take the Chuckit! ball to an island with us - indestructible, versatile (play fetch, chew, hide it for search), fun!…”
6. A Kiddie Pool
From @katiestacy: “…For a summertime pup, we loved filling the kiddie pool and “bobbing” for treats…” Note: TOC found this kiddie pool on Amazon.
7. A Plush Pizza Slice
From TOC: We found this plush pizza slice on the In Pups We Trust. site. They are featured on our friend, Kassidi Jones’, Black Pet IG list here.
For the Car or Travel
A Seat belt Harness
From @untrainablenorahbones:”A seat belt harness + tether and car hammock to keep my dog secure and my car clean. When I brought her home she was jumping all over the car which was a huge safety hazard. Now she's learned how to sit nicely in the car, is less distracting, and is safer…” Note: TOC found this harness on Amazon.
2. A Back seat Hammock
From @untrainablenorahbones: “…A car hammock to keep my dog secure and my car clean. When I brought her home she was jumping all over the car which was a huge safety hazard. Now she's learned how to sit nicely in the car, is less distracting, and is safer. Plus the hammock can convert to hammock or seat style.” Note: TOC found this back seat hammock on Amazon.
3. A Travel Water Bottle
From @lindsayeberts: “Also…doggie water bottle for hiking…” Note: TOC found this dog travel water bottle on the Lizo Bandana Co site. They are featured on our friend, Kassidi Jones’, Black Pet IG list here.
4. A Travel Crate
From @taralfk: “…a travel crate-we started traveling really young. She would not sleep in a hotel unless she was in her crate!” Note: TOC found this travel crate on Amazon.
5. A Stroller
From @lkee507: “A puppy stroller. My Pomeranian puppy was way too little to go outside but I still wanted to expose him to different environments.” Note: TOC found this stroller on Amazon.
Training Gear
A Treat Pouch
From @frostbitesleddogs: “…Also highly recommend investing in a decent treat pouch with a few different pockets.” Note: TOC found this treat pouch on Amazon.
2. A Muzzle
From @jacuzzagram: “…Muzzle or empty yogurt container to desensitize the pup to sticking their face into things. It’s much easier to get them used to wearing things while they’re young, than if you wait for them to be older. It’s a skill that’s suuuper useful in all sorts of situations, but especially cool when you have a muzzle trained puppy that doesn’t eat everything it sees on your walks. Saves you a lot of stress and lets you walk in places you wouldn’t normally be able to take them. Our favorite field was covered in duck poop, but thanks to the muzzle, we were able to walk there without her gorging herself on grossness.” Note: TOC found this muzzle on Amazon.
3. A Rope Toy for Training ‘Drop It’
From @jacuzzagram: “…Rope toy for tug-o-war and “drop it” training! I got the most solid “drop it” without even trying, simply by playing tug with her. Hold the toy and quit tugging until she drops it, then reward by continuing the game. She generalized that skill to dropping food as well, even though I never even set up any training scenarios with food. (Obviously, if I raise another puppy, I wouldn’t take that risk a second time. I’d do actual food centered training sessions just to be sure the puppy learns to drop food as well.)” Note: TOC found this rope toy on Amazon.
4. A WhiteBoard
From @rutabeagle: “A whiteboard where can document when they last pottied and napped. It made crate and potty training so much easier.” Note: TOC found this whiteboard on Amazon.
5. A CLicker
6. A Fanny Pack
From TOC: We found this human fanny pack on the Afropawlitan site. Afropawlitan is featured on our friend, Kassidi Jones’, Black Pet IG list here.
Grooming
A brush
From @kiboodle: “Have a poodle. What's in my grooming bag? Brush…” Note: TOC found this brush on Amazon.
2. A Slicker Brush
From @kiboodle: “Have a poodle. What's in my grooming bag?…slicker…” Note: TOC found this slicker brush on Amazon.
3. A Pair of Clippers
From @kiboodle: “Have a poodle. What's in my grooming bag?…clipper…” Note: TOC found these clippers on Amazon.
4. Baby Wipes
From @tinesnub: “…For grooming we have baby wipes with us in the car (cause I never bath her but she rolled in feces 2-3 times before and they get it out of that few spots right away before drying…” Note: TOC found these wipes on Amazon.
5. A Toothbrush
6. A 2-in-1 Shampoo and Conditioner
From @mollykcrandles: “…We loved Burts Bees 2 in 1 tearless shampoo and conditioner for our puppy, still using it now that he’s 2!…”
Guide: The Best Thing I Ever Bought My Dog
A couple of months ago we were blown away by your responses to our post on Instagram entitled “The Best Thing I Ever Bought My Dog Is _.” We thought it would be helpful to turn the post into any easy to reference guide. We will keep adding to this list as we get more great recommendations from YOU, the amazing pet parents and pro-trainers in our TOC Fam! [Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning TOC may get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through our links, at no cost to you.]
Navigate to where you want to go:
Enrichment
1. The Kong Wobbler
From @vhgollatz: “The kong wobbler. We use dry food, nibbles of beef liver, and sometimes beef chunks dusted in liver dust so they don't stick. The wobbler comes out when he needs to be occupied for rainy days.”
2. The Snoop
3. The Benebone Puppy Wishbone
@nickiiolivares: “@mybenebone puppy wishbone chew toy. It helped us succeed in redirecting her chewing to the right things. 6 month old and rarely chews the furniture anymore.”
4. The Paw 5 Snuffle Matt
From @dotcomgrams: “...My favorite snuffle mat is by far the Paw 5. I shopped around for something less expensive but nothing compared in terms of fluffiness.”
5. The KONG Bamboo Puzzle Toy
6. The Toppl
From @lumosdogtraining: “We love @westpawsus for so many reasons! They're a B Corp with transparency about their BLM support, support for employees during the pandemic, they gave employees paid time off for voting, they're involved in their local community, and they happen to make fantastic dog toys. We love the bumi and the toppls.”
7. A Lickimat
From @8bitchip: “We know a senior who's struggling to care for their dog as they lose mobility in their hands (weak grip, stiff and arhritic, tremor) and legs (uses cane). I think if more enrichment products were made to be easy to fill and clean, it would be more inclusive - so for example, Lickimat's new-er line of tough mats for chewers is easier to hold with one hand, especially when it's filled and goopy, so it's easier to handle while moving with a cane. It's easier to lay flat in the freezer because it is hard-backed, or bring over directly to a place for a dog to eat than its floopy original form. It's also easier to clean since it is dishwasher safe. I don't think they were considering mobility issues in the new designs, but nevertheless, it made their product more accessible than it was before.”
8. A Makeshift Sand Pit
From @lemonadeandmaddie: “Makeshift sand pit! Lemonade used to jump into our planters and dig. Eventually got her her own sandpit and she hasn't even looked at the planters since. She didn't even need redirecting. She just needed a digging space for herself.” Note from TOC: We found this sandbox featured above in the photo in case you don’t want to make your own!
9. The Snuffle Ball
10. An Outward Hound Puzzle Toy
11. The Pineapple Slow feeder from Zippy Paws
From @miss.maca: “The pineapple slow feeder from @zippypaws so Maca can eat slowly and be entertained.”
12. The Kong Classic
From @6lack6eautyy_:“…A dog product that's the best value, I would say the Kong. It's pretty indestructible and I can put all types of food in it…”
13. The Little Tree Root
From @rubyfurever: “We got this little tree root thing when Ruby was tiny! I'm convinced that she hasn't ever damaged our wooden furniture (only one tooth mark from when she had a fever so I don't count it) because there was that one wooden thing she was allowed.”
14. The Gorilla Wood Chew
![From @johannap25: “Our puppy had an urge to chew wood and ONLY wood. We discovered chew toys called Gorilla Wood that [are] safe for dogs (it's a pulpy wood that becomes mush and is safe to digest bits of once wet, but chews in a satisfying way for her wood craving). These saved our window sills, coffee table, chairs ... our house and our sanity basically. I wouldn't offer it to a dog who doesn't already have the hankering, but it was 100% what we needed to avoid destruction and provide her with the chewing enrichment activity she needed.”](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5cfec609958de40001253e1d/1634254846993-PWD3PHILOGG3I6TSLIOX/gorilla+wood+chew+with+the+tag+on+it+against+a+white+backdrop.jpg)
From @johannap25: “Our puppy had an urge to chew wood and ONLY wood. We discovered chew toys called Gorilla Wood that [are] safe for dogs (it's a pulpy wood that becomes mush and is safe to digest bits of once wet, but chews in a satisfying way for her wood craving). These saved our window sills, coffee table, chairs ... our house and our sanity basically. I wouldn't offer it to a dog who doesn't already have the hankering, but it was 100% what we needed to avoid destruction and provide her with the chewing enrichment activity she needed.”
15. A Rubber Ball Dog Chew Toy and Treats Dispenser
From TOC: We found this rubber treat ball on Grumpy Puppy Bakery’s site. They are featured on our friend, Kassidi Jones’, Black Pet IG list here.
Leashes and Harnesses
The 30 foot Biothane Long line from Kirsten’s Canine Gear
2. The Wilderdog Harness
From @thelexitales: “…the wilderdog harness. (Lexi is an escape artist and chewed through a Ruffwear harness once!!! It was quite impressive but sad for my wallet)…”
3. The Pro-Mohs Six foot Leather Leash
From @giothestandard: “…One of my all-time favorite dog products is a quality 6 foot leather leash - mine from promohs is perfect. Saves your hands and lasts forever…” PS: The promo code TOC15 is good for a one time 15% discount per customer through 12/31/21.
4. The PetSafe 3 in 1 Harness
From @krys10x: “…his PetSafe 3in1 harness. Easiest harness I've ever put on since it clips on like a collar and doesn't go over the head and the front loop was very helpful for LLW training.”
5. The 10 foot biothane long line from high tail hikes
From @chickencherrypie: “A 10 ft. biothane long line from @hightailhikes…” PS: Use code TAILSOFCONNECTION for 10% off on all products!
6. The Hurtta Harness
7. The Doggy Backpacks From Reddy
From @kim.harlington: “My pugs love their doggy backpacks from Reddy. It has opened up their worlds. They can now go everywhere with us, from hiking to traveling on airplanes. Best thing we ever got them.”
8. The Spotted Nose Design Biothane Leashes
![From @adoringatlas: “Oh and another personal favorite is biothane leashes. We get ours from @spottednose.designs [and have] been obsessed since we started using [it] and will never use another material. Fantastic to customize every detail and easy to clean. Super durable.”](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5cfec609958de40001253e1d/1634318676447-FA20SEGDPP3OLZ7KDGTT/purple+and+white+biothane+leash+from+spotted+nose+design)
9. A Waist Leash
From @youngkaa: “We love our waist leash for long neighborhood, neighborhood, and farmer’s market walks…”Note: TOC found the waist leash above on Amazon.
10. The Off Road K9 Biothane Long Line
11. The Halti Training Leash
From @ashlathemalinois: “The halti training leash at the moment is my favorite. I love its versatility and the price is achievable for most. Our original one is 8+ years and still going strong.”
12. The Beige Tartan Rope Leash
From TOC: We found this leash on The Lofty Leash’s site. They are featured on our friend, Kassidi Jones’, Black Pet IG list here.
For the Home
A Cooling Mat
2. The Gulpy Water Dispenser
From 8bitchip: “Gulpy Water Dispenser. Ours is ~8 years old, has never leaked and seen a lot of use/multiple dogs, and still going strong…”
3. The Moroccan Bed From Pet Play SF
From @miss.maca: “…Oh and also the Moroccan bed from @petplaysf so comfy, durable, and easy to wash.”
4. A Dog Camera
From @barkuterieboards: “The dog camera. But's that's really for my separation anxiety because they just sleep all day.” Note: TOC found this dog camera on Amazon.
5. The Houndry Bed
From @otis_unleashed: “…Otis is OBSESSED with his round soft bed from The Houndry. I've tried a million beds for this dog and this is the only one he's ever truly loved.” PS: Use the code OTIS for 20% off on any order.
6. The Snuggle Puppy
From @petuniapickles_gsp: “…Her snuggle puppy would be right up at the top of the list. It's the one we used for sleep time when she was first brought home and she takes such good care of it and only takes it out morning and night for bed. It's the item I pack in her overnight bag…”
7. The Majestic Pet Suede Bagel Bed
From @carmren: “Magestic Pet Suede Bagel Bed - she loves this bed so much, it's become a joke because we're pretty sure if it was between us and the bed she'd choose the bed.”
8. The Colaroo Elevated Cot
From @otis_unleashed: “For Sully, the Coolaroo elevated cot is the best thing! She loves that cot so much! I honestly got it mostly as a station for her, but it's her go to safe spot. Otis never liked his.”
9. The Victure Baby Monitor
From @ariadneshmariadne: “A cheap video monitor for crate training - Invaluable!!! We have the Victure baby monitor. I would easily pay triple for what I ordered it for. It's been such a life saver and gives me so much peace of mind! It's also helped us ensure that she never has any bad experiences in her crate so only positive associations. Would recommend getting a monitor for any new dog owner.”
10. A Crate
From @thisgoodgirlcharlie: “A crate. It's been vital to help my nervous dog feel safe.” Note: TOC found this crate on Amazon.
11. The ‘Do Not Touch My Dog’ Pom Pom Beanie
From TOC: We found this human hat on EukaryaPaw’s site. They are featured on our friend, Kassidi Jones’, Black Pet IG list here.
Toys
A Ball That Glows In The Dark
![From @milo_dcavalier: “[A] glow ball especially during winter, when it easily gets dark.” Note: TOC found this glow ball on Amazon.](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5cfec609958de40001253e1d/1634568968969-VN5RPZ01U2RX3HXFYDB3/a+max+glow+ball+in+its+packaging+from+chuckit.jpg)
From @milo_dcavalier: “[A] glow ball especially during winter, when it easily gets dark.” Note: TOC found this glow ball on Amazon.
2. Tug-e-nuff toys
From @erno_in_kernow: “His @tugenuff toys - we only use them out on walks so they are extra special and brilliant for recall.”
3. The Outward hound Hedgehogz
From @owenthelobo: “…Outward Hound large and XL hedgehogz because they're Owen's absolute favorite toy so now we've got 6 of them scattered around the house.”
4. The Whistler Balls from Chuckit!
5. The West Paw Soft Frisbee
From @anna.richardella: “The West Paw soft frisbee has been our boy's favorite. Because we had brought him home initially to a townhouse with limited backyard space and he was always leashed, he didn't know how to play outside. Once we bought a house with a fenced yard, he didn't seem interested in his indoor toys, but boy did he love when we played kanjam. Now he will go outside and play frisbee by himself.”
6. The Jolly Ball
7. a flirt poll
From @6lack6eautyy_: “The one toy I would take to an island would be her flirt pole as she has a high prey drive and it meets her needs. After working her, she is mentally and physically tired and she is able to focus a lot better…” Note: TOC found this flirt poll on Amazon.
8. The playology scented ball
9. The Pet Play SF Toys
10. Cardboard boxes and kitchen towels
From @puppanara: “Cardboard boxes and kitchen towels count?” Note: TOC found these kitchen towels on Amazon and you could differently put kibble on them and roll them up for some enrichment fun!
11. Oven Mitts
From @bonniegeez: “Oven mitts. Grommet loves to wrestle and mouth my hands while he does. I've taught him that wrestle and mouthing time is totally cool when I've got the oven mitts on. We have so much fun playing "oven mitt wrestling."“ Note: TOC found these oven mitts on Amazon.
12. Two Identical Soft Toys
From @plutodood: “Not something we bought but something we got for free - two identical soft toys. Taught him give/drop it/fetch better than any other technique I've tried.” Note: TOC found these soft toys on Amazon.
13. The Ruffwear Frisbee
From @tails_of_toasty: “The Ruffwear Frisbee and only the Ruffwear frisbee ... will not play with any other frisbee.”
14. A Tug Toy With the Ball on the End
From @ajojodoodle:”…Buuut. If we're talking desert island ... We'd need a tug toy for sure. Our favorite has a rubber ball on the end…”Note: TOC found this ball attached to a tug on Amazon.
15. The Pro-fit Mega Ring from Coastal Pet Products
From @josielowry: “Pro-fit Mega Ring from @coastalpetproducts Our Golden has not mastered catching in the air but carries it everywhere and loves to fetch it. Best ever.”
16. A Chuckit! Ball
17. Burrow Toys
From @telltaildog: “Burrow toys - I've got the unicorns and chickens for my terrier and she's obsessed.” Note: TOC found this burrow toy on Amazon.
18. The Chuckit! kick fetch ball
From @gingerbeer.dc: “Best toy we've bought is the Chuckit Kick Fetch ball! If we let her Ginger would play fetch with it for hours.
19. The Kong Tennis Ball
From @stanleysthoughts: “The Kong tennis ball! Stanley can literally entertain himself with it for hours lol. It's insane.”
20. The GoDog Stuffed Chicken
From @taralfk: “Favorite toy - the GoDog brand stuffed chicken.” Note: TOC could only find the stuffed rooster on Amazon lol.
21. the virtually indestructible ball
22. The Hide and squirrel
From @maclynnie: “A toy called a "hide a squirrel" I think it was an Outward Hound brand. At first we used it with the squirrels but then it became a really good tug toy and also we hide her balls in it. She lives to get the balls out of it. She also plays with it herself and tries to put a ball in the hole and then she will pick it up and if she has placed the ball just right it will get inside the hole and then she puts it back down and gets the ball out.”
23. The Passport Dog Toy
From TOC: We found this passport toy on the Lizo Bandana Co site. They are featured on our friend, Kassidi Jones’, Black Pet IG list here. We love this toy because sometimes dogs like to shred important things. Now you can just give them an approved important thing to chew lol.
Training Gear
A treat bag
From @taylor_hornung: “…a treat bag for out and about training.” Note: TOC found this treat bag on Amazon.
2. A muzzle
3. Nervous collar and leash
From @lexis_bierle: “My dog was extremely scared of strangers, and getting her "Nervous!" collar and leash made it SO much easier to take her out to enjoy being outside without being constantly approached. Made it so much easier to not have to constantly be on the defense.” Note: TOC found this collar on Amazon.
4. The Tails of Connection Challenge
From @owenthelobo: “I wanted to say that I can’t even begin to thank you all enough for this program and the community you’ve built! I truly believe the TOC Challenge was the turning point for Own and I’m glad I made the decision to commit to our building our relationship over having a “good” or “well-behaved” dog. Last night’s progress would not have been possible without your program kickstarting this journey for us.”
5. A treat mold
From @owenthelobo: “Treat molds to bake homemade training treats…”Note: TOC found this mold on Amazon.
6. A human fanny pack
From TOC: We found this fanny pack on the Afropawlitan site. Afropawlitan is featured on our friend, Kassidi Jones’, Black Pet IG list here.
For the Car/Travel
The Sleepypod Car Harness
From @meritthemini: “@sleepypod car safety harness. The only one on the market to pass a crash safety test.”
2. The L.L.Bean Zip Top Tote
From @youngkaa: “…I also got her an extra large ll bean zip top tote as a travel bag for when we go on trips, and honestly it's amazing just to have one spot for all of her stuff. Makes bringing her so much easier for me and it's a good experience for her!”
3. a dog sleeping bag
From @mashazhuuu: “…best value: @whyld_river sleeping bag.” PS: Enter TAILSGIFT at checkout for 10% off your purchase.
4. A cooling vest
From @natalyla: “Actually I was thinking about this yesterday on a hike! Cooling vest! My dog has long hair and he is really outdoors and with the high temperatures, even in the afternoon (after 7 pm) this has been a game changer! @euli.thedog is so happy now in summer.” Note: TOC found this cooling vest on Amazon.
5. A ramp for getting in and out of the car
From @baileybythebay19: “…a ramp for getting into and out of our car in a safe fashion.” Note: TOC found this ramp on Amazon.
6. seat covers that attach to all four headrests
From @taralfk: “…Also a huge fan of back seat covers that attach to all four headrests.” Note: TOC found this seat cover on Amazon.
7. A soft folding dog crate
From @taralfk: “Best product we have is the EliteField folding soft dog crate. Ivy will sleep anywhere in that!…”
8. A Dog Travel Water Bottle
From TOC: We found this dog travel water bottle on the Lizo Bandana Co site. It is featured on our friend, Kassidi Jones’, Black Pet IG list here.
Grooming
a shower head attachment that has a retractable comb
From @owenthelobo: “…shower head attachment that has a retractable comb so I can simultaneously brush Owen's long coat while rinsing the shampoo out of it.” Note: TOC found this attachment on Amazon.
2. a coral slicker brush
From @giothestandard: “If we were on an island ... I’d have to bring a brush probably my @chrischristensensystems coral slicker.
3. The Pet Wand Pro
From @kristin.l.e: “The @waterpikpets Pet Wand Pro. makes bath time SO much faster and more tolerable for my doodle who hates baths! A lot of reviews said the plastic diverter it comes with breaks easily, so I bought a $7 metal one to use instead and haven't had any problem.”
4. The mud buster
From @adoringatlas: “...My personal favorite is the mud buster to clean his paws. I get so much satisfaction seeing the dirty water pour out afterwards. This is super helpful especially since he doesn't like bathing/water.”
5. DE-MATTING RAKE
From TOC: We found this de-matting rake on the Grooming Extraordinaire’s site. They are featured on our friend, Kassidi Jones’, Black Pet IG list here.