Gear Recommendations
I only recommend products I would use myself.
Harnesses
The only harnesses that I recommend are from Blue-K9 (Balance Harness) and Ruffwear. Ruffwear has multiple style of harness (and other adventure gear). I don’t have a specific recommendation from them but everything they sell is high quality.
Leashes, Collars, and Accessories
I recommend you have two different leash lengths: 6-8ft long and another that’s at least 15ft long. The short leash is for those times we don’t want them roaming too far away and a long leash is too much to handle.
I like biothane leashes because they don’t absorb water when on the trails. But they are slippery! There’s lots of options on all the big shopping sites. I haven’t had much luck finding anyone local (RI or MA) selling them. I order from the OffRoadK9 Etsy Shop.
I also recommend a Harness to Collar Safety Strap and a Traffic Leash.
When I’m out with a dog their leash is connected to me using this Kurgo Utility Belt.
I also use this Tractive GPS Collar attachment. It does require a separate yearly subscription but I think it’s worth it. The link is an affiliate link that gives you 30% off!
My favorite piece of gear: The smell proof Poo Pouch from Tuff Mutt so you don’t have to hike while swinging around a bag of squishy poop!
Deterrents
Off leash dogs are really becoming a problem. And not just off leash dogs but owners that aren’t bothered by the fact their dog is charging an unknown dog that is potentially aggressive. I basically have a zero tolerance policy these days. “They’re friendly!” means nothing. I have two cans of PetSafe Spray Shield in my bag. It’s citronella spray and doesn’t have any long lasting effects on the dog. It’s just really unpleasant. If a dog is running towards us I’ll aim just in front of them at their feet. Many times this is enough to get them to stop and run back. If it ever escalates I aim for the face, nose, eyes. It’s not guaranteed to break up a fight and you might end up spraying your dog too.
High Visibility Gear
I like to wear high visibility gear (blaze orange & safety yellow) for multiple reasons. In some areas it’s required, I don’t want to sneak up on anyone, and I want them to see us coming. Any dogs that come out with me are required to wear either a blaze orange vest or scarf. This is also going to help make them easier to find if they ever get lost.
Not high visibility but I also attach a small bear bell to my back pack. Not to scare off bears or any other animals but just something else to alert people to our presence. You can get them at most sporting goods stores. If you order online be sure to read reviews. I’ve purchased some that hardly made a sound.