Blog For Dog Lovers

Having a dog is a lot of work. Your pooch is silly, sweet, and lovable, sure. But in between keeping them active, feeding them right, and making sure they’re clean, having a dog can be kind of tiring. Luckily for dog owners everywhere, mobile dog grooming exists. 

Mobile dog grooming is a lifesaver when it comes to time, flexibility, and stress. It’s ultra-convenient, and there are practically no downsides. It’s well worth the money, and here’s why: 

1. It’s Convenient

Imagine not even leaving the house to get your furry friend groomed. With mobile dog grooming, that’s exactly how it goes down. You simply call and schedule the time for them to arrive, and that’s it. Plus, you won’t have to worry about the extra stress of getting your doggy in the car. 

2. There’s Less Stress

As we said, with mobile grooming, you don’t have to worry about a car ride, which is especially important for those dogs with car anxiety. Not only that, but as an owner, you can rest assured that your pooch is safe and sound and close to home. They will be right outside your house.

Also, mobile dog grooming businesses usually work on a one-dog-at-a-time schedule. Whether your dog is well-socialized or not, getting groomed in a facility with other dogs is at best a distraction for them and at worst a cause for stress. With mobile grooming, it’s just them and the groomer. 

3. Get Personalized Attention For Your Pooch

Because of the one-on-one scenario, your dog will also get more personalized attention. Your groomer will be able to dedicate all of their time and attention to your dog’s individual needs. They’ll be able to provide you with the best possible service. Get ready to say bye to those random clumps of matted hair and experience the best benefits of dog grooming. 

4. Flexible Scheduling

Mobile grooming is highly flexible. They work on your schedule—wherever you are. If you work from home, it can be as easy as taking your dog out to the front curb in between meetings. Say goodbye to leaving work early to pick up your dog from the groomer’s and planning your day around a grooming appointment. 

5. Quality Services

Just because a groomer will pull up in a van doesn’t negate the quality of their work. Mobile groomers are just as capable and experienced as those working at a brick and mortar. Rest assured, you’re getting the same quality grooming from mobile services. 

6. It’s Quicker

Once you take out the travel time, you’ll see the main reason people choose mobile dog grooming: it’s so much quicker. You won’t have to worry about factoring in the drop-off or pick-up times. And, because there are no other dogs, once your dog hops into the mobile grooming automobile, the groomer gets right to work.

Now, Hopefully, you have learned why mobile puppy grooming works best for your adorable tail-wagger.

Try Out The Absorber®

Mobile grooming for your four-legged companion truly is a win-win. In between those grooming appointments, though, things can get messy. That’s why it’s important to keep a cloth-like  The Absorber® on hand and enjoy the mobile dog grooming benefits to its fullest. This towel is better than any cotton or microfiber dog towel. It’s a dog owner’s best friend for keeping their pup squeaky clean. 

Humans look forward to seeing their hairdresser. Dogs? Not so much. Taking your dog to the groomer can be nerve wracking—for you and your dog. Learn how to comfort your dog in five simple steps for a seamless dog grooming experience. 

We love our pets. Pet hair? Not so much. Pet hair and odors can linger on furniture, floors, and every nook and cranny of your home. Whether you smell pet odors or not, your guests can—and if you have allergies, dander from a multi-dog household can enhance them.

If you’re living with multiple dogs and are constantly trying to clean up, then this is the blog for you. We’re going to cover cleaning tips for your multi-dog house, pet hair removal, and how to keep your dogs squeaky clean.

How To Keep Your Multi-Dog Household Clean?

Dogs live in their own carefree world. But as buoyant as your dog is, they don’t understand that they’re leaving behind fur and other debris. Take a look at our five tips for easy housecleaning and upkeep in multi-dog families.

1. Put a Towel Down
   
   If your dogs have designated lounge areas, laying a towel down is a quick and simple fix. The Absorber® Max provides maximum coverage to keep pet hair at bay. It’s super soft and comfortable—plus, your dog’s hair will shake right off. Pop the Absorber® in the washing machine for fast cleaning and watch it dry in no time.

2. Keep a Container of Water Near Your Door
   
   Many dogs love the great outdoors. The only problem is that your dog can track in mud and other debris from their afternoon romp in the yard. If this sounds like your pooch, try placing a shallow container of water in front of the door your dog uses to enter and exit. Dry your dog’s paws off with a highly-absorbent towel and enjoy mud-free floors for years to come.

3. Clean Any Stains Immediately
   
   Stains are increasingly hard to remove the longer they’re left alone. Make sure you’re cleaning up any stains as soon as you see them. You may also think about how to keep the house clean with dogs and remove their unwanted stains. The trick is to only use water and a touch of dish soap. Rinse, repeat, and dry with a porous towel to pull out as much water as possible. 

4. Use a Mat Under Their Food & Water Bowls
   
   If your dogs are like most dogs, then they’re probably pretty enthusiastic about their food and water bowls. Kibble and water starts flying all over the place and before you know it, your floor is wet and filthy. A simple mat will solve this issue. Simply place the mat under their feeding station and rinse it off for easy cleaning.

5. Trim Your Dog’s Nails Regularly
   
   Dogs will notoriously scratch the surfaces of your furniture, walls, and doors if you’re not keeping up on regular nail trims. Keep your dog’s nails trimmed down, and ensure you’re letting them out multiple times a day to avoid scratched walls and doors. 

The Absorber® Is Your Dog’s Best Friend— and Yours

Dogs can be messy, but that doesn’t mean your house has to be. The Absorber® is the go-to towel to combat shedding, stains, and other messes that can lead to lingering odors. Tackle your home with this easy, absorbent towel ideal for keeping you and your dogs happy. Grab the best dog shammy around and shop Dog Lover’s Towel today.

It’s an age-old rivalry—the relationship between cats and dogs. While it may seem like your beloved felines and canines despise each other, the thing is that they actually…don’t. The aggression between cats and dogs can be narrowed down to several factors, which we’ll explore in this article.

Why Don’t Cats and Dogs Get Along?

The feud between cats and dogs can be traced back to their ancestral beginnings. Dogs are the descendants of wolves while cats descended from the Egyptian Wild Cat. Both wolves and ancient cats were on the hunt for one thing—food. And a little attention, of course. 

The thing is that cats and dogs have competed with each other for thousands of years. They also speak very different languages.

The Language Barrier Between Cats and Dogs

It’s no question that dogs and cats have different languages and behaviors. This means that they have a hard time understanding each other, which can make co-inhabiting difficult.

Cat Behavior

Cats aren’t the most exuberant communicators. Instead of wagging their tails as a greeting, cats will greet one another by slowly blinking their eyes. Their tails are typically in a straight, upright position, and will only wag them if they are exhibiting aggression.

Cats meow for a variety of reasons and purr when they are content.

Dog Behavior

Typical dog behavior is extremely forward. When they greet, dogs will wag their tails while avoiding eye contact. They will also wag their tails when they are excited and love to play. 

Dogs don’t know how to translate purring; to them, it can sound like a form of aggression or a threat. This can result in barking due to their misinterpretation of purring. These are some of the reasons why don’t cats like dogs behave or understand different things.

Can Cats and Dogs Live Together?

It’s not impossible for cats and dogs to live together. In fact, cats and dogs can live in complete harmony with one another. But for many cats and dogs, living in harmony is not all that harmonious.

Scenario One: Bringing a cat home is an exciting time for you and your family—including your dog. Your dog might be so excited that he or she will start barking, sniffing, and wagging their tail. Your new cat will probably experience major alarm bells and will interpret those happy wags as threatening behavior. 

Scenario Two: If the tables were turned and you brought home a new dog, your cat will most likely greet your new pooch with a slow, straight stare. Even though this is normal cat behavior, your dog might think your cat is trying to pick a fight.

These 2 scenarios clearly state why don’t cats and dogs get along or stay together in harmony.

How to Get Cats and Dogs to Get Along?

Encouraging your cat and pooch to get along can be a daunting task but it can be achieved by taking the right action. Let us take a look at these right steps one by one and learn how to get cats and dogs to get along;

• Whether you are bringing a cat into the home of a dog or bringing a dog where the cat resides, keep them separate at the initial stages,
• Slowly let them get used to each other.
• Teach them basic commands and let them know that both of them are part of the family.
• Get started with a face-to-face meeting, with supervision.
• Try repeating these sections regularly.
• Cautiously, let them loose with each other.
• Eventually, they’ll get along, still, make sure to supervise them in the initial days of their getting along.

Keep Your Furry Friend Cool With Dog Lover’s Towel

Whether you’re planning on bringing home a new addition to the family or already have a cat and a dog, there’s one product that you should always keep close by. The Absorber® is an ultra-absorbent towel that’s soft, safe, and will keep your pets as comfortable as can be. Trying to get cats and dogs to get along is tough, so why not make it easier? 

Take the dread out of drying and shop The Absorber® now.

Watching your dog dart for the grass on your regular walks might be concerning. After all, it’s grass. And grass isn’t a normal part of a dog’s well-balanced diet. 

Whatever you do, don’t be alarmed. Many dogs eat grass, but the question remains: why?

Just like humans, there are introverted and extroverted dogs. Some enjoy socializing more than others—and that’s all good and fair.

But what if your dog is exhibiting behaviors that go beyond typical introversion? Anti-social behavior such as aggression, lunging on the leash, or avoiding people altogether can negatively affect you and your dog’s life.

In this article, we’ll talk about why your dog might display these anti-social antics and how you can help transform your pooch into a social butterfly.

Why Is My Dog Not Socializing?

Most anti-social behaviors start during your dog’s early puppyhood. This can either be a result of abuse or a lack of proper training. Dogs who have limited access to other people and pets can also develop shy, antisocial characteristics.

Abuse or Mistreatment

Unfortunately, the number one cause of an antisocial dog stems from abuse or mistreatment.

If you adopted your dog from a shelter, there’s a high chance that your new family member is extremely timid—especially if you chose to adopt an adult dog.

Lack of Early Training

Puppies can be raging balls of energy and excitement. They can also be shy and scared. After all, they’re just beginning their lives. And let’s face it—the world is big and scary.

The best way to instill good behavior is by training a puppy when they’re between seven and eight weeks old. Oftentimes, this early training period is missed and can lead to unwanted behaviors. It’s never too late to train a dog, but it gets harder once they reach adulthood.

Being Confined at Home

Many dog owners choose to shelter their canines from other people and animals. However, this is not the way to go about protecting your dog.

Confining your dog at home is a recipe for an anxious, frustrated, and anti-social dog. Your four-legged friend needs room to release his or her energy while learning how to navigate the world by your side.

How Can I Help My Dog Become More Sociable?

Do you recognize antisocial behavior in your dog?

From basic commands to in-depth training, here are a few methods you can harness to help your dog grow into a more sociable pooch.

1. Practice Basic Commands

Commands are confidence boosters for dogs—and who doesn’t love a good boost of confidence? Make sure you’re praising your dog every time he or she sits, stands, or shakes on command. But don’t just limit basic commands to your dog; make it clear to your friends and family that they cannot make any sudden movements toward your dog, as this may increase anxiety.

2. Practice Leash Etiquette

If your dog is walking you rather than you walking him or her, or if your dog is lunging at other pets and people, then it’s time to teach leash etiquette. You’re the leader of the pack, so it’s your job to remain assertive and in charge. Take the lead and invest in a quality harness that won’t jerk or injure your dog’s neck while teaching commands.

3. Introducing to New Dogs

Introductions can be nerve-wracking. A dog dealing with social issues might be scared or hesitant to meet new dogs, so it’s important to introduce them at your dog’s pace. The best way to start is by introducing your dog to dogs you already know and trust. Reward your dog each time they exhibit good behavior.

4. Contact a Professional

Sometimes, the best course of action is the help of a professional. Certified behaviorists will work closely with you and your dog to offer the support they need. Training sessions for remedial socialization usually start with a behavioral assessment followed by a personalized plan.

Our advice? Remain patient with your dog—and yourself.

Make Your Dog’s Tail Wag With The Absorber®

It’s important to remember that your dog has a unique personality, and their level of socialization may not be what you dreamed of. Whatever you do, don’t get discouraged.

It’s your job to love your pup—and one of the best ways to show your love is with a soft and snuggly absorbent towel. The Absorber® is our flagship product that dogs and owners can’t get enough of. It’s quick to dry, handy to store, and takes the dread out of bath time. Grab the towel that keeps your dog happy and comfortable no matter where you go.

Can’t wait to hop into your bed after a long day? Neither can your dog. Many dogs love to cozy up next to their owners by sleeping between their legs or burrowing under the covers. But why do dogs do this? And should you be concerned if your pooch exhibits this behavior every night? 

The short answer is no—but there are a few signs to watch out for.

Why Your Dog Sleeps on Your Legs 

Have you ever wondered why do dogs sleep at your feet? A dog who sleeps on its owner’s legs is a fairly common and innocent behavior. However, this harmless mannerism can be a result of deeper psychological issues. Let’s take a look at the four main reasons why your dog sleeps on your legs.

1. You’re Part of the Pack

The most common reason for your dog sleeping on your feet is that you’re a part of her pack. Dogs are packed animals, meaning they live together for survival and will sleep in groups. 

Wolves are historically packed animals and will always assign a pack leader, or alpha. Since dogs descended from wolves, they harbored the same pack mentality. In other words, your canine sees you as the leader of the pack. Consider your dog’s sleeping habits as a way of saying, “I love you, and I want to protect you.”

2. You’re Warm & Cozy

If your dog is constantly sleeping between your legs during the winter months, then chances are they're not warm enough. So what better way to warm up than next to his leader in a cozy bed? 

Your dog is smart and realizes that your body gives off plenty of heat to keep them warm and comfy. But creating a warm space for your dog to go to during frigid weather is important.

3. Your Dog Feels Safe

If your dog is the anxious type during fireworks or severe weather, then seeking comfort by your side will bring them the safety and security they needs.

Many dogs like to be in a confined and contained area when they get anxious—which is why your dog considers sleeping on your legs to be a safe and protected space.

4. Your Dog Has Separation Anxiety

Dogs who get anxious and stressed when left alone have separation anxiety. This condition typically develops when your dog is very young and is common in pups who have been abandoned or surrendered to a shelter. 

If your dog has separation anxiety, then you know how hard it is for them to be away from you. Your dog will sleep with you at night because they don't want to be left alone. If they don't, then they will become fearful of abandonment. 

Separation anxiety can result in destructive behaviors. If your dog is exhibiting signs of separation anxiety, make sure you talk with your vet to rule out any other underlying medical issues.

Giving Your Dog Their Own Sleeping Space

Providing your dog with a safe and comfortable sleeping space to go to is important. If you’re trying to wean your dog away from sleeping on your legs, then train them to lie down in their own bed. 

To do this, don’t reward your dog with pets and affection when they jump on your bed. Instead, redirect their behavior by commanding them to get down. Once your dog is in their bed, give them some well-deserved treats, love, and affection.

Keep Your Dog Comfortable With The Absorber®

Does your wet dog sprint to your bed after a bath? Depending on your canine, bath time can either be relaxing or stressful. Regardless of your dog’s views on the tub, you can keep your dog dry, comfortable, and happy with The Absorber® —an ultra-absorbent towel that takes the dread out of drying. Never let your dog shake their suds off on your sheets again, and dry them the easy way with The Absorber® by Dog Lover’s Towel.

Your dog will always be your fur baby—but what happens when they don’t run to greet you at the door like they used to do?

Dogs are living longer than ever before, but as they age, their needs change. Senior dogs need more exercise, a balanced diet, and supplements to keep them feeling as healthy as they can be. Follow our five tips to keeping your senior dog fit and healthy—so you can make your dog's golden years the greatest years of their life.

How to Keep Your Senior Dog Healthy

1. Fitness For Elderly Dogs

Older dogs may not have as much pep in their step as they used to, but they still need to exercise those muscles to prevent bad posture. Practice commands like “sit” and “come” throughout the day to help keep their minds and bodies as active as possible. This will help your senior dog retain the ability to sit, stand, and stay confident during their old age.

 

2. A Healthy Diet

Implementing a proper diet is important for your dog at any age, but it is especially crucial for seniors dogs. Since elderly dogs tend to have trouble moving, you will want to keep your pet in good shape throughout their golden years. In doing so, you will help them avoid diabetes, heart disease, arthritis, and other harmful health issues that come with age.  

 

3. Joint Supplements 

As dog's age, they are more likely to develop joint problems. There are many supplements on the market for senior dogs, such as glucosamine—a natural compound found in cartilage that surrounds the joints. Glucosamine supplements will help alleviate joint inflammation, resulting in a happier and healthier senior dog. Before you hit the shelves, talk to your veterinarian about choosing the right supplements for your dog.

 

4. Range of Motion Exercises

   The older your dog gets, the more sedentary they become. Range of motion exercises is a great way to combat this. To keep your dog’s joints moving correctly and easily, practice some senior dog-approved exercises. While your dog is laying down, gently bend and extend his or her legs one at a time in sets of five repetitions. Carefully turn your dog over and repeat.

 

5. Daily Massages and Care

Yes—dogs love a good massage too! Take some time out of your day to give your elderly dog the special care and attention he or she deserves. Daily massages help relieve tension and improve their range of motion. Finish up with a soothing bath to alleviate those tired, tight muscles and give your dog a dry with The Absorber® Dog Lover's Towel —a super-absorbent towel designed to get your pooch feeling comfortable again in a snap.

Shop The Absorber® Dog Lover's Towel

Nobody likes to get old—and neither does your dog. However, you can bring out the puppy in your old pooch again by giving them the love and care they deserve. By using The Absorber®, you can keep your dog comfortable and happy during their senior years. Its convenient design comes in handy at home or on the go, and its cooling properties keep your senior dog from overheating on those hot summer days. 

Give your senior dog the gift of The Absorber® and shop now.

You’ve read the books. You’ve made the lists. You’ve purchased the gear. Preparing for a new baby is an exciting time, but it’s also a lot of work—and it might cause some confusion for your dog. A new baby will unquestionably come with imminent changes, but there are a few steps you can take to make introducing your dog to your new baby a little easier. 

Introducing Your Dog to Your Baby

Dogs are creatures of habit, so once routines start to change, your fur baby will start to notice. This is actually a great time to start implementing changes to your dog’s routine to get her used to a new schedule before your baby arrives. Here are a few tips you can follow before and after your delivery.

Two Weeks Before Your Baby’s Arrival

Your due date is fast approaching, and you’re probably starting to experience the pre-delivery jitters. The thing is, your dog can pick up on your emotions. According to recent research, studies have shown that dogs can recognize different emotions just by looking at their human’s facial expressions. So if you’re feeling anxious, stressed, and downright panicky, your dog may start acting out.

This is a great time to give your dog extra cuddles and attention. While you’re at it, you can start meal prepping your dog’s food into his correctly portioned servings for your designated dog sitter. Make sure all important information is written down in an easily accessible notepad.

The Day You Bring Your Baby Home

Here come the wiggles! Your dog missed you a lot, but what he doesn’t realize is that you are carrying precious cargo. Make sure you have your partner hold your baby while you greet your other “baby.” Wait until your dog has calmed down before letting your pooch sniff his new sibling. 

Again, dogs read emotions, and now there is a tiny human in the mix of things. Let him get a feel for the new member of the family and reward him with a treat for being so kind and careful with the baby. 

The Day After You Bring Your Baby Home…

…and the day after that, and so forth. 

Yes, it will take some time for your dog to realize that this will be the new normal. And that’s okay. Your dog’s world has changed significantly, so don’t be surprised if it takes some time for your dog to get accustomed to its new life. Make sure you involve your dog in all baby-related activities and remember to separate the dog’s toys from your baby’s toys. Eventually, both of your babies will become the best of friends.

Shop The Absorber® Dog Lover's Towel

If dogs and babies have one thing in common, it’s that they can be very, very messy. Whether you're cleaning up your baby’s spills or drying off your dog after bath time, The Absorber® is a necessary tool for your linen closet. Messes don’t have to be a hassle to clean up. The Absorber® is a super-absorbent towel that is versatile, convenient, and takes the dread out of drying.

Shop The Absorber® Dog Lover's Towel Collection

So you’re a new dog parent. You’ve done all the research, purchased the right food, and aced the potty training process (albeit, with a few accidents). Then before you know it, you’re hit with a new challenge—leaving your puppy home alone for the first time. 

As a new dog parent, it’s natural to worry—but don’t worry too hard. Whether you’re headed to work or going out for a dinner date, we’ll walk you through our top six tips to ensure your puppy will be safe and sound while you’re away.

How Long Can I Leave My Puppy Alone?

Before we get into the tips, there’s one thing you should know—a puppy can’t be left alone for more than two hours at a time. Once your fur baby grows into an adult dog, he or she can stay home anywhere between four and six hours. Until then, you’ll want to make sure either you or someone else can stop by to check on your puppy.

The reason behind the two-hour time frame isn’t necessarily because of accidents, but rather because puppies can develop separation anxiety. Puppies are still growing, so prolonged time alone can result in anxiety issues. Try to put yourself in your puppy's paws—you are their whole world. So when you’re away for too long, it’s natural for them to get anxious. That being said, every dog is different and you must also consider his or her breed and health. 

Now, let’s get into the tips.

1. Choose the Right Dog Breed

Some dog breeds are better at managing time alone than others. Surely you’ve done your research, but it is pertinent to understand your puppy’s characteristics. 

Some breeds need more attention and socialization than others, which will directly affect the way your dog responds to time alone. A few dog breeds that best manage time alone include the French Bulldog, the Maltese, and the Basset Hound.

2. Training Your Puppy to Be Home Alone

You’ve been training your puppy since you brought him home—but the training doesn’t stop at potty breaks. From the moment you bring your new puppy home, you need to start teaching him that it’s okay to be home alone. That way, he’ll understand that he’s safe and secure and that you will always return.

One way to start training your puppy is by leaving the house and immediately coming back. This teaches him that being alone is normal. As time goes on, gradually increase your time outside—and don’t forget to give him a treat before you leave

3. Have a Routine

Just like humans, dogs are creatures of habit. Dogs need a consistent routine that they can rely on, such as when they can expect to be fed and exercised. Implementing a routine will not only help your dog feel more comfortable, but it will also give her the tools to handle any unexpected events that may come her way.

A routine can help your dog distribute her energy throughout the day. If your dog knows she’s going out for a run later, then she’ll be much less likely to be rambunctious while you’re away.

4. Exercise Is Key

A great way to regulate your dog’s at-home activity is to take him out for a walk before you go. If you’re leaving for work, make sure to get a good walk around the block in before you go. And if your puppy is still learning the ins and outs of proper waking etiquette, then this is an excellent time to practice. 

As we’ve mentioned, every dog is different. You need to factor in your dog’s age, breed, and health to craft the right exercise schedule. However, it is agreed upon that dogs need exercise and mental stimulation to keep them from developing behavioral problems. Humans need regular exercise too, so walking your dog ensures that you and your pooch get your daily steps in

5. Get a Comfy Dog Bed

Who doesn’t love to lounge around in a soft, comfortable bed? Your dog certainly loves it. When you leave your dog home, the most important thing you can do is to create a safe and comfortable area to which she has unlimited access. This area should have food, water, toys, and an ultra-comfy doggie bed.

You should also dog-proof areas that are off-limits. As a new dog owner, you probably have a few baby gates already set up. These are perfect for blocking off any dog-free areas of your home. Consider covers for electrical outlets and power strips as well. You can also practice crate training, which acts as a safe, small place for your dog to go to during the day.

6. Keep Your Dog Entertained

A bored dog is an unhappy dog. Make sure you’re mentally stimulating your pup with fun toys to play with. Some great options include puzzles, food dispensers, and chew toys. Chew toys are excellent, especially if your puppy is still teething. The last thing you want to find is everything ripped to shreds the second you walk in the door. 

Keeping the television on, playing classical music on repeat, and getting your dog a buddy can all help alleviate your dog’s boredom.

What Happens if I Work Long Hours? 

Many of us have nine-to-five jobs. So what do you do if you have to work eight hours a day? If you have a long lunch and home isn’t too far away, you should make a stop at home to check on your dog. Otherwise, you can seek extra help in the form of dog walkers, doggie daycare, and pet sitters. 

Whatever route you choose, you can take comfort in knowing that there is an animal-lover out there willing to help you and your puppy along.

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As a puppy parent, you know how often messes happen. Maybe your puppy ended up getting into something he shouldn’t have while you were out and now it’s time for the dreaded bath. Whether or not your dog likes bath time, make sure you’re prepared with The Absorber®—a super-absorbent towel that allows you to dry your pup faster than ever, so he can get back to his tail-wagging adventures. 

Taking your dog for a hike is a great way for both of you to get exercise, enjoy natural scenery, and have fun together. To ensure a safe, enjoyable experience, it’s important to be prepared before going on any trails. Take a few minutes to review The Dog Lover's Towel's top five dog hiking tips.

Choose a dog-friendly trail

Review any dog-specific rules for the trail(s) you plan to hike. Some trails require things like keeping your dog on a leash at all times or keeping them off certain parts of the trail. To protect your dog and show courtesy to fellow hikers, abide by these trail rules.
When you find a dog-friendly trail, make sure it’s safe for your pup. Avoid trails with rocky terrain or steep hills, as these can cause your dog unnecessary physical strain.

Assess your dog’s health

Before hopping on a trail with your furry friend, make sure he’s up for the task. Just because a trail is dog-friendly doesn’t mean it’s safe for your pup. Since every dog is different, consider these factors to determine your dog’s hiking abilities.

• Age: Puppies and senior dogs are more prone to injuries and heat exhaustion. Take them on trails that are relatively short and flat.

• Size: Smaller dogs take longer to cover the same distance as medium to large-sized dogs. Choose shorter trails for them so they don’t overexert themselves on a longer trail.

• Training level: Have you taken your dog on hiking trails before? Is your dog in good enough shape to hike a particular trail?

• Health conditions: Does your dog have any health conditions or breed-related hindrances that would adversely affect her ability to complete a trail hike safely?

If you’re not sure what trails your dog can handle, start small and gradually work your way up. This will protect you and your dog and help build endurance.

Check the forecast

To avoid poor weather conditions while hiking with your dog, check the weather forecast before heading out on the trails. This will protect you and your dog from potentially dangerous weather conditions and keep you from taking a muddy dog home.

Pack the essentials

Check out our beginner’s guide to know what to bring the next time you hike with your dog.

Must-Have Dog Hiking Gear

• Water and water bowl
• Food and snacks
• Poop bags
• Updated ID tags
• Dog first aid kit

Optional

• Cleaning supplies
• Toys
• Dog booties
• Insulated or cooling outerwear
• Extra leash
• Dog saddle

Leave no waste behind

Pick up after yourself and your dog. After hiking a trail, it should be as clean as—if not cleaner than—how you found it. This includes properly disposing of any trash and dog waste along the way.

Shop The Absorber® Dog Lover’s Towel

Bathing your dog is the first thing you should do after returning home from a hike. For an easy dog bathing experience, you need a super-absorbent, quick-drying dog towel. By picking up 50% more water on contact than competing products, The Absorber® is the market’s #1 dog drying towel. Take the dread out of drying with The Absorber® Dog Lover’s Towel.