My adventure pup is outfitted with the best of the best so he can go wherever I go. Photo: Rebecca Parsons
Solo trips can be fun, but trips with your pup are even better. As a dog owner, I can personally attest that bringing your furry friend is a sure-fire way to enhance most outdoor experiences. They’re great company, make friends everywhere they go, are good motivators to get outside, and they’re always up for anything and everything. Whether you prefer the beach, mountains, or your local trails, here is the best dog gear of 2023 to outfit your adventure pup.
The Best Dog Gear of 2023
YETI Boomer 4 Dog Bowl
Ultimate Direction Dog Vest
Hest Dog Bed
Ruffwear Highlands Dog Sleeping Bag
Ruffwear Overcoat Fuse Dog Jacket
NRS CFD Dog Life Jacket
Ruffwear Knot-a-Hitch
Cycle Dog High Roller Ball
YETI Boomer 4 Dog Bowl ($40)
Whether you’re hanging at home or on the road, you’ll need a good dog bowl to feed and water your pup. YETI’s Boomer 4 holds four cups of water and is made from stainless steel, so it can withstand dog teeth, nails, and getting flipped around. The double-wall design further enhances durability and it’s dishwasher safe, so it’s easy to clean between adventures.
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Ultimate Direction Dog Vest ($56)
My rule of thumb for adventures is if my dog wants to come, then he is responsible for carrying his own gear. The Ultimate Direction vest offers a comfortable and snug fit and includes large expandable saddlebacks to store food and other essentials. Other thoughtful features include side stash pockets, an adjustable multi-point harness system, a ring leash attachment, zippered bottle pockets, and an included collapsible bowl.
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Hest Dog Bed ($250)
If you plan on traveling somewhere cold, you may want to bunk with your dog. But, if you prefer your own space, a dog bed is a must. The Hest Dog Bed is a luxurious portable dog bed that features temperature resilient memory foam, waterproof lower fabric and liner, two layers of high-performance polyfoams found in leading home mattresses, a sturdy grab and go handle, and the whole thing rolls up to make transport a breeze. Additionally, it’s easy to transport, is comfy, and the cover is removable, so you can wash it after all of your adventures.
Looking for something a little more budget-friendly? Check out the Ruffwear Highlands Dog Pad, which conveniently integrates with the doggy sleeping bag, also from Ruffwear, below.
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Ruffwear Highlands Dog Sleeping Bag ($100)
If you’re going somewhere extra cold and a simple bed won’t do the trick, set your dog up with a sleeping bag. Like a traditional sleeping bag, the Highlands bag includes a zippered opening and offers lightweight, synthetic insulation. Additionally, the bag is durable, water resistant, and dries quickly, so it works well for any and every adventure. To top it off, the sleeping bag includes an integrated pad sleeve, so you can insert a pad (like this one) for added warmth and comfort.
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Ruffwear Overcoat Fuse Dog Jacket ($90)
If you plan on traveling somewhere chilly, you’ll want a coat for your dog to bundle up in. Ruffwear’s Overcoat Fuse Dog Jacket is a jacket/harness combo that will allow Fido to stay warm while on the move. The jacket sports a warm, comfortable fleece lining with a reflective trim for visibility when there’s minimal light. Other thoughtful features include zippered pockets for stashing essentials as well as two leash attachment points.
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NRS CFD Dog Life Jacket ($45)
If your dog is anything like mine, then he likes to shred alongside you. Although I know that my dog is a solid swimmer, I like to have him in a life jacket when we surf and standup paddle, just in case. The 1000-denier Cordura shell ensures the NRS CFD jacket can withstand any abuse your pup might put it through. Standout features include a grab handle on top, a tough leash ring, and a reflective safety strap for extra visibility.
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Ruffwear Knot-a-Hitch ($60)
While it can be nice to let your dog roam free, sometimes you need to tie them up per park regulations. Ruffwear’s Knot-a-Hitch hitching system allows dogs the freedom to explore while still being tied up. The system is easy to set up between two trees or on a single post and the swiveling carabiner ensures everything will stay tangle-free. The hitching system is made from durable webbing, so it will last for years to come and includes a convenient stow bag, making it easy to pack along for all your adventures. Ruffwear is an all-star when it comes to dog gear, which is why they made our list multiple times. They have a wide selection and their gear is rugged and specifically designed for outdoor adventures.
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Cycle Dog High Roller Ball ($9)
Every dog needs a toy and the Cycle Dog High Roller Ball is a great option. Designed to be used anywhere and everywhere, the ball floats and the internal squeaker is molded for extra durability. Made with Ecolast post-consumer recycled material, the High Roller ball has a unique shape that makes it bounce erratically, keeping your dog endlessly entertained.
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Editor’s Note: For more gear reviews and features on The Inertia, click here.
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