My Favorite Gear For Backpacking With A Dog

[@petereastwood7868]

6:09 I doubt that Fancy “prefers” your sleeping pad because it’s more comfortable. I’d bet that she just wants to be in/on ‘your space’. My dog always jumps into my seat on the couch if I get up, or into the driver’s seat if I leave him in the car for a minute (in cool/cold weather of course), and onto my sleeping bag or bed every chance he gets. He is spoiled, though.

[@ewik939]

Could be a combination, my dog does that too but if you factor me out she also picks the couch over the floor, our bed with soft pillows over sleeping on the carpet etc. If I spread out something on the floor without my scent on it - and it’s warm and soft and fluffy (like when unboxing my EE quilt) - she’ll be lying there all cozy within seconds

[@lc1565]

Yeah I would say this is a case of the dog wanting to be near her owner's scent while she's gone, plus grabbing the extra warmth that might be in the bedding.

[@ashleighfann2364]

Overall very good advice. As an emergency veterinarian myself, I just have one issue with the medical advice you're giving. Please do not give Pepto Bismol to your dog. It contains aspirin (salicylic acid) which can actually worsen GI symptoms, up to and including causing GI ulceration and bleeding. If your dog is vomiting (as in repeatedly, not just one time), then it's time to get off the trail and get them to a vet. A single bout of vomiting doesn't necessarily need to be treated as some dogs simply vomit if they go too long between meals (bilious vomiting syndrome) or because they decided to munch on some fresh grass and overdid it. If you want to create a small first aid kit for your dog, please consult with your veterinarian. Most medications for this type of kit are very inexpensive, but paying for the advice of your vet is well worth the visit.

[@HomemadeWanderlust]

Hey Ashleigh! Thanks for your input. My vet recommended the pepto after Fancy had thrown up once and had diarrhea once (within a few hours) and we were out of town-otherwise, I would’ve never mentioned it.

[@annikadjurberg6762]

Charcoal works to bind toxins in their gut

[@esthershankula6760]

I love seeing Fancy's excitement while rolling in the snow 😂😍

[@MichaelAndersen_DK]

That never gets old :D

[@katye.3795]

Muzzles are also good gear for serious first aid situations. If Fancy was in a lot of pain, she may not let you put her in the sling, or treat an injury. It seems like Fancy is already accustomed to her muzzle, but for any people thinking about using one for their dog, make sure your dog is comfortable/happy in it before you need it so you're not adding extra stress to the situation.

[@MrJJMoore1975]

Your thoroughness and attention to every detail makes your content a valuable hiking resource!

[@anonymouscrank]

Fancy has a future as a professional outdoor gear model.

[@christianszell1927]

Hey Dixie, thanks for this video. When I backpacked with my dog, I always kept some baking soda. It worked really well to stop a bleeding broken nail. Also vet wrap!

[@ashleighfann2364]

Cornstarch works well for broken nails. Be careful with vet wrap. If incorrectly applied it can create more problems than it solves as it tightens down on itself over time.

[@AK-rv6dq]

You have inspired and educated this 42 year old new subscriber to start with Wonderland Trail next spring. Thank you for all the information!

[@jimmyjenkins9240]

Well said, as usual. You are a great mamma to your dogs. Loved seeing Fancy and Hank together!

[@michellebowes2159]

You’re blessed to be able to hike with Fancy. What a sweetie!

[@willblake72]

Another leash option is to braid your own out of paracord. I've made a few and it's nice because you can choose your own hardware and because the whole length is braided you have unlimited options to clip or tie other things into its length to shorten it or add a shorter handle. They have some spring to them too since they're braided. Many YT vids on how to make one.

[@JustAGirlInTheWild]

Hey Dixie! I also backpack and hike a lot with my two dogs and the best part for them is to cuddle in the tent at night. Once the tent is set up my husky shepherd rolls up in his sleeping bag and cuddle with his teddy bear (yes, this big bad wolf need a teddy bear to sleep!) My other dog has short hair and she sleeps very cold. I am in Canada and when we go Fall camping, its cold for real! I found that Hurtta are making great dog gear. I do not own any rain jacket for the doggos ( I guess I am a bad dog mom as well haha), but their Winter stuff is amazing. It might be worth checking it out :)

[@haventli]

Thank you for keeping us up to date on dog gear. The dog gear market has gaps for sure, so it's nice to know you are always looking for stuff for Fancy and would update us if something new came out. Not always easy keeping our pups happy. --- A note about booties. I always carry socks, but in a pinch I have use dental floss as thread on an ace bandage wrap with some duck tape and it worked out really well for booties over multiple days. --- Hadn't heard of Groundbird, such a cool pack. Thanks for giving that some time on your platform. --- +1 on the first aid. So important to be prepared. Rattle snake vaccine is a also super important if you are in rattle snake country. It can take a month or two to get both shots and give the immune system time to work it's magic, so start early.

[@TennesseeSlim]

If you combine sock liners with the boots it helps immensely. But your right I recommend developing the natural hardness of their pads.

[@ZombieRue]

I have two pups and also had some pad thieving going on. At first I tried just a half pad (inflatable) for weight. But I ultimately just switched to exped UL 2 person pad. It’s warmer and an easier solution. I’ve never had issues with punctures. For dog coats I highly recommend Huratta. They have really nice rain coats and warm coats that I have been really impressed with.

[@middleearthchronicles2269]

I second the Hurtta line up. Everything I have from them has been of great quality and the fits has been easy to dial in.

[@mvernersson]

The Hurtta Monsoon ECO raincoat is the golden standard for doggie rain wear. Not cheap but much better quality than anything else we've tried!

[@Ceece20]

For leashes, I got her a bungie type of leash (like you have) that also has a belt attachment. It hooked to a loop that goes around my waist so I don’t need to wear a hip belt. I literally just put the belt around my waist and hook the leash to it. No hands needed to hold the leash.

[@joanrusche6918]

My pointer hound mix, Star, loves my sleeping pad and down quilt. I found a down lap quilt at Costco, so she keeps warm. She sleeps on a CCF pad cut to her size. She carries a modified Outward Hound pack. K-9 Apparel made her custom fleece jacket.

[@ThanatosWings]

Dog sleeping pad: My dog was using a thermarest pro lite small. It's comfortable, lite, but bulky and takes up one full side of his pack. This year he tried a blue foam mat from the doller store. When I'm out of the tent he tries to sneek omto my Uberlite. We tried doubling the mat by folding it but he still was tossing and turning and sneeking onto my mat. Even though it was summer and soft ground I think that he found the compessiion in his muscles from the ground too much and didn't allow him to rest. Halfway through the nights when I scooped him in onto my mat and under my bag, he slept the full way through to the morning. He knows to lay down on ground and kind of flop over with his bum and side onto the mat and not get his nails into it (took some training but hes very smart). When my Uberlite delamed and I received a xlite on trail, he used the bottom half of the Uberlite (the top half is a big pilow now, lol) and Inused the Xlite. He slept very well and was more rested. The Uberlite is half the bulk roled as the Prolite small. I'm considering seam sealing the Uberlite damaged pad into a smaller size with an iron. I've seen some tutorials on youtube. For a bag he has a down jacket. It is one of my older liteweight down jackets (650 goose) sewn down into a pull-over. I cut off the front zipper and sewed back the front pannels into half the size and cut and sewed the arms halfway up. I put shock cord in the cuffs but his feet still get caught inside when he walks. I might try elastic waist band to draw it in. Depending on temp, he either wears his jacket at night, or I put it on top of him after he lays down if it's warm. If it's cold he wears that plus my down jacket placed on top of him plus my rain jacket on top of that. Another optiinnis he wears his down and goes under ny bag too, which is great cause he's warmer than me and keeps me warm. Bags: he wore out a rudfwear approach. It caused him some chafing on one side. I did a mod on it and removed the nylon webbing closer, and attached the ruffear front range harnes to the front for the closures. Idk why roughwear does not use the Front Range harness for the closre mechanisim for the heavier carrying large volume packs. It would be way better than nylon webbing rubbing their body. This year we used the ruffwear front range day pack with the harness style closure. It was great, caused very minimal chafe. He used baby powder to help with it and it did wonders. I wish that closer was on the larger packs, when the day pack is full it pulls up on the body straps and causes more rubbing. Rain: we use the Canada Pooch Night Vision Reflective Jacket. It keeps him relatively dry and especially the under carrage dry and clean. It also protects his armpits when theres rubbing issues. The full jacket is 3M reflective material so it's great for walking highways or roads for saftey. Though its not a specific "rain jacket" the many uses makes it worth while. Also, it is snall and compact and rolls up to the size of a pop can. Shoes: we use Muttluks All Weather. There are no hard parts or seams that rub. We've tried the Snow Mushers and Ruffwear boots but they all cause his dew claw to rub into his arm or the dew claw pad is rubbed, also the tops of his paws have had abrasion too. When it's-45°c here in Canada we use the down parka by Canadian Canine - Bonfire Jacket. I appreciate this review and was really looking forward to it.

[@khaosdaly566]

For the bed thing- a friend of mine got an inflatable pad, and some heavy duty carhartt type of fabric and made a cover for it!! It worked great! He used some waterproofing spray on it too and it was phenomenal. And THANK YOU for being aware of your dog's reactivity and taking those measures to keep her safe! I applaud you for taking her out on trails and being prepared for her. So many people figure out their dogs are reactive and they never take them anywhere again. Thank you for making her world as big as yours!

[@sanecrazy12]

Enjoying the videos.. I see the mommy comes out about keeping your baby warm.. Makes me feel back about my neighbors pitbull that lives on my front porch even in the winter. He never goes home except to eat. He could sleep inside at his home but chooses the front door mat at my house even when it's 5-10 degrees. Dogs can take the cold more than we think. Of course my dog sleeps in my bed 😆

[@janefreeman995]

Areas with lava rocks are really sharp. Doggy booties are pretty much essential.

[@AidaJof]

I love the advice you provide which is sound advice, but also put your doggy's needs first, which not everybody does. I can tell you care very much for Fancy Mae from all the videos you have taken her, she's well provided for. Thank you for another great video. Wishing you, your family, Mardee and, of course, Fancy Mae a Merry Christmas and a Happy & Healthy New Year!

[@firemires03]

We take a muzzle when we hike with our dog also. It's a great idea even if you don't have a reactive dog. They can act "out of character " if they get hurt, or if you get hurt and need rescuing. It's also important to muzzle condition before you get out on trail so the dog is comfortable wearing it and it doesn't add more stress to an already sticky situation. Great video! 👍

[@jimmyjs8907]

Fancy is a sweetheart. Thank you for sharing. Merry Christmas and best wishes for a happy new year!

[@christygatto]

Bela wore the ground bird gear harness, backpack and the turtle quilt during our 2020 thru attempt. That turtle quilt was amazing and we got soooo many compliments on the trail with it. Only made it about 85 miles before covid struck and we had to leave the trail. I hope to someday try another attempt when I can work it into my life again. Stupid covid. I use the dog sled booties but generally only if absolutely necessary such as if she has a sore foot. I also use a similar plastic dish for water. For a bed I took an extra long sleeping pad and Bela slept at the bottom. No puncture issues, however, she's a bed hog we will not be doing that again! I plan on cutting down an old pad I have for her. My first dog was reactive i used to also carry a muzzle. I really think off leash hunting dogs should be outlawed I've run into problems with them attacking my leashed dogs twice. Fortunately other then cuts and some bite wounds no one was badly hurt but I carry pepper spray for that purpose now and double check local hunting schedules and laws.

[@nickname6747]

Thanks for uploading Dixie. Great to see new dog gear that's out there. I've just bought a sleeping bag for my dog made by Whyld River via Garage Grown Gear - just hope he likes it. 🐶😁

[@somerandomguy706]

How'd the whyld river bag work out?

[@pinkskud1]

We had the chaffing problem too, but solved it by wrapping the arm pit straps in physio's tape rubbed with beef tallow (swedish army chap stick) worked a treat.

[@DoseofDirt]

Such a helpful video! The shot of fancy just going crazy in the snow is one of my favorites! Her helicopter skills are top notch! Been backpacking with my two dogs on a few trips, and they're finally big/old enough to get packs! Looking forward to more adventures with them! Thank you!

[@christinenatvig9094]

UGQ makes a quilt for dogs. You can also use the shorter Klymit sleeping pad. UGQ recently had a sale where they offered both for a great deal.

[@Geoffrey454]

Doesn't look like they are selling it at the moment... Maybe when the weather gets a bit warmer

[@TexasRoast]

Watching fancy walk around in a quilt made my day XD

[@danegrama]

Lol eyes rolling in her head as she falls asleep! Adorable

[@Zapporah85]

I also carry muzzles for my dogs, they're both friendly with dogs and people but it's good to have just in case, and especially if your dog is a forager.

[@vipvip5356]

i took one of my old utlralight inflatable pad and cut it . i resealed it with a iron and my dog seems to love it . i put a mylar blanket underneath it to keep the warmth sometime a littlel foam light pad ( gossemer ) he had his own down blanket so if i have to do my thing , or i turn and toss at night, we have our own sleeping system. i also like the fact that i can pack all my things and he can still be quiet in his warmth, packing his thing last and unpacking it first. he is waking up maybe 4 times a night, which is about the same times than me. sometimes i am rearranging his blanket ... but honeslty he is a trooper. I just loooove to backpack with my dog . i am always very impressed with him and honeslty it builted our relationship so strong ! i have an italian geyhound who back pack about 3 days a weeks from april to october... so you can imagine the look we get sometimes when they see my little squeleton coming out of my tent ready to climb a big moutain or do a long trail :-) Its a lot of fun and i dont find it complicated at all to carry his gear. The adventures i have with him are memorable on trail and i am enjoying every moment of it :-) I use to hike longer and harder by myself ... but now i am adapting all my hikes and i have no regret

[@snubblebubble4937]

The muzzle is such a great point, but please make sure to muzzle condition your dog before you are ever in a situation where you will need it. If your dog starts associating the muzzle with a context they don't like (like other dogs), and they don't like the muzzle, it can make reactivity worse. Muzzle conditioning is important whether your dog is friendly or not, because you never know down the road what may happen where a muzzle is necessary.

Maybe you won't see this, but I'll tell some of what I've used. =) I used a Hurtta Slush Combat Suit for my Australian shepherd (I say "used", because he crossed the rainbow bridge almost two weeks ago, after 13 years together...) to keep him dry in the rain. Absolutely perfect. Since it covers so much of the dog, there was only a wet face, paws and tail (here in Sweden they get to keep their tails) that I had to dry before getting in the tent for the night. Much more pleasant than having an overall wet/damp dog in the tent... It's not a very stylish piece of clothing, but it works for its purpose. Not sure if they sell it anymore, but they probably have similar clothing, maybe it's called the Hurtta Downpour now. The backpack I used for my aussie is EQDOGs Pro Harness which has gear loops for attaching their flexpacks that come in two different sizes. The harness has a sturdy handle as well. I love it, it fitted on him like a glove and the packs did not flip and fling about when he moved/got excited. For him a used a Thermarest Prolite Small inflatable sleeping pad. Never punctured it and quite light, takes up little space packed.

[@CarrieMtn]

Super video. I would highly recommend you look into wool products for Fancy- both sweaters and socks. Wool is breathable, sustainable, water and mildew resistant and naturally anti microbial. I bet she’d love it. There are both heavy and light weight wool.

[@patriciacasey7290]

I have this Ruffwear Palisade pack for my dog. I noticed that you did not have the saddle bags tied down. They are a little fussy because they are tiny but there are straps you clip on to keep the saddle bags from flopping around. We have had no problems and my dog LOVES having a job to do. These packs are crazy adjustable (luckily, since my dog got larger than expected!) and you do have to get that figured out just right.

[@KoiraStar]

I highly recommend Hurtta for a rain coat. My dog has the Drizzle coat for rain as well as a Slush Combat Suit (which is discontinued, but there is an updated version of it). She has other gear by them too. I prefer Hurtta over Ruffwear or most other dog coat brands because Hurtta coats are made to cover the hips as well, unlike most other coats, helping keep all major muscle groups warm/protected from rain. They aren't cheap, but my 6 year old dog still regularly wears the coat she got at 6 months old when I brought her home.

[@yelitzagalan5670]

I don't have a dog to hike with but I love this video! Fancy is such a little sweetheart.

[@AUMINER1]

love your content Dixie, each one just makes my day that much better :) thank you!

[@jchambers1191]

Excellent video! A couple adds - rattlesnake awareness training for dogs is awesome if they are present in your area, and the biggest reason to carry a muzzle is in case our pups get a severe injury. It helps protect us so we can protect them. Keep up the great work, and Merry Christmas!

[@TacticalPoppins]

Fancy is so very cute. She looks so happy on trail with her people.

[@Mr2greys]

@18:50 we have this issue when we take our rescue greyhounds on local walking trails. We try to avoid ones where off-leash is allowed but you will find the irresponsible owners who ignore that. Our rescues look at any dog smaller than a cocker as basically the same as a rabbit. Someone almost a yorkie if I hadn't grabbed it by the scruff of its neck. They weren't happy until I pointed out that 1. their dog is a chew toy and 2. They were breaking the rules of having their dog offleash

[@wio2189]

You could cut down an old xlite, using a clothing iron (many instruction videos on YT). This would be lightest and cheapest if it's towards the end of it's life cycle. Hiker boxes on the AT in Georgia have such treasures for free. Chances are the hole is far away from the valve that it works. ;-) Thanks for the video!

[@lindasvensson7574]

Non-stop dog wear protector booties is really great dog shoes that I can recommend. Bella ( Bernese mountain dog) have been wearing them in the winter here in Sweden on snow and ice. They does not have perfect grip on pure ice but otherweise they are great. They stay on and Bella seem to walk naturally with them on. A tip that I learned: When tightening the velcro straps put one of your fingers in the sock/shoe against the dogs leg so the strap is'nt getting to tight.

[@lisasdayoff503]

My guy needed booties when going across the bridge of the gods. We were not making it across without them. Took him( a 63 lb 11 year old pit/German Shepherd mix) out to Mt hood but he didn't do well in all that sand. I took him back home and went hood to locks by myself. They come first that's for sure.

[@glen65]

Excellent list Dixie, I think you covered everything! Something to add to carrying a muzzle, I keep a fold-able nylon mesh one in with my first aid kit, you never know when you may need to administer first aid to your dog and a muzzle will stop them from biting you.

[@HuskyMike]

Backpacking with huskies, they don't really need a sleeping bag, but I bring one of those Costco quilts just in case. For a pad, I bring a z-lite pad- both as additional padding for my XTherm and for them. They usually end up sleeping on the tent floor (after I kick them off quilt.. ha ha). Good idea on the cheap poncho for rain. We use those cheap booties you linked. They work pretty well. We only backpack in areas where dogs must be leashed. I carry pepper spray for stray dogs and... other things.

[@m00nsplitter72]

You are as well prepared and coherent as always, Jessica. Your dawg is lucky to have you, and so are we. Enjoy Christmas and time with your family, but don't wait far too long before your first Spring hike! Take care.

[@kerrir1955]

I don’t have a dog. I watched this video simply because Fancy May seems like the happiest sweetest dog and you’re a great mom!

[@MrAKhiker]

Great as always Dixie! A couple of things. Obviously all dogs are different. My Malamute was pretty weather proof and mosquito/fly proof. She preferred to sleep outside under a tree. One other thing. It is absolutely critical to keep your dog leashed and/or tied if possible. I was considering letting my dog off leash in the Boundary Waters when we came around a corner and there was a porcupine in the trail. She really wanted it. So thankful I hadn’t taken the leash off. In bear country if your dog gets in trouble with a bear it is coming running back to you for help. Not a good scenario. Finally, not all people are dog people. Your dog may be adorable to you, but it might frighten others. I have seen areas closed to dogs because of instances like this. Backpacking with your dog is awesome. But having good dog etiquette will keep this joy available for all of us.

[@liza2739]

My favorite coats are by Hurtta. Lots of different styles that suit different needs. They have insulated and non-insulated (like for rain) options. I have had a groundbird gear harness for years. Love it for my dog who is in-between sizes usually. Just got the turtle top quilt. My dogs have more fur so I am thinking the lighter one will be fine.

[@xyliava]

Thanks for this video! I love the turtle quilt - my dog would like that so much more than her sleeping bag. I looked at the rescue harnesses. I ended up buying some straps and buckles and put together two straps that can attach to her harness and clip around my torso. It's so much smaller than a dedicated sling harness, so I'm very happy about it.

[@willblake72]

Great info in this! I hike with Wallace (a Wirehaired Pointing Griffon) and his long coat doesn't work well with packs or jackets at all. He gets bad mats under straps and has no need for a jacket. On the other hand, he's very resilient, indifferent even, to weather. Every dog is unique! I'll never hike without a dog, but surely have never done the kind of hikes you have. A few days is a big deal for me. A hot weather hike is tough on my boy.

[@martinforrester8249]

I love it that you care so much for your dog, it tells so much about you as a person. Love your vids, so informative. Oldtimer Englishman from Shropshire who used to have a cocker spaniel for company in the mountains.

[@georgeattaway1848]

Is Fancy a long lost relative of my Ingrid?Her birth mom was a Catahoula mix/unknown papa.She and her sister are southern girls,born and raised in South Carolina.We have a female with the same markings as Fancy.1/2 inch white tip on her tail,white socks 1/2 the amount of Fancy,and the white line down her face is on the left side and narrower band.Even how they hold their ears is the same.Cheers to great dogs and the humans they love.

[@scottiemcthomas8539]

My first aid kit overlaps with my dog's, so I try to find items we both can use. If you bring Neosporin (the version *without* pain killer) you can use it on your dog too. Also vet wrap is really handy to have to keep gauze bandages on dogs. As always, talk to your vet before giving your dog any meds.

[@garyoakman6187]

Happy Holidays everyone.

[@bethgentry5565]

I have 2 Whyld River doggie sleeping bags, one down one synthetic. Haven't used the new down one yet. My pittie sleeps in her own bag with the Zrest pad. I carry my dogs stuff. In warmer weather she wears Ruff Wears cooling vest. Going to look into that cool dog pack.

[@talon426]

I looked long and hard for a rescue dog that fit my life style. I could not find one in my area, so I settled on a designer Mut. I got a doodle, his thin athletic build makes it hard to find proper fitting gear. After lots of research I found the company you were talking about, I am excited to hear your opinion on the gear. As a section hiker I can't always justify the expense, because I do not go often enough. Hearing your opinion helps me make more informed decisions, and decreases the chance that I will spend $200 on a piece of gear that won't work for me. Ps. More often then not your videos have the answers I could not find elsewhere. I am a big fan.

[@TennesseeSlim]

Whenever you get a new pad give fancy your old one. You can shorten them and reseal it with a iron

[@claramullen]

Very good information for hiking with a dog. Happy Holidays Dixie.

[@nickp.2432]

Been hiking with English Labradors most of my life. Ruffware palisades has worked great for me. Never heard of the company you mentioned. Will be looking into them for sure. Seems like a better design. Thanks! Get out and backpack..👍👍

[@fuzzzysock]

Your umbrella is also a good deterrent to iffy off leash dogs. You can open it in their face and hopefully block.

[@kieshorse]

I've got a klymit k9 sport sleeper. i haven't used it much out on the trail because I found out my dog hates camping :( but car camping and at home he loves it!! it's suuuuper light and packs up tiny.

[@randyholloway920]

You could cut down the size of a Neolithic pad for Fancy. They no longer sale torso length, but there are KZbin videos showing how to cut one down yourself.

[@samantham9175]

Thank you for this video! Backpack a lot with my GSD. I appreciate you making folks aware that when the pup comes along that it’s their hike. I’ve had to use an emergency sling before. My husband carried our 70lb shepherd down a mountain. Highly recommended! I too am looking for a better pad. I use the one you use but he always tries to get on mine!

[@HomemadeWanderlust]

Oh my goodness! How scary. I bet you were glad y’all had it!

[@johncheeseman6764]

Dixie, great video. 1 suggestion, we have been backpacking with a Great Pyrenees for 10 years. We use a retractable leash and a carabiner attached to our pack. The other we found is human grade freeze dried dog food on Amazon. Colt loves it and it cut his pack weight.

[@obbadda]

what pack to you have for him? We had an English mastiff and now a St. Bernard. Massive gaps for massive dog breeds. Dehydrated food is perfect. 👍🏼

[@Pack.Leader]

Nobody takes better care of their dogs than you do, Dixie. And that's high praise coming from me cause I'm the same way.

[@mtadams2009]

Thanks so much for making this video. I love hiking with my dog, and she loves it too. She does not love the tent very much though. Thanks for your sleep system. That is pretty much what I have done. I am thinking of getting her a small quilt. I use the same pad. I don' t take her if there is rain predicted as I don' t really push her much in the elements. I think I will continue to carry her gear as I don't really want her to deal with the added weight and heat of wearing a pack. I mostly solo hike and having my Maggie with me is a big plus., she loves the trail, just not the tent.

[@amyjames6118]

Really helpful video. Thank you 😊

[@bernielamont825]

Hey Dixie! gotta tell you, watching these videos with Fancy Mae "playing" in the snow puts a BIG grin on my face. actually it makes me LMAO. try reaching out to "darn tough", maybe they can make her some booties, the advertisement they would get would be "phenomonal" good job as always Merry Christmas to ya'll

[@theoutdoordogandhikinggirl]

Great to see others making video's about dog gear! 🥰

[@trailheart1863]

Great video as always, thanks for sharing. I have an 8 lb havanese so she doesn’t hike, but she does have a ruff wear doggie sleeping bag and slip in klymit air mattress that she uses on top of our bed at home. She absolutely loves it. And I’ve found it to be super durable so far.

[@philipksick6810]

I have an 8 pound chihuahua who loves to hike and people always have the funniest reaction to seeing her out in the woods.

[@rajiraj5111]

A great video mam . U r really a great and kind hearted person . U r inspiring the people alot

[@fitzcoyote]

Silk bag liners over the inflatable pads work great to protect from dog nails!! Worked from all of the CT for us and 2 dogs. Check out Horsewear- Rambo dog coats- they make a 100% waterproof well fitting shell with removable liner. I use a Rough wear fleece ( or your purple puffy she has) under it and the combo works well. Dyneema would be awesome! Use the Rambo ad a template! I don't sew! But I wish I did!! I also use the dyneema bowls- I use it only for food then carry a water bowl- I use one from Ruff wear!

[@jackiemarie1990]

This was very informative! Thank you :)

[@RAINSMAN79]

I made a quilt for my hammock and had enough materials left over to make my dog a coat patterned after his Thundershirt. Only dachshund I know with a 20 degree climasheild jacket.

[@Kslusser7]

Great information, I was leaning towards the Palisades pack but may try custom now. Love the clip of Rice Crispy treats (Cold as iiiice! 😂). That line always cracks me up!

[@fallin2high]

I've been using Huurta as you can measure your dog. I have a pittie and she gets cold easily so she has a thermal and a rain coat over it. There are ties and buttons to make it more snug and keep moisture out. I've had it for several years but it has been keeping her warm, dry and way less muddy. I'll definitely be getting more products from them in the future. And I'm from Oregon so we have had plenty of rain tests for the rain coat.

[@HikingwithGus]

Hey Dixie! I have been using the GB Gear packs for Gus for a couple years now and they are great! I did a review of them on my channel and plan to do a follow up soon. I had the same problems with the Palisades packs as you did. I don't put more than 10% of his body weight and more often than not right around 8%. I still use the Ruffware water bladders to keep the weight even in his packs. As I use some of his food I just adjust the water in the opposite side to balance the packs. I always "Hike my dogs hike" and he is the focal point of my hikes when he's with me (which is all the time) I had custom quilts made from CRO, Warren is awesome in accommodating Gus's needs. When its real cold he wears the Hurrta Expedition coverall snow suit as a primary sleep system with a quilt as his top insulation. Living in Washington state it gets a bit chilly here all the time. Mushers Secret for his feet to keep the snow from sticking to the hair between his toes. Gus wears booties when we are on corn snow or any type of crystalized surfaces. Keep in mind that dogs front feet are larger than their rear feet most the time. So the one size fits both is not always going to work. I also carry a rescue harness for Gus. My vet (she's a thru hiker) gives me a prescription of antibiotics when we are on mulit-day hikes so if he gets sick from giardia or a lepto variant that is not in the vax, we can get him started right away on meds. I also take pemmican as a high caloric food supplement for Gus. Muttluks are great booties as well, a bit pricey but worth it. Don't forget a tick tool either. I also use Sally Anders bugg off repellent for Gus and it seems to work pretty good in keeping the flies and skeeters at bay. Happy tails make happy trails. Gus is the best hiking buddy I have ever had..... Cheers! Oh yeah, I'm still using those trekking poles!

[@2006Whippet]

Give Chillydogs out of Canada a look for jackets and rain gear for the pup. I had the Great White North jacket for my whippet and that kept her pretty warm on even cold CO days. They also have an uninsulated rain jacket which looks like it provides pretty good coverage. That said, they do not fall on the budget side of things.

[@tez310574]

Aww!! Your such a Good Momma Dixie.👍

[@robertrockwell7581]

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year too you Dixie and all the Family and also Fancy.

[@nickp.2432]

Look into tuf foot. Apply to your dog's paws and it works wonders to keep a good tough foot pad before you hit the trail. Mushers wax is good to have on hand as well. Coconut oil is phenomenal as well..

[@nicolereneepeters5682]

Thank you for making this video. With a background in animal rescue, I can sadly say that there are a lot of people who don't take the well-being of their dogs into account enough- in life in general and even out on the trail. Your content may help others to consider important protective and preventative measures for hiking with their dogs that they might not have otherwise considered. As far as dog gear goes...I am very happy with the high quality of Hurtta's line of well designed and well thought out dog coats. I have a little rescued 14lb Chihuahua mix, Bettyleana, who only has one layer of fur and is frequently cold. She LOVES hiking though! Her Hurtta parka has an easy on-easy off adjustable design and is lined with reflective material to direct her body heat back at her. With this coat we've been able to comfortably hike in some pretty extreme weather. The Hurtta dog sleeping bag has been on my wish list for awhile now. New to my wish list is an ultralight down dog sleeping bag from a company I would love to support- Whyld River, a cottage gear company that donates one of their sleeping bags to an animal rescue for every ten bags sold. If I had the funds I would have already purchased one. They make their bags in different sizes, offer good sizing guides and make them compatible with a sleep pad connecting system. They also have a synthetic variety which was their original design. Their new ultralight down bag can be attached to and used as a liner inside of the synthetic bag for hiking and sleeping in very cold weather. whyld-river.com/

[@mountainman971]

Fancy is adorable. She reminds me so much of my own. Similar backstory too. Gypsy loves other dogs though.

[@kcricket39]

I highly recommend carrying some VetWrap for both you and Fancy Mae! It's much easier than tape and doesn't stick to or pull hair and will still work if it gets wet. I buy mine in the equine section of tractor supply. It can also double as a paw bootie if you're in a serious pinch.

[@takingawalkadventures]

hope you and your family have a wonderful Christmas. always enjoy your videos

[@MousesAdventures]

I use a Nemo Tensor Long/Wide when I head out with my dog. She has enough room to either sleep at the end or curl up next to me under my quilt if it’s chilly. I use to try and get her to use her own but inevitably, she’d end up on mine. The long/wide Nemo seemed like my way to compromise with her. My girl also completely refused a rain coat so, I just pack a towel for her. But my girl also has a stubborn mind of her own. I’m her driver and trail Sherpa. Merry Christmas Dixie. 🎄🐕❤️🥾🎁

[@NancyandMako]

I love love love Mako’s Groundbird gear pack. You will too, he has been using it for a year now!!!! I usually have him carry 2 days worth of his food about 4 lbs even tho he is 70 lb Standard Poodle. we just did 50 miles on the Foothills Trail and he did just great!!!

[@marieschieler1914]

We day hike with our golden doodle. We tend to keep it short as he won’t drink when on a trail. I’m liking the bungee leash. 👍

[@Wild.cat.adventures]

Thank you so much that dog quilt from groundbird will be perfect for my dog. She spins round a lot when shifting position at night exactly how you describe!

[@wio2189]

Hey, if you want a cheap alternative solution that worked well for me: I got the cheapest kids down vest I could find in roughly my dog's size (on amazon). Since her front paws go trough the arm holes, it stays on her really nicely, I can even close it with the zipper. The tail end is much too wide for her but no issue for sleeping, some bungee cord and tape would make it so that it can be cinched shut. This and my DCF rain skirt over her to block wind works well. Dirt cheap and UL.

[@Wild.cat.adventures]

@@wio2189 great idea thank you! Looked at groundbird wow they really are expensive, was thinking how I might make something, thanks for your idea, will defo take a look 👍

[@wio2189]

@@Wild.cat.adventures You're welcome and happy trails

[@JimHendrix_home]

Very informational! Thanks for taking the time to share your knowledge.

[@stewartellis353]

Merry Christmas Dixie, Marde, and Fancy Mae

[@Dubzy001]

Amazing! Funny enough we did a 10 mile hike today with our 2 dogs; just got home and was like, “wow! Dixie is speaking our doggie language”. Thanks much!

[@genehunt8670]

Great job thank you!

[@isabellemorneau119]

Wow I don't have a dog but i thought that this was interesting. Just going through all your videos. I'm hiking mostly in Switzerland and never more than 5 days. I just, wow! find that what you do and other people that do longer walks so incredible. And not just longer but for months! My backpack is so heavy, i'm always cold!!! Well that might just get me to go alone and use my campervan and do some bivouac as well. So much resourceful than staying at home. I've know a lot of the things that you said. Experience is a must! Continue like that and let me know if one day you want to come to switzerland. And look up for a wonderful hike in Tasmania!!!!

[@musingwithreba9667]

Awesome timing! I just brought home a rescue dog a week ago 🐶😁 we won't be doing any backpacking just yet, she just moved to Canada from Jordan, and I think winter backpacking might be a bit too much for her 😉 but in the Spring we'll be hitting the trails! I'm hoping my old dog's pack will fit her, we'll test it on some day hikes. if not, that one that you've ordered looks really interesting! I'll be waiting to see Fancy trying it out. And the turtle puffy, that's awesome! So far I've got my dog a couple of Rumpls that should be good for 3 season use.