Muddy walks are part of life with a dog, especially during the wetter months. The right lead, harness and a little preparation can make messy walks much easier to manage-and help prevent half the mud from coming home with you.
Affiliate Disclosure: This page may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, Walkies-Proof may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Choose a Lead That’s Easy to Handle.
On a muddy walk, a lead that feels comfortable in your hand is especially important. Wet or muddy handles can become slippery, so look for a lead with a good grip and strong fittings. It’s also worth choosing something that can be wiped or washed easily after particularly messy adventures. We tend to use rope slip leads with our own dogs. They’re simple, quick to put on and take off, and particularly handy on muddy walks because there’s very little to clean afterwards.
A Comfortable, Secure Harness.
A well fitting harness can give you better control on slippery or uneven ground while keeping your dog comfortable. Look for one that allows your dog to move freely, has secure fastenings and is made from material that can cope with rain and mud. Reflective details can also be useful when gloomy weather means poorer visibility.
Consider a Dog Coat for the Muddiest Days.
A lightweight dog coat can help keep some of the worst mud and rain off your dog, particularly around their backs and sides. Choose one that fits comfortably without restricting movement and is easy to wash or wipe clean. A coat won’t keep every paw clean, but it can make the post-walk clean-up considerably quicker.
Our pick: Lightweight Waterproof Dog Coat
Keep a Towel by the Door or in the Car.
Keeping an old towel by the door makes it much easier to deal with the muddy paws before your dog gets further into the house. If you drive to your favourite walking spots, keep another towel in the car so you can give your dog a quick rub down before the journey home. A washable boot liner or seat cover can also be useful for particularly muddy adventures.
Clean Muddy Paws Before Going Inside.
Cleaning muddy paws before your dog comes inside is also a good opportunity to give their legs an feet a quiick check. Wipe away the mud and look between the toes and around the pads for small thorns, grass seeds, cuts or anything else picked up on the walk. It’s also worth checking your dog for ticks, particularly after walks through long grass, woodland or any other vegitation.
Pack a Muddy-Walk Kit.
A small muddy-walk kit can save a lot of hassle.Along with poo bags and treats, consider carrying a spare towel, some water, and a few basic cleaning essentials. If your driving, keeping a dedicated bag in the car means everything is ready for the next muddy adventure.
Don’t Forget Your Own Muddy Gear.
Muddy walks don’t only affect the dog. Waterproof boots and outer layers that can be wiped clean or washed easily will make life much simpler. If you drive to your walks, a washable boot liner, seat cover or old blanket can protect the car from muddy boots, wet clothing and an equally muddy dog. keeping a spare pair of shoes in the car can also be handy for the journey home.
A Little Preparation Makes Muddy Walks Easier.
Muddy walks are often some of the most enjoyable adventures you can have with your dog. With a secure lead and harness, a few cleaning essentials and a little preparation for the journey home, there’s no reason to avoid the puddles. Check your dog over afterwards, deal with the mud before it spreads, and you both will be ready for the next walk.