Keeping your dog hydrated is important. Regardless of if you’re out for a neighborhood walk or going for a long hike, you always want to carry water for your dog. It’s best to avoid letting your dog drink from communal water bowls which can spread diseases between dogs. Instead, when on the go this spring, a portable water bottle or bowl is an easy way to make sure you always have fresh water for your dog.

If your dog is ready for spring explorations don’t leave home without a long line, which are longer than usual leashes and gives your dog the ability to move freely while keeping them safely tethered to you. They’re ideal for training outings where leashes are required, for dogs who are reactive or selective about other dogs, for dogs with a strong prey drive, and for dogs who don’t have reliable recalls.

A portable first aid kit is a must for any dog owner. Canine first aid kits are necessary in case of a minor injury while you are out and about. One could also help you to stabilize your dog in the event of a serious injury until you can get to the veterinarian or emergency veterinary clinic. Keep a pet-specific first aid kit in your car, your training bag, or a backpack for hiking.

Spring is also known as the muddy season, meaning a lot of dirty paws will track through your house and car. A paw cleaner is a great way quickly remove dirt and debris before it gets everywhere. Keep one near your door or car for easy access post your outdoor adventure so you will at least have clean paws before giving your dog a full bath.

For dogs who don’t enjoy the rain, a pet-specific raincoat can make going to the bathroom in a downpour a little more enjoyable. They benefit you, too. Raincoats can help keep your dog’s body dry and prevent mud and dirt from the road from splashing up onto your dog, reducing mess and that wet dog smell. You can thank us later.

Backpacks are a great addition to any spring outing. If you have a puppy or small breed dog, you may want to have the option of carrying your dog while out on hikes. Dogs can also wear a special dog backpack and carry some of their own toys or poop bags while out for a walk or hike.

With warm weather comes spring pests like fleas and ticks in most areas of the country. One option for preventing these buggers is wearable collars that repel fleas and ticks. You can find them in a variety of effective durations but note that swimming in water can make it less effective faster. But for most people, this is easier than dealing with sticky treatments.

A fun way to get out with your dog this spring and enjoy the beautiful weather is to take a bike ride with your dog. There are bike baskets and trailers designed for dogs to ride along comfortably and safely while you peddle. While they may need some initial praise to be comfortable in it, praise and treats will help them look forward to the ride. Start with short and slow rides to visit places like their favorite park.

Spring weather is the perfect time to get you and your dog up and moving. Signing up for a beginner agility class is a great way to introduce your dog to the sport and you can also set up a backyard agility set at home. Use treats and toys to introduce your dogs to the obstacles and then set them up in courses to lead your dog through in the backyard.

If you have a dog who loves to chase squirrels in the backyard, you can channel your dog’s chase instinct in more productive ways. Chase comes naturally to many dogs, and it is a fun active game to get your dog up and playing. Simply set them up and watch your dog go running after the attached “flag.” It’s possibly the easiest way to tire out your dog.

Is your dog getting more exercise this time of year? An activity tracker is a fun way to monitor how active your dog is during the day. With an activity monitor, you can set an activity goal for your dog’s daily level of movement and track how frequently your dog meets their goal. You can even compare your dog’s movements to dogs of the same breed all over the country or in your local area. Some activity trackers have a built-in GPS monitor for added safety.