Are you ready to upgrade your daily dog walks?
If you’re like most dog owners, you use the same old collar and leash that you started with. day one. Don’t stress. There’s nothing wrong with that. However…
Let’s face it.
The right gear can make everyday walks so much better for you and your dog.
Here’s how:
- A personalized dog leash makes your walks more enjoyable
- Good gear keeps both you and your pup safer
- Quality accessories will last longer saving you money
And don’t worry. It’s not hard to upgrade your gear.
All you need is a little information.
and that’s what we will cover…
In this article:
- Why Dog Walking Gear Matters
- Top Gear Upgrades For Daily Walks
- Choosing The Perfect Personalized Dog Leash
- Dog Gear Maintenance Tips
Why Dog Walking Gear Matters
Pet accessories are big business. The global pet accessories market reached 26.8 billion dollars in 2020 and is expected to grow 9% per year until 2028.
That includes everything from leashes to collars to toys. And pet collars, leashes and harnesses alone account for almost 32% of that market in 2024.
That is huge.
If you spend money on something, that means you care about it. And if you’re reading this, you probably care about your pets more than anything. As pet owners, we naturally want what’s best for our dogs.
And that means investing in gear that will keep your pup happy and safe.
Let’s break it down…
Walks are the foundation of your dog’s exercise and mental health. Without routine outdoor activity, your furry friend becomes more prone to bad behavior and boredom. Daily walks improve both their mood and yours.
But how well you walk depends a lot on your equipment.
A personalized dog leash is your connection to your dog. Most of your physical interaction is through that leash. If your leash is ugly or falls apart or hurts your hand… It makes walking not-so-fun.
Brands like Mimi Green designer dog collars understand how important the right walking gear is. Not only should your leash be durable and comfortable, but it should look good too!
Think of how many times your dog will see their leash each year.
Dogs are walked an average of nine times per week for about 34 minutes per walk.
That’s over 500 times per year just holding that leash.
If your leash is:
- You will not enjoy holding it every time you go outside.
- Too long. Your dog can easily pull you over without a shortened quick release dog leash.
- Too short. Short leashes can cause hand and wrist pain.
- Not appealing. Who wants to walk their dog with a hot-pink leash with yellow polka dots? (ok. maybe SOME people!)
… your walk will never be quite the same.
Quality dog walking gear should work seamlessly with you and your dog.
That’s why.
When you have gear that you love and that functions well… you’re more inclined to go on more walks!
Which means a happier healthier dog.
Top Gear Upgrades For Daily Walks
There are tons of ways you can upgrade your dog walking experience.
The best part is, they don’t have to be expensive or high-tech.
These are the daily walk gear upgrades we recommend to absolutely everyone.
A Customized Dog Leash
If you’re going to upgrade any one thing, make it a personalized dog leash.
Standard leashes from the pet store work… but they’re not fun. Custom leather dog leashes from Mimi Green allow you to pick the length, width, color, and material. You can even add your pup’s name and your cell phone number.
Plus: leather dog leashes age beautifully and only get more comfortable with wear.
Here’s why customization is important.
- Safety: Having your contact information on your leash can help someone contact you if your dog were to ever get loose.
- Comfort: Not every leash is created equal. By customizing your leash you can pick a size and material that feels great in your hand.
- Longevity: Custom leather dog leashes are built to last. Whether you’re hiking with your dog or simply taking them to the park, your leash will stay intact.
Think of a personalized dog leash as an investment in you and your dog’s happiness.
Comfortable Dog Harness
Most dogs don’t wear collars 24/7. During walks, they should be wearing a well-fitted harness.
Harnesses spread pressure from pulling across the chest. This helps you maintain control of your dog without having pressure placed directly on their throat.
Harnesses come in all sizes. And they’re just as customizable as leather dog leashes.
Pick a comfortable option that works for you and your pup.
Hands-Free Dog Leash
When you have the option. Walking hands-free is very beneficial.
A running leash wraps around your waist. leaving your hands completely free. These leashes typically have some type of spring-style attachment so your dog doesn’t pull too hard.
They’re great for runners or active walkers.
Visibility Upgrades
Walking your dog in the early morning or at night should always be done with visibility in mind.
Adding some reflective stickers to your leash and collar can help you both stay visible. You can also buy cheap LED clips that attach to any leash. They’re small, but can save your dog’s life by making him visible on busy roads.
This one is non-negotiable. Seriously.
You should never walk your dog without being visible during sunrise or sunset.
Add reflective gear or plan your route in a more populated area.
Choosing The Perfect Personalized Dog Leash
A dog leash should feel like an extension of your hand.
Your dog spends a significant amount of time attached to that leash. Make sure its comfortable for them too!
Here are some things to consider when choosing your new leash:
Material
Leashes are typically made from one of three materials:
Leather: Timeless and durable. But leather dog leashes can take awhile to break-in.
Nylon: Lightweight and inexpensive. Nylon leashes also come in a wide variety of colors and patterns.
Biothane: Waterproof and ultra durable. Biothane leashes are easy to clean. Perfect for pups who love swimming.
Length & Width
The standard length for a dog leash is 6 feet. That’s long enough to give your dog space, but short enough to maintain control.
If you have a dog that likes to pull, you may want to consider a shorter leash.
Leash widths can range from ½ inch all the way to 1.5 inches. Larger dogs and dogs with more pulling power can benefit from a wider leash.
Thicker leashes distribute that pulling power across your hand.
Hardware
All leather dog leashes have hardware. That’s the clasp that connects the leash to your dogs collar.
Make sure the hardware is durable. Stainless steel and brass are the most reliable options.
Dog Gear Maintenance Tips
Taking care of your gear is just as important as buying quality gear.
Here are a few dog walking gear maintenance tips.
Leather Dog Leashes: Condition your leash once every couple months with a leather conditioner.
Nylon Dog Leashes: Throw it in the washing machine! Just use a gentle cycle and lukewarm water.
Biothane Dog Leashes: Simply wipe down with a damp cloth.
Hardware: Check clasps and rings for wear every couple months.
Gear that shows any kind of sign of wear or tear should be replaced immediately.
Let’s Wrap Things Up!
Gear can be the difference between love and loathing when it comes to your dog’s daily walks.
Remember:
- Get a comfortable leash that you’re excited to hold.
- Make sure your dog has a proper harness during walks.
- Invest in some visibility gear.
- Maintain your gear so it will last.
Daily walks are a huge part of your dog’s mental and physical wellbeing.
Make sure you have the right gear to make them happy.
