"There’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing." – Alfred Wainwright.
Well, tell that to the muddy and drenched dog shaking all over your sofa! April showers bring flowers, sure, but they also bring wet, muddy, and occasionally miserable dog walks. If you've ever struggled through a storm with a reluctant pup, you know the pain. But fear not; walking your dog in the rain doesn’t have to be a soggy nightmare. With the right prep, gear, and mindset, you and your four-legged friend can enjoy those drizzly strolls.
Gear Up: Stay Dry, Stay Happy
First things first, invest in the right gear. A waterproof jacket (for both you and your dog) is a game-changer. Look for breathable yet rainproof materials that keep you dry without making you overheat. Your dog might not love the idea of a raincoat, but many breeds, especially short-haired ones, benefit from that extra layer of protection. Bonus: it cuts down on the dreaded wet-dog smell. Our friends at Proviz have a broad range of jackets to keep you dry and seen, as well as dog jackets to protect them from rain and mud. Plus, they’re offering identibase customers 15% off sitewide with code IDENTIBASE15.
Waterproof boots are non-negotiable. The last thing you want is soggy socks five minutes into your walk. Opt for boots with a good grip; the last thing you want is to be head over heels as your dog bolts into the distance.
Route Planning: The Smart Walker’s Approach
Some routes turn into swamps after a bit of rain. Others are naturally well-drained and much easier to navigate. Stick to paved paths or gravel trails to avoid a mud bath. If your usual park turns into a quagmire, scout out alternatives. Woodland trails often provide tree cover, which means less direct rainfall.
Keep walks shorter if the rain is relentless. A quick but engaging 20-minute sniffari (letting your dog explore and sniff everything) is often just as satisfying as an hour-long trek[1]. Rainy days are great for mixing things up—mental stimulation can tire a dog out just as much as physical exercise.
The Post-Walk Plan: Avoid the Chaos
Returning home with a dripping dog doesn’t have to be a disaster. Keep towels by the door—microfiber ones work best for quick drying. If your dog tolerates it, a low-heat blow dryer can speed up the process.
For muddy paws, a simple rinse in a shallow tub or a portable paw washer saves your floors. If you don’t have one, keep a bowl of warm water and a cloth handy. Training your dog to wait patiently at the door while you dry them off? A lifesaver. Treats help.
Bonus Tips for a Rainy-Day Win
Pack smart – A waterproof treat pouch means no soggy snacks.
Visibility matters – Grey skies mean lower visibility; a reflective lead or LED collar keeps your dog safe. Or to really stand out a reflective and high visibility dog coat will do the job.
Tire them out indoors – On torrential days, swap a walk for indoor games like hide-and-seek or puzzle toys.
April showers might be unpredictable, but your dog still needs their adventure. With the right prep, you can turn rainy walks into a fun, bonding experience instead of a damp disaster. So, grab your raincoat, lace up those boots, and embrace the drizzle. It’s just water after all!
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[1] https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/is-sniffing-a-dog-s-version-of-social-media/