LifecanbetoffLet’s not sugar-coat it, dog walking in the UK in autumn and winter can be unpredictable and in itself, a full-on adventure. Rain, wind, mud that defies logic, it’s all part of the charm, right? Whether you’re stomping through soggy fields or climbing windswept hills, you need the right autumn and winter dog walking gear to survive it with your dignity (and feet) intact.
Here’s our tried-and-tested list of dog walking essentials for autumn and winter, featuring some fab finds for both humans and hounds.
This article contains gifted items, all thoughts and reviews are my own.
Rydale Lady Gembling hiking boots (gifted)
These boots are the real MVPs of our winter dog walking wardrobe. The Lady Gembling boots by Rydale are waterproof, supportive, and just rugged enough to handle ankle-deep mud and a spontaneous hill climb. Stylish enough to wear into a country pub, too, just give them a quick wipe first.
We were lucky enough to be gifted these beauties, and they’ve quickly become part of our daily dog-walking armour. No blisters, no slipping, and definitely no regrets – they’ve walked miles straight out of the box with no complaints.
With a waterproof rating of 5, they have so far stood up to the boggiest of puddles!
Rydale Yapham dog fleece (gifted)
If you’re wrapping up, so should your dog. Toffee has a huge selection of fleeces and coats, depending on the weather. What we love about the Yapham dog fleece from Rydale is that it is soft, warm, and can be popped on over her harness quickly. Thanks to it’s back zip fastening, it pops on quickly without having to faff about taking off collars and harnesses. It’s machine washable (thank goodness) and has been through all sorts of mucky puddles and rain showers and kept Toffee warm and dry.
Toffee got one of these for her first Christmas and was able to play in deep snow for a good while and stay super warm!
The Yapham fleece in Bonbon (it had to be pink for Toffee!) was also gifted to us by Rydale. Bonus: it turns your dog into a country style icon. You’re welcome.
A proper waterproof jacket
Because “water-resistant” is a lie.
If your coat isn’t actually waterproof, you’ll know about it within mile one. Get yourself a windproof, waterproof jacket with a decent hood and plenty of pockets (for treats, poo bags, and emergency snacks). Look for something breathable too – layering is key when tackling cold, wet walks.
I’m yet to find one that really works for me, I get really hot. But in terms of warm and windproof for dry winter walks, you’ll never see me out of my ACAI Windproof Gale Fleece – I have one in Navy blue I’ve had for a couple of years now and it has seen me right through some bitter cold winds at the top of a mountain! I might even treat myself to one of the new autumn/winter 2025 colours for this season.
Touchscreen gloves
You know what’s fun? Taking your gloves off in the rain to reply to a text or to check you’re still on the AllTrails route. No thank you. Pick up a pair of touchscreen-compatible gloves that actually keep your hands warm. I also use a pair of fingerless gloves when I can’t find my touchscreen ones.
Headtorch or Clip-On Lights
Because night-time dog walks are now our reality.
Dark mornings and even darker afternoons mean you need to be visible — and able to see where you’re going. A rechargeable headtorch or a clip-on LED light (for you and the dog) is a winter essential. Not today, unexpected ditches.
I have a headtorch from Amazon. But Toffee’s clip on LED light is from Pawprints & Co and fastens helpfully to her harness, you can have any colour light depending on your mood, but I keep mine on white light for its brightness.
A waterproof daypack or dog walking bag
You’re not on a mountain expedition, but you do need room for the essentials: water bottle, leads, treats, a towel, and snacks (for both of you). A waterproof backpack or bum bag is your best friend. Bonus points if it has a built-in treat pouch.
Cosy, non-bulky layers
Because walking duvets are not a vibe.
Layer smart, not bulky. Think thermal base layers, fleece-lined leggings, breathable jumpers — the kind of outfit that keeps you warm without making you feel like the Michelin Man in a parka.
Waterproof long line lead and collar
For dogs, like Toffee, who believe hearing is optional, but love a muddy puddle!
Ideal for dogs that sometimes forget how to come back when called. A long line lead lets them explore without going fully feral. Safer, easier, and much less stressful. A waterproof long line like the ones I always use from MY Dogco, can be made in a length to suit you, handle or no handle, they come in an array of fabulous colours, but the best of all – they are waterproof and wipe clean.
A biothane or waterproof webbing collar is also my go to, whatever the weather. They are super stylish yet insanely practical.
Mud is temporary, good gear is forever
Cold, muddy dog walks are part of the great British autumn and winter experience – and with the right gear, they can actually be enjoyable. (Yes, even in horizontal rain.)
Whether you’re climbing local hills or doing a quick loop around the park, these autumn and winter dog walking essentials will keep you and your pup warm, dry, and ready for anything.
Huge thanks again to Rydale for the gifted Lady Gembling hiking boots and Yapham dog fleece — we don’t leave the house without them.
Now go forth, walk the dog, and conquer those puddles like the countryside queen you are.
Looking to get hiking? Check out our post on what we wish we knew before we started hiking with the dog.
