When exercising with dogs, you can't avoid gear getting dirty and worn. With a little effort, however, you can ensure your gear lasts longer and remains pleasant to use time after time.
Regular washing and cleaning
It's nicer to be in clean and odorless gear, but dirt and sand also wear out gear prematurely. Sandy locks can jam and muddy harnesses can chafe the dog's skin. So remember regular cleaning!
- Clean off the worst mud, for example from pulling gear, immediately after use by shaking/brushing/rinsing it.
- Always check the manufacturer's washing instructions first.
- Most harnesses, jackets, and booties can be washed normally in a washing machine at 30°C. Avoid high spin speeds and tumble drying. If unsure and no manufacturer washing instructions are found, hand washing is always the safest choice.
- Use a laundry bag with the smallest items and gear containing buckles or metal parts.
- Dry thoroughly.
Regular inspection
Regularly check the condition of your gear: are the straps frayed and does everything work as it should? Fix the fault or get a new one in time before damage happens in the wrong place!
- Before every walk, check the condition of leashes and dog gear for fraying and wear. Pay special attention to attachment points prone to abrasion, e.g., around locks and bike antennas.
- Check locks and buckles for cracks and looseness. They should lock firmly and without sticking. Often they can be replaced and spare parts are available – replace if necessary.
- Condition of Velcro straps and loops? If, for example, the end of a Velcro strap shows signs of fraying, cut a new clean edge and melt it closed. This way you stop fraying in time!
Storage
Does everything have its own place where you always know the gear can be found, even in the rush of everyday life? For example, pulling gear is handy to keep in its own gear bag, easy to grab quickly but separate from everyday stuff.
- It's raining and dark outside, but you need to go for a walk? Make life easier and keep your gear quickly accessible – you'll save time and nerves when the right gear is found immediately!
- Let the dog pull only in pulling gear. When going to and from training, walk the dog on an everyday collar or harness; the pulling gear fits neatly in a backpack or bag.
- Store equipment clean, dry, and well-ventilated.