The wet winter walk: what to take with you

In winter the walk doesn't get shorter, it just gets wetter and darker. Most of what makes it easier is small stuff you only notice when you've forgotten it. Here's what's worth having with you.

1. Be seen

From November the after-work walk often happens in the dark, and country lanes rarely have pavements. Reflective detail on your dog — on a harness, collar or lead — means headlights pick them up from further away, and from the side as well as from behind. A small clip-on light is worth adding if you walk on unlit roads. Wear something reflective yourself, too.

Our pick: the Form Harness has reflective piping along the seams, and the Form Elastic Lead has reflective stitching along its length.

2. A layer for the weather

Not every dog needs a coat, but short-coated, small, young and older dogs feel the cold and wet more. A light rain shell keeps the back and chest dry on wet walks; a warm coat is for days that are cold as well as wet. Fit matters more than thickness — it should cover the back without restricting the shoulders. Not sure your dog needs one? Read does my dog need a coat?

Our pick: the Form Storm Coat for wet days, the Form Winter Coat for cold ones, and the Form Snowline Suit for snow.

3. Hands free

Gloves, a torch, a lead and a phone is already one hand too many. A waist pouch for poo bags and a treat pouch that clips to your belt leave both hands free for stiles and gates.

Our pick: the Form Waist Pouch and Form Treat Pouch, with a roll of Form Waste Bags.

4. Water, even in winter

Dogs still need a drink on long walks when it's cold — and puddles are not the best option. A bottle and a bowl that fold flat weigh almost nothing.

Our pick: the Form Travel Bottle or the clip-on Form Pocket Bowl.

5. The drive home

The muddiest part of a winter walk often ends up on the back seat. Keep an old towel in the boot for paws and belly, and cover the seat before they jump in.

Our pick: the Form Car Seat Cover, then the Form Bed Mat by the radiator once you're back.

After the walk

Rinse mud off harnesses, leads and coats with cool water and let them dry naturally, away from direct heat — radiators can stiffen fabric and warp clips. Check paws for grit and salt from gritted roads, and dry between the toes.

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