Outdoor-Inspired Gifts for Dogs and Dog Owners

Traditionally, the holiday season is a time to mingle indoors. Holiday brunches, fireplaces, and Christmas dinners are just a few activities that beckon us inside. But that's the perfect reason to remember that your pup needs ample time outdoors! Rather than grazing around the holiday dinner table, your dog should be walking, snowshoeing, or skiing right alongside you during these brisk winter months.

That is why we decided to create a list of our favorite outdoor-inspired gifts for dogs and dog owners. They will have anticipating day break and getting you and your dog outside where you belong!

Best Outdoor-Inspired Gifts for Dog Owners

1. Donation to Trail or Park Programs in the Dog's Name. 

For an incredibly unique and thoughtful gift, why not donate to charity in your or your loved one's dog's name? You can donate to canine programs, The Humane Society, or better yet...off-leash parks in the area or trail organizations. If you frequent the local swim holes, trails, or dog parks, why not give a little back to those places that have brought so much joy to you and your dog?

2. Clip-On Dog Light.

Any active outdoor dog owner doesn't let low light get in the way of their jog, hike, or walk. With a huge variety of low-priced dog lights on the market, this makes the perfect stocking stuffer for the outdoorsman's dog! Just turn on and head out, no matter what time of morning or night!

3. Instant-Leash and Collar In One.

Outdoor dogs know: adventure could be lurking around any corner. Dogs and active humans don't want to be restricted to an adventure because they forgot to bring a leash with them. With the Rad Dog Release 'N Run, the leash is ready whenever your dog is! That's because the leash winds neatly inside the dogs collar, accessible instantly with a pull of the handle!

4. A Good Pair of Gloves.

There's no such things as pockets for active dog owners! Even if you are able to find an off-leash trail to run, ski, hike, or snowshoe, there's no chance you'll be able to tuck those hands away while making a mad dash through the wilderness! That's why a good set of gloves can never be overrated--for active dog owners and just plain active outdoorsmen alike!

5. Dog Waste Bags.

Because no one ever saw a dog use a port-a-potty! Waste bags are a necessary evil. We must keep our trails and outdoor spaces clean by picking up after our dogs, and as any good dog owner will tell you: you can never have too many doggie waste bags! Splurge this Christmas and buy your dog or fellow dog owner some Rad Dog Waste Bags. They are made from recycled plant starch, so you can reduce environmental pollutants caused by dog waste while also reducing your carbon paw print!

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Five Clever DIY Dog Costumes Made from Rad Dog Gear

Why should kids get to have all the fun on Halloween? Dogs are part of the family too! So, we decided to tap into our inner Pinterest and come up with some clever ideas for homemade dog costumes using our very own Rad Dog gear as part of the costume.

Here's what we came up with:

1. The Ball and Chain. Use a black Rad Dog Double Duty Leash and attach plastic "ball and chain" to the end of it (found at many dollar stores and costume shops, or just paint some foam ones from the craft store). Let your dog carry their own burden this Halloween!

2. Cold Weather Rescue Dog. Attach a mini-keg to your St. Bernard or Malamute by zip-tying it to their Release 'n Run leash/collar in one. Bonus points because you don't have to attach a separate leash to their costumed neck wear. You can even fill the keg with water, and carry around a pocket bowl for on the move, trick-or-treat hydration!

3. Skeleton T-Shirt. Cut your Rad Dog Unleashed T-Shirt into a festive skeleton or ghost design for you or your dog to wear. Or, make matching ones!

4. Doggie Park Ranger. Arm your dog with Rad Dog Waste Bags, a "Pick up Your Poop" sign, and a park ranger hat, and "Poof!" You have a clever, funny, and relevant dog Halloween costume. Just be sure to practice what you preach, and "leave no trace" behind on the sidewalks. 

5. Red Cross Doggie. What better costume than a dog willing to help another dog in need? Just add a red cross to their back, a feed bag full of emergency assistance food, and a stethoscope and you've got a First Aid doggie!

Remember, as with any article of clothing, gear, or accessory, be sure there is nothing attached to your dog's costume that could cause them any harm or danger such as loose pieces around their neck,  choking hazards, or items that will endanger their mobility. Keep a watchful eye on your dog when in costume, and, as tempting as it may be, keep them out of the candy bowl!

Happy Halloween, Raddies! Woof or Treat!

Trail Safety Q&A: Dog Injury Prevention and Treatment

The Fall is the perfect time to get out and explore the local trails: the leaves are changing, the temperatures are cooler, and traffic on the trails is reduced.

But before heading out, remember that no matter what the time of year, injuries and hazards are lurking.

Because dogs lack common sense about these sorts of hazards (they are more curious about the rattling snake than they are scared of it!) it's important to know the most common types of trail injuries and how to treat and prevent them. 

Here are five common questions about dog injury prevention and treatment on the trail.


Can dogs overexert themselves? 

Yes!  Just like humans, dogs can certainly overexert themselves. This is especially true when the weather is hot, but overexertion can happen even when it's snowing outside! Because dogs don't sweat, they rely on their ability to "pant" as a way to cool down their systems. Evaporation from their panting mouths acts as a air condition for dogs, so it is incredible important to keep them hydrated and tend to the first signs of overexertion. 

How do I know if my dog is tired?

There are signs for overexertion and/or heat stroke:

1. Extreme panting
2. Body temperature over 104
3. Dark or bright red gums and tongue
4. Clumsy stupor
5. Diarrhea or vomiting
6. Seizures
7. Change in behavior

What are some basic injury prevention techniques?

1. Keep them on the trail. Just like humans, dogs can encounter potential hazards off-trail such as wildlife, rattlesnakes, burs, and uneven terrain.

2. Know their limits. Also like humans, dogs need to progressively work on endurance before tackling a major hike. Slowly work your dog's fitness and endurance up before pushing them on an extended adventure.

3. Be prepared. It's always a good idea to bring a few emergency items with you just in case such as water, a collapsible dog bowl, a leash, bandages, and an emergency guide.


What are the most common types of dog injuries?

There are a variety of injuries fairly common to dogs while hiking, backpacking, and trail running. Some of those injuries are due to the physical demand on the dog: ligament strains or tears, bruising, or exhaustion. Other common (and mostly preventable) injuries include lacerations, abrasions, worn paws, paw injuries, and torn nails.  The final type of trail injuries are those produced by outside hazards: snake bites, ticks, mosquitoes, and other wildlife encounters. Having your dog on voice command can help keep them on the trail and out of harm's way.

What do I do if my dog is injured on the trail?

Since there are so many different types of injuries and treatments, we recommend bringing along a pocket emergency guide for pets when on an outing with your pet. Other options include useful pet first aid apps for your phone like this one from the American Red Cross. 

Remember, part of your adventure is preparedness to keep you and your dog out of harm's way. By understanding the basics of injury prevention and first aid, you can ensure a much more worry-free adventure!

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Dog Dehydration and Heat Stroke During the Dog Days of Summer

Do you know the term "Dog Days of Summer" dates back to the Romans, who blamed the "Dog Star" Sirius on the hot Northern Hemisphere days? 

Currently in the middle of the hot, sultry dog days of summer, it's a good time to remember that dogs are just as susceptible to the heat as humans, and they need to be protected from heat stroke, heat exhaustion, and dehydration.

Heat stroke in dogs can be the byproduct of many preventable circumstances:

• Leaving dog in a hot space (like a car or garage when the temperature is above 72°F)
• Overexertion
• Humidity
• Lack of shade

If you feel a dog has become overheated or exausted, check for the following symptoms of dog heat stroke:

• Excessive panting or difficulty breathing
• Bright red, blue or gray gums
• Rapid, increased heart rate
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Anxiety
• Body temperature over 104°F
• Confusion and/or disorientation
• Seizures

 If the dog exibits signs of heat stroke, do the following immediately:

1. Move the dog to a cool, shaded, or indoor area
2. Submerge the dog in cold water or wet down with a hose (stop the cooling process once the dog's temperature reaches 104°F)
3. Encourage the dog to drink water
4. Call your veterinarian for advice and further treatment

The best thing you can do to prevent heat exaustion and heat stroke during the dog days of summer is to prevent overheating and dehydration in the first place.  Consider exercise in the morning or evenings when the temperature is cooler, provide plenty of accessible fresh water, provide a shady place for your dog outside or keep them inside during the hottest times of the day, and exercise in shady, water-friendly areas where the dog can jump in the water to cool off as necessary. 

In addition, always provide fresh water for your four-legger when outside to prevent them from drinking from waterways that could potentially be contaminated with Giardia or other diseases and bacteria.  The easiest way to do this is to pack along the small collapsible water bowl and share from your own water source.

The summer was meant to be enjoyed with your dog...it's even suggested in the alignment of the stars! So don't let the heat prevent you from a little puppy-human bonding time.  Just be smart about when and where you take your dog adventuring!

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DIY: Make a Paracord Dog Collar

If you've ever frequented the outdoors, you understand how important it is to be prepared in case of emergency.  I mean, haven't we all seen that James Franco movie, 127 Hours, based on a true story?

So, increasingly, we've been noticing paracord survival bracelets on the counters of many outdoor retailers.  We've long thought, "Wouldn't that make a killer dog collar?" not only because it just looks sweet, but it also makes a lot of sense!  Look what you could do with all that paracord, and you don't even have to wear it yourself!

So, we started searching for DIY paracord bracelets online, and found that you could basically make an larger version of a paracord bracelet as a dog collar.  And then we found this online tutorial for a DIY paracord dog collar, and well, we just had to share it!

So do it Raddies!  Take a rainy summer day, or maybe one that is too hot, and grab yourself some paracord, and give your dog a killer new look!

What you'll need:

1. Paracord (you will need a foot of paracord for every inch of collar)
2. Buckle
3. D-ring
4. Scissors
5. Lighter

How to do it:

That's all there is to it RAD dogs! Once you've completed your DIY paracord collar project, share it with us on our Facebook Page!

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Enhance The Dog-Owner Experience

In the spring, you can change activities as quickly as the weather changes.  One minute, you are taking a leisurely mid-day stroll around the park, the next you are dodging a downpour while hiking.  You may even get a few sunny days on the beach, river, or lake.
Whatever the weather and wherever the geographic region, there's one thing we know about dog owners: if they are out adventuring, they want their dog alongside them. We call it the "dog owner experience." It's why no dog owner ever has to walk, hike, or adventure alone. It's an outing with your best friend.

To make sure nothing gets in the way of a dog and their owner venturing to the outdoors together, the owners of Rad Dog (Brian and Paula) developed the Release 'N Run dog leash (and collar) in one.  They felt that dog and owner adventures would be enhanced if the dog's gear was as ready to go as the dog itself.

Sick of fumbling around for gear and holding a dog leash during outdoor adventures, Paula and Brian developed a "grab-and-go" leash.

Have you been stuck searching for your leash, or left holding the leash once out on the trail?  Then consider the Release 'N Run dog leash and collar in one. It was developed to make a better outdoor dog owner experience, with these five advantages in mind:

1. All the Gear You Need Right Where You Left Your Dog.  

No more fumbling around for a leash, collar, or any other gear.  Everything you need is right where you left your dog, so adventures are as easy as calling out Fido's name and slipping out the front door.  In fact, your dog will probably be waiting on you, wondering why it takes so long to tie your shoes and fill up your water bottle.

2. All the Function, Nothing Extra. 

Rad Dog is gear for those who like to travel light.  So we created a leash and collar in one that provides everything you need to grab your dog and go, and nothing more.  No tricky clips. No leash adjustments. No heavy equipment. Just the simplicity of a collar with the function of 4-foot retractable leash to use whenever leash activities beckon.

3. Lightweight, But Surprising Strength.

Because we know our customers like to travel light, you can be sure we made our Release 'N Run as lightweight as possible--ounces in fact! But don't let that fool you into thinking this can't hold your big, rad dog!  The Release 'N Run, made with climbers webbing and Cordura® and Spectra® cord (one of the world's strongest and lightest fibers), is strong enough for use on dogs weighing up to 110 pounds. In addition, the internal retracting mechanism on our retractable collar/leash in one, is made for maximum strength and durability.  In fact, it was originally designed for the tethering of tools and weapons for the police and military.

4.  There When You Need It, Gone When You Don't.

When out on walk, run, or ride, who wants to be stuck holding the leash? What do you do with it once your dog is free to wander?  Well, you can tie it around your waist, or train your dog to hold it in its mouth, OR...you can simply let go and let the leash on the Release 'N Run retract back into the dog's collar.  Once fully retracted, the sleeve covers retracting mechanism and handle, so your dog is free to roam without getting caught up. So it's a collar most of the time, and leash when you need it.

5. Ready in a Flash.

Outings with your dog should be as spontaneous and hassle-free as possible.  What's better than an impromptu jump out of the car to explore or a last-minute stroll around the block?  With the Release 'N Run, your dog is always prepared in a flash for the next great adventure.

Likewise, once out on your adventure, your dog can go from meandering to under leash control in seconds.

Many great adventures are unplanned. You and your dog can be ready to take on the next great spontaneous adventure with the Release 'N Run collar and dog leash in one. There's no need to plan ahead, with the Release 'N Run dog collar, everything you need is right where you left your dog.

Buy the Release 'N Run

P.S. Did we mention it comes in purple too?

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DIY Homemade (Organic) Dog Shampoo

Organic:

•   Of or relating to an organism, a living entity.

•   Produced or involving production without the use of chemical fertilizers, pesticides, or other artificial agents.

What, if anything, is more organic than a dog?  In the wild, they live off the earth.  They spend their days in the sun, mud, rain, and snow. They are happy sleeping on a bed of dirt.  And, they cleanse their body naturally, with the help of their fur and a little earth.

As beautiful as this naturalism is, there comes a time when even the most organic dog owners says it's time to give them a bath. When that time arrives (and we are thinking mud season probably qualifies as "that time"), why not give your dog an all-natural cleanse with these organic, homemade dog shampoo recipes?

Easy Organic Dog Shampoo Recipe

• Liquid organic/all-natural hand soap or dish soap
• White vinegar 

Mix equal parts liquid soap and white vinegar in a shampoo bottle (bonus points if you re-use an old shampoo bottle).  Remember that the color and scent of the dish soap will affect the outcome of the shampoo, so we suggest using a color-free or light-colored, nice smelling liquid soap.

All-Natural, Organic Homemade Dog Shampoo Recipe

• 1C oatmeal - OR - oat flour
• 1C baking soda or 1/2C of liquid castile soap (veggie fat cleanser)
• 1Qt of warm water

 Using a food processor or blender, make a powder out of the oatmeal (you can skip this step if using oat flour). Add flour mixture to the baking soda/castile soap and water and mix in a large container with a tight lid.  Shake well and use immediately. Mixture should sit on dog's coat and skin at least five minutes before rinsing.

You can modify this recipe by adding coconut, sweet almond, jojoba or olive oil to the mixture to provide moisture to the skin, and to help de-tangle and condition the fur.  You can also add a couple drops of aloe vera gel or essential oils to the mixture. 


Tough play means dirt-soaked fur. Make a shampoo that is as organic as the earth that got your dog dirty! Stay squeaky-clean fellow Rad Dogs--but don't be afraid to get a little dirty, too!

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Rad Dog Review on Summer Must Have Products Segment

We are so excited that TWO, yes, TWO Rad Dog products were featured on the Ozarks Local Live at 4 News in their segment "Florida/Summer Must Have Products."

We were excited to hear some of the positive things they had to say about the Rad Dog Release 'N Run dog leash/collar combination, and the Pocket Bowl foldable dog bowl, such as:

"You are ready to go on a walk wherever you go."

"When the dog wants to do something by itself, you can let go of the leash."  

"You know what's cool about that too? Jet does not like a leash. So, if this was already on her, we don't have to chase her down to put a leash on." 

It's so great to see that consumers and reviewers understand just why we invented these dog products!  

To view the segment, just click below and go to the minute of the segment. 

View it here

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Training Your Dog for the Trail: How to mountain bike with your dog

What dogs were meant to do: bound through giant snow drifts, chase squirrels off-trail, and jump into mud with the enthusiasm of kindergartener at recess.

What dogs are generally not so good at: staying on-trail, staying on-course, and minding their own furry business. 

As much as we would love for our dogs to meander freely down congesting trails and paths, we all know that when a dog is off-leash, there's a good probability of rodent-hunting, tail-sniffing, and puddle diving.  So, we opt to keep them on-leash instead. 

If the requirement for your dog to be on-leash has you limiting your trail activities, don't fret!  With the right dog gear for the trail and a little practice, you can enjoy the trail with your dog any way you like it: on foot, on bike, on skis, and on snowshoes.

To help you along your adventure, consider these Rad Dog tips for taking your dog on the most difficult of canine trail adventures: mountain biking.

Tips for Training Your Trail Dog to Mountain Bike With You:

1. Train your pup early.  The saying, "can't teach an old dog new tricks" maybe incorrect, but there's some truth to the fact that dogs are easier to train initially than to retrain when they are older.  So, if you can, start leash training your dog at a young age. 

2. Leash train using baby puppy steps. Leash training should start out slow and short while your puppy's bones are developing. Even with older dogs, there is a "break-in" period where your dog needs to get in shape before a long trail adventure. Start by walking, then move to a light jog, working your way up to a full run.

3. Switch to a short leash and bike. When your pup is ready, find a quiet place free of congestion to train your dog to run with your bike.  Using a short leash, run your dog alongside the gutter-side of your bike, about a foot away from your handlebars as you pedal along. Tug the leash anytime your dog drifts away from the bike, paying close attention as you approach other people, dogs, cars, and other distractions.

4. Get verbal.  As you train your canine to run alongside your bike, be sure to give them verbal cues as well as physical cues from pulling on the leash.  Words like "Haw!" "Go!" "Right!" "Easy!" and "Whoa!" all help communicate to your dog the correct response. This also helps form a pattern of behavior and command that is useful both on, and off-leash.

5. Test drive on a wide, empty trail. After you have established a consistent pattern of behavior where the dog is able to accompany you alongside the bike in a predictable manner, you can give a wide trail a go.  Select a low-traffic, easy, and wide trail where the dog can run alongside you with few distractions.  After a lot of practice and consistency, your dog may be ready to run with you off-leash. A dog collar-and-leash-in-one, such as the Rad Dog Release 'N Run can offer you the flexibility of leash when you need it, without the added hassle.  When a leash is required, simply pull the handle on the collar of the dog, freeing the leash for use.  More utility, less gear!

6. Time to go singletrack. As you and your dog get more familiar with trail riding together, you will eventually want to teach them to run behind you so you can ride singletrack. This is done easier if your dog is on voice command because you can yell "heel" as the dog heads towards your back tire.  One of our sources suggests this approach to training your dog to run singletrack (though we have not personally tried this): "Attach a five-foot pole to the leash. Start with the dog alongside you. Say "Heel!" and move the pole back to position the dog behind your rear tire."

There are a variety of great resources out there from avid mountain bikers who take to the trail with their dog regularly.  For more information, check out this article by Utah Mountain Biking, "Training Your Trail Dog."

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