I'm a professional dog trainer. Here's what I need to walk the dog in winter.

Take a look at what I wear and carry for winter training walks!

Heavy Coat. Yes, I know I’m in central Texas. Yes, it does get cold enough for me to bundle up.

More power to you if you’re more of a shorts-and-sleeveless-in-40-degrees type.

Training Message Vest. I do a lot to avoid getting too close to distractions my dog isn’t read for, but my “Please Keep Back” vest gets me a little extra help from those around me too.

Bait Bag. I love my Rapid Rewards! I retired my first one after 6-8 years of use and only because it was getting grungy.

Bait Bag #2 + Whipped Cream. If the dog needs a SUPER high value treats like whipped cream or wet food, I carry a second bait bag for that container.

Treats. For walks, I’m carrying something high value: diced chicken, freeze dried raw, Ziwi Peak air-dried food, etc. Click here for more info about the different treats I recommend.

Field Trip Camera. Obviously not a necessity for the average owner, but I take video for owners when I’m working Day Training dogs.

Spray Shield. Citronella-based deterrent spray used in the event we get rushed by off-leash dogs. It’s NOT for the dog I’m working. Read more about how it saved the day with Rosebud here.

Sunglasses. I’m sensitive to light and cannot stand being without my sunglasses.

Fingerless Gloves. Exposing my hands to give treats in the cold, dry air is one of the toughest things about walking in the winter. Fingerless gloves offer some protection without making it too difficult to feed treats.

Hands-Free Leash (not pictured). Whether I’m using a 4, 6, or 25 foot leash, I recommend hands-free all the way! Clipped to the belt of my bait bag, it’s impossible to accidentally drop the leash and I can have both hands free for whatever I need. For “short-line” walks, I use my 8-Way by Bold Lead Designs.