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Top 12 best dog food brands: loved by pets, recommended by us and approved by vets

We've made sure to list the best dog walking boots for every journey you make this winter. After all, we love our furry friends, and we'd do just about anything for them, but when it's windy or rainy weather in the UK (as it more often than not is) the last thing we want to do is go for long walks and get our trainers covered in mud and dirt. Yuck! And, it's such an ordeal to get them clean. Some well-made and reliable dog walking boots are :a[dog walking accessories]{href='https://takeabreak.co.uk/pets/dogs/dog-walking-accessories/' } that all owners should have in their boots.

## Best dog walking boots at a glance {#h-best-dog-walking-boots-at-a-glance}

• **Best dog walking boots for men**: Adventurer Men's Waterproof Hiking Boots - :a[View at Mountain Warehouse]{href='https://www.mountainwarehouse.com/adventurer-mens-waterproof-boots-p43901.aspx/black/' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}  
• **Best budget dog walking shoes for men**: Quechua Men's Waterproof Mountain Walking Shoes - :a[View at Decathlon]{href='https://www.decathlon.co.uk/p/men-s-waterproof-mountain-walking-shoes-mh100-mid-black/_/R-p-307814?mc=8553119&amp;c=black_grey_blue' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}  
• **Best women’s dog walking boots**: Adventurer Women’s Waterproof Walking Boots - :a[View at Mountain Warehouse]{href='https://www.mountainwarehouse.com/adventurer-womens-waterproof-boots-p43894.aspx/black/' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}  
• **Best budget women’s dog walking boots**: Wyre Valley Women’s Waterproof Memory Foam Boots - :a[View on Amazon UK]{href='https://www.amazon.co.uk/Waterproof-Genuine-Breathable-Trekking-Numeric_6/dp/B0878SYTSL/?tag=tabparticle1256-21' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'}

Whenever it's raining or cold, our willingness to go outside decreases significantly, but as we have a duty to our furry friends, we need to walk them so the least we can do is make sure our feet stay warm and dry. A straightforward way to do this is by purchasing a brilliant pair of :a[dog walking boots for women]{href='https://takeabreak.co.uk/pets/dogs/womens-dog-walking-boots/' }, as these will be impermeable and durable, keeping your feet dry throughout the wetter conditions.

Not sure where to begin with investing in a pair of durable wellies, walking boots or hiking shoes? We've got you. Whether you're looking for ourself or someone else, we have some great :a[men's walking boots]{href='https://takeabreak.co.uk/pets/dogs/dog-walking-boots-men/' } for dog walking. Or, why not gift a pair to your loved one for a special occasion? Below, we've answered all of your frequently barked questions - and written a guide of what you need for the best dog walks.

## Verdict: Which is the best? {#h-verdict-which-is-the-best}

We recommend Mountain Warehouse's Adventurer Boots for dog walking. Waterproof, sturdy and supportive, you can grab a pair for :a[men]{href='https://www.mountainwarehouse.com/adventurer-mens-waterproof-boots-p43901.aspx/black/' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'} and :a[women]{href='https://www.mountainwarehouse.com/adventurer-womens-waterproof-boots-p43894.aspx/black/' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow'} - with some colour variety, also.

For this dog walking boots buying guide, we spoke to Mountain Warehouse, who has offered some useful :a[fitting advice]{href='https://www.cotswoldoutdoor.com/the-knowledge/walking/boot-fitting-guide.html' target='_blank' rel='noreferrer noopener nofollow'} to support your feet (and ankles) on your dog walking adventures:

**Specific requirements** \- can be waterproof qualities, durability, material, fit and support.

**Measure** - your feet. After all, the size of your walking boots may differ from your regular shoes. Clothes sizing can vary in brands and styles, as you may know. Accurate sizing is very important. It involves placing an A4 sheet of paper flat against the wall and measuring from heel to toe.

**Socks** - need to offer "great cushioning to reduce impact and prevent blister hotspots," says the brand. Socks for dog walking should ideally be made from moisture-wicking materials. These will keep your feet happy. The right pair of socks (with your shoes) will make your next trip comfortable.

**Checking the fit** - whilst standing, suggests Mountain Warehouse. Check "you have enough space between the end of your toes and the front of the footbed - this should be about a finger's width." After all, your weight can cause your feet to expand. Plus, insoles can prevent a significant size change.

**Lace your shoes up** - securely and tight enough, leaving space for a fingertip under where the laces cross.

**Check the volume** - says Mountain Warehouse. But, what does this mean? This refers to the "quantity of space your foot takes up in the boot compared to the remaining space.". If they're too tight, it means there is too little volume. Whereas. too much volume can cause creasing at the flex point. Luckily, there's a hack. Volume can be altered by wearing thicker socks, switching up lacing techniques or a new footbed.

### What should I bring on my dog walks? {#h-what-should-i-bring-on-my-dog-walks}

Whether you're a new dog parent or a veteran, there are a few essential products to bring with you in a trusty :a[dog-walking bag]{href='https://takeabreak.co.uk/pets/dogs/best-dog-walking-bags-uk/' } when walking your dog:a[]{href='https://takeabreak.co.uk/pets/dogs/best-dog-walking-bags-uk/' }you might want to consider bringing:

:a[**Dog waste bags**]{href='https://takeabreak.co.uk/pets/dogs/biodegradable-dog-poop-bags/' }: For obvious reasons! Nobody likes it when dog mess is left everywhere.

**Dog lead, dog walking belt and/or dog harness:** You'll want to be able to have your :a[dog on a leash]{href='https://takeabreak.co.uk/pets/dogs/best-dog-leads/' } for some period of the dog walks, especially if you're around busy roads.

**Treats:** Depending on what treats your pooch likes, this helps to keep them at your side on the dog walk, especially if you're training with recall. Read our :a[doggie training treat]{href='https://takeabreak.co.uk/pets/dogs/best-dog-training-treats/' } buyer's guide for more info.

**Water:** Just in case they get thirsty as you want to keep your dog hydrated.

**Any accessories**: This can range from a :a[dog whistle]{href='https://takeabreak.co.uk/pets/dogs/best-dog-whistle/' } and some sort of ball or :a[dog toy]{href='https://takeabreak.co.uk/pets/dogs/interactive-dog-toys/' }: This helps to keep your dog close by and entertained.

Most dogs will benefit at least once a day - like us humans, they need their healthy exercise too! Smaller dogs should be looking at once a day but bigger dogs can also enjoy going out three times, so it really depends on what breed you have. As well as this, when dogs get older, they may not be as excited about going out as frequently, so you may want to think about that too.

_:a[Piper Huxley]{href='https://takeabreak.co.uk/author/piper-huxley/' } is a Homes, Garden and Wellness Product Writer for Take a Break, specialising in pet health. When she’s not barking about dog supplements, she’s online devouring cat content._

The best dog walking boots for every journey

**_I thought my hubby’s broken ankle would soon mend. But his agony led him to take drastic decision. By Michelle Ward, 38_**

Breathing in deeply, I stopped to stand up straight.

Overawed, I drank in the towering mountains and dipping valleys.

‘It’s amazing,’ I said to my husband Dan.

We were battling high altitude on the Inca Trail.

We both loved hiking and walking on holidays, and had tramped for miles in Costa Rica, the Caribbean and Europe.

Now we were adding the trek in Peru to our list.

Back home in Swindon, Wiltshire, we were ready to plan our next trip.

But one morning when I was at work, Dan sent me a photo of his ankle. It looked swollen.

‘What have you done?’ I asked, after I burst through the hospital doors.

Dan worked as a welder. His left ankle had taken the brunt when he’d crashed to the floor.

‘It’s broken,’ confirmed the doctor.

And it was a nasty break. He needed an operation to have screws inserted.

Back home, he hobbled around on crutches, grimacing in pain.

Two months later, he was still in difficulty.

‘It’s taking a long time to heal,’ I said.

Then one day, he gestured to his ankle and said: ‘Look at this.’

Antibiotics were prescribed for an infection, but it failed to clear up. Medics thought his body had rejected the metal screws.

Seven months on from his fall, Dan had the screws removed.

But afterwards, he said: ‘The surgery hasn’t worked.’

He had developed complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) — permanent severe and debilitating pain in his leg.

And he still couldn’t put any weight on his foot, so relied on crutches.

We began to research CRPS and Dan said: ‘There could be one solution.’

‘But it could get better,’ I said, upset.

‘You’re not the one in pain,’ replied Dan.

In the meantime, he wanted to raise awareness for Burning Nights CRPS Support.

‘I’m going to do the Three Peaks Challenge,’ he announced, and I gaped at him.

He was still on crutches and in unbearable pain. But he was determined.

Two months later, we began our slow ascent up Ben Nevis.

Rain battered our faces, cold nipped at our hands, but Dan kept going.

Eventually he began to tire, and I could see the pain in his foot was taking its toll.

‘Let’s just sit down for a minute,’ he said.

I passed him a sandwich and we sat for a while. Then he hauled himself up again.

‘Right, come on then,’ he said firmly.

Through the pelting rain, my heart swelled in pride for him.

But I couldn’t put the pain etched on Dan’s face as he’d struggled up the mountain out of my mind.

It had taken us nine hours to get up and down again.

Next, we drove to the lakes ready to climb Scafell Pike.

But at 6.30am, sitting in the car in torrential rain, Dan reluctantly said: ‘I don’t think we can do this, it’s not safe.’

He was right, so we drove to another spot in Cumbria and went up two smaller climbs instead.

This time, Dan’s crutches skidded on the loose rubble. Suddenly, he stumbled and was forced to put his foot down to stop himself from falling.

Agony flooded his features. But he composed himself and carried on determinedly to the top, raising £2900 for the charity.

Back home, he said: ‘I’m not going to get better. I’m going to see if I can have it done.’

‘Maybe it will get better,’ I said, pleading.

As the amputation operation approached, doctors said there was a 50 per cent chance that nerve damage could still be present afterwards.

Two-and-a-half years after he’d fallen from the ladder, Dan had his leg removed from below the knee.

I searched his face anxiously when he woke up.

‘It’s worked,’ he said, relief shining from his eyes.

Two months later he was fitted with a prosthetic.

He’s planning to hike up Scafell later this year after the dreadful weather conditions prevented him earlier.

‘I’ve got an idea,’ he said one day.

I listened to him and replied: ‘I’m up for it.’

We’ve booked to climb Kilimanjaro next year to raise money for the Limbless Association and Mind to celebrate Dan’s 40th birthday.

My man-mountain will never stop scaling the heights.

_**• For more information visit justgiving.com/team/danskilimanjarochallenge**_

Hubby had his leg amputated after charity mountain climb

Delicious meals are possible on a budget. Our cheap meal ideas include ingredients that can be found in most budget supermarkets, so tasty meals are within reach. They range from cheap family dinners, ideas for 2, one-pot dishes, after school or work snacks, vegetarian, fakeaways, classic recipes and meal prep ideas to freeze ahead or use up your leftovers. Many of the recipes can be cooked in an airfryer or slow cooker instead of the oven – saving on hefty utility bills.

Our recipes cover all bases, from cooking from scratch, to using clever tricks and cheat’s products – ultimately, creative recipes that prove you can still have tasty, delicious meals on the table.

All meals have been costed by choosing the best price from all major budget supermarkets, and prices are kept up to date on a regular basis. Just make sure your cupboard is stocked up with the basics, such as oil, stock cubes, dried herbs and spices.

1 :a[Ultimate sausage rolls]{href='https://takeabreak.co.uk/lifestyle/food-recipes/ultimate-sausage-rolls/' }

These bite-sized sausage rolls combine pork sausages and beef mince, as well as barbecue sauce, all encased in a ready-rolled puff pastry. Prefect for an after-school or mid-morning snack, and can be frozen for up to two months.

2 :a[Roast vegetable soup]{href='http://Make the most of leftover roasted veg by cooking up this Moroccan-inspired soup, made all in one pan. Perfect for flasks or a cheap warm evening meal with hunks of baguette.https://takeabreak.co.uk/lifestyle/food-recipes/roast-vegetable-soup/' }

Serves 4 Takes 35min Cost per serving 25p

Make the most of leftover roasted veg by cooking up this Moroccan-inspired soup, made all in one pan. Perfect for flasks or a cheap warm evening meal with hunks of baguette.

3 :a[Mini chorizo & courgette frittatas]{href='https://takeabreak.co.uk/lifestyle/food-recipes/mini-chorizo-courgette-frittatas/' }

Makes 6 Takes 45min, plus cooling, Cost per frittata 42p

These mini frittatas are perfect for lunch boxes and picnics. Made in an everyday muffin tin, they can be whipped up in no time. Use mushrooms instead of chorizo for a veggie alternative.

4 :a[Spaghetti Bolognese cups]{href='https://takeabreak.co.uk/lifestyle/food-recipes/spaghetti-bolognese-cups/' }

Makes 12 Takes 50min, plus standing Cost per cup 46p

Great to pack up for days out and tasty snacks, these Bolognese cups can be enjoyed hot or cold. Using storecupboard Bolognese pasta sauce, they are also delicious served for dinner with roasted potato wedges.

5 :a[Spicy gnocchi]{href='https://takeabreak.co.uk/lifestyle/food-recipes/spicy-gnocchi/' }

Serves 4 Takes 30min Cost per serving 58p

The ultimate comfort food, guaranteed to fill hungry tums, toss gnocchi into a spicy bacon tomato sauce and you have the perfect lunch or dinner.

6 :a[Meat-free burger]{href='https://takeabreak.co.uk/lifestyle/food-recipes/meat-free-burger/' }

Serves 4 Takes 30min, plus chilling Cost per seving 59p

A healthy burger that is filling too. Using storecupboard staples, this veggie burger is whizzed up in minutes, and is packed with goodness to boot.

7:a[Buffalo-style chicken wings]{href='https://takeabreak.co.uk/lifestyle/food-recipes/buffalo-style-chicken-wings/' }

Serves 4 Takes 55min Cost per serving 80p

Chicken wings are cheap as chips and make for great finger or ‘picky’ value meal. The Buffalo sauce is made of basic storecupboard ingredients, and the whole lot can be cooked in the airfryer.

8 :a[Slow cooker cottage pie]{href='https://takeabreak.co.uk/lifestyle/food-recipes/slow-cooker-cottage-pie/' }

Serves 6 Takes 3hr 45min Cost per serving 82p

This classic meal is a perfect comforting family dinner, all made in a slow cooker. It’s perfect as an alternative to a Sunday roast.

9 :a[Macaroni cheese bake]{href='https://takeabreak.co.uk/lifestyle/food-recipes/macaroni-cheese-bake/' }

Serves 4 Takes 40min Cost per serving; 91p

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