Come rain, come shine: Rainy day dog walks

In East Sussex, rain is never too far away. From sudden seaside showers in Hastings to long, misty drizzles across the woodlands, wet weather is part of life here.

While some dogs (and humans!) might prefer to stay indoors, the truth is that many dogs still need, and love, their walks, no matter the forecast.

The good news? Rainy days don’t have to spoil the adventure. With a little preparation and the right mindset, you can make wet-weather dog walks just as enjoyable, enriching, and safe as those in the sunshine.

1. Dress the Part: Comfort and Practicality First

Rainy walks are much more enjoyable when you’re dressed for them. As the phrase goes, there’s no such thing as bad weather, just the wrong kit! Waterproof jackets and trousers make a huge difference, along with sturdy, grippy boots for muddy woodland paths. For dogs, consider a lightweight waterproof coat to keep the worst of the rain and mud at bay — especially for short-haired breeds or older dogs who may get cold more quickly.

Carrying a small microfibre towel in your bag (and a bigger one for the car) will help you dry your dog off before heading home. This simple step prevents that classic “wet dog shake” all over your car seats or hallway.

2. Pick the Right Routes for Wet Weather

Not all trails are equal on a rainy day. Cliff-top paths around the Fairlight and Ecclesbourne areas can become slippery and exposed, while many of the tracks turn into a mud bath. Instead, aim for woodland walks with good cover, such as Footland Wood or Brede High Wood, where trees provide shelter and paths stay firmer underfoot.

For shorter, easy-access walks, Alexandra Park in Hastings offers a mix of woodland sections and paved paths, making it a practical choice when the weather turns. Choosing the right trail means you’ll both come home muddy-but-happy rather than soaked and uncomfortable.

3. Make It Enriching, Not Just Exercise

On wet days, you don’t always need a long hike to tire your dog out. Instead, use the opportunity to focus on enrichment. Rain amplifies scents, which means woodland walks become a paradise for nose-to-the-ground sniffing. Let your dog take their time exploring, weaving through undergrowth, and pausing to investigate new smells.

You can also bring along a toy or two, a ball for a short sprint in an open clearing, or a tug toy for a quick game under cover. Turning the walk into a mix of exercise and play keeps it engaging even if you don’t go as far as usual.

4. Safety First on Slippery Trails

Wet weather increases the risk of slips and trips for both dogs and humans. Take your time on steep inclines or muddy descents, and consider keeping your dog on a long lead in areas where footing is difficult. Avoid fast-flowing streams or swollen rivers, while many dogs love a splash, strong currents can be dangerous after heavy rainfall.

Reflective collars, harnesses, or clip-on lights are also a smart addition. Rainy days often mean darker skies, and being visible on shared paths or near country lanes keeps you both safe.

5. The Joy of Post-Walk Rituals

One of the best things about a rainy walk? Coming home afterwards. Having a set post-walk routine makes the transition from soggy adventurer to cosy homebody smoother. Dry your dog thoroughly with a towel, check their paws for grit or mud clumps, and offer a warm, dry space to curl up in. For many dogs, that post-walk snooze is just as enjoyable as the walk itself.

For humans, there’s nothing better than peeling off damp layers, making a hot drink, and knowing you’ve braved the elements together. Rainy day walks may be messy, but they create memorable bonding moments, and a very satisfied dog.

Final Thoughts

Rain doesn’t have to dampen your dog’s adventures. With the right preparation, smart trail choices, and a focus on enrichment, wet-weather walks can be just as rewarding as any sunny-day stroll. In fact, many dogs thrive in the cooler, rain-fresh conditions, enjoying the scents, splashes, and freedom of quieter trails.

At Ollie’s Adventure Walks, we head out in all weathers, adapting each route to keep dogs safe, stimulated, and happy, come rain or shine.