Stories

A curated collection of stories to inspire you and your dog to get out there.

  • The Value of a River

    Jilkaat Heeni, the Tlingit name for a river that others know as the Chilkat River, means “Storage Container for Salmon.” The Tlingit people have stewarded the Chilkat Valley since time immemorial. Its watershed offers sustenance and habitat for both wildlife and people living in the nearby Klukwan and Haines communities.

    Chris carries fishing pole walking along river while dog runs behind in Float Coat.
  • New Season Sneak Peek: My Dog Is My...

    Ready for a sneak peek at what's new for Spring and Summer 2021? We’re taking a deeper look at the role dogs play in getting us outside as we navigate life’s journey. 

    Dog in switchbak harness walks along hiking trail.
  • My Dog is My Sidecar

    At a time when my life and my future felt like they had shattered into pieces and I was trying to pick them back up, Bernie was the furry, steadfast presence of love and thrill that allowed me to hold it together and eventually build something even better than I had. Bernie is always by my side. He’s my sidecar.

    Anna on off road handcycle and Bernie on leash next to her bike down the River Trail in Bend.
  • Winter in the Northern Hemisphere

    Perhaps, for those of us seeking a moment of peace, solitude, grounding, or reflection this season, we need only look to nature. To our dogs. To the examples of quiet purpose and joyful exuberance right in front of us. 

    Dog in cloud chaser waterproof jacket leads the way through deep snow next to an a frame hut while human follows behind skiing.
  • Two Weeks, Two Dogs and Five Great Lakes

    It had been on my bucket list for a few years – to paddleboard on all five Great Lakes. I wanted to set my paddleboard – pups and all – in each of the five massive freshwater bodies. As a professional paddle boarder and instructor on how to ‘SUP with your PUP,’ it wouldn’t be the same without my Australian Shepherds.

    Maria on SUP with dogs in float coat dog life jackets on great lakes.
  • Celebrating the Summer Solstice

    The endless daylight is a blank canvas for you to get creative – pack it to the brim, slow down and soak it all in, or take the time try something new. However you choose to celebrate the Summer Solstice this weekend, we hope it includes sharing some time outside with your furry best friend.

    Monica and Giles at sunrise up on a hill.
  • Discovering the Front Range

    In the mountains of Colorado’s Front Range, Nathan first discovered a new pace of life. With his dog, Turkey, he learned how to live in the now as he watched her happily trotting along through mud, meadows, and moose poop for the first time in her life. Every scent is always new and exciting, every marmot call worthy of absolute attention. Together, they found a new home in the mountains.

    Turkey in front range dog harness, leash and collar set walks in front of Nathan by a waterfall.
  • My Dog is My Co-Pilot: Tips for Van Life with Furry Friends

    Whether road-tripping or van-living, Ruffwear Ambassador Laura Patton shares her best tips for life on the road with dogs.

    Laura, her partner and dogs sit on a dock looking out a snowy lake and mountains.
  • The Road Less Traveled

    Before Trevor DeHaas met his dog, Kahlúa, he was working a corporate job, living in the city, and ignoring his kidney disease. When Kahlúa came into his life, he quit his job, began exploring the outdoors, and started to take better care of his health. He is now an adventure photographer, living his best life. 

    Trevor and Kahlua on point looking out over crazy rock formations in the water on Oregon Coast.
  • Riding with Emma

    In the gray light of early morning, Kristen pushes her bike out of the garage, steps on, and begins pedaling. Emma (her tail-wagging sidekick) runs alongside as they exit the alleyway onto the road. Then, Kristen says, “Trailer!” and Emma hops in for the ride to work. Read on to learn about Kristen's off-road cargo trailer with suspension that allows her to bring Emma along on her bike rides. 

    Emma the heeler dog runs alongside Kristen's gravel bike wearing a front range harness and roamer leash.
  • Be In The Mile

    It's not about the pace, time, or average heart rate. It's not about miles covered or vertical gain... Allow your mind to wander. Allow it to dwell, spin, rinse, and release. Be with the moment. It’s adventure. Breathe deeply. It’s love. Follow your nose.

    Nico and sol trail run through green grass field at sunset.
  • My 115-Mile Tidal Potomac Expedition

    This past spring, I set an ambitious goal: my Australian Shepherd Kona and I were going to stand-up paddle the entire length of the tidal Potomac River. Starting in Washington, D.C., the tidal Potomac winds between the Maryland and Virginia borders for 115 miles before emptying into the Chesapeake Bay.

    Maria and dog in Float Coats on stand up paddleboard.