A Pro Dog Walker’s Perspective on Dog Walking Bags

August 19, 2025
By: Adriana Valle

As a professional dog walker, I can’t stress enough how essential the right dog walking bag is to making my daily rounds smooth, efficient, and enjoyable. Juggling multiple dogs, keys, poop bags, treats, water, and a phone while staying hands-free isn’t just a convenience; it’s a safety measure. Over the years, I’ve learned which features truly make a difference. Here’s a pro dog walker’s perspective on dog walking bags: what I look for in a dog walking bag to keep everything manageable and within easy reach while on midday dog walks and canine adventures!

woman in the CT Shoreline wearing a dog walking bag A Pro Dog Walker's Perspective on Dog Walking BagsAdjustable and Comfortable to Wear

Walking several dogs means I’m on the move a lot and working in all types of weather. Comfort is key! I look for bags with padded, adjustable straps because a bag cutting into my shoulder means a tough day ahead. Cocopup London’s versatile strap designs let me adjust how I carry the bag depending on how many dogs or gear I’m carrying, while Playfield’s robust straps provide durability and comfort for daily wear. Either way, I am comfortable and hands-free enough to wear gloves during freezing winter temperatures.

playfield dog walking bagBuilt-In Poop Bag Dispenser

In my line of work, picking up after dogs is as second nature as it is non-negotiable. The best dog walking bags streamline this task by integrating a dedicated poop bag dispenser. With a dispenser, you’re not scrambling or wasting time digging around. Cocopup London’s bags have cleverly designed dispensers on the side, making it easy to grab a bag in one swift motion; essential when handling multiple dogs. Playfield has storage for two poop bags rolls and a dispenser on the back side of the fanny pack design. As long as I ensure my GreenLine poop bag supply doesn’t dwindle, both of these bags keep my poop bags at hands’ reach.

cocopup bag and accessories dog walking bagsSmart Compartments for Quick Organization

When you’re walking several dogs, losing track of treats or your phone is not an option. A good bag like Playfield’s Bailey Kit offers well-thought-out compartments that keep each item in its place. I always separate my treats, water bottle, keys, and phone into different compartments to avoid mix-ups or spills. The zippered and mesh pockets also help keep everything organized and accessible on the go, including my ID and debit card.

dog walking bagEasy-Access Treat Storage

Positive reinforcement works best when you can reward quickly. I always choose bags with a quick-access treat pouch so I can grab a treat without breaking my flow. Cocopup London’s bags pair well with clip-on treat pouches, letting me carry treats for different dogs separately, something I find incredibly handy. The Bailey bag’s treat pouch has a magnetic flip lid, which is super practical. Plus, it’s created for easy clean-up between treat refills.

Hydration for Me and the Dogs

Long walks can be thirsty work for everyone involved. I need a bag like Coco Pup’s that fits both my water bottle and a collapsible bowl for dogs. The Bailey Bag’s spacious design easily accommodates these, so I’m always prepared to keep the dogs hydrated without adding bulk or hassle.

Durability and Easy Cleaning Are Essential

Dog walking is an outdoor job, and the weather or treats can get messy. My ideal bag is made from water-resistant, easy-to-clean materials that hold up to rain, dirt, and general wear. Both Cocopup London and Playfield use fabrics that withstand the elements and wipe clean easily, which saves me hours of maintenance.

Style That Fits a Professional Look

Even as a professional, I appreciate a bag that looks good. I want something that reflects my style without being flashy, impractical, or downright unattractive. Cocopup’s playful, vibrant designs add personality to my gear. I love that their straps are beautiful and add different looks to my bag. I also like Playfield’s Bailey Bag for its sleek, minimalist look that matches any setting. The Bailey bag is named for the Founder’s dog, Bailey, and designed to replace the typical LuluLemon bag that everyone wears. The LuluLemon bag may work for a trip to the grocery store but it doesn’t work for a professional dog walker who walks multiple dogs for extended periods each day!

A Pro Dog Walker’s Perspective on Dog Walking Bags

For anyone walking dogs regularly, whether professionally or for pleasure, the right bag can transform your routine. It keeps you organized, ensures quick access to essentials, and lets you focus on what really matters: the dogs. For me, Cocopup London and Playfield’s Bailey Bag stand out because they strike the perfect balance between functional design, comfort, and style. No matter which you choose, invest in a bag that make accessibility easier and your dog walks more enjoyable.

The Best Dog Walkers in the CT Shoreline

Shoreline Happy Paws is currently accepting new clients for our dog walking and dog hiking adventure services! New Shoreline Happy Paws clients can create an account. We will be in touch to further discuss your needs and set you, your family, and your cat(s) up for success. Existing clients, please book services by logging in to your client profile.

We serve the following areas of the Connecticut Shoreline:

  • Old Saybrook
  • Essex, Ivoryton & Centerbrook
  • Deep River
  • Chester
  • Westbrook
  • Clinton
  • Old Lyme
  • East Lyme
  • Niantic

Certain Parts and Certain Service Hours in:

  • Lyme and Madison
  • Waterford, New London, Groton
  • Uncasville, Gales Ferry, Mystic, Noank

Adriana Valle

Adriana Valle is the Owner and Founder at Shoreline Happy Paws. She has been a Professional Pet Care Provider since 2014. Adriana is a Certified Pet First Aid & CPR Instructor through PetTech and is currently pursuing a certificate in dog behavior from CATCH Canine Trainers Academy. She is a longtime member of the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters and Pet Sitters International. Learn more about Adriana.

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