What to bring to a dog park: the only kit you need

Forget the 30-item gear lists. Here's what you actually need.

The essentials

1. **Leash** — even at off-leash parks, you need it for the walk in and out
2. **Collar with ID tag** — readable, current, with your phone number
3. **6+ waste bags** — clipped to the leash so you can't forget them
4. **A 16-oz water bottle** — for dogs and humans
5. **Collapsible water bowl** — silicone is best, packs flat
6. **A small microfiber towel** — fits in a pocket, dries muddy paws fast

Nice to have

1. **Tick remover** — small, lives in the car
2. **Hand sanitizer** — for after the bag run
3. **A photo of your dog on your phone's lock screen** — in case they get out

Things people pack but shouldn't

• ❌ Treats — fight starter
• ❌ Squeaky toys — fight starter
• ❌ A second dog you don't know well — wait until they're a regular
• ❌ A child stroller — most parks restrict them

That's it. Less is more.