A Morning in the Country With Our Four-Legged Friends
Most days start the same way for me: boots on, kettle boiled, and off on my morning dog walk through the farmyard and into the fields looking over Lyme Park- perfect.
A bit of a stickler for routine, I like to think there’s a certain predictability to a spring morning in the countryside… although that usually means you can more or less guarantee the weather won’t behave itself.
I almost always set off thinking, “today’s the day I’ve judged it right to leave the long coat”, but, lo and behold, a bit of drizzle, and a breeze picking up, and I’m suddenly longing for my much-loved outer layer. Harry the lab (currently on dog walk loan from Matt), of course, couldn’t be less bothered.
That’s spring for you, never quite settled, and not always easy to dress for, and for me, that’s where Hoggs of Fife has always hit the nail on the country clothing head.
So, join Harry and I, as we take our morning stroll over the fields, and share my favourite Hoggs of Fife Spring dog walking essentials.
Why Hoggs?
Some say that when you’ve been around a while, you start to know what you’re doing (or so I’m told!)
For me, Hoggs of Fife is one of those brands that’s been around long enough to know exactly what it’s doing. Founded back in 1888, it’s truly rooted in the Scottish countryside, and like me, it’s never been about chasing trends or trying to stand out for the sake of it (probably another reason I’m a fan!) It’s just good, honest country clothing; built to last, fits properly, and does what it says on the tin- while looking smart doing it.
In my experience, it has everything you need, and it suits just about anyone who spends time outdoors, from farmers and countryside regulars to those who love a weekend dog walk but still want to look presentable when they nip into town on the way home.
That’s probably what I like most about it. Their products are just as at home out in the field as they are calling into the farm shop afterwards… which, when you’re halfway round a muddy field with a dog that’s found something it shouldn’t just before your coffee stop, is exactly what you want.
Light Layers for Tricksy Weather
If, like me, Spring’s one of those times where you rarely get it quite right, with some Hoggs Staples, you can always rely on some smart Spring layering to keep you covered.
A lightweight waterproof like the Hoggs of Fife Struther Waterproof Lightweight Jacket is ideal for a Spring dog walking wardrobe. It’s easy to wear (and less heavy than the long coat), but reliable when those rather discerning clouds inevitably appear.
The Fara Waterproof Jacket does much the same on the ladies’ side of things, it’s practical, comfortable, and, quite aptly, made specifically with dog walking in mind.
If you prefer something more along the traditional route, then a Kelso Waxed Jacket is a good middle ground for those brave the trail with a stop at the farm shop to finish kind of walks.
For longer outings, or if you’ve got more than one dog in tow, the Culloden Waterproof (and field version) gives you that extra bit of coverage without cooking you after the first mile.
Underneath, it’s the simpler layers that hold the fort. A Stenton Fleece Gilet or Quarter Zip is an easy one to reach for, I know Rob often dons his under a waterproof for early weekend walks with the kids. And, with the full Stenton range at your fingertips here at Hollands, there are plenty of options for every member of the family- even the furry ones!
As I like to say, nothing complicated, and just what you need.
Footwear for Both the Field & the Pavement
Spring weather means we’re dealing with everything- wet grass, soft ground…not to mention a dog that’s made a habit of finding every puddle in the vicinity (we won’t name and shame, but the culprit may be yellow, and suspiciously Lab shaped)…
If you have a similar puddle-prone culprit, a pair of Hogg's Field Sport 365 Wellies is hard to beat for footwear. I find them comfortable enough for a full walk, solid underfoot, and able to handle whatever ground you end up following said culprit into.
For a lighter Spring option, the Braemar Wellies are a good choice too, especially if you don’t need quite as much ‘boot’ on your regular dog walking routes.
If your walks are a bit more mixed- fields, tracks, the Torridon Leather Trek Shoes are a good spring-to-summer alternative. Lacing up a pair of these feels like you're getting the best of both worlds - that timeless look combined with all the perks modern technology has to offer.
From Drizzle to Dusk: Hats That Come in Handy
I don’t know about you, but I find a good hat on a spring dog walk saves the day a lot more than we give them credit for. The Perth Felt Hat is a classic, but also solid option on the ladies’ side, while something like the Caledonia Waxed Hat or a simple Leather Peak Cap tends to do the job just as well, whoever you’re shopping for.
Whether it’s kindly keeping a bit of drizzle off or taking the edge off when the sun decides to pay a visit five minutes later, a trust Hoggs hat in the back of the car can come in very handy for dog walking days (and save you some very windswept looks too!)
The Hollands Pick: Shirts that Suit Every Walk
A good shirt is one piece of country clothing you can never have enough of, and here at Hollands, not only do we practically live in them, but everyone’s got their own preference when out in the fields come Spring.
Luckily, I didn’t have to round up each family member and quiz them on their favourite one for this section; I only have to catch them on the farm or out on a dog walk to know their Hoggs shirt staple.
If you can find Billy, you’ll probably find Sarah- usually sporting the famous country coupling of a shirt-and-gilet combination, something like the Becky II Cotton Shirt paired with a fleece gilet like the Stenton Fleece Gilet.
Rob’s usually in his Inverness Tattersall Shirt, which does the job whether he’s down with the horse or heading straight off across the fields after work with the dogs.
Matt’s spring choice is the Pitmedden Flannel Check Shirt, which, while light, still carries that ‘lumberjack look’ (very in if you’re into a spot of country music on your dog walks, too.)
And for me, a creature of habit, it’s hard to look past a classic, I’m afraid. The Ambassador Tattersall Shirt is always the one I come back to. Comfortable, reliable, and just works for every day, and every dog walk.
Built for the Walk, Whatever the Weather
At the end of the day, a good dog walk doesn’t need much, just the right essentials that make it easier to get out, whatever the weather decides it’s going to do.
Spring will always keep you guessing, but with something reliable to hand, it’s nothing you can’t get on with- and when you’re out once, or twice, a day with a dog that’s never too concerned about the conditions, it’s best to be prepared!
So, if you’re looking to get yourself set up for the spring and summer dog walking season, the Hoggs of Fife collection is a good place to start, or head over to our Dog Walking Collection for the full range.
About the Author
Mark Holland
Mark Holland has a keen eye for all things men's country clothing. Living amidst the fields and farms, he understands the practical aspects of rural living and the timeless style that accompanies it. His advice reflects a genuine appreciation for the comfort and connection that come with country wear. If you're looking for down-to-earth recommendations, then trust Mark to guide you through kitting out your wardrobe with firm favourites and classic designs.
