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Dog walking should feel simple. Fresh air, a happy dog, a clear head. But for many owners, it turns into a juggling act - treats in pockets, poop bags loose, phone in hand, keys disappearing mid-walk. That’s exactly why the dog walking bum bag has become one of the most searched-for dog walking accessories in the UK.
If you want hands-free walks, instant access to treats, and zero stress, this 2026 guide will walk you through everything you need to know about choosing the best dog walking bum bagand whether it’s the right option for you.
If you’re still deciding between a full-size dog walking bag, a crossbody option, or a compact bum bag setup, our complete guide to dog walking bags in the UK for 2026 breaks down every style, what to pack, and which option suits different walking routines.
What is a dog walking bum bag?
A dog walking bum bag (also called a dog walking bumbag) is a compact, hands-free bag designed specifically for dog walks. It sits securely around your waist or across your body and keeps your walking essentials organised and instantly accessible.
Unlike a normal bum bag, a dog walking bum bag is built around the things dog owners reach for constantly:
- Treat access that’s fast enough for training moments
- Poop bag storage that’s tidy (and easy to refill)
- Separate compartments so treats don’t end up on your phone
- Water-resistant materials that handle British drizzle
- Attachment points for accessories like tennis ball holders and poop pockets
The goal is not to carry more. It’s to make dog walking feel lighter, calmer, and more organised.
Do I need a dog walking bum bag?
If any of the following sound familiar, the answer is probably yes:
- You carry treats on every walk
- You train outdoors or attend puppy classes
- You hate bulky handbags on walks
- You want both hands free for leads or recall
- You walk in all weather and need wipe-clean storage
- Your pockets end up full of crumbs, wet bags, or random dog gear
A bum bag is one of those upgrades that makes you wonder how you ever did without it. It keeps you prepared without making you feel loaded down.
What do you put in a dog walking bum bag?
This is one of the most searched questions in the UK because people want a setup that actually works, not a bag that becomes another “thing” to manage.
For most dog owners, the perfect dog walking bum bag loadout looks like this:
- Treats: small training treats you can grab quickly
- Poop bags: stored in the dispenser for one-handed use
- Phone: secure pocket so you’re not holding it during walks
- Keys: zipped pocket so they don’t fall out when you bend down
- Small wipes or tissues: for muddy paws or hands
If you walk longer routes, you can add a collapsible bowl and clip-on accessories rather than stuffing everything inside. The best system is the one you can use without thinking.
Is a dog walking bum bag good for training?
Yes, this is where bum bags really shine.
A dog training bum bag gives you instant, one-handed access to treats without fumbling. That matters because good training is all about timing. If a reward comes too late, your dog doesn’t connect it to the right behaviour.
A bum bag helps with:
- Loose lead walking: reward quickly when your dog checks in
- Recall: treat fast when your dog returns
- Impulse control: reward calm behaviour in distracting environments
- Puppy training: consistent reinforcement without pockets full of crumbs
Many UK trainers prefer bum bags over swinging crossbody bags during sessions because they stay stable when you move, bend down, or change direction quickly.
Are dog walking bum bags hands-free?
Completely. That’s the main appeal.
A well-designed bum bag allows you to:
- Hold leads with both hands if needed
- Reward quickly during training
- Pick up poop without balancing your phone and keys
- Move freely on busy or uneven paths
- Walk more confidently if your dog pulls or lunges
Hands-free matters even more if you’re walking in winter, crossing roads, training near cyclists, or walking in areas where you need to react quickly. A bum bag keeps essentials accessible but out of your hands.
What should a good dog walking bum bag include?
The best dog walking bum bags in the UK share a few essential features. If you’re shopping, use this as your checklist:
- Magnetic or quick-access front pocket: perfect for phone or treats
- Side poop bag dispenser: fast clean-ups without digging
- Three compartments: separate treats, personal items, and “dog stuff”
- Water-resistant fabric: inside and out for real-world weather
- Adjustable strap: wear it on your waist or crossbody (comfort matters)
- Strong hardware: clips and D-rings for add-ons
Small details make the biggest difference. A magnetic pocket sounds simple, but when you’re holding a lead, timing treats, or picking up poop, quick access is the difference between calm and chaos.
Are dog walking bum bags waterproof?
Most high-quality bum bags are water-resistant, which is ideal for UK weather. True waterproofing usually means sealed seams and fully waterproof zips, which is not always necessary for dog walks. What matters is protection from rain, mud, and everyday mess.
Water-resistant benefits include:
- Your treats stay dry and usable
- Your phone and keys are protected from drizzle
- Mud wipes away instead of soaking in
- Wet toys and damp wipes won’t destroy the lining
If you walk year-round (most UK owners do), water resistance is not optional. It’s the difference between a bag you love and a bag you replace.
Can I attach accessories to a dog walking bum bag?
Yes - and this is where bum bags become part of a full walking system rather than just a bag.
With the right attachment points, you can clip on:
- Poop bag holders for extra rolls or different bag types
- Tennis ball holders so slobbery toys stay out of your pockets
- Collapsible water bowls for quick hydration stops
- Treat pouches if you want extra storage on longer walks
Accessories help you keep the inside of your bum bag clean and organised, especially if you carry things that get wet, muddy, or sandy.
Is a dog walking bum bag comfortable to wear?
Comfort is one of the main reasons dog owners switch from pockets and handbags.
A great bum bag should:
- Sit flat against your body
- Stay secure when you bend down
- Avoid bouncing during faster walks
- Feel comfortable over jumpers and coats
- Work as a waist bag or a crossbody bag depending on your preference
Because bum bags sit closer to your centre of gravity, they often feel more stable than a swinging crossbody bag, especially on energetic walks or when training.
Bum bag vs pockets vs backpack for dog walking
Before dog walking bum bags became popular, most owners relied on pockets, backpacks, or a normal handbag. Each option works, but each has obvious weaknesses once you’ve done enough dog walks.
Pockets are convenient, but they’re messy. Treats crumble, poop bags get lost, and everything mixes together.
Backpacks are great for long hikes, but they’re slow for training. You don’t want to stop and unzip a backpack just to reward your dog.
Dog walking bum bags sit in the sweet spot: fast access, stable fit, and enough room for daily essentials without feeling bulky.
Are dog walking bum bags good for reactive or nervous dogs?
Yes, and this is often overlooked.
If your dog is reactive, anxious, or easily overstimulated, timing matters. Having treats instantly available can help you reward calm behaviour and redirect your dog’s focus before a situation escalates.
A bum bag helps because:
- You can reward instantly without rummaging
- Your hands stay free for lead control
- You feel calmer, which helps your dog stay calmer
For many owners, a better walking setup isn’t just about convenience. It’s about feeling more confident and in control.
Can men wear dog walking bum bags?
Absolutely. Dog walking bum bags aren’t gendered. They’re functional.
Many men prefer bum bags because they sit securely and don’t swing, especially on active walks. Neutral colours also make them easy to wear with casual outdoor clothing.
Common mistakes people make when buying a dog walking bum bag
A dog walking bum bag should feel like it’s making your walks easier, not creating new frustrations. These are the mistakes that usually lead to disappointment:
- Buying a fashion bum bag with no dog-specific features
- Choosing a bag without a poop bag dispenser
- Overfilling a small bag so it bounces and swings
- Ignoring strap adjustability (comfort matters)
- Choosing non-wipe materials that show dirt quickly
If you’ve ever bought a “cute” bag and then stopped using it after a week, it was probably missing one of the functional features above.
Is a bum bag better than a dog walking bag?
It depends on your walk.
Bum bags are best for:
- Training sessions
- Short to medium walks
- Minimal essentials
- Busy areas where you need quick access
Dog walking bags suit longer adventures or carrying more gear. Many owners keep both and rotate based on the day’s plan. If you want a full breakdown, our Dog Walking Bag UK 2026 guide compares everything clearly.
Which dogs benefit most from a dog walking bum bag?
Dog walking bum bags work for all breeds, but they’re especially useful if you walk a puppy, train regularly, or have a dog that needs reinforcement during walks.
They’re also popular with:
- High-energy dogs that need frequent rewards
- Multi-dog households
- Dogs that pull, lunge, or get distracted easily
- Owners who want to carry essentials without carrying a handbag
Is a dog walking bum bag worth it?
For most UK dog owners, yes.
If you walk daily, train regularly, or want calmer, more organised walks, a dog walking bum bag quickly becomes one of those “why didn’t I buy this sooner?” items.
It replaces overflowing pockets, reduces mental load, and keeps walks focused on your dog, not your stuff.
What is the best dog walking bum bag in the UK?
The best dog walking bum bag is one that stays comfortable, keeps essentials organised, and works with your routine, not against it.
Bailey & Coco Magnetic Snap Dog Walking Bum Bags are designed specifically for UK dog owners who want:
- Fast access to treats and essentials
- Hands-free walking comfort
- Stylish design you actually want to wear
- Water-resistant materials inside and out
- Built-in poop bag dispensing for stress-free clean-ups
Whether you wear it around your waist or crossbody, it’s a walking upgrade you’ll use every single day.