For many El Dorado County residents, a dog is more than a pet—it’s a hiking partner on the trails around Sly Park, the Desolation Wilderness, the Rubicon Trail or the El Dorado National Forest. A new retail partnership between Wilderdog and REI aims to better equip those adventures.
Outdoor dog gear company Wilderdog announced that its products will now be available through REI, significantly expanding the California-based brand’s retail footprint and making its gear more accessible to outdoor enthusiasts across the country.
The partnership brings Wilderdog’s signature lineup—including climbing rope-inspired leashes, rugged collars, harnesses and other adventure accessories—to REI customers who regularly explore trails, campgrounds and backcountry destinations with their dogs. The company says its products are designed to withstand heavy outdoor use and are backed by a lifetime warranty.
“Our products are designed to go everywhere and take a beating,”
Wilderdog states on its company website, describing the brand’s mission of building reliable equipment for active dogs and their owners.
The announcement aligns with REI’s continued emphasis on high-quality outdoor products and partnerships with brands focused on durability and responsible product design. The outdoor retailer has also strengthened product standards in recent years to encourage longer-lasting gear and improved sustainability throughout its merchandising program.
For El Dorado County residents, the timing is notable. The Sierra Nevada remains one of California’s premier destinations for hiking, mountain biking, camping and backpacking, with countless dog-friendly recreation opportunities throughout the county and neighboring public lands. As more families include their dogs in outdoor recreation, demand has grown for equipment capable of handling rocky trails, creek crossings and extended backcountry trips.
Wilderdog traces its origins to camping trips where its founders found existing dog equipment unable to withstand rugged outdoor conditions. Inspired by climbing gear and mountain recreation, the company developed products intended for frequent use in demanding environments while supporting animal rescue organizations through its “Purchase for a Pup” program, which donates dog food to shelters for every purchase made through its website.
The addition of Wilderdog also complements REI’s expanding assortment of equipment designed for outdoor lifestyles. REI officials have said the retailer continues to evaluate products that help members enjoy hiking, camping and other outdoor activities with reliable, long-lasting equipment.
While neither company announced a local launch event, the partnership means Sierra residents planning trips into the El Dorado National Forest, Lake Tahoe Basin or other nearby recreation areas will have broader access to premium canine outdoor gear through REI’s retail and online channels.
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