How To Camp With Your Dog
How To Camp With Your Dog
If you’ve seen the beautiful PBS documentary Mountain Dogs, it might get you thinking: “My dog and I are going on a hike! No, we’re going hiking AND camping, in a tent!!!” But a tinge of doubt sneaks in as you glance at your pooch happily curled up on the sofa, snoring and drooling. Should you be concerned? Check out this guide and we’ll put that doubt to rest.
Camping is not just an activity for the humanoids in the family anymore, especially if the dog is the one who enjoys it the most! It’s likely you will experience an amazing and awesome adventure with your four-legged best friend. However, you might worry that your dog could get dehydrated due to extreme weather, or they could get injured in all the excitement. Does he barks a lot, is he afraid of strangers?
No problem is too big to keep you home if you really want to hike and camp with your dog! We’re here with solutions to the possible mishaps that come to mind when you raise the question of how to take your dog camping.
But first, let’s ask your dog whether they want to go or not!
Can I Bring My Dog Camping?
It’s really not your choice to bring your dog camping and expect a wonderful outcome, it depends upon your dog’s nature. Is your dog a couch potato, or a premier canine athlete who loves running outside? Consider their personality and then plan the trip accordingly. If your dog loves sitting in the house, they might prefer staying in the tent rather than hiking. On the other hand, if they are bold enough to tackle the great outdoors, a weeklong trip hiking and camping definitely could be in your future.
So, if you think your dog will enjoy having a new adventure, a good start is to assess his well-being first. Visit your veterinarian for a regular checkup. If your dog is physically fit, it’s a sign to plan further.
It is essential that your pup is up to date on vaccinations as well as flea and tick prevention before heading into the woods. Ticks can transmit a range of diseases to pets, including Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and Ehrlichiosis, which can lead to fever, lethargy, joint pain, and other symptoms. In severe cases, tick-borne diseases can be fatal. Related: Don't Let Fleas and Ticks Ruin Your Pet's Spring Fun: Tips for Preventing Infestations
It’s not safe to take puppies and very young dogs camping. Dogs with mobility issues or lack of training might best be left home, as those present some extra special challenges. It’s a good idea to arrange a trial camping session of an hour or more. Or camp in your own back yard for a night. It will give you a good idea about your dog’s tolerance level for camping.
What To Bring Camping with Dogs?
Before heading out to your destination, put together a comprehensive dog camping list to ensure a smooth trip. Then start packing with some gear like:
A freshwater bottle to keep your dog hydrated.
Your dog’s favorite kibble.
A bowl with a closing lid. It will keep the kibble leftovers less aromatic to stray dogs or other wild animals that could be sniffing around for an easy meal. The SLSON collapsible dog travel bowl is lightweight, convenient storage because of the collapsible design with lid. Includes climbing buckle that can attach to belt loop, backpack or leash.
Pet wipes to clean off the mud before your dog goes inside in the tent.
Poop bags. The TuffMutt Poop Bag Holder is perfect for camping. It ships with a dispenser, and the pouch holds full bags of dog waste. It features odor blocking activated carbon lining and water resistant fabric for easy cleaning. Includes an adjustable waist belt and an earth rated roll of bags.
A flashlight
Nail clippers
Leash and harness
A microchip or tracking system to find your dog if you get separated. Learn more about gps tracking. Related: Pinpoint Your Pet's Location Down to the Street Number
Dog’s brush or comb
A boss tent that is spacious enough for you and your dog.
A sheet or blanket to spread on the ground
Your dog’s ID and vaccination records.
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First Aid Kit For Any Emergency
Nature is unpredictable, so are dogs. You may come across some rocky trails when bringing your dog camping. So, if your dog gets injured, a first aid kit will be the first thing you look for. Consider these items for your care kit to help you give your dog speedy front-line treatment if necessary.
The ARCA PET Dog First Aid Kit - Pet Emergency Travel kit is a portable and lightweight 35 piece kit that carries essential items for unexpected emergency events while outdoors hiking or camping with your pet.
Vet wrap
Bandage taps
Cotton swabs
Gauze
An instant cold pack
Tweezers
Allergy tablets
Eyewash
Tips and Tricks: How to Camp With Your Dog
Here are some recommendations to help you become a crackerjack expert of camping with your dog:
Keep your dog close
Keep your dog close to you. Taking a long leash when bringing your dog camping can be helpful in this regard. It’s really a preventive measure to protect your dog from wild animals and other stray dogs. Also, if you let your dog roam, he could eat a poisonous herb or plant that affects his health. With the presence of other strange new pets at camping sites, your dog may feel aggressive and restless. Staying on leash can sooth those insecurities and make them feel relaxed.
BobaPett Says:
“Some parks limit leash lengths. Be sure to check for rules and regulations in advance. “
Try Not to Disturb Your Neighbors
It’s quite likely you and your dog won’t be the only ones looking to enjoy a relaxing stay at camp. Nothing can ruin it though quite like a nearby dog’s incessant barking, especially at dusk or dawn. It could disturb the sleep of other hikers. If your dog decides they want to partake in this activity, calm them with distractions like his favorite food or toy.
If you are taking your dog swimming, he might want to interact with others there. Confirm that other swimmers have no problem swimming with a dog. A bright, high buoyancy life vest for your dog is an essential in case of emergency.
Dispose of the Waste
The only thing worse than an unruly barking dog is stepping in dog poo! Try to offer a clean and welcoming environment for other people. If your camping site is close to others, it’s better to take your dog to a distant spot to do their business. Use poop bags to dispose of the waste, because we don’t want to leave any clue for strays or other wild animals that could take a bad-natured interest in your camping compadre.
FAQs
What are the best dog breeds for camping and hiking?
Siberian Husky, Australian Shepherd, German Shorthaired Pointer, and Vizsla are adventurous breeds for hiking. These dogs are well-known for their obedience and herding capabilities. They are also adept at sports and known for their never-ending ability to learn something new.
Where can I go camping with my dog?
Search online for some camping areas near you. An ever-green, quiet, and serene landscape that is neither too hot nor too cold can be a good fit. If your dog likes to interact with new people, you should choose places like state parks, national parks, or private parks. Even parks with limited pet-friendly trails sometimes welcome dogs to their campgrounds. But if your dog doesn’t like crowded places, consider the national forests campsites.
National Parks that Allow Dog camping and Hiking
How to take your dog camping for the first time?
Get to the vet, determine whether your dog is physically fit and likes camping, then pack some camping essentials like your dog’s ID, a water bottle, a large tent, a leash, etc. Here you are, all prepared and ready to start your adventure!
The Bottom Line
Camping is a win-win for both you and your dog. It’s a bonding experience and you are making memories that will last a lifetime. Your dogs can provide protection and keep you safe. For them, it’s a sense of freedom, and nothing is better than being outdoors with you. Now it’s your turn because I would love to hear about your camping and hiking experiences with your dog.
