15 Essentials Tips for a Perfect Camping Trip with Your Dog
Heading out into the great outdoors with your four-legged buddy can be a blast. But camping with dogs takes some know-how to keep everyone happy and safe. We’ve put together 15 top tips to make your next camping trip with your adorable pup a tail-wagging success. Read on to see!
Pack a doggy first-aid kit
If you want to go camping with your dog, make sure you bring a first-aid kit. You should include items like tweezers for ticks, bandages, and any medications they might need in your first-aid box. Also, throw in some pet-safe sunscreen and paw balm, too.
Take water and a bowl
Staying hydrated is key for both you and your dog. So make sure to pack more water than you think you’ll need, and don’t forget a portable bowl. As you walk along streams and lakes, you might be tempted to allow your dog to drink some fresh water, but remember, they can harbor nasty bugs.
Choose a dog-friendly campsite
Remember that not all campsites will allow you to come along with your dog. So, do your homework and pick a spot that’s pup-approved. Also, look out for places with nearby trails and enough space for your dog to roam safely. Some sites even offer special perks for canine campers.
Keep your dog on a leash
Even if your dog is usually well-behaved, the excitement of camping and probably meeting new faces and pets can make it unpredictable. Therefore, you need to always keep your dog on its leash to help it stay safe. This protects wildlife, other campers, and your own peace of mind. Remember, a happy camper is a responsible one.
Bring familiar bedding and toys
As you pack the items you need to help your dog feel at home, pack their favorite bed or blanket. Throw in a toy or two for comfort and entertainment. These familiar smells and objects can calm an anxious pup in a new environment. Plus, it’ll give them something to do during downtime.
Check for ticks and other pests regularly
The outdoors is full of creepy crawlies that can bug your dog. Be sure to do a thorough tick check at least once a day. You can do so by running your hands over their fur. When you catch these pests early, you can prevent bigger health issues down the trail.
Practice leave-no-trace principles
Be a good steward of nature by cleaning up after your dog. As you go camping, bring along plenty of poop bags and make sure to dispose of waste properly. Your great act will help keep the campsite clean and protect local wildlife. Remember, leave only paw prints and take only memories.
Brush up on basic obedience commands
Samson Katt/PexelsBefore hitting the trails, ensure your dog responds well to basic commands. Teaching your dog simple words like “Come,” “stay,” and “leave it” can be lifesavers when you’re out in the wild. Additionally, practice these skills before your trip to ensure a smoother, safer camping experience for everyone.
Bring extra food and treats
All that fresh air and exercise will work up your dog’s appetite. A well-fed pup is a happy camper! For this reason, pack more food than usual, plus some high-energy treats for long hikes. However, if you want to keep animals away from your campground, store food in airtight containers.
Invest in a reflective collar or light
As you can imagine, nights in the woods can be pretty dark, and you must keep your dog safe. To make sure your dog stands out in the dark, it should have a reflective collar on it. This will help you keep an eye on it after sunset and also alert other campers to its presence.
Consider your dog’s fitness level
Not all dogs are built for rugged adventures. Be honest about your pup’s fitness level when planning all your activities. Start with shorter hikes and work up to longer treks. Pay attention to signs of fatigue, and don’t push them too hard. It’s about having fun together, not winning a race.
Protect those paws
Your dog’s paw pads might need some extra TLC on rough terrain. Consider getting them used to wearing booties for protection against hot sand, sharp rocks, or icy ground. If booties aren’t readily available, pack some paw balm to soothe any scrapes or cracks.
Be mindful of the weather
Dogs can be sensitive to extreme temperatures. In hot weather, plan activities for cooler parts of the day and ensure plenty of shade. For chilly nights, pack a cozy dog jacket. Always have a plan B if the weather turns nasty. Your dog’s comfort is key to a great trip.
Know the local wildlife and plants
Research the area’s flora and fauna before your trip. It is important to handle wildlife encounters carefully since some plants can be toxic to dogs. Knowing what to watch out for protects your pup from poison ivy, porcupines, and other outdoor hazards. Don’t forget that knowledge is power in the wilderness!
Don’t forget the camera
Last but not least, bring a camera to capture all the tail-wagging moments. Your dog’s first swim in a mountain lake or their curious sniff of a pinecone are memories you’ll treasure. Looking at these snaps will leave you smiling long after the campfire has gone out. Happy camping!
