Camping With Your Dog: What You Need To Know

Ah, the great outdoors. There’s nothing like a good camping trip, especially when you can go camping with your dog. This will not only strengthen your bond but also allow your pup the opportunity to explore new sights, sounds, and smells. To ensure you both have a paw-sitive time, here are some essential tips to keep your furry friend safe and happy on your outdoor adventure.

Visit A Dog-Friendly Campsite

Before you pack up your vehicle, research dog-friendly campsites. Some national and state parks have designated areas where dogs can roam, but some campsites may have strict rules and regulations about camping with your dog. If you’re planning to travel to a lake, or near any body of water, be prepared to keep your pup safe. An important way to do this is by staying up to date on algae outbreaks at your campsite. When you arrive at a lake, you can also check for signs of algae, which are toxic to dogs. Look for camping grounds with pet-friendly trails, so your dog can join in on the fun!

Bring Camping Gear For You and Your Dog

Just like you, your dog needs supplies for a successful camping trip! Here’s a checklist of essentials to bring:

Food and Water: Bring enough food for the entire trip, plus some extra treats, just in case. Don’t forget collapsible bowls for easy feeding and hydration on the go. Ensure your dog drinks from the freshwater you are bringing and not the water from the lake as it can be contaminated.
Collar, Leash, and Harness: A reliable leash and harness will keep your dog secure during hikes and around the campsite. It may be a good idea to bring a backup leash in case their primary one breaks.
Tracking device: Ensure your dog’s GPS tracker is set up and working smoothly.
Lifejacket: Remember to bring your dog’s life jacket and be sure they wear it whenever you are in a boat with them. Do not leave your dog unattended in the lake.
First-Aid Kit: Bring a first-aid kit for the humans and a dog first-aid kit. The dog first-aid kit can include bandages, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, pet-safe sterile eyewash, a tick removal tool, and medications. It’s also a good idea to bring your dog’s veterinarian records, just in case.

Poop Bags (And some extra): Always needed.

Toys, Bedding, and Blankets: Make your pup feel at home in the great outdoors by bringing a few toys and blankets. The smell of home can help ease any anxiety about their new surroundings. Don’t forget to bring a dog bed or inflatable mattress for them. Bring an extra blanket in case it gets too cold at night.

Set Up A Practice Camping Trip

Can your dog ruff it outdoors? Try setting up a practice camping trip in your backyard or local park to see how it would go. Pitch a tent to see if your dog settles into a comfortable position in it. See how your dog reacts to being on a leash for several hours outdoors. If you see them getting anxious, try to comfort them with cuddles and treats. If the trial run is not successful, consider postponing the camping trip or finding a dog-sitter.

Stay Hydrated

Whether you are going camping with your dog in the summer or fall, it’s important to stay hydrated. Ensure you have fresh water available and encourage your pup to drink frequently. Actively watch for signs of dehydration in your dog. If they are panting, vomiting, salivating, and have a fever, they may be suffering from heatstroke. Try to cool your dog off and if you notice they are not feeling better, you can take them to a veterinarian. If hiking on the trails, take breaks in shaded areas to help keep yourself and your dog cool.

Be Aware of Dog Water Intoxication

While your dog can go swimming in the lake, be aware that inhaling too much water while swimming can make them ill and lead to brain and heart damage, and even be fatal. If you notice your dog is lethargic, has dilated pupils or trouble breathing they could have water intoxication also known as hyponatremia. You can drive to the nearest emergency veterinary clinic to have your pup looked at. For more on dog water safety, read our Dog Summer Safety post.

Be Mindful Of Wildlife

Wildlife in the great outdoors can pose a threat to your dog. Keep an eye on your pup and be aware of your surroundings. If your dog does encounter wildlife, try to keep them at a distance and calmly redirect their attention back to you.

Fleas and Ticks

Before heading out camping with your dog, make sure they are up to date on flea and tick vaccinations. You can also buy a flea and tick collar for peace of mind. Before the sun sets, check your dog’s fur thoroughly for any signs of fleas and ticks. If you spot a tick, use a tick removal tool to lift it straight up and clean the bitten area with rubbing alcohol, soap, and water.

Campfire Safety

Camping and campfires go hand-in-hand. While the roaring fire may keep you toasty and warm, it can also be hazardous. Keep your canine companion a safe distance from the campfire. Pet them and praise them for their good behavior at your side. Make sure fire safety equipment is on hand during campfire sessions. Like humans, dogs can also suffer from smoke inhalation. If you notice your dog is wheezing and has trouble breathing, take them to the closest veterinarian.

You may have to teach your pup that being near the firepit is not safe, even when it’s not lit. The smell may attract them but encouraging them to not be near the firepit will help reinforce their obedience.

Leash Etiquette

The campsite you choose may have strict regulations about your dog being on a leash at all times or you may have the freedom to let your dog roam off-leash. But, if there are other campers near where you are, you may want to consider their space and keep your dog leashed. You can also buy a tether system to allow dogs to explore the campgrounds while remaining at a safer distance.

Leave A Clean Campsite

It’s crucial to leave your campsite as it was, including picking up any dog poop. (If there are no trash cans around your site, you may have to bury it). We want everybody to be able to enjoy nature, and if you leave the campsite a mess, you are not doing your part. Don’t forget to double-check to see that you have your belongings before leaving.

Happy Camping!