Introduction
If you have one or many dogs, camping with dogs is a regular and exciting activity that you and your dogs always look forward to. This is a good chance for you and your dogs to rest and attend many interesting outdoor activities to understand each other.
This experience will be unforgettable and precious to any dog and its owners. However, it can be a small challenge if you’re new to this. Preparing all necessary things for a dog's camp is important as it can affect the whole trip and your dog’s safety.
Let’s scroll down to know what you should bring on the first dog's camp trip and explore some handy tips to make it more exciting!
What To Prepare When Camping With Dogs?
A Right Tent
A tent is where you lay and rest with your dogs, so selecting the right tent is the most crucial stage when preparing stuff for your dog's camp.
A tent should be medium-sized for you and your dogs to shelter comfortably. Don’t hesitate to purchase a large tent if you have big dogs. Moreover, remember to bring a thick blanket as a tent’s accessory to spread out on the floor.
Because your dogs can claw on holes or rocks on the ground, the blanket will prevent them from scratching the tent floor and is easy to wipe out any dirt.
Relaxing Sleeping Gear
While you’re camping with your dogs overnight, getting a nice self-inflating sleeping pad and sleeping bag is the second important thing you need to note down.
Read more: How to make a sleeping bag warmer
Good sleeping gear brings a comfortable and cozy feeling to you and your dogs, especially at midnight or in the cold season. It also needs to be lightweight and easily fit in your backpack as you probably don’t want to carry too much heavy stuff on your back.
It’s better if your sleeping pad and dogs’ are water-resistant and durable, so you can use them for outside utility without worrying about damaging them.
Zip Line And Backpacks
Many campsites require dogs to be leashed anytime to ensure safety for all neighbors nearby. Therefore, preparing a zip line will help your dogs move more freely and comfortably while still protecting them and avoiding causing harm to others.
Furthermore, using a zip line helps ease your hands so that you can use them for other necessary activities.
Besides a zip line, we recommend getting a backpack for your dogs, especially when you go hiking at your campgrounds. It’s a good chance for your dogs to help you carry heavyweight items or their own stuff and train their strength.
Food And Bowls
Food supplies are always a fundamental element that you should prioritize when camping with your dogs. However, bringing the whole dog food container is inconvenient and occupies too much space.
Instead, you can use a kibble carrier or clear plastic box to transport dog food more easily, see the food inside, and organize it well in your car. If you have a long trip, preparing dehydrated dog food is more convenient and saves the car’s space.
It’s advisable to buy some collapsible dog bowls, so after your dogs finish eating, you can fold these bowls and keep them tidily.
First Aid Gear
Remember that accidents happen at a certain moment you’ll never think of, so preparing a first aid kit is primary and plays a key role in preventing serious injuries. All you need to pack is your dog’s health files, your vet’s contact number, allergy medicines (Benadryl), drugs to induce vomiting (Hydrogen Peroxide), and bandage tape.
Lighting
A flashlight, headlamp, and LED collar are advisable for a dog camp because your dogs may want to pee at night. A good source of lighting also helps you watch the night sky better.
Tips And Tricks For Camping With Dogs
Never Leave Your Dogs Alone
Many campsites require you to keep your dogs around with a leash to protect you, other dogs, their owners, and the habitat. Don’t take your eyes off your dogs, even when you go to the bathroom.
Further, never leave your dogs inside any vehicle because they will not have enough oxygen to breathe. You’re responsible for being with your dogs at all times. For example, when you sleep in the tent, remember to bring them inside and lock the tent.
Carry A Good Fresh Drinking Water Supply
Water is essential for all species to survive. Especially in a dog's camp, you will need more water than you think because you and your dogs participate in many outdoor activities requiring too much strength and energy.
A sufficient fresh water supply will keep you and your dog hydrated, while sometimes, you will use it for emergencies.
Be Considerate Of Your Neighbors
Dogs are active animals and friendly to humans. However, you must take care of your dogs to ensure they don’t annoy other campers on the campsites. Some campers prefer quietness and private space with their dogs and don’t want to be disturbed by other dogs.
Therefore, before letting your dogs play with others, ask their owners to ensure they’re comfortable with it.
Bring Pup Paw Protectors
Even when you don’t go hiking, preparing pup paw protectors is necessary to protect your dogs’ paws from rough surfaces. Paw protectors can be used flexibly as they’re water-resistant and adjustable on all terrains.
Collect Trash
A dog's camp helps you and your dogs connect with nature, so you have a great responsibility to keep it intact. You must protect the campgrounds and the surrounding habitat by gathering trash and leaving with no trace.