10 Tips for Your Dog’s First Camping Trip
With the weather warming up (finally) many of us are starting to dream about summer plans. In our house, this means that it’s time to start getting ready for our camping season to kick-off!
If you’re considering taking your dog on your next adventure, today’s post is for you.
Check out these 10 tips for your dog’s first camping trip.
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Whether you’ve been camping your whole life or are new to outdoor travel, there is no denying that the world of camping has grown significantly in recent years.
In fact, here in Ontario, Canada, the provincial parks system is recording record numbers of reservations as people look for ways to vacation while still adhering to the travel restrictions that are in place.
In a recent post on the Ontario Parks Blog, they reported that there has been an increase in reservations of nearly 100% just in the first month of 2021. More people than ever are trading in 5-star resorts for travel trailers and tents this year!
Not only is camping a great way to explore locally, but studies find that spending as little as five minutes outdoors in nature can have a positive impact on your overall mental health.
Some of the benefits include better sleep, higher energy levels, reduced stress and even a boosted immune system.
The best part of all? Camping is a family activity, open to people of all ages AND our non-human family members as well.
Over the years, I’ve seen quite a growing number of pets tagging along on vacation with their families.
I’m not just talking about dogs either! The term ‘adventure cat’ has been catching on, encouraging people to explore with their feline friends.
In addition to dogs and cats, I’ve seen birds and even hamsters hanging out at the campgrounds.
Today, however, we’re going to focus on man’s best friend.
When we start pulling the camping gear out to get everything in order (as we were doing last weekend), our dogs instantly get excited.
They LOVE spending time outdoors and love even more that it’s uninterrupted ‘pack time’.
It wasn’t always this way. We all start somewhere. There was a time as each of our dogs joined our pack that we had to go through introducing them to the camping lifestyle.
With each dog, we made mistakes (many mistakes), made things harder on ourselves (and our dogs) than they needed to be and learned, through experience, how to make it easier the next time around.
Now, I’m going to share some of my go-to tips and tricks to set yourself up for success!
Check Out These 10 Tips for Your Dog’s First Camping Trip
1. Know Your Dog
This is the biggest and most important point to consider for every dog owner. Make sure that you are keeping your dog’s unique personality in mind.
Every dog has their own likes, dislikes, and unique quirks.
Understanding this will help you to focus your efforts where they are needed to help your dog adjust to the camping experience.
For example, if you know that your dog is easily set off by people and other dogs, you may want to go out of your way to either book a more private campsite or to use vehicles and tarps to create more privacy for them when you are there.
Doing so will guarantee a better experience for you, your dog AND the other campers nearby.
Some dogs are timid when it comes to new experiences and new places. For dogs like this, a short weekend trip will give them a chance to adjust without demanding too much.
Better still, if possible, start off with a ‘camping trip’ in the back yard.
We have started off every new dog by setting up the tent here in our fenced yard, where they are comfortable, and allowing them to explore it at their own pace.
On the other hand, however, a bold and adventurous dog may have no problem jumping into a week-long adventure in the backcountry.
2. Refresh Basic Training Commands
There are several basic training commands that can be valuable in keeping your dog safe while camping and/or hiking.
For example:
- Leave It: If your dog encounters wildlife (like snakes) or plants that they shouldn’t be eating, ‘leave it’ is a command that will help you to get your dog away from the danger ASAP.
- Recall: While most campgrounds do have leash requirements put in place, there is always the risk your dog will get off-leash. Being able to recall your dog effectively will help to keep them safe from moving vehicles, wildlife/predators, reactive dogs, or getting lost in the bush.
- Leash Commands: As previously mentioned, many campgrounds and parks require your dog to be on a leash. For this reason, you want to know that your dog is going to behave on a leash for both their safety and your sanity.
- Down/Place: If you aren’t putting your dog in a crate at night, you will want to know that they are going to stay sleeping where they are supposed to, even if they are curious. Will a sound outside your tent send your dog barreling through the canvas?
If you aren’t 100% comfortable with your dog’s ability to follow these basic training commands, you still have time to work on it.
Put aside a little time each day to focus on the basics. It may not be as exciting as that fun, flashy trick that you saw online but that time invested on basic training will pay off immensely for you in terms of having a well-behaved travel companion.
3. Research and Reconsider Your Gear
If you aren’t new to camping, you may already own many of the basic camping gear that you would need for a trip.
However, selecting gear for a trip alone and selecting gear for a trip with your dog isn’t always the same.
Take a moment to carefully consider the gear that you are packing. Is your tent going to be large enough for you AND your dog? Will your air mattress withstand the additional weight of your dog sleeping with you (if that is your plan)?
A common problem faced by those camping with dogs is the impact of your dog’s nails on tent floors and air mattresses.
You can protect your tent floor by purchasing a tent liner or placing blankets and/or mats where your dog will be walking. In our tent, we have beach mats rolled out as they are effective and easy to transport.
If you sleep on an air mattress, you may choose to make the change to a foam pad or cot. Alternatively, you can protect your mattress using extra blankets beneath your bedding.
The other gear-related factor to consider is your packing space for travel itself. If you normally pack your vehicle full for camping trips, where is your dog going to sit?
This may require scaling back on some of your ‘luxuries’ to make room for your dog and his/her gear.
4. Pack the Necessary Dog Camping Supplies
Just as there are supplies that you need to enjoy a camping trip, there are also dog camping supplies that you don’t want to be caught without.
Make a list of the basics including bowls for food and water, your dog’s food/treats, poop bags, etc.
If you aren’t sure where to start, check out my post ‘Must-Have Camping Gear for Dogs’ for a list of my go-to camping gear, gadgets, and brands!
Or, visit our dedicated pet-friendly outdoor travel website: THE KAS PACK
5. Check in with Your Veterinarian
Before your dog’s first camping trip, check in with your veterinarian to make sure that everything is in order in terms of your dog’s health and well-being.
This includes checking whether your dog’s vaccinations are up to date, as your dog may encounter other dogs or wildlife.
If you have a dog with allergies or a specific medical condition, this is also the best time to discuss your unique situation and what steps you can take to make your trip but enjoyable AND safe for your pup.
In addition to any health-related concerns, this is a great time to discuss your options in terms of flea and tick prevention.
With so many different options on the market (including all-natural alternatives), you want to make sure that you have all the information necessary to make the best choice for your dog.
6. Be Familiar with the Rules (and Follow Them)
Before heading out to a park or campground, take some time to research the rules and regulations for that area.
This includes understanding any leash rules that are in place as well as identifying dog-free areas that you may need to avoid.
While you are there, make sure to adhere to these rules. They are in place for a reason.
You may not agree with every rule that is in place, however, it’s important to show respect for not only those in charge but also for other campers and hikers in the area.
If you feel like hiking off-leash or taking your dog on the beach are important for your camping experience, find trails and beach areas that permit these activities.
Failure to follow the rules not only shows a lack of care and respect on your part, but it also gives a bad name to all of the responsible dog owners.
Don’t be ‘that person’…
For those planning on camping here in Ontario, Canada at any one of our incredible provincial parks, you can find a list of dog-friendly areas including beaches and exercise areas on our Dog-Friendly Guide to Ontario Parks HERE.
7. Plan Dog-Friendly Activities
If you are planning on taking part in any activities while you are there, make sure to plan something that’s dog-friendly so that your pup can join in on the fun.
Not only do most parks and campgrounds have rules against leaving your dog behind in your tent or trailer, doing so may lead to bigger problems including your dog getting into something he/she shouldn’t or even your dog getting loose and going missing.
You never know what can happen!
Some great dog-friendly activities to consider include:
- Hiking
- Canoeing and Kayaking
- Visiting a dog-friendly beach
- Spending time around the campfire
- Visiting local dog-friendly businesses (such as breweries, restaurants, and cafes).
Just make sure that you are checking that your dog is welcome in these various establishments and areas before heading out.
If having your dog with you is going to keep you from taking part in your favourite activities, camping with your dog may not be the best choice for you and your pup, and that’s okay!
It may be better in your case to find a pet sitter or boarding kennel so that your dog can have their own vacation while you’re gone.
8. Leave No Trace
Have you heard of the ‘leave no trace’ principles of outdoor travel? The idea is simple… Enjoy your time in the outdoors and when you leave, leave the place cleaner than when you found it.
This means that you should clean up ALL waste from your trip, including dog waste.
During your trip, be mindful of the wildlife and plant life in the area, and the ways that your dog may cause damage.
Prevent your dog from running through the bush, disturbing the natural ecosystem.
Before leaving at the end of your trip, take the time to do a final walk around the campsite. Check for any garbage or dog waste that may have been overlooked over the course of your trip.
This principle should also be applied to any activities that you partake in while you’re camping.
For example, always make sure to bring plenty of dog poop bags with you when hiking. If your dog does need to go, pick it up and take it with you, disposing of it properly.
9. Be Prepared for Emergencies
Accidents happen and it’s our responsibility to make sure that we are prepared to take care of our dogs at these times.
Before heading out on your trip, make sure that your dog’s ID tags are on their collar/harness, and that all information included on them is up to date.
Put together a document with important information about your dog including a health history, vaccination records and identifying information.
Always keep this information along with recent photos of your dog with you, either in your vehicle or in your pack.
Do NOT rely on digital copies of this information. If your device battery dies or you don’t have the service necessary to pull this information up, you may find yourself out of luck if you don’t have a physical copy on hand.
You may also want to create a ‘lost dog’ poster with your campsite information so that you have it prepared if your dog goes missing during your vacation.
Finally, purchase or create a dog first aid kit to bring with you on all travels.
Often, dog owners pack a generic first aid kit created for people without realizing that there are some dog-specific items that need to be included when travelling with your pup.
10. Have Fun!
If you’ve taken the time to prepare accordingly, you’ve already done everything that you can do to ensure that you have a successful trip.
That being said, there is always the chance that something isn’t going to go according to plan.
Don’t let these little hiccups or bumps in the road ruin your dog’s first camping trip!
Camping is a great bonding opportunity for a dog and owner, a time to focus on nothing more than just being together and sharing quality time.
Always keep in mind that the most important goal is simply to have a good time and creating lasting memories together.
Experienced Campers, how did you prepare for your dog’s first camping trip? Do you have any tips and tricks to share that I didn’t cover?
Feature Image Credit: Victoria Andrews | Canva
I agree with all of these. I used to have a dog when I was little but I never took it for camping. The one about leaving no trace is so good. I also love the one about preparing for emergencies as that would have been the last thing on my mind even tho I know very well that accidents happen. I might get a furry dog. I find them so cute. I will definitely be making use of these tips if I get a dog and take it camping.
Unfortunately, we often overlook the importance of being prepared for an emergency until something actually hits and we find ourselves scrambling to locate what we need.
This is such a helpful post. I would love to be able to take my dog on a camping trip this year. She is part of the family so I always feel sad when I have to leave her at home.
We’ve taken ours so often that it would kinda feel weird going without them now. They do grow to love it quickly as long as they are introduced to it properly (to avoid unnecessary stress for those that aren’t 100% comfortable with unknown situations).
These are such good tips! I can imagine having a host of dog friendly activities to do is so important!
Katie | katieemmabeauty.com
Yes, having those activities to get out and make the most of your trip really adds to the experience in a positive way!
I’ve heard of how at least 5 minutes of sunshine is meant to be good at resetting the body clock and that, but I’m not sure my sleep would improve if I went camping, I can’t sleep without noise and I’m not sure I can take sleeping on something that isn’t as forgiving to my bones as a proper bed. You’ve provided quite a comprehensive list of things to do and to consider if you want to go camping with your pet dog, which I’m sure many dog owners will benefit from reading
There have been so many advances in camper trailers. You can actually purchase normal mattresses (although slightly sized differently) for many of the trailers now, meaning that it’s an option for those who can’t sleep on air mattresses and cots comfortably.
I think my dog is probably too old for camping now and plus nobody in my family are really campers, tbh! He can’t be let off a lead either, so I’d be far too nervous to take him camping! But these are great tips. I can imagine camping is great for dogs – especially if you have more than 1!
If you ever do decide to give it a chance, don’t let the fact he can’t be off lead discourage you. Most campgrounds and parks around here actually require that dogs be on lead at all times. Ours both remain on lead – either a leash or a tie-out – throughout our trips.
What a fabulous post, it will be so helpful! I’ve never camped with my dog – truth be told I only camped myself once and it was a disaster LOL! I was totally unprepared for the experience and got into a few mishaps. I really want to try again and of course I want to bring our dogs, as we always do when traveling. Right off the bat tip #1 is for me! The tips about dogs’ claws’ potentially damaging a tent or mattress are so impawtant. Thanks for this great information.
Love & Biscuits,
Dogs Luv Us and We Luv Them
People are often shocked that we not only tent camp with air mattresses and 2 larger dogs, but that we will put them in the tent if it’s raining out or dark when we’re setting the rest of the site up without worrying about them destroying anything lol It’s all about making sure they are comfortable, proper training and taking steps to prevent avoidable accidents 🙂
I love how you cover FIRST the important points of control of your dog. If your dog can’t ‘leave it’ the bottom line is it is not under control is it? We don’t have snakes here but I can see if leaving a snake or other toxic animal in the US or Europe is not one of your dog’s skills then it could be seriously hurt.
We loved camping as kids, and even now there is a sense of excitement and adventure when you think and plan a trip. You need to make this a printable so people can tick off everything they have done before they go.
Tremendous post and I know you have covered every corner to keep a dog and family safe.
Great idea! I’ll put together a printable and drop it in the Resource Library for anyone that can use that.
Camping can be such a great experience, however, we have to make sure that we can keep our pets safe. That’s our role as pet parents, right?
These are awesome tips – and best wishes on all future adventures. Camping use to be one my favourite things to do in the summer, might need to start getting back into it! Thanks for this post.
We LOVE getting out camping and hiking with our pups. Our oldest dog, Daviana, has been with me for 12 years and has camped every summer. I love seeing her getting excited as we start to pull out our gear.
Super important to know your dog! It can make or break your whole trip if you planned the wrong type of activities for your pup.
Yes! For example, our boy Indy likes hiking, but only for shorter time periods. If we try to get him out for too long, he eventually just decides that he’s done and lays down lol! Longer hiking trips are saved for exclusively my girl and I.
These are great tips for dog owners. I would have thought it was very easy to just pick up and go with your dog, but there is so much to think about!
There are a lot of factors that new dog owners and campers don’t often consider. Unfortunately, overlooking those steps can ruin an otherwise great vacation. It’s a new place and a new experience, which can be a lot for some dogs. Especially for those dogs that are more anxious about stepping out of their comfort zones.
We go tent camping every summer (except for 2020.) These are wonderful tips to help make camping with dogs more enjoyable for everyone!
We love tent camping with our pups! Our first trip of 2021 has been cancelled, unfortunately, due to the latest lockdown. But we’re counting down to the next one.
When traveling with our dog(s), the first thing we do is to map out veterinary emergency clinic(s) in the destination–and if it is a long trip along the way too.
Jasmine’s first camping trip was when she was still quite little; she loved it so much.
That’s a great tip!
It is so important to be completely prepared for camping with your fur family as it is the same as taking a kid, you need to be prepared for all, great post for those that are first timers, Happy Camping
Exactly! They need us to take their safety and happiness into consideration when making plans. Just like a child, they are dependent on us in those moments. That being said, when you do take the steps necessary to be prepared, the experience can be a lot of fun!
Great tips for camping! I grew up going camping with my family but we didn’t take our dogs with us then. I imagine it can be a lot more fun now.
We love it! Not only is it fun camping with them, but they love the same activities that we do while there including hiking and canoeing.
We used to go camping every year as a family of seven with a dog. My parents must have been mad!
Rose
We used to go as a family of 5 with our dogs and cats every summer, and I loved every minute of it! Now, my husband and I take our dogs every summer. We plan one trip each year where we head to the same park as the family so that we can all spend time together (including all of our pets).
I don’t have a dog and I’ve only ever been camping once! But I think it would be such good fun to take a dog on a camping trip. This post has made me realise there is a lot to consider to make sure the trip goes smoothly! x
Both my husband and I LOVE camping. We take multiple trips each year, however, it’s a lot more fun when we have the pups with us!
Camping with a doggie pal would be awesome. Your tips for making it the best experience are spot on. While I don’t have a dog I would definitely consider taking my future canine with me on my adventures. Thanks for the helpful post!
We love travelling with our pups, discovering the different parks and campgrounds around our province. It’s so much fun having your best friend along for the adventure.