Camping with your dog can be a great adventure for both you and your pet, especially when you incorporate some of the best dog camping gear on the market. There’s something about seeing the outdoors through a dog’s eyes that can make us pay attention to the sights and sounds we’d otherwise miss. But before you head to camp for the weekend, it helps to do some pet-specific planning. Here are some things to consider before you go:
- Check the regulations at your campground to make sure it’s pet-friendly.
- Plan to have your dog with you at all times. Most dogs don’t do well when left alone in unfamiliar environments. It’s also pretty unsafe to leave your pet in a car, tent, or camper for an extended period of time.
- Make sure your dog’s flea and tick medication is up to date.
- Update your dog’s ID tag (or microchip) with current contact info.
- Look up the nearest veterinary clinic to your campsite and note the phone number in case you have a pet-related emergency or medical need.
In addition to these considerations, you’ll also want to make sure you have the right gear for your pet. Dogs don’t need nearly as many things as human campers (at least not most dogs) but they do have some specific needs. Here’s our favorites and the best of the best dog camping gear that will help keep your pup happy:
Collar
When your dog is outdoors, there’s no end to the messes they can get into. One preventative measure against odors and germs is swapping out their typical collar for a waterproof/odor-proof collar. Kurgo’s is made from flexible material for your dog’s comfort but it also easily wipes clean with water. As a bonus, the collar comes with a matching leash.
Leash
A leash is a necessity when your dog is outdoors. Not only can you keep him with you when you’re on the trail, a leash and stake can keep your pup from wandering off at camp. This from Tuff Mutt is great for hiking while this is a good option for keeping your dog close to camp.
Bed or Blanket
Depending on the sleeping arrangements (and the dog), some campers prefer to let their dogs share their sleeping space. If your dog does better on her own, consider bringing a dedicated dog bed or blanket just for her. Chuckit offers this , or you can go the minimalist route and bring along this from Outrav.
Food and Water Bowls
For convenience’s sake, collapsible food and water bowls are a helpful addition to your pet camping gear. Not only can you use them at the campsite, you can also pack one for your daily adventures such as hiking or boating. That way, you can make sure your dog stays well-hydrated (and well-fed.). This from Comsun has one bowl for food and one for water.
Safety Lights
Safety lights ensure that other people can see your pet at night—including you! In a dark campground (or backcountry campsite), it can be too easy to lose track of a wandering pet. This will help keep your pet safe.
Pick-Up Bags
Even in the wild, it’s important to pick up after your dog. According to the EPA, dog poop can be harmful to the environment, especially in locations where it introduces new bacteria and pathogens. Rather than the classic plastic bags that never break down, try these from Doggy Do Good, a small family business based in Michigan. A portion of their proceeds go to animal shelters.
Dog Camping Gear – Boots
They might seem superfluous but boots can be a worthwhile investment for dogs whose paws aren’t used the outdoors. Even if your pup spends a lot of time outside, they might not be used to the terrain you’ll encounter on a camping trip. Check out our guide to the best hiking boots for dogs and see which option is best for your four-legged adventure buddy. Or, if you just can’t get your dog to wear boots, try using a protective layer of .
Brush or Comb
Being outdoors means there’s a better chance your dog will pick up burrs and ticks. Have a or on hand to deal with fur-emergencies.
Backpack
Depending on your dog’s size, you might want to provide them with a pack. (In fact, working breeds actually like wearing packs because it gives them a “job” to do.) Try this from Ruffwear.
Life Jacket
If your camping trip involves swimming, paddling, or boating, it’s a good idea to bring a life jacket for your pet. Even dogs that love water can easily get tired and a life jacket will help keep them safe when they do. This from Outward Hound is available in four sizes and comes with rescue handles.
The more you camp with your dog, the more you’ll know what they need in order for both of you to have a good time in the outdoors together!
Have a dog and love tent camping? Check out our collection of the best tents for camping with dogs.
