5 Tips for Camping with Your Dog

Camping can be even more fun if you share it with your dog. Discover how to share these exciting experiences with an animal in the safest way possible.
5 Tips for Camping with Your Dog

Last update: 29 August, 2020

A great option this summer is to go camping and if you can share it with your dog, even better! Camping is cheaper and more relaxed than sightseeing or going to crowded beaches during the summer. The best way to fully enjoy the great outdoors is camping with your dog!

How to go camping with your dog

Generally, there are two main types of camping: free camping or camping on a campground. On the other hand, you can also do bivouac camping, which is sleeping outdoors without a tent. However, this is an experience that’s only suitable for the most adventurous.

Currently, free camping is permitted in some areas of the United States and other countries. However, be sure to check the regulations of any national parks prior to setting up camp.

Sometimes free camping spots are limited. However, you should make sure that you’re in a place where camping is permitted so that you’re not breaking any rules. If you decide to do this type of camping and want to bring your dog with you, there shouldn’t be a problem. Because you don’t have to go to any specific establishment, you can just be in the midst of nature with your dog.

On the other hand, if you want to go camping at a campground, you’ll need to book ahead of time and make sure they allow pets.

Here are some useful tips to keep in mind when deciding whether to go camping with your dog. Don’t miss out on this advice if you want to take your pet with you on this adventure!

Camping with your dog is a great summer activity.

1. Make sure the campsite accepts pets

Not all campsites accept pets and y ou can only bring pets if the establishment allows them. Therefore, the most sensible thing to do is to ask before booking a campsite, bungalow, cabin, or villa. This is also true of hotels, beaches, rural houses, or any tourist destination.

You’ll also have to take into account the conditions of the accommodation because some campsites that accept pets have certain restrictions. For example, they may restrict the number of animals, or their size may increase the rate.

2. Before camping with your dog, protect your dog against parasites and diseases

This advice applies to any trip you take with your pet. Before traveling, especially to a natural environment, check that all your pet’s vaccinations are up to date. Also, consider external and internal deworming. Prevention is always the best option.

Remember, you should protect your dog against internal parasites every three months with an oral anti-parasitic. You also need to protect them externally by applying specific pipettes or collars to protect against fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes.

Take the vaccination card with you when you travel, in case you need to demonstrate that the animal has all mandatory vaccinations in the area you’re traveling to. In addition, this document also shows that you’re the legal guardian of the pet.

3. Pack your pet’s suitcase

First, make a list of everything you may need on your trip, For example, you’ll need enough food, accessories for walking, a water bowl, a food bowl, toys, treats, a bed, and seat belts for traveling by car or a dog carrier.

When camping with your dog, a useful accessory is a LED collar so you can locate your dog easily if you go for a walk with him when it’s dark outside.

A dog in a field.

4. Camping with your dog: Leave no trace

Even though you’re outside, you should clean up your dog’s urine by throwing water on it and use bags to collect your dog’s excrement. This is an important measure of respect towards the environment and other campers. In addition, this practice is much more environmentally friendly if the bags are recyclable.

Also, keep an eye on your pet and don’t let them roam the campsite or disturb other people. Don’t leave your trash behind either! Remember, nature belongs to everyone.

5. Take care of your pet

Away from home, it’s much more difficult to control your dog’s schedule of rest, meals, walks, and other routine behavior. While the holidays are for disconnecting, you shouldn’t neglect your pet’s needs.

Give them a few hours of rest, play, and food. Don’t forget to give your pet lots of water as well. This is very important after physical exertion or spending time in the heat.

As we’ve seen, camping with your dog is an educational and stimulating activity for both you and your pet if you follow these tips. Bringing your dog with you is always a better option than leaving them home alone. It’s also a great way to strengthen your emotional bond.


This text is provided for informational purposes only and does not replace consultation with a professional. If in doubt, consult your specialist.