The first time I got ready to go camping with my dog I had a question:
How can I keep my dog safe while camping?
Keeping a dog safe while camping isn’t difficult, but with some preparation, you can bring your pet along. Here are some general tips for camping safely with dogs:
- Flea and tick protection
- Use a leash
- Travel safety steps
- Watch the temperature
- Look out for poisonous plants
- Keep water on you
- Pre-trip checkup
- Watch for wild animals
- Choose a safe sleeping spot
- Always keep watch of your dog
- Stay on trails
Read on for more details on how each tip helps your dog stay safe.
Table of Contents
11 Simple Tips For Keeping Dogs Safe While Camping
In this section, we’ll dig into each of these tips on dog safety. These won’t avoid all problems you may encounter, but following these and keeping them in mind will set you up for success.
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#1 Flea And Tick Protection
It’s obvious that the outdoors is packed with bugs, but the most dangerous of these are fleas and ticks. These little bugs can cause serious illness and even death if left untreated.
But all of this can be avoided with some simple protection.
We recommend checking with your vet for specific recommendations, but here is what I use with my own dog.
I like this HerbalVet collar. One size fits all, it works well, but it doesn’t break the bank. I don’t have to worry about fleas and ticks at home, so I don’t need one that lasts forever.
#2 Use A Leash
No matter how well trained your dog is, you’ll always want to keep a leash on for your pet. The best-trained dogs will still run after animals or feel uncomfortable in some situations.
The last thing you want is for your dog to bolt or go after something it shouldn’t. A leash or a long lead can make a big difference while still helping your dog feel comfortable and free in the campsite space.
I could lie and tell you to spend a huge amount on the leash, but I don’t, and neither should you. This Hi Kiss agility lead comes in different lengths and is quite affordable and durable.
That’s why I use this one rather than a super expensive “premium” option.
#3 Travel Safety
Did you know there are only 3 harnesses certified by the Center For Pet Safety? Most pet harnesses aren’t up for the job of transporting of your dog safely in cars or trucks to your camping spot.
While this isn’t part of camping specifically, it’s still important to know how to protect your furry friend as you get to your campsite.
The CPS recommends these 3 harnesses:
- Sleepypod Clickit Sport (Sm, Med, Lg, XL)
- Sleepypod Clickit Terrain Sm, Med, Lg, XL)*
- ZuGoPet The Rocketeer Pack
*My sister-in-law uses these for her two dogs and loves them.
#4 Watch The Temperature
Temperature is one of the bigger concerns for dogs while camping. The weather can easily make your dog too hot or too cold if you’re not careful.
Your pet won’t always be able to communicate and care itself in these extreme temperatures, so it’s your job to care for your pet.
Here are some quick tips for keeping a dog cool in warm weather:
- Offer shade
- Use a cooling dog bed
- Lots of clean water for drinking
- Use a fan
- Rest during the hottest parts of the day
- Watch for signs of overheating
- Doggie Sunscreen
- Use wet towels
- Cooling bandana
- Go swimming
- Doggy shoes
- Kiddie pools
You may want to check out how to keep a dog cool while camping for more details.
Here are some tips for keeping your dog warm in cold weather:
- Use blankets
- Warm vests
- Safe heaters
- Wind breaks
#5 Look Out For Poisonous Plants
Just like humans should avoid certain plants, dogs need to avoid them too. Your pet probably won’t just start eating plants randomly, but you need to keep an eye on them.
Take poison ivy for example. If a dog eats some, it can cause indigestion and vomiting.
Even if the dog comes in contact with the ivy, the oil may cause the dog’s skin to become itchy and painful.
Here are a few plants to watch out for with your dog:
- Poison ivy
- Sago palm
- Aloe vera
- Amaryllis
- American holly
- Daffodil
For more details and pictures, check out this awesome article on CCSPCA.com.
#6 Keep Water On You
Hydration is essential for your dog. While we can get a lot of our water from our food (especially vegetables), dogs need to drink a lot to stay healthy and safe.
Keep a lot of water on you and at your campsite. It doesn’t need to be fancy water, but you need to have it readily available.
Don’t forget to also have a container to put it in. Pouring the water into your dog’s mouth will work in a pinch, but it wastes a lot of water.
#7 Pre-trip Checkup
Before the camping season starts, it may be a good idea to take your dog to the vet for a pre-trip checkup.
When you go to the vet, make sure you tell them of your camping plans. Your vet may have some specific advice or treatment suggestions for your pet.
#8 Watch For Wild Animals
Wild animals are probably going to leave you alone while camping. The dangerous ones tend to avoid people a lot.
However, there is a chance that some animals like snakes will be near your camp without you noticing. You need to keep an eye on your dog to keep it from getting into trouble.
In my experience, the most troublesome of the wild animals are the squirrels. These little guys come pretty close to try and sneak food, and my dog usually tries to run after him.
#9 Choose A Safe Sleeping Spot
A safe sleeping spot for your dog goes a long way. If you can, having a place for your dog in the tent is the best option.
In the tent, you can control the temperature and keep an eye on your dog. You want to keep your dog out of trouble whenever possible.
#10 Always Keep Watch Of Your Dog
When you go camping, you want to relax and explore. I get it; it’s my favorite part about camping.
And bringing your dog along can help you relax even more. But you have a responsibility to your pet.
Always keep an eye on your dog. Don’t leave him alone for something to happen you aren’t there to help deal with.
#11 Stay On Trails
When exploring with your pet, it’s a safe idea to stay on established trails. This may be less exciting than foraging out on your own, but you need to think of your pet’s safety first.
The trails are usually cleared of most debris. This makes it safer to travel on.
There’s always a chance when going off-trail you or your pet could get into troublesome plants or dangerous holes. This is why we recommend staying on the path with your pet.
Also, you never know when you may run across a hiding animal (skunk sprays aren’t fun!).
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are a few commonly asked questions related to the topic of dogs and camping.
Can I leave my dog in a tent? – Yes, with precautions. Don’t do this lightly, but if you leave your dog in your tent while you go off, you may want to consider a fence of some kind around the tent.
The main concerns are animals getting in while you’re gone, and your dog getting out. We don’t recommend leaving your dog, but it can be done.
What to bring when camping with dogs? – Here are some items you may want to bring (this isn’t an all-encompassing checklist):
- Food
- Water
- Water dish
- Collar
- Leash
- ID tags
- Bed or mat
- First Aid kit for dogs
- Treats
- Toys
- Dog shade
Is it safe to take a dog camping? – Yes! As long as you’re prepared with the above tips and you pick a spot that fits your pet’s personality, you’ll have a good experience. If your dog gets nervous around crowds, a busy state park may not be for you.
Conclusion
I hope you enjoyed learning about how you can keep your dog safe while camping. Pups are great to bring on trips, but if you’re worried about the furry guy, these tips will help you do so safely.
Now get out there and enjoy the fresh air!