Camp Gear for Dogs: Everything you need to know for dog-friendly adventures

Camping with your dog is a wonderful experience that offers a unique set of rewards and benefits for both you and your furry friend.

Here are some reasons why camping with your dog can be an unforgettable adventure:

1. Unbreakable Bond: Camping provides an opportunity for you and your dog to strengthen your bond. Spending quality time together in a natural setting can enhance your connection and trust.

2. Exploration and Adventure: Dogs are naturally curious and love to explore new environments. Camping allows your dog to satisfy their adventurous spirit by encountering new scents, sights, and sounds.

3. Physical Activity: Camping often involves hiking, walking, or playing outdoors, which provides plenty of exercise for your dog. This physical activity contributes to their overall health and helps burn off excess energy.

4. Mental Stimulation: The outdoors offers a wide range of sensory experiences for dogs. From wildlife sightings to the rustling of leaves, your dog's mind will be engaged and stimulated throughout the trip.

5. Quality Time: In our busy lives, it can be challenging to find quality time to spend with our dogs. Camping offers an escape from distractions, allowing you to focus on your dog and build cherished memories together.

6. Relaxation: Camping often encourages a slower pace of life. Both you and your dog can unwind and de-stress in a peaceful natural setting, away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

7. Disconnecting from Technology: Camping provides an opportunity to disconnect from screens and the digital world. This can benefit both you and your dog by promoting face-to-face interaction and mental relaxation.

8. A Break from Routine: Dogs thrive on routine, but a break from the usual schedule can be refreshing. Camping introduces new experiences and a change of scenery, which can be mentally stimulating for your dog.

9. Social Interaction: Camping can bring your dog into contact with other campers and their dogs. It's an excellent way to socialize your dog, teaching them how to interact with other people and animals in different settings.

10. Sense of Security: Dogs often feel a strong sense of loyalty and protection towards their owners. Camping together can strengthen this bond as your dog sees you as their protector in unfamiliar territory.

11. A Chance to Learn: Camping offers opportunities for training and teaching your dog new skills, such as obedience, recall, and handling different terrains.

12. Adventure Companionship: Dogs make great adventure companions. Whether you're hiking, swimming, or simply sitting around the campfire, your dog will be there, sharing in the experience.

13. Warmth and Comfort: On cold nights, your dog's body heat can provide added warmth in the tent. Many dogs love cuddling up inside a sleeping bag with their owners, making for cozy nights.

14. Improved Mood: Interacting with dogs has been shown to release oxytocin, a hormone associated with feelings of happiness and love. Camping with your dog can boost your mood and reduce stress.

15. Unconditional Love: Perhaps the most significant benefit of camping with your dog is the unconditional love and companionship they provide. Their presence can make any camping trip feel complete and heartwarming.

While camping with your dog can be a truly wonderful experience, it's essential to plan and prepare for their needs to ensure their safety and comfort. Be mindful of your dog's physical capabilities, bring the right gear, and adhere to campground rules and regulations to ensure a successful and enjoyable camping adventure for both you and your four-legged companion. Check out our blog on travelling with your dog.

When it comes to camp gear for dogs, there are many products available to make your camping trip enjoyable and safe for your furry friend.

Here are some recommendations for essential camp gear for dogs:

1. Dog Tent or Sleeping Bag:

   • Consider getting a dog-specific tent or sleeping bag. These are designed to provide insulation and comfort for your dog while protecting them from the elements. Check out our blog: "Paws and pitch: Top Tents for Camping with Your Dog" for recommendations on tents for camping with your dog.

2. Collapsible Food and Water Bowls:

   • Collapsible bowls are lightweight, easy to pack, and perfect for providing food and water to your dog during the trip. While you are enjoying a warm beverage during the chilly evenings, have a read to know if your furry friend can drink tea!
   • Here are some recommendations for collapsible food and water bowls for your dog:
   • Bonza large collapsible dog bowl 1000mL
   • OHMO collapsible dog bowl 900mL
   • Sunlotus 4 pack collapsible dog bowls 650mL
   • HINMAY large collapsible dog bowls pack of 2 1000mL

3. Leash and Tie-Out Cable:

   • A durable leash and a tie-out cable are essential for keeping your dog secure at the campsite. Make sure the tie-out cable is long enough to give your dog some freedom but not too long that they can wander off. Take a look at our blogs 'Slip Leads for Dogs: a Vet's Guide' and 'Mastering the Leash: Why Lead Training is Essential?'
   • Here are some recommendations for leash and tie-out cables to keep your dog safe:
   • Dog tie out cable, reflective with 360-degree swivel lockable hook and PVC coating, available from 10 to 120ft.
   • Dog tie out cable 10ft long for dogs up to 125lbs.
   • Dog tie out cable 15m long, reflective with screw lock and chew proof, absorbing spring up to 125lbs.

4. Dog Backpack:

   • If your dog is comfortable with it, a doggy backpack allows them to carry their food, water, and other essentials. Just be sure not to overload it. 

5. Doggy Life Jacket:

   • If your camping adventure includes activities near water, a doggy life jacket is a must to ensure your dog's safety. 

6. Tick and Flea Prevention:

   • Consult with your veterinarian before the trip to get appropriate tick and flea prevention products for your dog. This is especially important in wooded or grassy areas. 

7. Dog First Aid Kit:

   • As mentioned in the blog, a dog-specific first aid kit should include items like bandages, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, and any necessary medications. 
   • Here are some dog first aid kit recommendations that are suitable for camping:

   • One Step Pet First Aid Kit: 

     • Durable, compact in a waterproof zip case and lightweight design and perfect for those pet emergencies
     • Over 80+ Specialised First Aid items including Water Bowl, Emergency Blanket, Tick Remover, Saline Pods, Multi-sized bandages, Claw Clippers, Scissors, Rubbish Bags, Antiseptic Wipes and Alcohol Pads and more.
     • Available here.

   • Mountain Paws Multi-Purpose Travel Sized Dog First Aid Kit for Home, Outdoor or Travel

   • • This is for basic treatment and includes all the essentials for all common dog injuries. It is designed for practical use with an attachment point on the outer bag which makes it ideal when walking your dog. Help minimise blood loss and prevent infection before you take your pet to the vet.
     • Made from a tough, rip-stop outer material this kit is rugged and lightweight to withstand the elements. The interior is designed for quick and easy access.
     • Contents: Gloves, Tweezers, Scissors, Safety Pins, Micropore Tape, Tick Tweezers, Emergency Blanket, Sterile Eyewash Pods, Plastic Foot Pouches, Dog Poop Bags, Sterile Medium Wound Dressing, Open Woven Bandage, Elastic Cohesive Bandage, Sterile Low Adherent Dressings. Hygienic Cleansing Wipes, Ply Gauze Swabs
     • Available here.

8. Dog Identification Tags:

   • Ensure your dog has an ID tag with your contact information in case they get lost. It's also a good idea to have a recent photo of your dog. 

9. Poop Bags and Trowel:

   • Bring biodegradable poop bags for cleaning up after your dog, and a trowel for burying waste away from the campsite.

10. Toys and Entertainment:

    • Pack your dog's favorite toys to keep them mentally stimulated and entertained during downtime at the campsite. 

11. Dog-Friendly Bug Repellent:

    • In areas with lots of insects, consider using a dog-friendly bug repellent to protect your pup from bites. (Here are some veterinary recommended products)

12. Grooming Supplies:

    • Depending on the length of your trip and your dog's breed, you might want to bring grooming supplies like a brush and dog-safe shampoo to keep them clean and comfortable.

13. Portable Dog Cot or Mat:

    • Elevating your dog off the ground with a cot or providing them with a comfortable mat can help keep them warm and dry in various weather conditions. Check out our blog: 

14. Reflective Gear:

    • If you'll be walking your dog at night, reflective gear such as a collar, leash, or vest can help improve visibility and safety. (affiliate links)

15. Dog Booties:

    • If you plan on hiking or camping in rocky or rough terrain, consider dog booties to protect your pup's paws from cuts, scrapes, or hot surfaces. (affiliate links)

16. Training and Safety Gear:

    • Ensure you have basic training gear like a whistle or clicker, as well as safety gear like a dog life vest if you plan on taking your dog on water-based activities. (affiliate links)

17. Rain Gear:

    • If you anticipate rainy weather, pack a doggy raincoat to keep your pup dry. (affiliate links)

18. Dog-Friendly Insect Repellent:

    • In areas with ticks, mosquitoes, or other pesky insects, a dog-friendly insect repellent can help protect your dog from bites. (Here are some veterinary recommended products)

Remember that your dog's comfort and safety should be a top priority while camping. The specific gear you need may vary depending on your camping location, the weather, and your dog's individual needs.

Check out this video for on what to pack

Camping with your dog can be a safe and enjoyable experience if you take the necessary precautions and plan ahead.

Here are some tips to ensure a safe camping trip with your dog:

1. Check the campsite's pet policy: Before you go camping, make sure to check the campsite's rules and regulations regarding pets. Some campgrounds may have specific restrictions or requirements for dogs.

2. Keep your dog on a leash: In most camping areas, dogs are required to be on a leash at all times. This not only ensures the safety of your dog but also helps prevent encounters with wildlife or other campers.

3. Bring essential supplies: Pack everything your dog will need, including food, water, bowls, a leash, a collar with identification tags, a first aid kit, any necessary medications, and waste disposal bags. Check out our blog: 'Paws and pitch: Top Tents for Camping with Your Do'.

4. Vaccinations and health check: Ensure that your dog's vaccinations are up to date, and talk to your vet about any additional precautions or medications your dog might need, such as flea and tick prevention. Be sure to check out our blog on kennel cough 'Pawsitively Protected: The Revolution of Oral Kennel Cough Vaccination for Dogs'.

5. Protect against wildlife: Be aware of the local wildlife in the camping area. Bears, coyotes, and other animals may be present, so take steps to keep your dog safe. Use bear-resistant food containers and avoid leaving dog food or scraps around the campsite.

6. Choose a pet-friendly campsite: Look for campgrounds that are known for being pet-friendly and have amenities for dogs, such as designated dog areas and pet waste disposal stations.

7. Plan for weather: Consider the weather conditions at the campsite and pack appropriate gear for your dog. This could include a doggy jacket for cold weather or cooling accessories for hot weather.

8. Train and socialise your dog: Make sure your dog is well-trained and obedient, as this will make the camping experience more enjoyable for both you and your pet. Also, expose your dog to various outdoor environments and socialize them with other dogs to reduce anxiety and aggression.

9. Be mindful of campfire safety: Keep your dog a safe distance from the campfire to prevent burns or other accidents.

10. Watch for signs of stress: Pay attention to your dog's behavior and body language. If your dog appears stressed or anxious, consider taking a break or providing a safe and quiet place for them in your tent or camper.

11. Respect other campers: Not everyone may be comfortable around dogs, so be considerate of your fellow campers. Keep your dog from approaching or bothering others, and make sure they don't disturb wildlife.

12. Leave no trace: Clean up after your dog and ensure that their waste is properly disposed of in designated areas.

Always assess your dog's comfort and adjust your gear accordingly. With the right camp gear and preparation, you and your dog can enjoy many memorable camping adventures together.