Are you thinking about taking your precious lap dogs camping with you? If so, you need these tips for camping with small dogs! There are so many positive reasons for taking your dog camping, but there are things you need to prepare for as well. If you’re looking for the top tips for camping with animals, make sure to take notes and start getting prepared.
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Tips for Camping with Small Dogs
When I can, my dogs come along with us on road trips, camping trips, to the store — everywhere. They love it, and I love it. If bringing dogs camping is a must for you, please read on.
How can you not take this precious small dog along where ever you go? She’s a ham but loves to tag-a-long.
Just remember that small dogs are lap dogs (usually), and going places that they’ve never been will require them to be in your lap more often than at home. At least mine do.
Is it safe to take a dog camping?
As long as you’re treating your dog well and being mindful of the campground rules, it is safe to take your dog camping. Be aware that often, camping during the summer does mean high temperatures, which can be harmful to a dog. It would be best if you were sure that you have water bowls that are kept full at all times so that they don’t get dehydrated. Also, bring their dog bowls and pack extra dog food just in case it’s needed.
You’ll also want to be sure to pack a leash and abide by all the campground rules so that there isn’t a worry about the safety of your dog.
How do I keep my dog in a tent or cabin?
We cabin camp, but depending on the type of camping that you’re going to be doing, you might need to keep your dog in a tent or your cabin while you’re off doing something that they can’t do. Some dogs won’t have any issue with this, but for others, it might be an overwhelming experience for them.
The biggest camping tip to remember is you need to do your best to prepare your dog to its new surroundings. If tent camping, put up the tent in your house and let them get inside to get used to it. This way, they’ll get the feel of the tent and start to understand what is going to be expected of them while camping.
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Otherwise, when you get to your cabin, let them get used to their surroundings as you would. Don’t just get there and lock them up. Let your dogs play and roam around.
You can also set up their kennel in your tent or cabin (we did this) because they are used to that and won’t feel abandon if you do need to go somewhere that they can’t go. This is an easy way to keep your dog in a tent if you don’t have a ton of time to train or prepare them before your camping trip.
Tips for Camping with Small Dogs
Now that you know a few simple camping tips, here are a couple more to keep in mind. Overall, your biggest worry should be about doing everything you can to make it an enjoyable camping experience for all. Taking small dogs camping with you is almost like taking small children camping with you.
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Respect your fellow campers.
One of the biggest reasons that people get frustrated with campers who bring their dogs is that they leave their dogs at the campsite all day long, and the dog barks the whole day. This isn’t good campground etiquette. And small dogs are yappers anyway — not good.
If you take your dog camping, don’t leave your dog for long periods.
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Pick up the dog poop.
Pretty blunt, right? But it’s essential! Even though people are camping in nature, the last thing they want to deal with is the remnants of your dog. Please pick up your dog’s bathroom excrements, so no one else has to deal with it later. Just yesterday, we visited a state park where we had to walk right next to dog feces. It was gross, and it stunk so bad. The owner did not have the decency to pick it up.
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Always keep your dog on a leash.
While this has already been mentioned above, it’s imperative to remember. Your dog needs to be on a leash when going for walks, as well as when just hanging around the tent or cabin. There is no reason that your dog should ever be roaming around the campground.
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Bring the right camping gear for dogs.
Should it get cold at night, your small dog may need a sweater. I’m all about clothing my dogs in proper dog gear to keep them extra warm. And, don’t forget to bring their blanket from home. They need their comfort of the home too. Some campers bring their pillow from home, so, remember that your dogs also need to feel comfortable, and bringing their things from home will surely help.
Now that you know the top tips for taking your dog camping, it’s time to start planning! You and your dog(s) are going to have such a wonderful camping experience.
Do you have any other tips for taking your dog camping?
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