Nothing can surpass the excitement of watching your furry friend’s eyes light up as you mention the magic word: camping! Nonetheless, planning for a trip does not end with merely searching for places and hopping in the car. You will also need to pack all necessary items included on your all-time dog camping gear checklist!
Camping Gear Checklist for Dogs
According to research by Embrace Pet Insurance about dogs’ preferences for going on a trip, 30% of traveling pets in the United States like camping. Aside from that, the researchers explained that these four-legged friends could love either hiking or swimming.
In this case, preparing for a vacation can require an extensive dog camping checklist because your furry friends can enjoy various activities. You can pack blankets, food bowls, dog beds, insect repellents, and other personal belongings sufficient for the entire trip.
Luckily, we have listed a few dog camping essentials. You can check them below to get your voyage started!
Backpack
The first thing you will need to prepare is a backpack for your dog’s snacks, water, and stuff. Nevertheless, as you go to places and walk down the trails, your dog can feel tired along the way. So, a backpack suitable as a pet carrier can also help your dog rest while the journey continues.
Recommended Product
HALOVIE Pet Carrier Backpack Expandable
As its name suggests, HALOVIE Expandable Pet Carrier Backpack gives a spacious room for your small dog to move around and reduce the anxiety of being enclosed in a pet carrier bag. You can worry less about its quality because this product has sturdy zippers, built-in safety ropes, and anti-escape buckles to prevent your pet from escaping.
HALOVIE also consists of tear-resistant, non-toxic mesh for air circulation and viewing. Your dog can also stick its head out because you can open the top of the backpack. Lastly, this product is comfortable because it has 100% premium Oxford fabric with soft pads.
Pros
- Sturdy and durable
- With multiple screen openings for viewing and circulation
- Expandable to allow pets to move around the pet carrier
Cons
- Not suitable for big and heavy dogs
- The zipper can break in the long run.
Blanket
Even though dogs love to lie on cold grass or ground, they still need protection from harmful objects outdoors, especially during nighttime. Therefore, you may get a comfortable blanket to provide it with a safe and warm place to lie down outside the tent.
Recommended Product
DOWN UNDER OUTDOORS Large Waterproof Windproof Quilted Fleece Stadium Blanket
If your dog camping list needs a blanket, you can look for a DOWN UNDER OUTDOORS Large Waterproof and Windproof Quilted Fleece Stadium Blanket today! It has a 350 gsm soft plush fleece that lets your dog stay warm and dry throughout the day. Moreover, its polyester content makes the blanket resistant to black water and wind.
In addition, the DOWN UNDER OUTDOORS Stadium Blanket contains a secret zip storage pocket that allows you to put stuff inside it. Cleaning the blanket is also easy because you can wash it using a machine. Also, this product has a lifetime warranty!
Pros
- Comfortable for pets and people
- Durable and large enough
- Easy to fold and store
- Light and convenient to carry in dogs camping
- Made with 350 gsm soft plush fleece
Cons
- Not warm on icy cold nights
- The soft fleece side gets moist when used on the wet nighttime ground.
Dog Bed
Kinsman et al.‘s research on dogs’ sleep duration and behaviors explained that 49.9% or 540 out of 1083 dogs use dog beds when sleeping. Hence, bringing one for camping can give your dog a comfortable night. Also, since spending the night in the woods can be unsafe, a dog bed that can fit inside your tent or camper can be the best option.
Recommended Product
Outrav Portable Elevated Dog Bed
Outrav Portable Elevated Dog Bed can be essential camping stuff for dogs because it provides warmth and air flow due to its elevated feature and high-quality material. Its topper is removable, while its frame is collapsible, which is helpful for hassle-free assembly.
Aside from that, this elevated dog bed also comes with a wearable carry bag, which makes the product lightweight and easy to carry. It also possesses super strength 600D PVC Oxford and enhanced polyester padding for comfort. Finally, its steel frame can also support a dog’s weight of up to 100 lbs.
Pros
- Easy to clean
- Lightweight and durable
- Very solid and high-quality
- The dog bed can fit perfectly in the carry bag
Cons
- Not waterproof
- The tiny rivets can fall off the bed
- The fabric can become torn after years of usage
Dog Bowls
It can be funny to think that pet owners can forget their furry friends’ dog bowls whenever they fail to put this on their camping checklist for dogs. So, it is best to pack a collapsible bowl or even those your dog uses at home. Also, it is better if they are easy to carry and clean.
Recommended Product
SLSON Dog Bowls Pet Collapsible Bowl with Cover Lids
You need not search elsewhere for collapsible food bowls because SLSON Pet Collapsible Dog Bowl with Cover Lids can be what you want! It is a lightweight and convenient food storage that you can expand or fold easily. Furthermore, since it is small, it can save space inside your camping bag.
SLSON Pet Collapsible Dog Bowl can hold up to 1.5 cups of pet food and 12 oz of water. Its material comes from a premium soft plastic that is durable and safe for pets. Moreover, this product has a buckle you can attach to leashes, backpacks, or belts.
Pros
- With cover lids that allow you to store food without throwing leftover pet foods
- Thin and can fit into small spaces
- Easy to set up, collapse, and clean
Cons
- Not airtight and leakproof
- Not suitable for large dogs
Dog Tent
It can be dangerous to let your dog stay outside at night, especially when camping in the middle of the woods. Hence, you can have a spacious and cozy dog tent perfect for your dog’s breed, size, and personal needs. You can also consider the accessibility and layout to choose the best brand.
Recommended Product
Pop Up Dog Tent
Dogs also have dog tents, and one of the best brands today is the Plusvivo Pop-Up Dog Tent. This product is suitable for canines of any large, medium, or small breeds. Also, it is a lightweight and safe playing or resting area, regardless of whether or not it is day or night.
Plusvivo Dog Tent is also resistant to tear and wear due to its 900D Oxford cloth. It also consists of 105 gauze mesh for airflow and visibility, and its removable U.V. shade protects your pets from harmful sun rays. Not to mention that it is also secured and easy to set up!
Pros
- With mesh windows for ventilation
- Easy to set up and take down
- With plenty of room and space
- Easy to clean and wash
- Made with four metal stakes for security
Cons
- Users say some dogs of large breeds can rip the mesh materials.
First-Aid Kit
It can be unfortunate to encounter unwanted accidents during your camping trip. Yet, you can prepare for it by bringing a first-aid kit that includes necessary things, such as hydrogen peroxide for vomiting, paw balm for cuts and cracks, tweezers for splinters, bandages for wounds, and grooming wipes for diarrhea.
Recommended Product
ARCA PET Dog First Aid Kit
If you are searching for an all-inclusive pet first-aid kit, you can opt for ARCA PET Dog First Aid Kit. This product has a hundred pieces of supplies, including an emergency collar, tick remover, emergency pet thermometer, and a mini pouch. In addition, its lightweight and water-resistant bag consist of nylon fabric to withstand any outdoor activity.
ARCA PET Dog First Aid Kit has a neon orange color to make it easily visible whenever you need it. Due to its quality and features, the Food and Drug Administration approved this product.
Pros
- Packed with everything necessary in case an accident occurs
- The bag is durable and well-made.
- Nicely organized inside the case.
Cons
- Users report there are no antibiotics.
- The pet thermometer can come with dead batteries.
Food
Eating new sets of food or suddenly switching your dog’s diet during a camping trip is not advisable. Instead, you can prepare an adequate food supply based on your furry friend’s recommended diet. Since its nutrition is as crucial as yours, packing its meals must be your top priority.
I.D. Tags
Securely fasten a readable identification tag on your dog’s collar. You can also provide an extra on its harness. However, ensure that the I.D. will only include updated contact information because once your canine friend gets lost, people will not be able to return it to you if the data is outdated.
Insect Repellent
Based on Tavassoli et al.‘s research on flea infestation in dogs, fleas and other insects cause clinical disorders in domestic animals and humans, especially in a temperate climate. That is why insect repellents are necessary to repel bugs and parasites. Nonetheless, do not use human bug repellents because they can harm dogs.
Recommended Product
Vet’s Best Mosquito Repellent for Dogs and Cats
Vet’s Best Mosquito Repellent for Dogs and Cats is a safe and effective product that helps repel mosquitoes without using diethyltoluamide or DEET. It only includes natural ingredients, such as a unique blend of certified organic oils like Geraniol from Citronella plants and lemongrass oil.
Aside from that, this product is advisable for dogs and cats 12 weeks or older. Considering its application instructions, you can opt to reapply the product every two hours or whenever necessary. The only downfall is that it will not be effective if you only apply it moderately.
Pros
- Pleasant smell
- Keeps pets safe and unbothered
- Fairly effective
- Easy to wash off using water and soap
Cons
- It can require frequent reapplication, or it will not be as effective as expected.
Leashes or Harnesses
Campsites can have regulations about bringing pets, and you can also want to prevent your dog from getting lost inside the campground. Still, either reason will induce you to prepare for leashes and harnesses. You can have a long one for staying inside the site and a short one for hikes and walks. Packing extra dog leads is advisable too!
Recommended Product
RUFFWEAR, Front Range Dog Harness
Going on an all-day adventure is always possible with RUFFWEAR, Front Range Dog Harness, because it is lightweight, durable, and padded. It possesses two leash attachment points with reinforced webbing on the chest to withstand pulling and add control. Also, its aluminum V-ring on the back allows attachments to other leashes.
RUFFWEAR, Front Range Dog Harness is also customizable due to its four adjustment points for a full range of action. It also has an I.D. pocket for storing essential contact information. Moreover, its bright fabric paired with reflective trims make the harness easily visible at night.
Pros
- Easy to adjust for a perfect fit
- The clips are durable.
- Suitable for training and going outdoors
- Escape-proof
- It does not bind the shoulder area.
Cons
- Slightly expensive
- The threads can fall off over time.
Medical Needs
Another thing on your dog essentials for camping is your dog’s medical record. For instance, you can prepare updated vaccination cards. Also, you can search for nearby local veterinarians around your destination so that you will know where to go in case accidents and severe illnesses occur during the camping.
Outdoor Jacket
An outdoor jacket can provide your dog an extra warmth when the chilly weather starts to creep in, especially at night. For instance, older dogs or canines without thick coats can be more vulnerable to frosty temperatures. Thus, giving them something that combats the cold can help.
Recommended Product
Vecomfy Fleece Lining Extra Warm Dog Hoodie
Like its name says, Vecomfy Fleece Lining Extra Warm Dog Hoodie has a fleece lining with polyester filler for maximum warmth. It also comes with extra soft polyester fabric for added comfort. Also, its dog hoodie protects your furry friend’s ear and head from the cold.
Vecomfy Dog Hoodie is lightweight, durable, and breathable. Thanks to its durable snaps and elastic edges, this jacket is easy to put on and take off. Moreover, it contains a leash hole in the neck that allows you to attach a harness or dog lead.
Pros
- Warm and soft
- The durable snaps enable you to put the jacket on and take it off hassle-free.
- Allows your dog to wear a sweater underneath
- Fashionable
Cons
- Inaccuracy in sizing
- The product may come smaller than expected
Paw Pads or Boots
You may think it is unnecessary and expensive to spend on paw pads and boots, but these things can protect your dog’s feet from rocky hiking trails, splinters, and thorns in the campground. Furthermore, they are perfect for safeguarding the paws from the hot sand.
Recommended Product
LOOBANI Dog Anti-Slip Paw Grips Traction Pads
If your furry friend is weak, old, or sick, you can assist it when walking with LOOBANI Dog Anti-Slip Paw Grips Traction Pads. These anti-slip paw pads ensure stability regardless of the ground’s smoothness and texture. Additionally, they add reliable non-slip silicone points that give maximum support and traction, reduce the force on hind legs, and stabilize feet.
This product is easy to put on because of its disposable and hypoallergenic certified adhesive. Your dog will not get irritated with it because it is breathable and soft. Lastly, it does not affect perspiration in paws despite hours or days of usage!
Pros
- The paw pads last longer than expected.
- Suitable for weak dogs that fall or slip on tiled, laminated, and hardwood floors
- Protects paws from the hot ground outdoors
Cons
- Inaccuracy in sizing
- Expensive
- Not suitable for dogs with thick hair and coat
Poop Scoop and Bags
While it can transmit bacteria and parasites to other animals, leaving your dog’s waste in the woods is overly unhygienic. It is also inconsiderate for the other campers to encounter poops along the trails. So, ensure to scoop and put them in a bag. You can also bury them if you want.
Safety Lights
Once paired with reflective dog leads, a small waterproof safety light can help you know your pup’s location whenever you go to places with low light conditions and bad weather. It is better if this light can allow you to attach it to your canine’s collar or harness.
Toys
Camping will always include entertainment. Since you can play different games with your friends or relatives, giving your dog something they can focus on while you rest is an advisable way to divert their attention. Moreover, their favorite dog toys can help them keep calm whenever they feel anxious.
Towels
It is common for your dog to get dirty as it engages in different activities in the campground. Its paws can get sandy and muddy, while its body can also get wet once it swims or rains. So, to keep it clean before entering the tent for the rest time, using absorbent towels is the best way.
Recommended Product
OlimpiaFit Quick Dry Towel
OlimpiaFit Quick Dry Towel is a microfiber towel perfect for different activities, such as camping, backpacking, beach swimming, or gym workouts. Since its fibers are thinner, they are quick to dry and absorbent than other standard microfiber products. Not to mention that this premium material is also as smooth as a satin fabric.
In addition, this quick-dry towel does not produce an unpleasant odor. It is also slip-resistant and smooth due to its extra plush fiber. Aside from its eight color options, it also consists of three different sizes that can match any activity you would want to use them on.
Pros
- It does not consume too much space
- Absorbent and dries fast
- No unpleasant smell
- Three sizes for different uses
- Perfect for camping, gym, beach, backpacking, and similar activities
Cons
- Users say the colors bleed when washing the towels, thus leading the product to fade and spread colors on other clothes.
Treats
Aside from the pet foods earlier, you can also pack additional dog treats to let your dog consume more calories as you become more active each day. Since you can also train it during the camping, preparing treats can ensure that you can give rewards after every job well done!
Vet’s Approval
Before driving to your destination, calling your dog’s veterinarian is necessary to review your camping plans. You can ask for the appropriate foods, the intensity of the activities, and other health considerations. This way, you can guarantee that your trip will not affect your furry friend’s health.
Water
Letting your dog drink from nearby lakes and streams has been an incorrect practice among pet owners. Doing this can lead your canine friend to ingest contaminated and unhealthy water. Since this risk can cause further consequences, you can opt to bring clean drinking water to assure safety and prevent diseases.
Find a Pet-Friendly Campsite
While preparing your camping with a dog checklist, you will also need more research to find the best campsite that allows pets. It can be unfortunate that there can be places that prohibit dogs. In some cases, they allow these domestic animals on the campground but not on hiking trails, which is still useless because you cannot do much with your furry friend.
It is also a waste to drive hundreds of miles and eventually tuck your dog inside the car while you enjoy the camping site. So, it can be best to look for a pet-friendly place where you can freely spend the weekends with your four-legged friend.
Fortunately, you can begin by clicking the “Pets” button under the “Amenities” option on your discovery map. You can scroll down and search for your preferred campsites. Once you have found one, you can contact the agency or host and inform them about your dog.
Also, you can find out if there are limits to the allowable number of pets if you want to bring two or more dogs. The place must also be spacious enough to accommodate people and animals. Lastly, you can also search about the possible activities you can enjoy at that campsite to know whether or not there are many things you can do inside it.
Dog Camping Gear: FAQs
You can be good to go once you have prepared the necessary dog essentials for camping. Nonetheless, should you have further inquiries about camping with a dog, you can check the following frequently asked questions below.
Your furry friend can choose whether or not it wants to sleep in a tent, dog bed, or inside the car. If you use a camping crate, it will be better to provide it with a warm blanket to ensure comfort. Also, you can let it spend the night inside the camping car for a safe and quiet sleep time.
Whenever your dog feels anxious, being aware and alert of what can happen next is the best way to help. Ensure not to leave it alone. Furthermore, you can give it a safe space inside the tent with its favorite dog toy and blanket. In some cases, anxious dogs can bark but remember not to punish yours for making such noises.
Yes. Your dog will need a separate sleeping pad that it can freely use inside the tent. It will help your furry friend have more warmth and protection as you sleep at night. Moreover, it will also give it a specific area inside the camping tent.
Yes. Dogs can quickly adapt to different sleeping environments and proceed to sleep well regardless of the place. Yet, the area must be safe, secured, and warm for them to sleep in at night. In some situations, they can also like sleeping beside you or somewhere colder.
Yes. Even though dogs have thick coats and fur, they can get cold once you go on a camping trip in autumn or winter. In these cases, letting your four-legged friend wear a dog jacket will help it withstand the frosty weather. Otherwise, extreme frostiness can lead to cold-related illnesses.
Tent camping with dogs can be challenging if your canine friend does not want to sleep inside it. Nonetheless, you can attract it by bringing something for it to play on the tent. It can be its favorite blanket or dog toy. Additionally, you can provide a personal space to persuade it to spend the night inside.
Preparing dog camping supplies and looking for the best places can guarantee a smooth and enjoyable trip with your furry friend. Once everything goes to what you have planned, you can create more memories of quality time and worthy moments full of an adventurous journey.