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10 Dog Camping Essentials You Must Have
Camping is an activity that connects you with nature, an outdoor activity that involves you staying outdoors throughout the night, away from the comfort of your home. A camping trip has so many benefits, both physically and mentally. Camping is also a great way to have fun and connect with loved ones. Additionally, this activity provides you with new and challenging experiences.
Going camping with your dog will be an excellent experience for you both. It will be double the fun camping out in the woods with your four-foot friend. A dog is an energetic creature, and exploring the great outdoors with this enthusiastic animal will be an adventure. However, before you venture out for a camping trip, you will need to take essential dog items to ensure a successful trip.
How To Prepare For A Camping Trip With Your Dog?
Along with taking the essential gear, there are some necessary preparations you need to make before venturing on a camping trip. Firstly, check the campsite to see if there are rules that forbid dogs in that region. Be sure to check the website of that area. Any chosen destination must be dog-friendly. You do not want to be disappointed in getting to a campsite that prohibits dogs.
Secondly, get a medical check-up, take your dog to the veterinary doctor. Do the necessary tests to make sure your dog is healthy enough to go on a camping trip. If necessary, take a vaccination; it will protect your dog against any unpleasant surprises.
Once you are confident that there are no restrictions on the campground against dogs and are sure of your dog’s health condition, you can start planning your camp trip and outline the essentials you need to prepare you for this fun adventure.
10 Dog Camping Essentials
Make a camping checklist, write down the gears you need for a camp trip. The key to giving your dog a memorable and enjoyable camping trip is to make sure you take all the essential camping gears that your buddy will need. A dog camping gears are much more than just basic items like; leash and ID tags. So, you need to make a stellar camping list for you and your dog.
There are many camping gears available for dogs in the market. In this article, we will be giving you a list of 10 dog camping essentials that will make your trip safe and adventurous.
1. The Right Leash
When selecting a leash, you shouldn’t just pick any leash. What you hang on your dog’s neck should be strong enough not to cut in the wild. Get a good quality leash that is going to offer your dog comfort and is durable. Here are a few authentic and safe dog leash options;
- RuffWear Knot-A-Leash
- RuffWear Slackline Leash
- Leash Boss Long Trainer
- Mendota Slip Lead
- RuffWear Ridgeline Leash
These are all great leash options for your dog, suitable for various activities like camping, hiking, walking, and more. Every leash above has its unique features; the lengths and the strength of these leashes are perfect for outdoor activities like camping. A good leash provides comfort for your pup on the camp trip.
Ruffwear leashes are the most recommendable leash by many campers. They are fully equipped, easily adjustable to avoid discomfort, allowing you and your buddy to explore the outdoors connected.
2. Footwear
The idea of a dog wearing boots is a hilarious sight to behold. Most people view a dog boot as unnecessary gear for camping. However, just like we protect our feet with shoes, dogs also need a protective shield for their paws, especially for harsh outdoor conditions. A dog boot will protect your dog from sustaining any injury while on camp.
Dog boots also provide your dog with balance preventing slipping or falling. They are essential gears that you must have to ensure your dog’s safety.
An example of a brand that offers quality dog footwear is RuffWear it has a few dog boots suitable for different weather conditions, terrains, and any outdoor adventure. Get solid pairs that will fit the paws of your four-foot friend.
3. An Equipped Pup First Aid Kit
There is no argument when it comes to a first aid kit. It is an essential item for a camping trip to ensure the safety of you and your dog. Unforeseen events may occur during a camping trip, and you should be prepared with an equipped first aid kit.
Essential items in a first aid kit should have; bandages, cotton swabs, hydrogen peroxide, or disinfectant. But there are more things you need for a pup first aid kit that is easily accessible at the market, or you can build a special pup first aid kit according to your dog’s requirements.
Here is a list of a few things you must have in your pup first aid kit
- Digital thermometer
- Ointment
- Vet wrap
- Medicine
- Emergency blanket
- Heat and cold packs
- Non-sticky pads
- Syringe
- Gloves and more
4. Tasty And Healthy Treats
Dog treats are essential items you can’t do without on a camp trip. A treat is a motivator for a dog, keeping your dog energized and happy. Take enough dog treats that will last you the entire camping trip, and only take along with you the usual dog treats you give your dog.
Don’t present treats your dog is unfamiliar with because it may be a waste, and your dog might end up disapproving of the new goodies. Try any new treats at home first to see your pup’s reaction before you decide to take it along on a camp trip.
Some dog treats include; granola, cheese, cooked sweet potatoes, beef jerky, and healthy treats like carrots, watermelon, green peas, etc.
5. A Pup Sleeping Bag
You and your dog deserve to sleep on a comfortable surface after doing some fun activities during the day. Your furry buddy would appreciate a good sleeping space even though it’s used to sleeping on a hard surface. Go to the market and find the best and affordable packable beds for your dog. Choose a camp bed that is lightweight, comfortable, durable, and easy maintenance.
6. Take Eco-Friendly Poop Bags
Take poop bags that are biodegradable and eco-friendly. A poop bag made out of biodegradable materials is good for the environment. If you’re exploring nature, show some courtesy by picking up your dog’s wastes. Use poop bags made from plant materials that will eventually decompose back to the natural environment.
7. A Portable Pouch
A dog will need a special pouch; this will be a perfect item to keep his treats or snacks. Show your dog some love by getting him nice camping gear to store its favorite things. A pouch or backpack will make life much easier and less stressful on a camp trip, and your dog can help take some load off your back during this adventure.
Get a pouch that can is lightweight. Don’t load your pup’s backpack with so many items; this will way down and prevent your dog from having fun. The load you put into your dog’s backpack should not exceed 25% of its body weight. Do not go beyond this limit to avoid causing harm to the animal.
8. Special Pair of Specs
The idea of adding a pair of specs for your camping checklist barely ever crosses the minds of people. Most people tend to see dog googles as an irrelevant item. However, it is an essential item that protects your pup’s eyes from the sun’s harshness. There are different styles of specs that are; waterproof and comfortable. Make sure to put this in your camping checklist for your dog’s well-being.
9. Food Items
A checklist cannot be complete without necessities like; food and water. However, a camping trip is not where you want to try new food for your dog; take only food your dog is familiar with and can easily digest. Water should be in abundance on a camping trip; keep your dog hydrated the entire trip. Bring along only quality food items and water for your dog.
10. Dog Portable Bowls
For every camp trip, you will need food bowls; it is beneficial at home and campsites. You can easily attach collapsible bowls to your backpack. There are many types of collapsible bowls; a nylon or silicone dog bowl is highly recommended.
Final Thoughts
Make every camping adventure a fun and unforgettable vacation. Camping is a great way to strengthen the bond between you and your dog friend, exploring and connecting with nature. A camp trip cannot be a success without essential camp gear that will provide safety and comfort. Get the required camping gear to have an enjoyable experience.