A new puppy has joined your family and you are excited to take her outdoors and explore the wilderness with you. Having a furry companion you can play, camp, and hike with is one of the best things about being a dog owner.
But, can puppies even go camping? As long as your puppy is old enough to go on a camping trip with you, then, you can take him with you. Just remember that camping with a puppy could be a bit trickier than what you think.
Benefits and Drawbacks of Camping with Your Puppy
There are several advantages and disadvantages associated with taking your pup on a camping trip:
Benefits
- Camping with your puppy is the perfect chance to make time for your little pet, play fun games, take him outdoors, and many other activities. This also gives you the opportunity to form a stronger bond with your puppy.
- You will be able to save on your pension costs if you will go camping with your puppy.
- There are several campsites that have a dog beach and swimming pond. This means that your dog will be able to have a wonderful and unforgettable holiday.
Drawbacks
- It might be quite tricky to take your puppy to a playground, beach, swimming pool, amusement park, or even the supermarket.
- When you camp with your puppy, it means that you will have him at your side every second and every minute of the day. Thus, your holiday will not be completely carefree at all.
- If you will go on a camping trip with your pup, there is a high chance that he needs to stay on the leash once you arrive at the campsite.
- The daily care requirements of your pup will continue even during the trip.
Top Considerations When Camping with a Puppy
Young dogs and puppies are quite sensitive to new impressions and experiences. They will also have to deal with a lot of things during a vacation and trip.
It is your responsibility as a dog owner to manage your puppy’s experiences that are crucial for how your pet will act once he becomes an adult.
When going camping with your puppy, it is important to consider transportation, accommodation, and local climate beforehand.
See to it that your pup is already camp-proof and has the ability to deal with different situations he may experience once you get to the campsite.
These include people who may walk past the tent at night, children riding bikes, and badminton shuttlecocks, balls, or crosses that may go flying around him.
Your dogs may respond to these things by chasing or striking and you will observe your pet becoming extra careful when in an unfamiliar place.
For your puppy to become more used to his sleeping place in the camp, you can pitch your tent at home ahead of the trip.
Going to the Campsite
It is important for your puppy to travel safely in a spot that is not too drafty or too hot. Never let your puppy ride in the passenger seat. Instead, you can have him ride on the back seat or in the trunk.
If you are riding a camper, it is best to have your dog inside a travel crate during the transfer. A dog harness is also a good solution here.
Always make sure that your pup stays on a leash every time you make a stopover to avoid losing him along the way. Pause every 2 hours to let your puppy look for a quiet area in nature to poop or pee.
Remember that your pup also needs to drink during the trip. You can get a special water bottle for travel. However, be mindful of food because your puppy might get car sick faster if he is too full.
At the Campsite
Many campsites welcome dogs, especially if you have your own tent. In other accommodations like log cabins, mobile homes, or rented tents, there might be some restrictions should be familiar with.
Always inform the site that your puppy is with and inquire about the costs and rules for this. Campsites can ask for different prices for dogs, with others offering it completely free while some implement a considerable price per day.
Search for a shady place outside your tent where your furry friend can get some rest. Take note that it can often become too hot fast inside the caravan or tent so getting a whiff of fresh air is better for your pet.
Camping Gear Checklist for Your Puppy:
- Bench with a blanket or pillow
- On the go bottle with water
- Iron pin that can be pitched in the ground and a long and solid leash
- Solid food and water bowl
- Sealable plastic box for dog food
- Comb and brush
- Extra leash
- Dog first aid kit
- Medicines your puppy needs
- Phone number and address of a nearby veterinary if you will be staying in just one area
- Vaccination booklet
- Agents to keep off ticks and fleas
- Remedy for diarrhea and motion sickness
Additional Tips for Going Camping with a Puppy
Here are several other important things you should remember if you want to take your puppy with you on your next camping adventure:
- When you confirm your booking, always mention that you will be bringing a puppy with you.
- Pack all of your puppy’s items separately in a handy pet travel bag, for instance.
- Bring sufficient poop bags that you can store in your pockets and in the car.
- Hang a tube or tag on the collar of your puppy with your phone number to stay on the safe side. You will never know what will happen during your trip.
Puppies old enough can go camping. Just make sure that you remember the tips above to have a safe, happy, and unforgettable camping holiday with your little furry friend!
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