What To Know Before, During, and After Camping With Dogs

Whether in a tent or an RV, camping can be a great way to spend time outdoors as a family. For many dogs, the new environment will be a fun adventure, and it can be less stressful than trying to find a pet-friendly hotel.  

That said, camping is not for every dog (or human!), and there are a few things to keep in mind to make sure the experience is good for everyone. Here’s what to know about camping with dogs.  

Before Camping

For a stress-free and safe camping experience with your dog, it’s important to plan ahead. 

1. Do Your Research

There are lots of campgrounds that allow dogs, but not all camping areas are dog-friendly. Don’t risk a fine ruining your vacation if your dog isn’t allowed on site. 

It’s also smart to make sure your dog can easily access your intended campsite. Older dogs and small breeds may struggle with difficult hikes into a campground. 

Secure the required paperwork, if necessary. International and interstate travel with your dog may require official health certificates that only certain veterinarians can authorize. The USDA APHIS Pet Travel Portal is a great resource for planning to go across borders with your dog. In some cases, obtaining these documents can take several months. 

2. Get Your Dog Vaccinated

Dogs who are camping need to be up to date on vaccinations. 

• A rabies vaccination is required by law in most states, and certificates are often checked at campsites.  

• Canine distemper, leptospirosis, and Lyme disease can all be transmitted by wildlife common in campsites (raccoons, rats, and ticks, respectively) and can have deadly consequences for exposed dogs.  

• If you’re camping at a site with many other dogs, consider the kennel cough vaccine.   

3. Make Sure Your Dog Is Microchipped

Unfortunately, accidents happen—and it’s not uncommon for camping dogs to slip out of their collars or chase after a particularly exciting squirrel and get lost in the woods.  

Microchips are essential for ensuring your dog can be identified if they’re separated from you. Make sure your contact information in the microchip registry is up to date prior to travel, or it may be difficult for your dog to be returned safely.   

4. Pack the Right Gear

Here’s what to pack for camping with dogs:  

• Dog food: It’s best not to be adventurous with diet in a new location, so bring your pup's favorite food and dog treats. Pack more than you think you’ll need—you don’t want your pup to go hungry! 

• Water: Your pup is susceptible to the same waterborne diseases as you are. It’s best to bring water or a human-grade water filtration system with you—for both you and your dog. 

• Dishes: Collapsible, lightweight food and water dishes are great for camping.

• Leash: Respect local leash laws. A long dog leash can give the perfect balance of control and freedom on a walk in the woods. Depending on your setup, a portable cable stake can keep your dog safe when you’re at the campsite.

• High-visibility gear: Especially important during hunting season, dog safety gear like a high-visibility vest and/or LED light will help you keep tabs on your pup and help others distinguish them from local wildlife. 

• Camp bed: After a long day outside, your dog will want to snuggle up on a comfortable, easy-to-clean dog bed.

5. Keep Your Dog Up to Date on Heartworm, Flea, and Tick Prevention

You wouldn’t go camping without bug spray, and your dog shouldn’t go without protection from parasites, either. Make sure there have been no lapses in your dog’s flea and tick preventive regimen.  

Ask your veterinarian if K9 Advantix is a good option for your dog (even for a short time), as it’s one of the few products available that repels mosquitoes. Other popular options include Simparica, NexGard, and Bravecto. 

6. Look Up the Nearest Veterinary Office

If you’re traveling far from home, look up veterinary offices near your campsite in case of an emergency. Keep in mind that many rural clinics may not have emergency services for non-established clients and it may be necessary to travel for care if your dog needs it.  

If you frequent the same area for dog camping, schedule a non-emergency visit with a local vet to establish your dog as a patient. It’s much easier for a vet to give good care when they know you. 

7. Refill Your Dog’s Medications

It can be very difficult to get emergency refills of pet medication when you’re not near your home veterinary office. So if your dog requires a certain medication, it’s best to get it refilled before your trip. Consider bringing some extra doses with you in case there’s an emergency. 

8. Consider a Trial Camping Night Close to Home

If you haven’t been camping with your dog before, it may be smart to have a trial night and camp close by—or even in your backyard. 

Though it may feel silly to camp on your lawn, a practice night lets you know if your dog will sleep comfortably in a new environment, while giving you the option to go back inside if things don’t go well.  

During Camping

Once you’ve arrived at your campsite, there are safety considerations to follow.  

1. Always Supervise Your Dog

You should never be far apart from your dog. Leaving your dog alone at a campsite not only puts them at risk from strangers, wild animals, and natural disasters, but it also gives them the opportunity to get into their own trouble. You certainly don’t want to come back to the campsite to find a hole in your tent or your camp food eaten. 

Make sure your dog doesn’t have access to the fire pit. If you’re using a lead and stake, also check that they can’t get tangled around tables, tents, or trees.  

In addition, make sure your dog always has access to shade and shelter any time they want it.   

2. Keep Your Dog Entertained

Camping trips should be fun and relaxing for both you and your dog. Though you may have access to trails or even a beach, pack a ball or disc for some active time at the campground. Don’t forget to bring some of your dog’s favorite chew toys or puzzles to entertain them when you want to relax.  

After Camping

When you’re back home, give your dog a once-over for any evidence of the great outdoors they may have brought home. Though uncommon with modern flea and tick prevention, it’s still a great idea to check for ticks, fleas, or insect bites. 

A medicated bath can not only help wash off dust and dirt, but it also soothe the skin from insect bites, allergens, or other rash-causing elements.  

Check your dog’s paws and feet for scratches or paw pad injuries from irregular terrain. Call your vet if you have any concerns.