“Wanna go for a walk?” Five words guaranteed to spark zoomies in our four-legged companions. But let’s be honest, we love hearing them too. If you’re planning to go camping or hiking with your dog this season, this guide will help make the trip—both yours and your furry friend’s—comfortable, safe, and full of fun. Let’s dive in and make the phrase “creature comforts” a little more literal.
Why Camping With Your Dog Is an Adventure Worth Taking
The Joy of Shared Experiences
Dogs are curious creatures. We see it at home, on morning walks, or during an evening stroll around the block. When your dog is sniffing around, they’re essentially scrolling the day’s news—absorbing every bit of information left, right, and forward. It’s no wonder they ache to roam. The human adventurer isn’t so different. We travel because we want to experience something new and explore unfamiliar territory. Camping with your dog opens up a whole new world they might otherwise never discover. And beyond the companionship, having your pup by your side in the woods can add an extra layer of comfort and security.
Understanding Your Dog’s Needs Outdoors
Dogs need the same level of preparation as we do before heading out for an extended outdoor adventure. Be sure to pack plenty of water, food, and insect repellents, as ticks and fleas are a concern for both dogs and humans. Take into account your dog’s health, size, and breed—some dogs are naturally better suited for camping than others, while those with pre-existing health conditions or temperaments might find the experience uncomfortable or even risky.
Essential Dog Camping Gear
Comfortable Dog Beds and Blankets
While not designed specifically for dogs, the Wawona Blanket from The North Face is a versatile piece of camping gear. It packs down easily and features a water-repellent shell, making it simple to clean and maintain. Use it as a ground blanket in the trunk of your car, a cozy layer at the campsite, or extra warmth for your pup on chilly nights—because they get cold too.
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While not designed specifically for dogs, the Wawona Blanket from The North Face is a versatile piece of camping gear. It packs down easily and features a water-repellent shell, making it simple to clean and maintain. Use it as a ground blanket in the trunk of your car, a cozy layer at the campsite, or extra warmth for your pup on chilly nights—because they get cold too.
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The Highland Dog Sleeping Bag is designed to give your pup a cozy place to curl up after a long day of exploring together. Its compressible synthetic down helps keep them warm and comfortable in the backcountry, whether you’re weekend camping or on a multi-day hiking trip. The roomy size fits medium to large dogs, but smaller pets—even cats—will feel right at home too.
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The Highland Dog Sleeping Bag is designed to give your pup a cozy place to curl up after a long day of exploring together. Its compressible synthetic down helps keep them warm and comfortable in the backcountry, whether you’re weekend camping or on a multi-day hiking trip. The roomy size fits medium to large dogs, but smaller pets—even cats—will feel right at home too.
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Portable Water Bowls
Even YETI knows our smaller companions deserve the same durability we expect when exploring the outdoors. Built with a sturdy double-wall design, this non-insulated bowl holds up to 4 cups—perfect for keeping thirsty four-legged adventurers hydrated. Plus, it’s dishwasher safe, making cleanup at the campsite or back home quick and easy.
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Even YETI knows our smaller companions deserve the same durability we expect when exploring the outdoors. Built with a sturdy double-wall design, this non-insulated bowl holds up to 4 cups—perfect for keeping thirsty four-legged adventurers hydrated. Plus, it’s dishwasher safe, making cleanup at the campsite or back home quick and easy.
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Unlike the Boomer, the Rambler is vacuum-insulated to keep food or water hot or cold for hours. It’s both pet- and human-friendly, dishwasher safe, and features a non-slip bottom to prevent sliding—perfect for enthusiastic lappers at the campsite or on the trail.
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Unlike the Boomer, the Rambler is vacuum-insulated to keep food or water hot or cold for hours. It’s both pet- and human-friendly, dishwasher safe, and features a non-slip bottom to prevent sliding—perfect for enthusiastic lappers at the campsite or on the trail.
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Dog Harnesses & Leashes for Hiking
You should never head out on a camping trip or outdoor adventure with your dog without a reliable leash. The Lazy Bear Dog Leash is 173 cm (about 69") long, giving you and your furry friend freedom to explore trails, fields, and any campsite you choose. Reflective detailing adds visibility and security for evening walks.
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You should never head out on a camping trip or outdoor adventure with your dog without a reliable leash. The Lazy Bear Dog Leash is 173 cm (about 69") long, giving you and your furry friend freedom to explore trails, fields, and any campsite you choose. Reflective detailing adds visibility and security for evening walks.
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This vest offers three key features: light-coloured fabric that reflects solar radiation, UPF 50+ protection, and evaporative cooling activated by wetting the material. Easily clipped on and fully adjustable for maximum comfort, it provides your dog with extra relief during hot summer days on trails, at the campsite, or any outdoor adventure.
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This vest offers three key features: light-coloured fabric that reflects solar radiation, UPF 50+ protection, and evaporative cooling activated by wetting the material. Easily clipped on and fully adjustable for maximum comfort, it provides your dog with extra relief during hot summer days on trails, at the campsite, or any outdoor adventure.
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Safety Gear: Reflective Vests
The Salus Skippy Dog Flotation Jacket is a favourite among dog owners for good reason. Its mesh upper panel provides breathability and comfort, while reflective panels enhance visibility both in and out of the water. Dual handles make hauling your pup out of the water much easier. Plus, handy pockets let you store a leash and treats—perfect if you use it as a harness for walks on land or around the campsite.
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The Salus Skippy Dog Flotation Jacket is a favourite among dog owners for good reason. Its mesh upper panel provides breathability and comfort, while reflective panels enhance visibility both in and out of the water. Dual handles make hauling your pup out of the water much easier. Plus, handy pockets let you store a leash and treats—perfect if you use it as a harness for walks on land or around the campsite.
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Considered one of the best dog life jackets, this model has a history of aiding water rescues, dog rehabilitation, and providing an extra protective layer on land. Made from durable, lightweight nylon fabric, it features padded belts that secure your dog comfortably without restricting movement—perfect for swimming, boating, or other outdoor excursions.
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Considered one of the best dog life jackets, this model has a history of aiding water rescues, dog rehabilitation, and providing an extra protective layer on land. Made from durable, lightweight nylon fabric, it features padded belts that secure your dog comfortably without restricting movement—perfect for swimming, boating, or other outdoor excursions.
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Its primary objective is to keep your dog safely afloat during lake swims. Extra foam padding under the neck and belly provides added buoyancy for tougher swims. On land, this versatile vest doubles as a harness with a handle, giving you better control when needed. Reflective panels enhance visibility and security during outdoor adventures, especially in low-light conditions.
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Its primary objective is to keep your dog safely afloat during lake swims. Extra foam padding under the neck and belly provides added buoyancy for tougher swims. On land, this versatile vest doubles as a harness with a handle, giving you better control when needed. Reflective panels enhance visibility and security during outdoor adventures, especially in low-light conditions.
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Travel Crates & Car Restraints
Thule is renowned for crafting durable, sturdy gear built for backwoods adventures—and their line of dog car crates is no exception. Designed to absorb shocks from rough car rides to the campground, these crates come in various sizes with adjustable depths to ensure your dog’s space is both comfortable and secure.
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Brand Name | Product Type
Thule is renowned for crafting durable, sturdy gear built for backwoods adventures—and their line of dog car crates is no exception. Designed to absorb shocks from rough car rides to the campground, these crates come in various sizes with adjustable depths to ensure your dog’s space is both comfortable and secure.
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Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Camping Trip with Your Dog
Preparing Your Dog for a Camping Trip
Before you set off on a tent camping trip with your dog, there are important questions to consider. Let’s break down some key points to help you plan your next camping adventure with your furry companion.
Does the location allow dogs? Many campgrounds list their pet policies online. Always double-check to make sure dogs are welcome before you go. The best option is always to contact the campground directly to learn about their pet policies and rules before you arrive.
Does your dog like car rides? Some dogs love car trips, while others find them stressful. Try taking shorter drives to help your dog get comfortable. Bring along blankets, toys, and treats to make the ride easier for them.
Is your dog friendly? Just like people, dogs have unique temperaments. Some may not get along with other pets or wildlife, which can cause stress for the dog, the owner, the animals, and the campers. If you have a puppy, consider enrolling in obedience training before going camping together.
Does your dog bark a lot? Even on dog-friendly campsites, constant barking can be disruptive and might lead to being asked to leave.
Are your dog’s vaccinations up to date? Make sure your dog is current on all vaccinations. Also, be aware of any allergies your dog may have and pack the proper medications, including flea and tick prevention.
Proper identification and photos. Take recent photos of your dog in case they get lost. Make sure their dog collar has identification or contact info.
Do some trial runs. Try longer walks or backyard campouts to see how your dog handles increased activity and sleeping outdoors.
These are just a few preliminary considerations. Your dog needs plenty of care both at home and especially outdoors, where conditions can be less predictable. Make a checklist and do your research—just like you would before any camping excursion.
Common Outdoor Hazards & How to Avoid Them
Besides watching out for other campers and dogs, wildlife is an important concern when bringing your dog on an outdoor adventure. Before you go, familiarize yourself with the local wildlife and plant life in the area you’ll be visiting. Keep your dog away from thick brush and avoid letting them drink from stagnant water sources. If you encounter trails that don’t allow dogs, respect the rules—there’s usually a good reason, and ignoring them could mean fines.
Check your dog frequently for ticks and other insects. Bring repellent for yourself and pet-friendly drops or ointments to help prevent infestations. In hot conditions, check your dog for signs of overheating.
Never leave your dog unattended, even if you think they’re fine off-leash. This shows respect for other campers and their pets, as well as for local wildlife. Some people may be uncomfortable around unleashed dogs, and not all animals you meet will be friendly. Your dog should only be off-leash in safe, controlled situations—such as resting inside your tent or swimming in a lake or boat.
Setting Up Camp: Dog Safety Considerations
When you arrive at the campsite, both you and your dog will want to stretch your legs. If you’re camping with a partner or family, split the dog care and camp tasks—one can take your dog for a walk while the other sets up the tent or cooks, then switch.
A dog-friendly tent may need to be one size larger to accommodate both dogs and humans comfortably.
Always have clean, potable water available to keep your dog well-hydrated. Bring plenty of food and snacks packed in a bag or hands-free harness to stay organized on the trail. If your dog sleeps in the tent with you, create a comfortable space for them to curl up with enough insulation to keep them warm at night and support healthy dog sleep. Don’t forget to zip your tent fully for safety.
Before heading out on hikes or walks, double-check that you’ve packed a first aid kit and that your dog is well-groomed. Rainy days can make your pup dirty and wet, so consider bringing dog shampoo, towels, a rain jacket, and booties to keep them clean and comfortable.
Have fun!
Bringing your furry friend along for an outdoor adventure—whether tent camping or car camping—can be an incredibly rewarding experience. Dogs bring unmatched companionship and energy to every trip. Hopefully, these tips will help you prepare for a smooth, enjoyable adventure with your pup and make packing a breeze. For more ideas on what to bring, be sure to check out our full selection of dog camping gear. Don’t forget the poop bags!
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