Whether it’s your first time camping with the dogs, or you have a few trips under your belt, the age old question always comes up, “what do we need for the dog?”
Aside from the necessities like food and water, the rest depends on you. Right, very helpful, you must be thinking.
But, hear me out. I’m sure you’ve researched and have become extremely overwhelmed about the extensive packing lists of so called must-haves for camping with canines.
And truth be told, it all comes down to the type of environment you’re going, and your dogs’ normal behavior. You don’t need everything under the sky, and after 8 years of camping with a dog almost every weekend, we’ve been able to put our packing list to the test. And if you’ve met Roper, you know he’s put it to the test.
So, we’ve already determined food and water are always on the list. If you’re wondering how much to pack of each, consider the level activities that your dog partakes in. However, a good rule of thumb is pack an extra cup per day. If the camping is nothing but hiking or running for the dog, bump it up to two cups extra. OR, you can get great protein packs that top kibble (we make our own, learn how here). Water, if you’re camping somewhere with no access to fresh water plan for a gallon of water a day.
The rest of the essentials (to us) by category:
First-aid: Tweezers, vet wrap, vet approved anti-inflammatory pills (they make over the counter stuff, however talk to your vet if you’re planning a long back country trip. Odds are they might make you your own little first aid kit in the office), probiotics, Benadryl, thermometer.
Camp: sleeping materials, tall bowls, toy (if nature & sticks don’t do it for your dog). If your dog normally gets a lot of treats at home, be sure to pack some, or else expect them to find their own.
Optional: A collar light. These things are extremely helpful for the darkness that comes with camping outside of light pollution. If you have an extra headlamp, turn the green or red light on and place that on your dog instead.
Activity: leads, mushers secret, collapsible bowl or dog bottle, and booties if in rough terrain.
Bonus items that are packed by environment:
Cold Weather/Snow: thermals and dog sleeping bag for severe winter, tarp for a dry place to lay outside
Desert: A second pair of tweezers, wet dog food, pumpkin purée, or coconut oil.
Wetlands: towel, peppermint oil for mosquitos,
As always, you know your dog best. And if there are no accidents, they only need what they have at home. Food, water, and a soft warm place to sleep. I also encourage to talk about camping, hunting, farm work, in your vet appointments. It’s helpful for your vet to know about outdoor activities, that way they can treat your dog with the correct dewormers and tick medication. So, put away your fears, and the expansive packing list, and go enjoy the great outdoors with your four-legged best friends!
The Copper Dogs hope you enjoy all of your future adventures! Here’s a glimpse into some of our camping moments – peep the cacti on Roper, he’s now much more careful in the desert.
The Copper Dogs 