Camping with Dogs: How to Keep Your Pup Comfortable at the Campsite

Camping with a dog means fresh air, long walks and evenings outdoors together. It also means unfamiliar smells, wildlife, other people’s dogs and a tent that is a great deal less substantial than your front door. Preparing properly makes the difference between a trip you repeat and one you do not.

Check the rules first

Not every campsite or trail allows dogs, and those that do often have conditions about leads, specific areas and leaving dogs unattended. Check before you book rather than on arrival, and look for a nearby emergency vet while you are at it.

Bring a dedicated dog den

A tent filled with people, bedding and gear can overwhelm a dog with nowhere of their own to go. Giving them a defined space helps them settle rather than pacing all evening.

The Portable & Foldable Pet Car Dog Cage Kennel works indoors and outdoors and folds into a carry bag, so it travels without claiming the space a rigid crate would. Its breathable polyester construction suits all seasons, which matters when nights are cold and afternoons are not.

Set up camp with your dog in mind

• Place the kennel in shade, out of the main walkway.
• Keep it well away from the campfire, cooking area and guy ropes.
• Add a familiar blanket from home.
• Position it where your dog can see you, not facing away from camp.

Keep them close

Use a sturdy lead or a supervised tie-out. Wildlife, other campers, food smells and unfamiliar sounds all give a dog reasons to leave, and a dog lost in unfamiliar countryside is a serious problem.

Check the tie-out for chew damage daily.

Stay on top of hydration

Active days outdoors make dogs thirsty well before they look it. Carry water on every hike and offer it regularly rather than waiting for obvious signs. Do not rely on streams and lakes, which can carry parasites.

Check for ticks daily

Run your hands over your dog every evening, paying attention to ears, armpits, groin and between the toes. Remove any ticks promptly with a proper tick tool.

Clean up easily

Camping is a muddy business. The kennel’s removable, washable cover means mud, sand and lake water are a laundry task rather than a permanent feature. Dry your dog thoroughly before bed, because a damp dog in a cold tent is a miserable dog.

Rest well

A tired dog sleeps soundly, particularly in a den that smells like home. Let your dog settle in their kennel while you enjoy the evening, and do not expect them to sleep well on the first night. Most dogs need one night to adjust.

Pack for cold nights

Temperatures drop further overnight outdoors than most people expect, particularly in spring and autumn. Bring an extra blanket and consider moving the kennel inside the tent or the car porch once the evening cools.

The breathable polyester of the Portable & Foldable Pet Car Dog Cage Kennel handles warm afternoons well, but it is not insulation, so plan bedding accordingly.

If the trip includes time at a holiday house with a garden, our article on building a backyard retreat your dog will love has ideas you can apply temporarily.

Get the Portable & Foldable Pet Car Dog Cage Kennel with free shipping and returns.