If you’re anything like me, you want to take your dog everywhere with you. Where I go, my dog goes; it’s that simple!
But I was pretty nervous the first time I took Pirate camping.
Would he be able to sleep? Would he manage the long hike? Would he get too cold? Would he disappear over the hill at the sight of a juicy rabbit?
It all turned out fine. The dog and the woman each came home in one piece, and neither of us was scarred for life! But I’d probably do things a bit differently if I knew then what I know now.
Hopefully, this article will give you some helpful pointers, so you can feel more prepared than I did!
Before You Set Off
Practice Run
If your dog has never been camping before, you probably want to take things slowly.
You could try camping in the yard for the first night so they can get used to sleeping in a tent in familiar surroundings.
Your test camp is a great time to see if your dog is shivering. That way, if necessary, you can sort out a warmer sleeping arrangement for them on the trails.
Also, make sure to get a dog-friendly tent.
Fitness Check
Also, make sure your dog is ready for the physical aspect of your trip. If you usually walk for only an hour a day, it’s going to be a bit of a shock for them to face an eight-hour hike before you make camp.
If you’re car camping, this isn’t such a big deal. However, backpackers must run their dogs up to the big event more slowly.
If your dog isn’t fit enough, you’re going to end up with a very tired and stiff camper the next day
[…] them, and they can also be your protector while you’re out in the woods. Better yet, you can take your dog camping […]