If you are like us, when you go camping, you take your dog with you. It's fun to take them hiking, play fetch, or sleep while in camp. But camping with dogs means keeping them controlled and safe. So how do you keep your dog safe, comfortable, and happy while camping?
Here is how you can keep your dog happy while camping. It's all about giving them space to roam, play, and explore while keeping them safe and controlled.
WHEN CAMPING WITH DOGS, USE A LONG DOG LEASH
A short leash might be good for walking your dog around town. But when hiking with your dog on a short lead, your dog will want to sprint ahead to explore every rock and bush while dragging you down the woodland trail.
A long lead allows you to keep your dog controlled while allowing it to explore without getting too far away from you. And a long leash is also useful as a temporary tie-out. When you stop for a rest on a long walk, it's nice to tie your dog's leash to a tree or shrub.
When buying a long leash, keep in mind that dogs love to chew. Every dog we've ever had has liked to chew on the leash when they get bored. So use a leash a dog can bite but not chew through.
A TIE-OUT WILL LET YOUR DOG ROAM, BUT NOT TO FAR
Dogs get used to their environment. Being familiar with their surroundings makes them feel safe. Around the home, they will stay in their yard and won't stray too far. But when you're camping with dogs, they are in unfamiliar territory. They are overwhelmed by fresh scents and places to explore. Tail in the air, nose to the ground, they can't investigate their new home fast enough. Using a dog tie-out is a good way to let your dog explore your camp without bothering other campers.
A NO-PULL PET HARNESS WILL TRAIN YOUR DOG NOT TO PULL
I wish I'd had a no-pull pet harness when our dog was small. They make training a dog not to pull much easier. And you don't rely on a choker or other more aggressive device in training. If your dog has a habit of pulling, this harness will retain it's wanting to pull and stop the habit without risk of injury.
A FOLDING METAL EXCERSIZE PEN TO RESTRAIN YOUR DOG WITHOUT A LEASH
The manufacturer calls it an exercise pen. We've used one for years with our dog. After a hard day of play, dogs are ready to settle down. During the summer, it's too hot to keep them in the trailer. So a great solution is a pen where they can be near their family, and they won't be able to run away and get lost.
CRATE YOUR DOG WHILE YOU'RE AWAY AND AT NIGHT
The American Kennel Club says, "Crate training gives dogs a sense of security and safety and helps give owners greater peace of mind." If you need to use the campground bathroom or want to go for a short walk, crate your dog. It will keep your dog safe and feeling secure while you're gone. And at night, a crate helps your dog sleep.
QUIET YOUR DOG WITH IT'S OWN BED
Most people don't enjoy sleeping on the ground. And they sleep better in a bed. Our dogs are the same. When it's time to crate or pen your dog, a bed will help quiet it down. A dog bed won't keep your dog safe, but it will make them more comfortable.
NEVER LOSE YOUR DOG AT NIGHT WITH A GLOWING DOG COLLAR
Have you ever had your dog get loose and not respond to commands? We're full-time RVers, and I always worry that our dog will get loose at night. In the dark, a dog is hard to see. But you will see a glowing dog collar. It's a cheap investment to keep your dog safe.
In this article, we have covered the basic equipment that a dog owner needs when camping with dogs. Dogs love to explore, but in their exploring they can get lost or disoriented. And because they're in a new environment, they can feel stressed. By using the techniques and equipment in this article, your dog will have a better camping experience and so will you.
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