Small dogs usually live indoors and are used to the many modern comforts which their owners enjoy. Therefore, taking a camping trip with a small dog may not seem like a sensible or fun activity for both the dog and the dog owner. However, with a bit of forward planning and a few helpful tips, taking a small dog camping can be an enjoyable experience.
Planning a Camping Trip With a Small Dog
In the USA, many camp sites take dogs. However, the dog usually has to be on a leash and be well behaved; the dog owner must take responsibility for the dog's behavior on the camp site and most camp sites request that the dog not be left unattended on the camp ground. Check with the camp site before booking for any rules and regulations for taking dogs which are specific to a particular camp site.
Things to Take on a Camping Trip With a Small Dog
Small dogs will feel more at home on a camping trip if they are surrounded by some of their home comforts; things to take on a camping trip with a small dog include:
- dog bed/crate – small dogs will feel more secure in their own bed. If the dog is not used to sleeping in crate, it may be a good idea to train the dog to do so before a camping trip. A crate will be added security for the dog and the dog owner in protecting the dog from surrounding dangers, especially as night falls. A dog crate also means the dog does not have to sleep with the dog owner and can be safely secured in a separate tent if required.
- dog toys – dog toys will keep the dog entertained and hopefully out of trouble/danger on the camp site. Bring a couple of the dog's favorite toys, including a ball.
- dog food/bowls – ensure the dog has regular food and access to water on the camp site by bringing dog bowls.
- extra dog bedding – depending on where the camp site is, and the time of year, it may be necessary to bring extra dog bedding to ensure the dog is kept warm at night; sleeping in a tent is usually colder than sleeping in the house.
How to Keep a Small Dog on a Leash on a Camping Trip
A small dog will want to explore the new surroundings of the camp site; one way of giving the small dog limited freedom, and still be on a leash, is to construct a makeshift 'zip line' between two trees. The small dog will have the ability to wander as far as the zip line allows, and play with some dog toys, but cannot get lost.
A makeshift zip line can be made quite easily from some rope and a clip which attaches to the dog's collar. The zip line will give the dog owner the freedom to move around the camp site without the dog but the secure knowledge that the dog is safe. However, the dog should not be left unattended and out of sight on the zip line.
Night Time Dangers for Small Dogs on Camp Sites
Small dogs may be curious or scared of the unfamiliar noises which are associated with camp sites once night falls. Night time wild life which may be a danger to small dogs, depending on where the camp site is located, include bears, mountain lions, cougars, skunks and raccoons.
Skunks and raccoons may not be an immediate threat to a small dog. However, a startled skunk will spay a small dog – and the strong odor will not only linger on the dog but can be smelled from a long distance away! Ensure that the small dog is contained and safe from wild life once night falls.
Considerations for Taking a Small Dog Camping
Camping can be fun with a small dog with some forward planning. At first, the small dog may be unsure of the new surroundings of the camp site and be confused with the change in routine at night time but most small dogs will adapt and enjoy the experience.
Related Reading by the Same Author:
Dog Vacations in Ocean Beach, California
Dog Friendly Beaches in Southern California
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