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Can You Camp With Your Dog?

It goes without saying that most dogs love the outdoors. Even a perfectly-behaved and house-trained canine will get excited at the prospect of exploring the grass, trees and other creatures he'll meet outside. To your dog, a campground is a veritable treasure trove of tempting sights, sounds and smells.

Depending on where you're camping and the temperament of your dog, you may decide to bring the pooch along with you. Here are a few tips to consider:

Can you control your dog? He doesn't have to be ready to walk in the Westminster Dog Show to be a good camper. A little training, however, will go a long way in the new environment. You'll have an easier time all around if your dog knows and responds to some basic commands, like Come, Sit and Stay. If he's just not ready to obey your commands, it doesn't mean he can't go camping; you'll just have to be more cautious and careful about keeping him on a leash at all times.

Is your dog aggressive toward other dogs or people? If he is, you may want to reconsider bringing him along, or stick to solitary camping spots. Public campgrounds, especially during the busy seasons, are bustling with people, children, other dogs and vehicles. If your dog will be a threat to others, it wouldn't be good for anyone to have him there.

Does your dog have proper identification? This is a simple but crucial part of vacationing with your dog. He should always have complete ID tags, including your address and phone number, and even the phone number of your veterinarian for emergencies. Vaccinations and licenses should be current, too.

Prepare Your Dog for Camping

You can find out if he's fit for a camping experience by preparing him over time. Start out by taking him on a few day hikes or picnics in the park, and observe how he reacts and behaves in the unfamiliar surroundings.

You can even set up the tent in your backyard and sleep out there with him for a night to see how he's able to cope with the change in his nighttime routine. Never force him into the tent; instead, entice him inside with treats or his toys, and give him lots of praise when he enters the tent.

If your dog shows signs of nervousness or stress, even after a few attempts at conditioning him to the camping experience, it might be best if he stays home this time.

Read About Camping With Your Dog