Camping with a dog is a great opportunity for both animals and humans to leave everyday life behind for a few days and experience new things. The first camping trip with a dog promises to be an exciting time, as there are lots of new things to discover. Just as important as having fun with the activity is that it is well and correctly planned. In this article, we will therefore show you what points you should definitely consider before you leave and what you should look out for when you get there.
Camping with a Dog: Preparation
The first point for camping with a dog is of course that dogs are allowed at the intended destination, because that is not the case everywhere. Dog-friendly campsites usually have the relevant information on the website or in the flyer - as well as the rules that apply at the campsite with dogs: There are often guidelines regarding leash requirements, fencing and much more. If you are planning a road trip, for example with a motorhome, there should be no surprises when it comes to overnight accommodation.
Otherwise, the same applies to camping with a dog as to any other holiday trip: all dogs you bring with you should have a microchip and the addresses of the nearest veterinary practices and clinics should be easily accessible in case of an emergency.
At the campsite with dog
The most important thing when staying at a campsite with a dog is that the animal's safety is ensured. This means that the dog must always be kept on a leash both in your own pitch and when being walked around the pitch. The only sensible exceptions are: there is no way for the dog to get out inside (for example in the awning) or the pitch is secured with a dog fence that is high enough that the dog cannot jump or climb over it. If the dog is tied to the pitch with a leash, the leash should only be long enough to cover your own pitch and not affect neighbors.
Last but not least, when camping with a dog, the same etiquette applies as at home: the dog's big business should be picked up and disposed of correctly and prolonged barking should be prevented if possible.
Camping with a dog: sleeping place and heat protection
When camping with a dog, your four-legged friend should have his own place to retreat to - both during the day and when sleeping. Ideally, you can take the familiar basket from home with you. This creates a familiar place with familiar sensory impressions.
Heat is also a big issue when you go on a summer holiday with your dog. Motorhomes and caravans can heat up quickly in direct sunlight, even when the outside temperature is mild. A parasol, an open awning or an open motorhome or caravan door ensure that your dog can retreat into the shade at any time. Fresh water should also always be available there. To prevent heat from building up during the day, you can open windows and doors or use a fan. This makes the evening and night inside much more pleasant for both humans and animals.
By the way: You can also read about how BARF feeding works when camping with a dog in our articles on summer vacation with a dog and BARF on vacation . In our BARF shop there are numerous items that will help you feed your dog a species-appropriate diet with different types of protein while on vacation.
