Reasons to take your dog camping

We love dogs here at Camping in the Forest, which is exactly why most of our sites are dog friendly, and they can stay completely free!

And there’s no better feeling than to see their furry faces light up as they enjoy a weekend of fun, walks and fresh air with their human companion. So in the spirit of National Dog Day, here’s our top reasons why your dog should join you on your next camping trip!

1. Room and board

For many dog owners, the thought of leaving their pet while they take a holiday is disheartening. Not only do kennels tend to be expensive, you can’t know for sure the quality of care being given or how lonely it may be for the dog. While escaping on a package holiday might mean leaving your beloved pup behind, a UK camping break will allow you to avoid the anxiety of breaking up the family for a week away.

So, if you’re planning on taking your pooch camping with you, make sure you pack the right equipment to keep them happy and healthy! We’ve all gone through the inconvenience of forgetting something important for a trip so we don’t want that for our dogs either. Although it might sound obvious, some important things to remember include:

• Enough food
• Treats
• Bowls (including one you can take on your walks with you so that your pooch can have some water if they get hot or thirsty)
• Any medication they might need
• Toys
• Coat (in case the temperature drops or it’s wet)
• Towel
• Bedding
• Leads/harness
• A separate cool box or somewhere cool to keep your dog’s food (away from your own and so it doesn’t go off)
• First aid kit
• A doggie backpack!

We know that camping is meant to be rugged outdoor fun, but your dog will need a place to call their own, which is why we recommend packing a travel dog bed to take along with you. Once you set up your tent, place the bed in a cosy nook or corner of the tent and your pet has a place to stay and a sense of familiarity.

You can also cover the bed with a towel if you’re worried about your dog getting dirty (you are out in the wilderness after all!). Your dog will enjoy having familiar smells and their belongings while you are camping together too so this is great at helping them to feel calm in new surroundings.

2. Training

The great outdoors is an excellent opportunity for you to work with your dog on obedience training. Teaching your dog to stay by your side and not run off or chase after the wildlife is definitely tested when there is endless space for them to explore.

We offer dog-friendly caravan and camping holidays at most of our sites, however we request that dogs must be kept on a leash at all times whilst on-site.

While hiking, you and your pup will both benefit from some basic training, but you will need patience. Teach your dog the basics like sit, stay and come. Ultimately, the more you take them hiking and camping, and the more positive reinforcement of good behaviour that you give them, the better they’ll get!

You also won’t be the most popular camping neighbour if your dog is keeping everyone awake at night. Your canine friend needs to be trained to come when called, hush when told to and be sociable with other people and dogs. The last thing you need is to be escorted off the premises because your dog is a bit too excited and upsets your fellow campers…

Try setting your tent up in your living room or back garden for a few days ahead of your trip and let your dog sniff and explore. If your dog is well socialised and adjusts easily to new situations, this may be all it takes. If your dog is a bit timid, you may want to specifically train your dog to sleep in the tent.

When it comes to wildlife and night time noises, simply giving your dog a treat each time they don’t react is the perfect positive reinforcement. You know your dog better than anyone, so offer them the kind of reassurance that works best.

3. New environment

A completely different environment introduces new sights, smells, people and animals – all of which will enrich your dog as well as yourself. Not only will they have an opportunity to run around and get ample exercise, which is beneficial to their health and well-being; they can interact with you in a different setting outside of their comfort zone and ultimately strengthen your bond. Camping offers many different ways to play with and exercise your dog: from hiking and playing fetch, to swimming and exploring nature.

4. Companionship

If you are travelling or camping alone, your dog will provide that much-needed companionship. Relaxing and exploring with your trusting and loving furry-friend will be sure to lift your mood!

Plus, not only are you never alone, but your dog will probably help introduce you to other dog owners too, by way of wanting to say hello to the furry faces they meet!

There are of course a few things to remember when taking your dog camping. Always check that the campsite you are visiting allows dogs, be considerate of others and respect the flora and fauna around you.

At the end of the day, dogs love the great outdoors as much as we do! It’s refreshing, mentally stimulating, and a great bonding experience. Dogs make great hiking companions as well as night time cuddle buddies.

A well prepared trip sets you up for a fun one, so check out our blog on Top Tips for Camping Holidays with dogs to get you started!

Find the ideal campsite for you and your dog.