How does the saying go? It’s all fun and games until someone gets hurt. Well, when you’re camping with your dog, it’s all fun and games until your dog ends up in a cone. Before you opt outside with your pup, learn to listen to their tail wags and leash lags. In other words, do encourage your dog’s enjoyment, but don’t push your dog’s limitations.
We like to say Never Camp Alone, but never hiking alone is also a great idea, too! Your dog is the perfect trail companion. Just don’t push your furry friend too hard, too fast. Your pup is your best friend; they will follow you to the ends of the earth even if it harms them. They’re also your family; you’re going to know what they’re used to and what they can handle.
Things Not to Do Camping with your Dog
Think of it like this. You’re becoming fluent in your dog’s love language, reading body language and learning warning signs, so they love camping with you. The love goes both ways at home. We want the love to be there when camping with your dog, too! Whatever you do, don’t push your dog’s limitations.
Just like you listen to your body, your dog needs your help listening to their body. Be familiar with the signs of discomfort or injury. Keep the elements and conditions in mind. Remember, at the end of the day, camping with your dog is about having fun and staying safe. In short, learn how not to push your dog’s limitations too far. Let’s learn more!
5 Things to Watch Out For
Not sure what to watch out for? Just like you know your limits for camping and hiking in the great outdoors – the same rules apply for camping with your dog. There are subtle signs you can watch for that will tell you when your dog is pushing beyond their limits. Leave no dog behind!
- Panting – When camping with your dog, panting is okay but excessive panting is not! Look out for a distended tongue and atypical drooling. These are signs of dehydration and dehydration can be especially dangerous. Let’s have more fun and less panting!
- Breathing – If your dog’s breathing is “heaving,” or if your pup’s breath doesn’t return to normal after a 15-minute break, then you’ve probably done enough for the day. Remember, these visual warning signs alone are usually not a problem; pay attention to them in combination.
- Lagging – By the time your dog lays down and refuses to move, or collapses from exhaustion, you’re WAY past the point of limitations. Watch out for slow walking or gradual lagging behind the group. These are the first signs of fatigue. Better to turn around early than too late!
- Wobbling – If your pup is wobbly on their feet, this could be a sign of dehydration, heat stroke, hypothermia, or much worse. If your dog looks unstable, it’s important to give them a rest and try to assess why. Better safe than sorry!
- Limping – Sudden limping (assuming you checked the pads of their feet for injury or debris) usually means a strain or over-use. “Knowing your limits” (for both you and your furry friend) is one of the most important things to do when camping with your dog.
As with most things in life, you often don’t know where a limit is until you reach it. The key is to learn from your mistakes and make changes for camping with your dog in the future. If you “know your limits,” you’ll never leave your furry family member behind, and you’ll never camp alone. Trust us – you’ll be glad you did!
10 Things Not To Do Camping with your Dog
Camping with your dog can be a rewarding and fun experience if you’re prepared. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the top things to consider when camping with Fido.
Never Camp Alone. Use our tips to help you plan a Fido-friendly camping trip, and you’ll have memories to last lifetime. Get our Simple Camping with Dogs Guide HERE.
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