How to Keep a Dog Warm while Camping: 7 Things That You Need
Camping with pets has become a common thing these days, especially with dogs. However, it isn’t as easy as it sounds but with the right equipment and mindset everything is possible. More about this in our guide on camping with dogs.
The most important thing is to know your dog breed and how they handle cold weather. Hence, then you can take plenty of steps accordingly to keep your dog warm and cozy while you camp.
Here in this article, we will be talking about the types of equipment that you need to carry to keep your furry companion warm while camping.
So, let’s dive in:-
Table of Contents
How To Keep Your Dog Warm While Camping: 7 Things That You Need
1. Sleeping bags for dogs
If you are serious about camping with your dog then sleeping bags are the perfect choice to do the needful. A good sleeping bag will keep your dog warm and dry while you camp or sleep.
There are tons of sleeping bags that can make your trip pleasing and hassle-free. Always stick to the water-resistant sleeping bags as sleeping in a wet bag can actually be a big issue for a dog. The best thing about sleeping bags is that they are very easy to carry around.
So, keep in mind to keep a sleeping bag that is ideal for your four-legged buddy. Here’s one from Vegapop that we recommend:
2. Get a Coat or Jacket
Having a dog winter coat or jacket is one of the great ways your dog can remain warm at all times whether you are out hiking or inside the tent. Dog coats are designed to keep them warm and comfortable in cold weather conditions and they can be worn while sleeping.
Don’t forget to get them used to coats and jackets before you make them wear them on a trip when it is really needed.
These coats are also fully adjustable, so you can always modify them accordingly whenever your dog feels overheated or uncomfortable.
3. Always Carry a Blanket
You can always cover your dog with a blanket when he is feeling cold. A warm, dry, and cozy blanket is always a treasure to possess, be it humans or animals, especially after a long cold day of hiking or trekking.
Bring along your dog’s favorite blanket which he prefers to sleep on at home. You can also go for a thermal blanket for keeping your dog warm in extra cold circumstances.
This will provide an added layer of warmth when the temperature drops and gets really cold. There are a variety of options for these blankets online like this one:
4. A Warm Water Bottle
For some extra heat, you might need a classic hot water bottle or a plastic bottle. Put hot water in it, wrap it in a blanket or towel and place it near your dog, or you can simply put it under his bed.
Be sure to test the temperature of the bottle on your skin first to make sure it’s not too hot otherwise it may burn your dog’s sensitive skin. This is also the most inexpensive and simple way to keep your dog warm all night.
When the bottle cools down, you can always warm the water up and use it again. Check out our guide on how to boil water for camping.
5. Dog Boots
It is easy to keep your dog warm inside the tent but it can be a little bit difficult when you are outside. That’s one of the main reasons why dog boots are important to carry when going camping.
You must’ve seen dogs wearing shoes for the first time, yes of course they don’t like it at all but after some time your dog will get used to it and will love it. Boots are the best way to keep your dog’s feet warm and flawless.
Especially in snowy mountains, dog boots are a great way to retain heat and to keep his feet dry. Check out these awesome and budget-friendly dog boots from Wowland:
6. Campfire
Before it’s time to head into the tent, let your dog hang out with you near the warm campfire. The heat emitting off the fire keeps the chill off and your dog will be dry and warm when it’s time for bed.
The fire heat can also add warmth to your dog’s tent, so you and your dog can sleep peacefully. Just make sure that the campfire is not too close to the tent as it could create a fire hazard.
You can also consider bringing a tent heater with you if you want the temperature inside your tent to be warm and comfortable. It will also help to keep your dog warm while camping.
7. Feed him well
Feeding your dog with certain foods and nutrients can not only help him stay warm but can also boost energy levels which is important when you are out camping.
Choose nutrient-rich, high-energy food and snacks and increase his intake by giving extra food than usual as your dog will be burning calories with you when out exploring mountains. Burning energy will keep him warm as well.
If you are unsure about what to feed your dog then you can try out a few of the best recommended freeze-dried food recommended by vets.
Important Camping Tips with Dogs:
- Take plenty of stoppages so that he can stretch his legs, pee or drink water.
- Exhaustion can be life-threatening to pets, so always pack extra food and snacks which are rich in vitamin and mineral.
- Bring along some gears for dogs like clothes, snacks, water, blanket, sleeping bed, and heater.
- Allow your dog to sleep close to you or inside your tent if possible.
- Keep him updated on vaccinations to avoid any problems or health issues.
- Always pack a dog’s first aid kit for an emergency.
- Always keep an eye on your dog to keep him safe and secure.
- Do consider bringing along some of his favorite toys as your dog might get bored.
- Before deciding on any campsite, always check if they allow dogs or not.
- Train your dog to behave in front of strangers and not to bark at them.
Wrap up
In the end, camping with your dog can be so much fun. You just need to know that their needs differ from yours. There are many things you can do to keep them safe and warm, you just need proper guidance.
If you follow the steps that are outlined in this article, you will be able to keep your dog cozy and safe on your camping trip. This way both of you will be able to enjoy the trip.
Now that you know how to keep your dog warm while camping, you are good to go. Don’t forget to take pictures with your little furry friend.
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