How to Raise a Dog to Love Camping

I just love it when I see a family with their dog at a campsite. Raising a dog to really enjoy camping, takes a bit of training to make sure that your dog does not run after any moving objects, or little animals. In my experience I have found it best to do this while they are puppies. Your first camping trip with your puppy may be a great learning experience for the whole family. Of course, you don't want to forget those essential items for your puppy. Where do you start? Here is my five step process below.

1. Make sure they have all necessary shots

   Start by making sure that they have all of their shots. When you take them to a campground there are many different things that they can pick up from other dogs in the area. Most campgrounds require people with dogs to reserve a spot in the pet friendly section. When you take them for their shots, make sure you also get a flea, and tick treatment. This is very important otherwise the family may end up with more than just a few mosquito bites.

2. Crate

   I have always found crate training to be helpful, especially if you plan to use the crate when you go camping. This is a comfortable place for them to sleep when inside the tent. It helps them to be comfortable because this is a familiar sleeping spot for them. Just be sure to bring along some toys, and the dog bed if they sleep on one.

3. Puppy first aid kit

   Since you are planning a camping trip it is a good idea to put together a puppy first aid kit. This is pretty simple to do. There's really no need to purchase a ready made kit, since it's simple to make one yourself. Although, if you wish to buy a ready made kit, and don't mind the added expense, I'm sure your vet could recommend where to get one.

4. Water bottle just for the dog

   If you plan on doing any hiking it's a good idea to buy a water bottle just for your dog. You can also pick up one of those collapsible dog bowls that will easily fit into your pack on the hike. Having a separate water bottle for your dog helps you to keep track of your dog's daily water intake.

5. Towels and shampoo

   This item may seem odd to bring along on a camping trip, but I never know what mess our dog will end up getting into. Some dogs also like to sit, or rest on a towel that is familiar to them after a long hike. I have found that using towels works a lot better than blankets, and are just as easy to clean. If your dog get's into some messy puddles, no need to worry, you have all of the supplies needed to get them all cleaned up.