Winter Camping with Your Dog

Camping in cold weather can be an exciting, invigorating experience, as long as you take the right precautions. While some dogs do better warmth-wise in the winter than they do in summer, they still need to be kept warm like humans.

Is Winter Camping Right for Your Dog?

Winter camping isn’t for everyone, and that includes dogs. Most dogs enjoy playing in the snow for a while, but not all dogs are built for the cold. Consider your dog’s breed and coat. If you are concerned your dog might not be able to handle the cold, it’s best to make other arrangements for him or her. Be sure to respect what your dog can handle and be realistic. If you are unsure about winter camping with your pooch, take a hike on a cold day to see how they handle it before committing to an overnight trip.

Read more: 7 Indispensable Tips for Hiking With Your Dog in Cold Weather

Is the Campground Dog-Friendly?

Make sure your dog is allowed at the park you’ll be visiting. Some parks and recreation centers only allow dogs in certain areas; some places don’t allow dogs at all. Most parks will publish their dog policy on their website.

Keep Your Dog Comfortable

It’s important to establish a safe, familiar place for your dog at your campsite. In the cooler months, create a warm and comfortable space for your pooch. Try to create a similar set up to what your dog has at home, whether that’s a soft bed, cot or a crate. Bring a favorite toy and blanket from home for comfort.

Keep Your Dog Warm

Even if you don’t usually let your dog in your bed, be sure to let him or her in your tent or RV to snuggle. Keep your dog off the ground where he/she can stay warm and dry. Choose a sleeping bag that’s equipped for winter temperatures in your area and grab an extra blanket or sweatshirt to keep your dog warm at night. Tarps can also provide an extra layer of insulation for your tent.

For cooler weather, the Highlands Sleeping Bag with Mt. Bachelor Pad is a great choice! The sleeping bag packs down small, has a wide circumference zipper so you can lay it out flat, fold over your dog, or zip your dog up. It’s very versatile and will easily accommodate most dogs.

Be Prepared

Take the time to pack extra gear and ensure you’re prepared for changing temperatures. A few extra steps can make winter your favorite camping season!

• Bring a pack harness

There are packs that double as a harness. A pack is useful because your dog can help carry some items like treats, waste bags and toys.

• Tarp

Bring a tarp or rain poncho to lay down under the bed pad at night for an extra layer of protection.

• Way to heat up your dog’s food

Be sure to bring a camp stove and an extra pan to heat up your dog’s food. Bring chicken or beef bullion and water to make broth and canned food for extra calories in them. Heating the food will help warm your dog.

• Dog first aid kit

Pack a first aid kit and make sure it is outfitted with items you may need if your dog gets hypothermia.

Read more: What to Put in a Dog First Aid Kit

 

• Important documents

It’s always a good idea to pack copies of any paperwork related to your dog, such as vaccination documentation, medication requirements, etc. If your dog is on medication, be sure to bring extra in case you are delayed getting home for any reason.

Give Your Pooch Extra Layers

Unless your dog is bred to live in freezing temperatures, like Siberian Huskies or Alaskan Malamutes, most dogs need help staying warm outside in winter. Consider packing the following:

• A dog jacket or vest

There are a range of options out there, including waterproof and fleece-lined vests. Choose one that is the right thickness for the weather you’ll be facing. Make sure the coat is a bright color and reflective. You don’t want hunters mistaking your dog for wildlife!

• An absorbent towel

A towel that will absorb moisture is invaluable in quickly drying your pooch off in the likely case she will get wet.

Consider Booties to Protect Your Dog’s Paws

While most dogs are able to handle extreme weather, their paws are at risk for cracking or cuts from the snow and ice. Be sure to have your dog try the booties on at home. While most dogs will walk funny and balk at the booties, try giving treats as rewards for wearing them. If your dog seems like he can’t get used to them, try a different type.

If you opt to not use booties on your camping trip, remember to periodically check between your dog’s paw pad for painful ice balls. Also, bare paws mean your dog will get cold faster, so be sure to dry and warm their paws every few hours. Try using paw wax or balm on your dog’s paws to keep them moisturized and soft.

Read more: What To Do If Your Dog Has Cracked Paws

 

Keep Your Dog Hydrated

Like humans, dogs need to stay hydrated when hiking. Winter conditions can cause dehydration and exhaustion as easily as heat. Signs of dehydration include:

• Refusing to walk
• Noticeably slowing down
• Lagging behind the pack

You can avoid dehydration by stopping to rest and drink water regularly. Bring along a collapsible water bowl to make watering time a snap.

Bring Nutrient-Rich Foods and Snack

Like humans, your dog will be burning more calories navigating a snowy terrain, as well as burning energy just to stay warm. Your dog will need nutrient-rich, high-energy snacks and meals. If you’re unsure about what foods to bring for your dog, check with your veterinarian. Basically, you want foods that will deliver the right protein, fats, vitamins and minerals your dog will need for the winter trek.

Watch for Hypothermia

Dogs are susceptible to hypothermia just like people. Signs of hypothermia include:

• Slow breathing
• Shivering
• Stumbling
• Whimpering
• Feeling cold to the touch
• Dilated pupils

If your dog shows any of these symptoms, warm them up immediately with blankets or a sleeping bag. If symptoms continue, seek veterinary advice as soon as possible.

With careful planning, a winter camping trip can be a grand adventure for you and your dog. Just make sure your dog is as prepared for the cold as you are!

Have you taken your dog camping in the winter? What advice would you have for the rest of the Canine Campus community? Please comment below…