Since Brexit it’s gradually become more and more expensive and complicated to take dogs to Europe so dog-friendly holidays in the UK are booming instead. Camping can be a great dog-friendly holiday where dogs can share all aspects of your holiday allowing for some great bonding experiences and of course a lot of fun together. However, even for the best-trained dogs, there are some new challenges to consider.
Barking: The new environment, unfamiliar sounds and excitement of other dogs nearby can all have their effect on your dog. Taking the novelty out of this can help, so try to arrive early, so dogs are more familiar with the campsite and add in a good long walk in the early evening to tire them out.
Comfort: Making sure your dog is comfortable and warm enough either within your tent or their own is important, the new environment and noises are likely to make your dog seek you out and ground-level beds make it hard to define human and dog territories in the tent.
Running off: Campsites have lots of open spaces with easy access to walks and countryside which your dog will love exploring. A stake to tie your dog’s lead to can be a good temporary solution for any time that your attention is elsewhere. Also ensure you have an up-to-date ID tag and your dog is microchipped in case he wanders too far.
Scavenging (other campers’ food or your own): Canvas isn’t as good as a cupboard door at preventing determined dogs, so this can be more of a problem when camping. Aside from upsetting other campers, there is also the likelihood of picking up something they shouldn’t eat and becoming unwell. Keeping your dog on a lead whenever you leave your pitch and keeping food up high and in picnic boxes are some ways to prevent this.
Dog poo in inappropriate places (other pitches, communal areas etc): Keeping poo bags handy and a close eye to prevent any wandering, should help to keep this problem under control.
Here are some tips for camping success with your dog.
- If it’s the first time with your dog, then why not practice at home by setting up your tent in the garden for a trial night.
- Keep to the same routine as at home for mealtimes and walks, this way your dog knows what to expect and when.
- Try to find a shady spot to set up your tent, ventilate well and keep fresh water available for your dog to drink.
- On days out watch for rules on dogs, some beaches have dog bans at different times of year.
- Remember your emergency kit and keep a local vet’s phone number to hand.