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We’re finally coming into camping season. Personally we gave up tent camping years ago. We had taken a look at some small travel trailers trying to decide if it was right for us. That night in a small tent with 2 Great Danes during a thunderstorm we made the final decision to upgrade to what we call the Dane House. 

Whether you are roughing it, tenting or glamping, bringing your furry one along is a great bonding experience. But before you pack up and hit the road, look over my DOs and DON’Ts of camping with your Great Dane.

What to do when camping with your dog 

• First, decide if your Dane will enjoy camping. Not all will enjoy it. All of our Great Danes have camped with us but they have also all been afraid of the dark. They don’t like being outside after dark and want to be in the tent or trailer instead. Of course, being in there alone isn’t what they have wanted either. If your dog would rather stay home, let them! 
• Choose a pet-friendly destination. Most campgrounds are dog friendly but some private camps do have breed restrictions. Make sure to read up or call the location to confirm any details.
• Make sure you know all the rules or regulations in the area. National Parks have various levels of restrictions to keep your pet and wildlife and habitats safe! My National Park dogs posts talk about which parks are more or less pet-friendly. National Forests tend to be more pet-friendly and each state has it’s own restrictions on their parks.

• Pack the right gear. When we venture out with Martok, we always bring a his bag which has basic 1st aid items, booties, water and a filled travel bowl. Other things you might need include pet sun screen, tick & flea treatment, and a lighted collar and leash.
• Bring the comforts for you and your furry! Martok absolutely loves his Hyper Pet frisbee. Bring your dog’s bed, blanket, sleeping pad, crate, favorite toys and/or treats. Not exactly comforts—but any medications or calming aids (run it by your vet first) are good ideas too.
• We all need to eat. Don’t forget a portable bowl, water and food. Don’t count on being able to buy the brand of food you usually get while on the road. 
• Avoid attracting other animals. Never leave your dog’s food or water out unattended in your camp. Also research what critters are local to the area you will be camping in. Just because Great Dane’s were breed to hunt boar doesn’t mean your Great Dane will survive a run in with the local wildlife.

What not to do when camping with your Great Dane 

• Don’t leave your dog unattended. Your Dane is your buddy on the trip. Leaving them cooped up in the camper or cabin is no fun (and could be dangerous). Even if the local trails aren’t dog friendly you can still walk around the campground. Or find a local area that does have pet-friendly trails.
• Don’t leave their ‘business’ laying around. Pick up after your dog regularly and properly dispose of the waste. Dog waste can transmit diseases to the local wildlife. Check out this post for information of non-plastic bag alternatives and consider adding a dooloop to your leash for easy carry-out of pet waste.
• Don’t expect your dog to be okay the entire trip. Just like us humans, pets have their triggers and ‘off’ days. Be understanding and prepare to handle any stressors. 
• Don’t forget your pet emergency kit. Fill this up with everything you may need if your pet is lost or hurt:  medical records, vaccination records, pet first aid kit, current photos, extra medications, extra leash, paw protectors and blankets. Here’s a great resource on what emergency items to pack for your dog. 

Did I miss something? Tell me what else all Great Dane parents need to do or not do when camping by leaving a comment below.  (If the comments aren’t working please let me know. I’ve had some trouble with them.)