Many dog owners want to take their pets camping. But here's what we've learned from decades in the pet food business—camping with dogs isn't as simple as packing an extra sleeping bag.

Last summer, Supreme Source heard from customers whose "relaxing weekend" turned into emergency vet visits. These stories aren't rare. Camping accidents happen to even experienced pet parents, which is why camping safety for dogs deserves serious attention.

Fire Safety: Dogs Don't Read Warning Signs

Dogs investigate everything with their noses. Border collies get fixated on flames. Even older dogs sometimes lose their common sense around campfires.

Vets recommend keeping pets three feet from open flames. Easier said than done, right? Watch for persistent coughing or excessive drooling—signs of smoke exposure. Supreme Source's disaster preparedness guide covers what to do when things go wrong.

Here are some practical tips for camping with dogs: Tie leashes to solid trees (tent stakes aren’t sturdy enough), position dogs upwind from smoke, and never leave them unattended near fire.

First Aid Kit Essentials

Remote campsites mean you're 50+ miles from the nearest vet. Cell service? Don't rely on it. Dog camping safety starts with a proper first aid kit. Pack sterile gauze, elastic bandages, antiseptic wipes, tweezers for ticks, and a digital thermometer. Store everything in a waterproof container—soggy bandages don’t help anyone.

The Red Cross offers pet first aid classes that teach useful skills. Consider enrolling before your first trip. Check out Supreme Source's first aid kit guide for complete lists of items and best practices to ensure you’re prepared for anything.

Food Safety and Treats

S'mores are off-limits for dogs. Chocolate, marshmallows, and anything containing xylitol are all considered dangerous for dogs. Pack apple slices (no seeds), blueberries, and carrot sticks instead. If your dog is already used to Supreme Source dog food, our beef and bacon jerky cuts or chicken, pea, and carrot treats are portable, delicious, and familiar.

Pro tip from years of customer feedback: Stick to regular food schedules. New environments can stress dogs out enough—don’t add dietary changes to the experience.

Water Safety Matters

Not all dogs swim well. Bulldogs struggle, Labs usually excel, but cold water changes everything. Dogs lose body heat faster than people realize. Bring dog-specific life vests, which come with rescue handles and adjustable straps.

You should also bring fresh drinking water to prevent them from drinking contaminated water. Supreme Source's water safety guidelines cover different scenarios you might encounter while camping with dogs.

Wildlife and Car Camping with Dogs

Bears don't care if you're tent camping or in an RV. Store pet food like human food—in locked containers or hung 12 feet up, 4 feet from tree trunks. Keep dogs leashed (6 feet max in developed areas). Some breeds chase wildlife instinctively; be cautious when bringing them into bear country. To camp safely with your dog, ensure you always know where your four-legged friend is.

Final Thoughts on Camping with Dogs

Preparation is key to camping safely with your dog. You should research your destination, pack the appropriate gear, and be aware of the location of the nearest vet. You should know the altitude of your campsite, as some dogs are susceptible to altitude sickness, especially above 8,000 feet. Larger breeds and dogs with pre-existing respiratory issues may be more vulnerable.

Supreme Source recommends detailed checklists and emergency contacts. The most enjoyable camping experiences are those in which everyone, especially your dog, returns safely.