Jake, a Cardigan Welsh Corgi, and Cobber, a mixed-breed dog, loved camping out in Mohican State Park with Kirsten Stewart of Columbus, OH. Summer is a great time to go camping, and sleeping out in a tent is a wonderful way to get close to nature. Dogs love to go with their owners and including your dog is another way to bond with your canine best buddy.

But dogs are also creatures of routine and trying something new can create stress and confusion for some dogs.

Before you head out on a camping journey with Fido, prepare your dog. Get your dog used to being around a tent. Pitch the tent in the backyard and go in your tent for some time each day with your dog. You can read a book, listen to music, etc. Bring your dog’s bed or crate in also and let them spend some time where they will be sleeping. Feeding your dog in the tent will make them like the atmosphere even more!

Make sure you pack familiar items for your dog, like their bed or crate, toys, and, of course, their food and food bowls! Be responsible – keep your dog on a leash, have their identification on their collar, have a copy of vaccination records with you, and clean up after your dog. Most of all, have fun!

More canine camping tips are available from the American Kennel Club.

Cobber MX MXJ XF CGC is an AKC Agility competitor and an AKC Canine Good Citizen through the AKC Canine Partners program for all dogs, including mixed-breeds and rescues.