Is Your Dog Camp-Ready?

Summer is here and it’s time for camp. Are you considering your first trip to a dog-friendly summer camp yet wondering if your dog is ready? Here are five skills and traits your dog should have to get the most out of the dog camp experience.

1. Coming when called, reliably.

Recall is high on the list for Annie Brody, creator and director of Camp Unleashed in Massachusetts. Reliable recall “is a biggie, especially for hiking off-leash. We ask people to practice this in safe ways prior to camp if they don’t feel their dog’s recall is totally reliable. It’s also important for heavy-duty play, so you can safely control energy that might get too high.” Your nearby off-leash dog park is perfect for practicing this important skill.

2. Good socialization is critical.

Young dogs should understand verbal cues from other dogs asking them to curb their enthusiasm, while older dogs should tolerate being jostled and bumped by frolicking youngsters, who often move like crashing waves through groups of people and dogs as they play. Little dogs should not be afraid of playful or sniffing big dogs. “Dogs must play well or at least be neutral with other dogs of all kinds and sizes,” says Brody. Your dog park is a great place to practice this skill, too.

3. Flexible and willing to share.

The most popular camp dog is willing to share toys—no hoarding that favorite squeaker toy!—as well as cabin space. Resource guarding isn’t compatible with camp and a lack of jealousy when other dogs greet you or accept treats from you is also important. Your dog needs to be ready to share the love.

4. Be able to chill alone.

If your dog suffers from separation anxiety, they might not be a good fit. “They should be able to rest quietly in your cabin or in a crate without incessant barking,” says Brody. Just like toddlers, dogs get ramped up at camp. A nap each day helps them maintain their composure and manners while you enjoy meals with the group—or your own nap.

5. Lots of patience.

Your dog will need to be super patient with you when you ask them to wear a silly costume or show off their tricks for a camp contest, or when you take endless photos of them at various camp locations and activities. They’ll also need to be patient with other humans, who constantly want to meet and touch them. Your pup will also need patience with the canine co-camper who insists on sniffing, frequently and closely. And, finally, with having their usual day-to-day routine disrupted in such a wonderfully exciting way.