No matter how experienced of a camper you are, taking your dog with you is a whole different story. Dogs can be great companions while on the trail but they do need a little bit of special attention. So what do you need to do to ensure that your camping trip with your pup is the perfect adventure?

Proper Planning

Do not nod off, while this seems like an elementary suggestion here are a few things we are certain you have not thought of.

1. Understand your dogs limits: Spend time with your dog hiking outdoors for short trips so that you can see how well your dog can handle the environment. In almost every single case your dog is more capable and tougher than you think when it comes to the elements. However energy and stamina are something that have to be trained for. If you plan to do hiking or other physical activities make sure your dog is up to the task. Luckily dogs can gain strength and stamina quickly, keep your dog busy for a few weeks before your trip and you will be set do do just about anything.

2. Scout the area: Either plan a pre-trip scouting trip or do research online. Pay special attention to vegetation, temperature and access to water. Knowing how hot it will be and how much access you have to shade will help you plan a trip that will keep your dog cool and safe. Access to water is a crucial aspect of your trip because it will greatly determine how much water you will need to bring with you. Medium size dogs need to drink a 1/2 to 1 ounce of water per pound of body weight per day. IF you do not have water readily available you will need to plan to pack in what you and your dog will need.

Special Gear

If your dog is used to sleeping outside make sure that you bring something to keep your dog dry like an extra tarp to pin up between trees. If you have an inside dog you may want to bring something for your dog to sleep in. This can be as simple as a dog bed or some tarps all the way to an elaborate tent

Fancy Dog Furniture

Dog backpacks are a great way to lighten the load and make sure you have enough supplies for your dog. Make sure to bring a few simple things.

• First Aid Kit: In addition to your personal first aid kit bring one for your dog as well.
• Folding Dog Bowls: Whether you just like to pack light or plan to do some backpacking while you go, folding food and water bowls are an affordable, convenient solution.

Know The Rules

Depending one where you end up going there can be a lot of rules when it comes to bringing your dog with you. Take a few minutes to research the area and make sure that it is legal to bring your dog with you. Some areas require that you pack in anything you bring including your dogs poop.

When on the trail make sure to share the trail. Many trails require that you keep your dog on a leash so that you can keep your dog away from other hikers and mountain bikers. If you are more akin to open trails find a place to camp that lets you roam wherever you want.

Have Fun

Camping with your dog can be a ton of fun. Plan some activities that your dog will love. Swimming, hiking, hunting or running. Take some time to teach your dog a new trick or talent. Dogs love new places and so no matter what you decide camping with your dog can be one of your new favorite activities.

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Labradors are one of he most popular breed of dogs alive and for good reason. Labradors are very smart, athletic and great for families. My first dog was a Labrador named Blaze, technically he was a labrador and golden retriever mix. He was a huge dog very strong and athletic. We lived in the mountains and he loved to roam and explore, chase wildlife and everything in between. I remember taking him down to the river near by to play fetch, and hiking with him.

Saying Goodbye

When he passed it was really hard for me. The year before he had been hit by a car and needed some major surgeries that gave him heart problems. He recovered over time with a mostly robotic leg but the trauma led to heart problems. He took medicine and we had another great year together, but unfortunately his body had taken all it could.

I always knew that I would get another Labrador, when the time was right.

Meet Molly

Molly is a mutt, labrador mixed with something else, both of her parents are labradors but one of them must have some mixed lines as you can see on her paws. While Molly may not be the most unique name for a dog you can think of it was her. We debated on a whole ton of names and finally settled on Molly. She is the best tempered dog I have ever known. She is extremely kind and cautious with kids, in fact she and my son are a little bit obsessed with each other. She never barks at anything and loves to cuddle.

Molly like all retrievers loves to swim and play in the water. The second she hears running water she heads straight for it. I run her everyday with the ATV and I think it is one of the best parts of her day.

I love Labradors because they are great for so many applications, they are incredibly smart and well mannered which makes them great for families. They are fabulous outdoor dogs who were breed to hunt, they have fabulous noses and easy to train. They have a lot of energy and do need to be exercised regularly. While I love Labradors they are just one of the many breeds I hope to own in my lifetime. What do you love about labradors, let us know in the comments.

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