Overlanding with Dogs

Overlanding with a dog changes almost everything about trip planning — where you can camp (water access matters more), how you manage heat (especially in a rooftop tent), and what you carry. The good news: dogs make overlanding better in almost every way, and most dispersed BLM and national forest land is dog-friendly.

Rig Setup for Dogs

Sleeping arrangements

Rooftop tents work well for dogs under 60 lbs who can climb the ladder or be carried. For larger dogs, a ground tent beside the rig or a pull-out sleeping platform in the bed works better. Dogs in the bed of the truck (covered or uncovered) should be secured with a dog-specific tether attached to the bed rail — not the tailgate, which can drop open.

Water storage

The standard overlanding recommendation is 1 gallon per person per day. Add 1 gallon per 30 lbs of dog per day, more in heat above 85°F. A 65-gallon water tank fills the gap. Collapsible silicone bowls pack flat and work anywhere. If you're relying on natural water sources, bring a Sawyer Squeeze or similar — dogs can and do get giardia from backcountry water.

Vehicle temperature

The inside of a vehicle in direct sun can exceed 130°F within 20 minutes — lethal in under an hour for most dogs. Never leave a dog in a closed vehicle in warm weather. If you need to leave camp briefly, use a secure long-line with a shaded spot, carry water, and don't stay gone longer than 30 minutes at a time.

Finding Dog-Friendly Dispersed Sites

BLM land

BLM land allows dogs on leash throughout, with no permit required for stays under 14 days. Use the BLM's Map My Ride/Recreation Maps to identify open travel corridors. The California Desert District, Utah's Canyon Country District, and Wyoming's High Desert District all have exceptional dispersed options within easy drive of water sources.

National Forests

National forests allow dogs on almost all trails and all dispersed camping areas. The exception is wilderness areas within forests, where dogs must be on leash at all times. Download the Motor Vehicle Use Map (MVUM) for any national forest before you go — it shows which roads are legal for camping and which are restricted.

Health and Safety in the Field

First aid kit for dogs

The basics: antiseptic wipes, vet wrap, tweezers (for thorns and ticks), a foil emergency blanket, activated charcoal, Benadryl (ask your vet for correct dosage), and your vet's after-hours number saved. Satellite communicator (Garmin inReach or SPOT) is worth carrying in remote areas where cell coverage drops.

Know your dog's limits

Huskies and malamutes can handle technical cold-weather trips that would be dangerous for a Frenchie. Flat-faced breeds struggle above 8,000 feet and in heat above 80°F. Older dogs tire faster on rough road vibration than on smooth pavement. Know your dog's specific limits — not just general dog advice — and build your trip around them.