What To Pack for a Hunting Trip With a Dog

Bringing your dog along on a hunting trip is a great way to bond and boost your experience in the field. But dogs need their own set of gear, from safety tools to comfort items, so they can stay protected, energized, and ready to work. Knowing what to pack for a hunting trip with a dog makes all the difference between a smooth outing and one filled with unnecessary stress.

Planning ahead means fewer surprises and more time focused on the hunt. A little prep work can turn an ordinary day in the field into a trip both you and your four-legged partner will remember.

Dog Safety Equipment

Safety comes first. A GPS collar is one of the smartest items to bring. It tracks your dog's location in real time, so if your dog disappears into thick brush or follows a trail over the ridge, you’ll know exactly where they are.

Also, pack a dog-specific first aid kit. Include antiseptic wipes, gauze, tweezers (for thorns or ticks), and any other basics your dog might need. An emergency whistle and a high-visibility vest, especially in blaze orange, make your dog easier for other hunters to see, which reduces the chance of accidents during early morning or evening hunts.

Food and Water Supplies

Hunting dogs burn a ton of energy out in the field. Pack extra high-protein dog food to keep their energy up. Use lightweight, sealed containers to keep meals fresh and easy to serve on the go.

Don’t underestimate your dog’s water needs either. They often need more than usual when running through rough terrain or hunting in warmer weather. Bring plenty of water and a collapsible bowl so your dog can hydrate quickly during breaks. A bowl that folds flat takes up almost no room in your pack.

Protective Gear and Clothing

Rough terrain, brush, thorns, and extreme temperatures can take a toll on your dog. Booties protect paw pads from sharp rocks, cold surfaces, or hot ground. Go with a style designed for active dogs that won’t fall off mid-chase.

A protective vest adds a layer of armor against thorns, sticks, and scratches. Look for tear-resistant material that lets your dog move freely. Choose bright colors or reflective strips to keep your dog visible in dense cover or low light.

Training and Control Gear

When it comes to dog collar leashes and harnesses, pick durable materials that can handle mud, moisture, and daily wear. A good collar also displays ID tags in case of separation from your dog.

Long training leads are great for giving your dog freedom while maintaining some control. A slip lead works well when you need quick, reliable handling in the field. Practice with this gear before your trip so your dog understands the limits and expectations.

Shelter and Comfort Items

If your trip involves overnights or long days, your dog will need protection from the elements. A lightweight dog tent or a tarp setup creates a break from wind, rain, or sun. It doesn’t need to be fancy, just something that offers cover.

Bring along a portable bed or a thick blanket to keep your dog off the cold or damp ground. Consider what your dog likes. For example, some dogs prefer enclosed spaces to curl up in, while others do better with open bedding where they can stretch out or keep an eye on things. Toss in a favorite toy or familiar item to help your dog feel more at ease in a new place.

Grooming and Hygiene Supplies

Even the cleanest dogs can get messy fast in the wild. Pack dog wipes for quick cleanups when water isn’t nearby. Burrs and seeds stick to fur easily, so bring a sturdy brush or comb to get them out without pulling or causing pain.

Nail clippers come in handy on longer trips. Rocky terrain or constant movement can lead to cracks or splits in overgrown nails. Regular checks and trims keep your dog moving comfortably. A small container of paw balm helps protect paw pads from drying out or cracking.

Health and Medication

Ticks, fleas, and other parasites are common in hunting areas. Do a quick inspection after each hunt, and use tick removal tools when you need them. Treat your dog with vet-approved flea and tick prevention before your trip.

If your dog takes regular meds, pack enough for the whole trip and a few extras just in case. Dogs that get carsick may also benefit from motion sickness medication. Store all meds in waterproof containers with labels and dosage instructions, especially if more than one person is responsible for care.

Navigation and Communication Tools

Tech makes life easier in the field. Attach a GPS tracker to your dog’s collar and keep tabs on their location through an app. Many of these devices also show movement patterns and activity levels, giving you insight into your dog’s performance.

Two-way radios are a solid choice for group hunts. Set up simple callouts so everyone can stay in the loop about where your dog is and what they’re doing. Pack backup batteries and keep all electronics dry and accessible.

Weather-Specific Gear

Weather plays a big part in your packing list. Cold-weather hunts call for insulated dog coats, especially for short-haired dogs. Booties are especially important when there’s snow or ice, or if the areas use salt on access roads.

In warm weather, bring cooling vests, extra water, and shade options. Reflective gear helps keep your dog visible while bouncing some of the sun’s heat. Watch for signs of overheating and take cooling breaks often.

Pack Smarter, So You Can Hunt Longer

Organization makes life easier. Make a separate checklist for your dog’s gear and group items by category such as safety, food, comfort, etc. This way, packing becomes quicker, and you’re less likely to forget anything important.

Use waterproof containers or dry bags to protect your gear. If backpacking, distribute weight carefully, and consider letting your dog carry some lighter items in a dog pack. Run through a packing test at home to catch anything missing before you hit the trail.

Gear Up With WOLFpak for Your Next Trip

Knowing what to pack for a hunting trip with your dog sets the tone for a smoother, more rewarding experience. When you’re not digging around for gear or dealing with unexpected problems, you can focus on the hunt and enjoy the adventure.

WOLFpak makes packing easier with tough, reliable backpacks and organizers designed for outdoor use. Their systems help gear stay sorted, protected, and easy to access when timing matters. Make your next hunt better, for you and your dog, by starting with the right gear. With some planning and the right supplies, you'll be ready to make the most of your time in the field.