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10 Items to Pack in Your Dog’s Bug Out Bag

Dog Bug Out Bag List

It’s tough to think about leaving man’s best friend behind in the event of an emergency. A well-trained dog may be able to keep up with you as you seek out safety, and there are many advantages to having one with you.

They provide companionship, warmth on cold nights, and a large dog offers a degree of protection.

If you want to take Fido with you, he’ll need his own bug out bag. So what do you need to pack?

1)) Saddle Bag

Your dog is going to have to carry its own weight here. A saddle bag will help distribute that weight evenly on each side of the dog.

Choose one that is waterproof, or bring plastic bags to help protect the compartments if it starts to rain.

>> See a great selection of Dog’s Saddle Bags on Amazon

2)) Freeze Dried Dog Food

Just as your bug out bag contains food for 72 hours, your dog’s should, too. Freeze dried dog food weighs less and takes up less space than a can or traditional dry food.

Look for a kind that is geared towards sensitive stomachs if it’s a brand your dog isn’t used to.

>> See a great selection of Freeze Dried Dog Food on Amazon

3)) Blanket

A blanket can provide warmth for your dog if it gets cold. It can also be folded up and used as a bed. Pick a blanket that is lightweight and easy to fold down into your dog’s saddle bag.

>> See a great selection of Emergency Dog Blankets on Amazon

4)) Backpacker’s Bowl

Backpacker’s bowls are lightweight and often collapsible, making them easy to store in your dog’s saddle bag.

You’ll want to bring at least two (one for food and one for water), as well as a little castile soap for cleaning them in between uses.

5)) Extra Leash

An extra leash is important in case something happens to the first one. The leash should be made out of durable material, not one of the thin collapsible leads.

6)) Water Purification Tablets

Water purification tablets can help purify your dog’s water to make it safe to drink. A portable water filter also works.

You may want to bring a few bottles of water in your dog’s saddle bag, but you will likely have to limit how much you bring as water is heavy.

Some method of purifying water is necessary to ensure your dog has continued access to clean drinking water.

>> See a great selection of Water Purification Tablets on Amazon

7)) Dog Tags And Collar

Bring a back-up set of dog tags and collar. This should include your name, phone number, and any relevant vaccination information.

If your dog’s original tag or collar is compromised, put the back up on your dog as soon as possible.

8)) Medicines

Your dog needs flea and tick medicine, its monthly dosage of heartworm medication, and any other specialized medication (such as insulin) it takes regularly.

Pack at least a three day supply, more if you have room for it.

9)) Treats

It’s important to have some of the comforts of home– after all, your dog likely does not understand that it is in a survival situation. Treats will help keep your dog calm and obedient.

10)) Familiar Toy Or Article Of Clothing

Preferably something with your scent. By bringing a piece of home with you, your dog will be more comfortable in an unfamiliar location.

A toy is a great choice because even in a survival situation play is important for your dog.

>> See a great selection of Dog Bug Out Bags on Amazon

Conclusion

Your dog can be an asset in a survival situation, especially if you are prepared. A well-stocked doggy bug out bag can keep your dog safe in an emergency.

Liz Tailor

I’m Liz Tailor, the founder of Survivor Insiders. Emergencies and unexpected disruptions can happen in many forms, but preparing for them doesn’t have to feel overwhelming or extreme. I created Survivor Insiders to help individuals and families build practical readiness for both natural and manmade emergencies without panic, paranoia, or fear-driven survivalism. My goal is to share clear, realistic guidance that helps you organize supplies, make sensible plans, and feel more capable when everyday routines are disrupted. I look forward to sharing practical preparedness insights with you.

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