As the subject line indicates . . . I am in preparation for taking on winter camping as my wife has surprisingly agreed to go! Realistically we probably won't be able to make this happen until next season. I have SO many questions . . . . . but I will start with this one. This may be a very ignorant question so I apologize in advance. I have spent plenty of time in the BWCA in the summer but the idea of going in the winter spurs the idea of bringing my 2 golden retrievers. My wife is very concerned (unnecessarily IMO) about wolves, but I assured her that I knew where to get accurate information on the subject:)

Those of you that bring your little 4 legged friends . . . what kind of issues have you run into?

Thanks!

I'm planning my 1st winter trip(solo) also, but it will be this season. I'm concerned with making sure that I can protect myself. I have 2 dogs and would not take mine, not so much as because of wolves but because of having to take care of them in harsh conditions. I think they would keep me awake all night because they would be out of their element. The coyotes around here have been known to go after small dogs...

We bring our dog, Decoy, winter camping. She has been on two trips at two different extremes. Our first year it was very cold (down to 39 below) and last year it was up to 50 degrees-outside! If you have control over your dog, I wouldn't worry about wolves. Go outside with them at night and keep them close. As far as gear, we bring our dog a thermarest and two wool blankets. We also have her inside of a pop-kennel and cover it with one wool blanket. She also wears a neoprene hunting vest at night to keep her extra warm. Sleeping next to her is the warmest place in the tent. We feed her extra food to keep up her energy and warmth. She eats snow for water. Try avoid letting the dog lick their feet so they don't get ice balls. In our tent, we always keep Decoy in her tent. This keeps her away from the fire, our food, and our gear. A popped thermarest in the winter isn't fun and also is dangerous!

Here was Decoy last year destroying our firewood!

Those are both very good points to consider. My dogs are e-collar trained as they have been bird dogs for a number of years so having them run off is not something I worry about. I guess I was probably just looking for some reassurance that wolves really aren't anything to be too concerned with and common sense is probably enough to ensure a safe trip.

I just know how much my pups would love being out there!

I'd be worried about a tiny yappy dog that looked like food, but I'd think it would have to be some very desparate wolves that would even approach a couple of goldens surrounded by a pack of humans. They normally keep their distance and mind their own business, and the only way you know they were even there is when you see the tracks the next morning.

I really wouldn't be worried about wolves. Keep an eye on your dogs and if they are all trained that shouldn't be an issue. They will love it! Mcvacek has great recommendations in terms of clothing, kenneling. Consider taking boots for your dog or treat their paws with a product like mushers secret to keep snowballs/ice balls from forming on their feet.

I have taken my dog in the warmer seasons but she's a little "soft" for winter I fear, and way high maintenance,

tg

Decoy is also e-collar trained. :) It really makes us feel comfortable knowing she'll listen no matter what. We have tried almost all of the different dog booties, but none of them can stand up to Decoy's crazy running. The last pair we got from some place in Ely that makes them for sled dogs stay on, but ripped open after one lake and then the hole filled with snow and froze. Poor dog. So, she goes sans booties now. :)

In regards to food....how much more food do you bring for your dog than normal? I would imagine they will eat quite a bit more than normal.

I have a well trained hunting dog that I bring most of everywhere I go in the outdoors but do not bring him up there. Sleeping is an issue, wet dog is an issue, extra stuff to bring is an issue. I am not over protective of my dog, but I would be worried about wolves. Not so much about them coming into camp but me constantly having to keep tabs on my dog from wandering off just a little bit. Like yours he is well trained (with collar) but all it takes is once to wonder off. To me, leaving the dog at home is just one less thing to worry about.

As far as waiting until next year....nah, make a list and get after it in March (warmer and longer days). It will be a learning experience and a good gauge of the health of your marriage. Directly after the trip, make a list of the things you would do differently for the next time.....most of that list will be about how much you overpacked.

Have fun.

I would leave the dogs at home for the first trip. If not, I would do a few preliminary trial trips somewhere near home. On your first trip, you may have your hands full just taking care of yourselves......you don't need the extra burden of having to also deal with the dogs.

That being said, once you have yourselves trained and comfortable living in this "new" environment, then start thinking about incorporating your best friends.

These are all great points and I think I will heed some of your cautions. I think leaving them at home (at least until I become skilled at winter camping) will be the best decision. Thanks for all the input!