There is something wildly freeing and refreshing about going off-grid. No cell service or crowds, just you, your dog, and the open wilderness. But there is a big difference between going hiking for a weekend and seriously considering a shift to a self-sustaining lifestyle off-grid with your dog!
The off-grid lifestyle and self-sufficient way of life have become increasingly popular in the last ten years.
If you are seriously considering this change, this guide is for you!
What does it mean to live “off grid?”
When we say off the grid, what does this mean exactly? The “grid” typically refers to the electrical or power grid that powers communities of homes and businesses. When you flip on your lights or turn on the TV, that electricity is generated from power plants and sent to your home through a business. The same is true for running water, using gas, flushing waste…etc.
Off the grid means your electric, water, sewer, gas…etc are generated by you!
So now that you understand what living off grid means, how do you do it and is it right for you and your dog?
Is This For You?
Removing your dependence on public utilities and the electrical grid requires commitment, self-reliance, research, and above everything, being comfortable in solitude. That is not something everyone can be comfortable with and you need to make sure your dog would be happy with this change. Living in isolation teaches you to be independent, but the biggest challenge is becoming fully self-sufficient, without the ease of on-grid life.
Ask Some Questions
Before you make a full commitment to an off-grid lifestyle, you need to take a step back and evaluate whether that is a lifestyle that suits your needs, personality, and long-term goals.
Starting an off-grid lifestyle isn’t just about changing a location, it is a total shift in your day-to-day chores. Here are some practical questions you can answer:
- Are you comfortable handling your own power, water, waste, and food systems?
- Do you have the finances and resources to make this shift and do it the right way?
- Do you enjoy solitude, or would you rather live with convenience?
- Knowing your dog, would they be happy living this way?
- Are you ready to live far from services like veterinary care, pet supply stores, and groomers?
If you think this lifestyle might suit you and your pup, let’s talk about how to make the most out of it.
Things to Consider
1. Secure Land and Choose the Right Location
Before you can assess whether or not this lifestyle is for you, you have to be real with yourself about your finances. Living off grid typically requires you to purchase or own your own land and not everyone can do this easily.
If possible, you can also look at renting land or using land from a family member or friend. Ultimately, you need to be legally allowed to reside there and build your off-grid home wherever you are. Take a look at properties for sale around the country and see if there are any for a low price.
2. Accessibility & Safety
Just because the location looks great on social media, it doesn’t mean your pup can easily navigate the landscape. Does it have access to fresh water? Is there any dangerous plant life? What about wildlife bound to be in the area?
When you look for destinations for your off-the-grid adventure with your dog, always have safety on your mind. A simple Google search for “dog-friendly campgrounds” is a good place to start. From there, you can check camping/hiking forums and groups.
3. Will Fido Be Happy?
You know your dog better than anyone. Is your dog the type that loves hiking and traveling? Can they handle the stress of riding in the car or being in strange environments? Does your pet have the personality for living off the grid?
Nobody wants to be forced into doing something they aren’t comfortable doing. The same applies to your furry friend as well. Yes, some breeds are born for adventure. But some dogs are better suited for apartment life.
How to Become Self-Sufficient Before Going Off-Grid
Going off the grid means giving up urban comforts for freedom and self-sufficiency away from the noise.. There are a lot of ways you can prepare for being self-sufficient in the place you live. The goal is to build up the skills and mindset needed for off-grid living.
Here are some ideas.
Solar Setup Basics
While some people might not go fully off-grid, typically you will need to generate your own power. Solar power is the most popular and practical option.
You can start small with a basic solar kit designed for RVs, cabins, or emergency backup power. Track how much energy you and your dog use. For example, do you run a heated dog bed in winter? Get familiar with maintenance. Solar systems need basic upkeep, including cleaning panels, checking wiring, and monitoring battery charge levels. You can build all of these simple and basic skills before you go off-grid.
When you are comfortable, you can test it in real life. Try using only solar-powered devices for one weekend to get a sense of how it will translate in the wilderness.
Grow Your Own Food
Learning how to grow your own food is an empowering experience. You do not need a big farm to begin. A small balcony will do it in the beginning. Start with some seasonal herbs and vegetables that grow quickly and do not require much space. This should help you learn the basics of watering, sunlight, and pest control.
Practice composting with kitchen scraps and garden waste. You need to build rich soil and cut down on what you throw away. Off-grid living is all about reducing waste, and you can build up those habits in your urban lifestyle.
Get Clean Water
Securing a clean, reliable water source should be a top priority. Since there is no unlimited water from the tap, you have to plan ahead.
Identify available water sources, including a well, rainwater, stream, lake, or seasonal springs. Rainwater is the most accessible in the beginning, and you can practice at home. Use your roof to collect it into food-safe barrels or tanks. Plan ahead for dry times, and never drink unfiltered water. Filtration options include gravity filters, UV purifiers, boiling, water distillers, and inline carbon filters.
How To Prepare Your Dog For an Off-the-Grid Adventure
Secured your property and prepared for your new lifestyle? Now it’s time to transition your pup so he is ready for this new shift.
Health Check and Vaccination
You never know what you can encounter while exploring off-grid. Your dog’s safety and health should be a top priority. Make sure your pet is protected, including up-to-date vaccinations and flea and tick treatment.
Training
The wilderness is an exciting environment for dogs because they are in a constant state of excitement. Some dogs might get overwhelmed by the stimuli. Do you feel comfortable with your dog being off-leash? If not, keep him on a lead at all times. Your dog should know the basic commands like stay, leave it, drop, here, and quiet to keep control of situations that might arise.
Talk to a Vet
Here is a great tip. Talk to a vet who works with farm animals in the area. He might be more knowledgeable about an off-the-grid situation than city-pet-focused vets. It will only take a few minutes of your time, and most vets are happy to talk briefly over the phone for free.
Final Words
For many pet owners, a dog is more than a pet. Dogs are your sidekick and constant companion. Of course, you want to take them on your next adventure and share the freedom of life off the grid. Camping is one of the greatest activities you can enjoy with your puppy.Just keep in mind that you need to keep everyone happy and healthy, and make the proper arrangements.