Camping with your furry companion can be an incredibly fun and rewarding experience for both of you. Getting back to nature is always rejuvenating and having your trusted canine by your side makes it even better. However, there are some important considerations when choosing a tent for camping with a dog. You’ll want to make sure to choose an option that has enough space for both of you, as well as features that will allow your dog to move in and out easily. The right tent will keep both you and your pup comfortable, dry and happy on your outdoor adventure.
The purpose of this article is that, we’ll cover everything you need to know about picking the best tent for camping with dogs. First, we’ll go over the key factors to keep in mind while shopping. Next, we’ll provide tent recommendations across various categories and price points. By the end, you’ll know exactly what to look for so you and your furry friend can have the best camping trips possible!
Key Considerations When Choosing a Dog Camping Tent
When evaluating tents for camping with your faithful companion, there are a few important features to keep top of mind:
Space and Layout For comfortable camping, you’ll need a tent that offers enough space for both you and your dog. Consider the size of your dog when looking at tent dimensions and layouts. Make sure there is enough room for them to easily stand up, turn around and lay down. You’ll also want the ceiling to be tall enough that your dog won’t rub against the walls or ceiling.
For ultimate comfort, choose a tent with a vestibule area. This offers protected outdoor space for your dog to relax in and for storing muddy paws, food bowls and other gear.
Doors
Easy accessibility is key for dog-friendly tents. Choose a model with large doors that your dog can comfortably move in and out of without ducking or crouching. Two doors are ideal for giving your pup their own designated entry and exit point.
Durability
Camping with a dog means dealing with claws, muddy paws, dog hair and excited zoomies. Choose a high quality tent built from durable, rip-resistant materials that can withstand some rough play. Strong zippers will also prevent breakage when enthusiastic pups are entering and exiting the tent!
Weather Resistance
Make sure to choose a tent designed to protect you and your furry first mate from the elements. Most high quality tents offer waterproof fabric and sealed seams. Some three season tents even have storm flaps over doors and windows for added rain protection. For truly torrential downpours, a four season mountaineering tent is the most impenetrable fortress!
Ventilation
Proper airflow is vital for keeping condensation levels low within the tent. Multiday camping trips with a dog can get quite smelly without adequate ventilation! Seek out tents with mesh panels across ceilings, doors and windows to allow for maximum breathability. Some hot weather tents also offer adjustable vents along the roof and sides.
Now that you know what features to look for in a dog camping tent let’s explore some excellent options across various categories and budgets.
The Best Backpacking Tents for Dogs
If you plan on hitting the trail for backcountry adventures with your furry friend, you’ll need an ultralight tent designed for backpacking. Here are two excellent lightweight and spacious choices for camping with a dog.
REI Co-op Half Dome SL 2+ Tent with Dog Vestibule
- Spacious two person, semi-freestanding backpacking tent
- Room dimensions: 50 x 94/82 x 43 inches
- Minimum trail weight: 3 lbs 3 oz
- Available additional vestibule creates protected shelter for dogs
- Dual doors and dual vestibules for easy accessibility and storage
- Breathable canopy and rainfly fabrics with good weather protection
Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 mtnGLOTM Backpacking Tent
- Award winning lightweight backpacking tent built for two
- Room dimensions: 52 x 88/42 x 42 inches
- Packed weight: 3 lbs 5 oz
- Steep walls and high ceiling offer plenty of living space
- Features oversized dual doors and dual vestibules
- Fully freestanding design is easy to pitch on any terrain
The Best Car Camping Tents
Car camping with your dog provides flexibility since weight and pack size are not limiting factors. This allows you to choose extra large and ultra comfortable tents! Here are some top rated spacious tents perfect for car camping adventures with your best furry friend.
Coleman 8-Person Red Canyon Car Camping Tent
- Extremely popular spacious tent built to fit 2 queen air beds
- Room dimensions: 120 x 240 x 72 inches
- Extended door awning creates shaded vestibule space for dog
- Built in ports allow electricity cords to pass through tent
- Welded corners and inverted seams keep water from getting in
- Great ventilation with large windows and mesh roof panel
Core 9 Person Extended Dome Tent
- Massive space fits 3 queen air beds with room to spare for dog
- Room dimensions: 120 x 180 x 80 inches
- Tall 78 inch center height allows ample head room
- Adjustable air intake vents for maximum airflow
- Features gear loft with lantern hook and pockets for storage
- Fully taped rainfly and water resistant floor seam
- Electric cord access port keeps electronics powered inside
The Most Indestructible Tents
Does your dog tend to get a little wild and destructive during outdoor adventures? Then you need an ultra rugged tent built to withstand just about anything your excitable canine can dish out! Here are two nearly impenetrable fortress options for rambunctious four legged campers.
Kodiak Canvas Flex-Bow Deluxe 8-Person Tent
- Made of heavy duty 10 oz hydra-shield canvas Material
- Robust USA-made craftsmanship stands up to dog claws
- 1⁄2 inch steel tube frame flexible rods flex instead of snapping
- Easy open large D-shaped door with edge flattened zippers
- Integrated air and watertight floor with welded corners
- Four large vents promote air circulation and ventilation
Snowtrekker FX Extreme Weather Expedition Tent
- Bomber military grade tent designed for extreme weather
- Durable 40 oz vinyl fabric and tough aluminum poles
- Welded corners with integrated hooks for securing vestibule
- Mesh roof panel allows heat and moisture to escape
- “No-see-um” insect mesh across all windows
- Multiple vents with storm flaps promote air flow
- Can withstand 70+ mph winds!
Best Budget & Bang for Buck Dog Tents
You don’t need break the bank to enjoy a comfortable camping trip with your tail wagging BFF. Here are two wallet friendly tents that offer impressive quality and features without the premium price tag.
Lightspeed Outdoors 2 Person Pavilion Tent
- Unique pavilion style tent offers wall to wall shelter
- Extra large awning vestibule area for dog to hangout
- PE tent floor stands up to dog nails and muddy paws
- UPF 50+ fabric offers excellent UV protection
- Passes independent water resistance testing
- Easy setup with telescoping poles
ALPHA CAMP 3-4 Person Pop Up Tent
- Nearly instant automatic setup in under one minute!
- 100 square feet floor plan comfortably fits dog crate
- Excellent ventilation from large mesh windows
- 3000 mm polyester fabric water/UV resistance
- Integrated rain fly helps shield precipitation
- Carry bag doubles as ground sheet footprint
Best Tents for Large Dog Breeds
If you have a big boy or girl coming camping, you’ll need an extra spacious tent to give them plenty of room! Here are some excellent oversized options for large and giant breed dogs.
Coleman Elite WeatherMaster 6 Screened Tent
- Cavernous 17 x 9 foot cabin-like tent built for groups
- 6 foot 8 inch center height lets giant dogs stand fully
- Extended built-in rainfly awning creates shaded vestibule
- Inverted seams and welded corners prevent leaks
- Mesh roof and large windows allow maximum airflow
- Accommodates 2 queen air beds with room for large dog
Core 9 Person Instant Cabin Tent
- 60 second instant pitch for ultra quick setup
- Roomy interior has space for 3 queen air beds
- 11 x 9 foot footprint and 6’6” center height for big pups
- Adjustable ground vent allows temperature regulation
- Features hanging storage pockets and lantern hook
- Oversize rainfly protects against sun, rain and wind
- Carry bag transforms into plush dog bed!
Pros and Cons
| Tent | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| REI Co-op Half Dome SL 2+ Tent with Dog Vestibule | – Lightweight for backpacking – Spacious with extra vestibule for dog – Dual doors and vestibules – Good weather protection | – Expensive – Not freestanding |
| Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 mtnGLOTM | – Ultralight – Spacious – Fully freestanding – Oversized dual doors and vestibules | – More delicate materials for ultralight backpacking |
| Coleman 8-Person Red Canyon Car Camping Tent | – Very spacious – Extended awning for dog vestibule – Built-in ports for electricity – Inverted seams prevent leaks – Good ventilation | – Heavy for backpacking |
| Core 9 Person Extended Dome Tent | – Extremely spacious – Tall center height – Lots of vents – Fully taped rainfly – Electricity port – Gear storage | – Very bulky for backpacking |
| Kodiak Canvas Flex-Bow Deluxe 8-Person | – Nearly indestructible – Robust craftsmanship – Flexible steel frame rods – Watertight welded floor | – Heavy and bulky – Expensive |
| Snowtrekker FX Extreme Weather Expedition | – Military grade materials – Withstands 70+ mph winds – Welded corners – Lots of vents | – Overkill for mild weather camping – Very expensive |
| Lightspeed Outdoors 2 Person Pavilion | – Lots of vestibule space – UPF 50+ sun protection – Water resistant – Easy setup | – Can’t fully enclose like dome tent |
| ALPHA CAMP 3-4 Person Pop Up Tent | – Instant 60 second setup – Spacious interior – Good ventilation – Lightweight for transport | – Less durable than premium models – Limited vestibule space |
| Coleman Elite WeatherMaster 6 Screened | – Very spacious – Tall height for large dogs – Extended built-in rainfly awning – Great ventilation | – Expensive – Heavy |
| Core 9 Person Instant Cabin | – 60 second instant setup – Very spacious -Good for large dogs – Carry bag turns into dog bed | – Can be heavy |
Tips for Keeping Dogs Comfortable and Safe While Camping
Follow this expert guidance for an amazing trip where your loyal companion stays happy and healthy!
Ensure Proper Shelter
Choosing an appropriately sized dog camping tent is key, but make sure your four legged friend also has a cozy dog bed and blanket inside. In truly cold weather, consider a heated pet mat to keep them toasty warm.
Prevent Ticks and Fleas
Ticks and fleas love the great outdoors just as much as we do, so protect your pup with vet recommended prevention treatments. Also thoroughly check their coat when back home to spot any clingers.
Offer Plenty of Fresh Water
Dehydration is serious threat, so always bring a collapsible dog water bowl and bottled water reservable just for your dog. Some pet focused water bottles allow giving dogs water just like squirting ketchup!
Don’t Skimp on Nutrition!
The activity of hiking and frolicking build up big appetites in pups, so pack double the amount of their regular dog food. Bringing soothing pumpkin puree is another great way to prevent digestion issues.
Respect the Leash
Explore camp sites safely with your dog leashed unless in designated off leash areas. A tie-out stake with swiveling tether allows them to roam comfortably within a set radius while you cook dinner.
Prep for Paws
Rugged terrain can wear down paw pads causing limping and discomfort. Applying a protective balm before hitting the trails can help avoid injuries. Always pack a dog first aid kit on every adventure too.
Give Lots of Lovin’
Don’t forget to spend quality time with your tail wagging adventure buddy! Dogs love nothing more than snuggling by the campfire after an exciting day experiencing the sights and smells of nature by your side.
The Most Important Thing – Have Fun!
The whole point of camping with your dog is to relax and enjoy each other’s company as you bond with nature. Don’t overplan or stress about minor issues. Focus on making memories that will last a lifetime for you both!
Finding the perfect tent for camping bliss with your furry best friend will be a breeze. Use the information and recommendations covered here to make your buying decision easy. Most importantly, get ready to build lifelong memories under the stars with your faithful four legged camping companion snuggled contently by your side! Woof woof – let’s hit the outdoors!
FAQs
Proper ventilation is very important to control odors and condensation when camping with dogs. Seek out tents with mesh ceilings, multiple screen windows and adjustable roof/side vents. Avoid tents with solid fabric panels all around.
For summer trips, 3 season tents offer suitable protection at lower weights. But for year round adventures including cold spring/fall nights, 4 season tents or heavily reinforced 3+ season models provide greater protection.
Bring a dedicated camping dog bed and blanket to ensure comfort. Use a tie-out stake system around meal times to keep them securely contained. Apply paw balm pre-hike to avoid terrain injuries. And give them plenty of food, water and affection!
Use old sheets/blankets on floor to reduce contact with sleeping bags/pads. Keep dog’s bedding contained. Use designated outdoor tie-up lines when needed. And contain excess gear clutter than can trap dirt/hair. Regular cleaning when home is also a must.
Carry tent repair tape strips and small emergency tarp just in case! For highly destructive dogs, consider a reinforced canvas tent or lining floors/walls with durable blankets for protection. Thick paw balm can also reduce risk of damage from excited pups.
You can, but the result likely won’t be ideal in terms of comfort. Key things like vestibules, enlarged doors, durable floors, tie outs, ventilation and space tend to be lacking in standard tents. A good dog tent just makes the experience far better!
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