Being able to go camping with a man’s best friend or whichever animal you have as your close companion, is a special occasion. However, when em-bark-ing on your next camping trip, doggo’s protection and safety are always a looming concern while being out in the wild. Not only that, if it’s raining cats and dogs, a wet and muddy dog could cause chaos inside your tent. Luckily for us, there is a wide range of tents suitable for dog, which will protect you from all those dangers.
Enabling camping with pooch a simplistic, comfortable and most importantly, an enjoyable experience.
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Note: These tents are designed solely to shelter your dog. If you’re looking for a tent for dog owners, that is used for camping with your dog in the same tent, then check out our other article on the topic.
Page Contents:
Our Best Dog Tent List
Not just a playful pet shelter, they have some worthy designs and materials that can hold their own outdoors and in adverse weather conditions.
Protective also, sheltering your dog from natural dangers like mosquitoes, creepy crawlies, and the sun’s harmful rays, among others.
1. Little Dove Pet Teepee Tent
If you’re looking for a super cute and unique option for camping with your pet, you could try this Teepee Pet tent from Little Dove. Albeit not as rainproof as the pop up dog tents. Given that the cover is made from the cotton canvas as opposed to poly or oxford fabric, they look amazing and offer premium level comfort for your pet.
We wouldn’t suggest sticking these outside the campsite completely open, only unless the weather is brilliant. However, if you are expecting some difficult weather, like heavy rain or unbearable heat, you will need to take measures to protect the teepee.
It’s very convenient with machine washable material, so you can keep it pristine all year round. The poles are made from pine wood and the whole aesthetic generally is extremely authentic, with a Native American design, making for some excellent photo opportunities with doggo.
Key Features:
- Traditional Design (Great for photos)
- Real Pine Wood Poles
- Cotton Canvas Fabric
2. GigaTent Pet Tent
With a simplistic and fast pop up assembly, it’s perfect for camping with your dog. The feature we like most about this is the foam pad, which offers a comfortable area for the dog to sit and sleep, this almost alleviates the need of buying an outdoor dog bed. You can just add a thick blanket to the foam bed and it will suffice.
Manufactured in 3 different sizes, this is the middle-sized tent, however, they do also have a larger option in addition to a smaller one. 34 x 34 x 40 in inches are the measurements for this model and will fit most average sized dogs.
With one large door which is zippered and another important feature, the mosquito mesh nets to stop the bugs disturbing doggo, it’s a great choice tent for dog owners.
Key Features:
- 3 Size Models
- Mosquito Mesh Nets
- Foam Pad Floor
3. Cool Runners Pop up Dog Tent
A sleek, stylish, and quality pop up dog tent enters our list from Cool Runners. This dog tent sets up in seconds given the spring-loaded mechanism inside the framework. No tools or instruction manuals are needed, it’s good to go once it’s out of the box.
1 size and 1 color theme so it’s pretty restricted in that area. It stands at 47 x 47 x 32 in inches, so it’s suitable for small-big sized animals, but nothing too huge.
It’s just as easy to fold down as it is to pitch and comes with a free carry case for storage, not a bad dog tent by all means and shows good quality in the design and materials used.
Key Features:
- Sleek Design
- Ventilated Roll-Up Windows
- Fast Pitch and Pack
4. FrontPet Portable Pet Tent
It’s not a pop-up dog tent but it does employ a very quick and easy setup which entails a 1 step process only. Additionally, it works really well with all manner of pets, cats, rabbits as well, due to the crate style design, it’s really secure with no windows.
The side panels are all meshed panels so you won’t have any issue with poor ventilation due to the lack of windows. May appear slightly cage-like but this is because they are focusing on protecting your pet during the night time, from outside dangers.
Key Features:
- Robust and Strong
- Secure Crate Style Design
- Meshed Side Panels
5. Best Choice Products Dog Canopy
A miniature canopy tent! This is also an awesome little product that can be used for your dogs while camping or any outdoor activity. Firstly a camping cot, it offers a raised and protected area for your dog. Keeping them off rough or hot surfaces, protecting their paws and feet.
With the ventilated mesh cot bed, this will allow air to pass up through from underneath, creating a cool environment for your dog. The ultra-lightweight yet sturdy steel frame comes with a travel bag so it’s easily carried with the rest of your camping gear.
Key Features:
- 99lb Weight Capacity
- Steel Frame
- Travel Bag
6. Lightspeed Outdoors Mini Pop Up Tent
This is a really nice option for a larger pet or if you have a couple of pets to shelter. This pop up tent from Lightspeed is excellent for a temporary shade, whether it’s from rain or sun, it will shade your pet effectively.
Geared towards use under the hot sun it has a great UV protection rating and a UPF of 50+, which combined with the pop up method of assembly, you can have instantaneous protection as soon as you arrive at the beach or campsite. Small inflatable tents are often used on the beach, but in this case, we loved the pop up model.
Dimensions wise it’s around 7 x 3.5 x 3.3 in feet for width, diameter and height respectively. This also packs down to a small and compact size within the carry case, which only weighs around 3 lbs, thus easily implemented into your gear.
Key Features:
- UPF +50
- Pop Up Assembly
- Larger Shelter than Enclosed Tents
7. Jespet Pet Playpen
Another different design but effective for the same purpose as a dog tent, it kinda reminds me of a gazebo design. The pet playpens provide a personal space for your dog to relax. Play and sleep within a 61 x 30 inches generous space, which will be ample size for most dogs and pets.
Perfect to take on the next camping trip, the playpen comes with 2 doors for easy entrance and exit and the cover is meshed also to allow for proper ventilation. You could even use a tarp over the top to make it waterproof if necessary.
Made with 600D Oxford Fabric it uses quality materials and the side panels are also made with protective fabric to prevent water penetration. This also provides a smooth and non-stick surface so they are easy to clean, you can blast them with the hose and let them dry out before packing away.
Also utilizing some storage pockets on the side-panels, there are 2 in total, perfect for storing your pet amenities.
Key Features:
- Ventilated Mesh
- Double Doors
- Side Storage
8. SUPERJARE XL Outdoor Dog Canopy
If you’re looking for a larger option of canopy tent for dogs, with a larger base for your dog to lay on, this is ideal. Made with strong fabric, the 1680D Oxford Fabric will work well to protect your dog from rain and UV rays alike.
Not only this, with the increased dimensions it utilizes a steel frame, which has been well designed and can hold over 100 pounds in weight, up to around 120 max before the frame may start to bow. The material is breathable so it won’t create a stuffy environment when the canopy is fitted to the base, it will be breezy and cool.
The steel frame is also scratch/bite resistant, being steel, so you don’t need to worry about the durability of the frame diminishing. It will stay strong and of value way past its price tag. A carry bag is also included for easy storage and portability during travel.
Key Features:
- 120lb Weight Capacity
- 1680D Oxford Fabric
- Foam Pad Floor
9. Winterial Outdoor Pop Up Pet Tent
It comes with a free foam pad for your dog to rest on, so this creates exceptional value for its price tag. It may not be the most durable dog tent out there, but it’s definitely a well-priced temporary choice with some cool features.
Measuring up at 64 x 30 x 29 in inches for length, width and height respectively it has an elongated tent design which is suitable for even larger dogs. The foam pad is 2 inches thick and will fit into the interior base tightly.
At 2.6 lbs. in weight, it’s about as much as you can expect from a pop up pet tent, nothing special here and not too heavy either. The assembly follows a 1 step process whereby you just need to throw up in the air and it will fold out accordingly, in the same way, you can fold it back up again like a coil and place it back into its storage bag.
Key Features:
- Easy Pop Up Assembly
- Elongated Design
- Free Foam Pad
10. Pettom Pet Tent
Next up is a real dog tent from Pettom, with all the features of a traditional tent, this is great for taking camping with your dog. With some more robust features like the tarp flooring which is water-resistant and tough. Then the top is made of a 210D polyester fabric which is easy to clean and protected from rainfall and sunlight, protecting your pet inside.
It’s insanely easy to set up with a pop up assembly method, great for throwing open when arriving at the campsite or beach, to provide an instant cover for your dog. The frame is fiberglass so it’s insanely light and you won’t notice it within your gear.
Metal stakes come with the tent which can be used to secure it tightly to the ground and the mesh windows create a breathable environment internally, while the meshed panels stop the mosquitoes. Dimensions wise it’s around 45 x 35 x 28 in inches for length, width and height respectively.
Key Features:
- Lightweight Fiberglass
- 210D Polyester Cover
- Double Tarp Flooring
11. Alcott Pup Tent
This simplistic pup tent from Alcott is a great option for a quick trip or outdoor event whereby a shelter is required for your dog. Manufactured as a one size fits all tent, it is suitable for the majority of dog sizes. At 32 x 42 x 30 in inches, for width, depth and height respectively you can measure up and see if it will suffice.
It’s super lightweight as well, weighing in at only 1.5 lbs., it’s possibly the lightest dog tent on our list. In addition, it has a waterproof base which will stop water encroachment from the bottom up. The windows are meshed which provides 2 things, ventilation by allowing air to pass through and circulate into the tent. Secondly, this provides some bug protection, from mosquitoes for example.
Key Features:
- Waterproof Base
- 5 Meshed Windows
- Waterproof and Lightweight
31 Tips for Camping with Dogs (Real Dog Owner Advice)
We are here to help and in this piece, we will provide 31 pro tips most commonly put into practice by veteran campers, who regularly camp with their dogs.
This guide is geared towards first-timers and dog camping newbies, however for those of you who have already ventured into the wild with your companion, stick around, you may learn a cool new tip or 2.
1. Temporary Tags
Are a great idea for camping with your dog and also an inexpensive security measure. You can attach them along with your existing tags. You should put information such as campsite address, campsite ID number and a telephone number. If you’re camping on the trail and really roughing it, you can include the number of the nearest ranger station.
2. Short Leads
Are very useful if you’re camping in around a dense forest area, in addition to your usual leash and collar. Some experienced campers may have experienced the longer leash wrapping around them, when trying to pitch the tent. It’s a good idea to keep a short leash available for these situations. If you have issues with pulling, check here on how to stop your dog pulling on the lead.
3. Dog Tents
Are very practical when thinking of your dog’s safety while on a camping trip. If you leave your dog out on its lonesome, it may encounter some small (or large, god forbid) wild animals. An encounter with a coyote could end in tears, so try to arrange a sheltered location, preferably close to you.
4. Outdoor Dog Beds
Of course, go with the above, these are additional or separate items that can be used while on your camping trip. That provides a comfortable, warm and protected place to sleep. Ranging from insulated sleeping bags to elevated camping pet cots with thick foam padding.
5. Tethers
Should be used to keep your dog tied while at the campsite, to avoid any problematic interactions. A chew proof Tether is a great solution for this and simple to use, just drive it into the ground and tie a short leash to it. This will keep your dog secured and still while you are pitching your tent or doing some other important tasks. It also stops them invading the neighbors if they are so inclined to do so.
6. Camping Tarps
Are an effective way to keep hypothermia from setting in if the ground is wet, damp and cold. Just slide it under the area where the dog is sleeping or resting for best results. They also make an impressive instant shelter which you can prop up in a matter of minutes, tarps are an insanely useful item to take with you and take up very little space in your backpack. They do take some practice to set up, but well worth it in the end.
7. Check the campsite
You intend to visit well ahead of time and make sure that you’re actually allowed to camp there with your pup. The last thing you want is to turn up and realize dogs aren’t allowed either on the camping grounds at all, or on the trail, scuppering your plans.
There are an abundance of campsite and trails that are indeed open for dogs. A quick google search or investigation on some forums like Reddit, for example, will help to discover those. Rules vary widely between national, state and local parks so it’s important to check what is exactly possible.
8 A Doggy Sweater
A great way to keep the dog insulated and warm if they have a short coat. Especially if the sleeping bag or bed you are using is quite thin, or if the weather is particularly cold. Depending on the weather you expect may influence your purchase.
For the winter months, you may want something soft and warm, like cotton for example. However, 100% cotton won’t fair so well in wet weather, it will get damp and heavy. In this case, you can go for a polyester option that is generally waterproof.
9. Water Purifiers or Purifier Tablets
Are crucial if you intend to use natural water supplies while camping. Do NOT let your dog drink from lakes and rivers, there could be an abundance of Toxic Chemicals and Harmful Bacteria existing in that water source. This can lead to the worst possible consequences imaginable. A filtration system of some kind will ensure safe and clean water to drink for the duration of your trip.
10. Waterproof Containers
Are a good way to store the dog food in a secure and safe manner. Also pack more food than you need to count for any mishaps, losses or overstays. Perhaps your dog will be getting a lot more exercise done than usual, creating a larger appetite, additionally, pooch wants a safe and dry place to store his treats! woof!
11. First Aid Kits
Are important also, especially if you are hitting the trail and doing some hiking with your dog, always be prepared for any mishaps with a fully equipped first aid kit. As you’re hiking or backpacking, aim for a lightweight bundle bag, that covers all the basic necessities but maintains a fairly lightweight at the same time. Make sure to include something to deal with ticks, they can be a nightmare if unseen and left alone.
12. Dog Toys
Are a great way to alleviate any anxiety your dog may feel on its first time camping. You don’t necessarily have to buy one, you can take its favorite one from home with you on the trip, to offer that sense of comfort. Don’t worry, a dog will become more and more relaxed by repetition, use the toy to comfort the dog and in time it will not be needed as the anxiety will fade.
13. Body Harnesses and Flat Collars
Are the best types of collars to use when hiking with your dog, they create the least pressure and the most support for your dog, during those long walks. Front hook harnesses restrict some motion in the shoulders so aren’t ideal. However, if you’re dog doesn’t fare well with body harnesses, you can use a front hook harness, but better sticking to flat trails with a firm surface with this method.
15. A Retractable Dog Collar
It doesn’t have the best rep generally, but they are actually good for dogs who listen to commands and are obedient. They also will make a good choice for dogs who don’t utilize the body harnesses, the retractable can work just as well especially on the trail.
16. Car Seat Covers for dogs
Are important for keeping your dog comfortable during the long drives and also a great way to protect your car from dirt, scrapes, and damage. Often when we are out on the trail, our dogs’ paws can get dirtied or wet from puddles, etc, then it’s an impossible task to keep their feet perfectly clean. Debris will get into the car somehow and it can be abrasive on the material. Additionally, they usually have an attachment so you can secure the dog safely to the seat to reduce movement on the journey.
17. Obey Leash Rules
Keep an eye out for any leash rules and stick to them, they can be found sign posted or on the boards of the campsites. It’s for your own safety and for the safety of others. We all adore our own dogs but we have to respect that other people may not like dogs or freak out at the thought of a dog jumping playfully at them. Let’s obey the rules and stay safe.
18. Critter Control
Some preventative measures such as spraying a coating of flea and tick repellent on your dog, they also come in little droplet bottles, you just squeeze a few drops out on the back of its head, above the neck/collar area.
This will help to prevent any ticks of fleas tagging along. Secondly, a more thorough Lyme disease vaccination is a really good idea to get done before embarking on any hiking trip with pooch.
19. Bear Bells
Are a good way to scare away any nearby wildlife, potential snakes and other creepy crawlies may bolt at the sound of the bell rattling as you march past. Of course, you may be wondering if they actually scare away bears or not. The logic is this, bears generally want to stay away from people. As a rule of thumb, people have figured out that bears may then be wary, or in fear of, any unfamiliar sounds and noises. So a jangling bear bell fits the bill, some hikers wouldn’t leave the home without one and believe them to work 100%, however, this is unproven, but I’d rather go with hearsay than face the consequences of it being true and without one.
20. Trek Poles or Walking Poles
Are a great way to keep balance and stability in your knees and legs while trekking, they also improve circulation to prevent cramps and keep you going for a longer duration. You will find the additional support especially helpful over rough terrain, where your dog will be dealing with it much easier than you, the poles will assist you through those tough parts of the trail.
21. Biodegradable Dog Poop Bags
Should be used to pick up the dog poo. Dog poo doesn’t biodegrade like other wild animal poop and is actually very detrimental to the environment and surrounding areas. Let’s keep the trail clean for other hikers, dogs, and local wildlife.
22. Heatstroke
It can be a treacherous occurrence, keep an eye out for some signs and symptoms of this. Such as deep and rapid panting, a bright red tongue, red or pale gums, thick and sticky saliva, weakness, dizziness, and vomiting. A dog will keep going regardless of exhaustion, primarily to please its owner.
So don’t overexert your dog, pay attention to how long you have been trekking, along with the heat. Use a shelter for the midday sun and avoid trekking in the peak heat of the day. Wetting their chest and armpits with water can also help to stabilize temperatures and hydrate your dog.
23. Period Breaks
Are important when going on long treks with your dog, grab a quick break under some shade, on a bench and let your dog catch his breath. Aside from this, it’s a great time to enjoy a quick water break, topping up on that H2O goodness and keep you hydrated for hitting some more trail ahead.
24. Carabiners
It can enable you to go ‘hands-free’ for a moment so you can secure your dog and grab something from your pack, take a photo or grab a drink. It’s also useful when you need to carry out the dog poop. Pick up a climbing grade carabiner, this way it will be more durable to weight and the pins won’t fall out easily, like on those flimsy Walmart ones.
25. Training a Recall
Is important also, being able to recall your dog at will is not only a convenient way to keep your dog under control, but also a safety measure for you both. Practice recalling your dog after every 100 yards of walking, reward accordingly then continue the walk. This repetition will in time, lead to a bombproof recall.
26. Training a Leave It
Is equally important due to the hazards of poisonous mushrooms, poison ivy and many other natural dangers that can be found on the trail. Make sure you train this with your dog to avoid any mishaps while enjoying your adventure.
27. Bear Spray
Is, of course, a situational item that you can take when hiking with your dog, if there is even a slight chance you may enter bear country. We tend to avoid this kind of direction as sensible humans, but it does happen from time to time and you will always want to be prepared to protect yourself and your dog.
28. Take a Towel
A simple and obvious one but something you may not think of when preparing. This will just help to clean off the dog of any dirt and debris picked up along the way, also cleaning off its paws as not to dirty the seat cover more than necessary.
29. Post Trek Assessment
Is a good way to stop and check your dog for any ticks, cuts or allergic reactions. It also helps to fortify the bond between dog and owner, by showing physical compassion towards your pet. Always take a Tick Key in your first aid kit in case your dog picks up any of those nasty little things.
30. Dog Backpacks
Are super cute but also an excellent utility item to hit the trail with. Fasten the backpack around the dogs body and your faithful companion can become even more involved in your trip. Feeling like a little backpacker alongside you, strengthening your bond and enjoyment along the road ahead. NOTE it is of the utmost importance that you do not load the backpack more than 25% of your dog’s body weight, this will cause discomfort especially over long distances like a hike.
31. Be an Ambassador
In general when out on the trail with your dog. This means, abide by the rules set by the campsite or trail, obey leash rules. Pick up their poop and don’t let your dog trample vegetation. Additionally, avoid chasing small animals and don’t let your harass other hikers. We are responsible for our dog and if we don’t convey the right message, bans get put up. Let’s send the right message as this is one of life’s true joys that only us dog owners, can experience.
Conclusion
We hope this helped you in choosing a protective shelter for your dog. Substantial criteria were used in selecting these tents, so you can feel safe in choosing one.
If this was helpful please share with friends or on your social media page, we appreciate the support.
See you again soon,
Happy Camping! Woof!
Resources and Sources
Why You Need to be Careful when Camping with a Dog
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