So perhaps you have chosen a tent or dog tent for camping with pup, but it’s a bit bare and you don’t want pooch sleeping on the hard ground with just a layer of tent material between him/her and the floor.
It gets mighty cold and occasionally damp in the mornings, not a nice thing to wake up to for anyone, let alone your trusty companion.
Cue the outdoor dog beds, problem solved.
Providing an affordable, lightweight and comfortable option to keep your dog warm, off the ground and provide a comforting night’s sleep out in the wild.
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With a vast variety of designs and models on the market, we have helped single out the top 14 that have performed the best, and can work well in combination with a dog tent.
Doggo approved!
Page Contents:
Best Waterproof Dog Beds for Camping
1. First Quality Orthopedic Dog Bed
The reason we love this dog bed so much is that it suits old or aging dogs perfectly well and it also can fit larger sized dogs comfortably. A tough thing to find throughout the market.
Its’ 100% waterproof and will resist water penetration, from the ground up or if you happen to get hit by a sudden shower while lounging about the campsite.
It comes in 4 different sizes and 4 color choices, giving a total of 16 different variations, which is unprecedented, meaning this bed can pretty much cater for all shape and size of dogs and adhere to your tent color theme.
With a 5 inch thick bed that is made of soft foam, it relieves stress from the pressure points of again dogs, softening the pain of arthritis and painful joints, allowing them to relax in peace during the afternoons or after a quick hike around the woods.
Given the thickness and size a decent amount of space will need to be allocated for the bed alone, a larger dog tent or canopy covered space will be widely compatible with this model.
Key Features
- 16 Variations of Size and Color
- 5 Inch Thick Foam Bed
- Orthopedic
2. Noblecamper 2-in-1 Dog Bed
This double from Noblecamper is a good choice if you need a dog bed and sleeping bag combination. With some high-quality features, you can consider this option for your next camping trip.
Featuring a Taslan nylon liner as the material used in the production, this makes the whole piece breathable, which helps with air circulation and keeping a cool temperature. Another convenient aspect is the cotton-like texture, this helps to keep it comfortable and provides an easy cleaning process.
Insulated also utilizes polyfill insulation which does a great job in providing surround insulation for the ground and the sides alike. The nylon shell material is water-resistant and won’t soak up the water or rain, alleviating all these issues that lead to sickness or a cold.
The assembly is nonexistent you just unravel it and roll up again when not in use, to be stored away in its stuff sack. The bed has great compression so it can be pushed down to a compact size within the stuff sack. The dog bed is also capable of being staked to the ground in cases of being used outdoors on soft ground.
Key Features
- Bed and Bag Package
- Quality Taslan Nylon Liner
- Compressable into Stuff Sack
3. Kurgo Loft Wander Travel Dog Bed
A true camping dog bed that is well designed and insanely easy to manage. Featuring some real camping features such as the water resistant top which is also ripstop material, which will hold up well during rugged use outdoors.
The bottom is also waterproofed with Rufftex non slip material, so the top and bottom are protected from elements and wear and tear. Designed specifically for traveling and life outdoors, the Kurgo Loft Wander rolls up easily into a compact and carry-able shape and it can be stuffed into the backpack or trunk of your car easily.
Manufactured in 2 different sizes it is quite versatile between animal sizes. The medium is around 27 x 36 in inches and the large one is 36 x 48 in inches. A significant size difference and both pack down to much smaller dimensions when rolled up. All designs come with a lifetime warranty which shows Kurgo have full confidence in the quality of this product.
Key Features
- Microtomic Ripstop Material
- Easily Rolls Up for Storage
- Lifetime Warranty (subject to change with company discretion)
4. K9 Ballistics Outdoor Dog Bed
These exceptional, indestructible dog beds from K9 Ballistics are amazing for camping. Literally impenetrable and will last years upon years. The company is so confident in the beds’ ability to last that they will give a 10-year warranty on the mattress not flattening and an additional 4 months warranty on the outer cover.
They actually have 8 different color themes, we liked the camo green due to the traditional camping feel it gives, but other solid color choices are available too.
The chewproof outdoor dog bed also comes in 5 size options, each of which manufactured with the same quality.
The covers on the mattress are 100% waterproof, so it’s easily cleaned and can survive sudden rainfall and wet ground also. The material used is a ripstop ballistic fabric, which we commonly see in durable tents. The seams have been stitched uniquely by way of a triple overlock method, this helps to keep the seams impenetrable and water tight.
Key Features
- Impenetrable Fabric Design
- Water Tight
- Chewproof
5. Kuranda Outdoor Dog Bed
If you’re in need of a chewproof, heavy duty dog bed, then this cot from Kuranda is a really good choice next to the K9 ballistic.
It is made in 6 different sizes, from small up to XXL which is huge at 50 x 36 in inches. Given the design is a cot, probably not great for hiking or backpacking type outdoor travels, but definitely worth a look for campsite camping with the family and other more static outdoor uses.
It’s robust due to the aluminum framework being of aircraft-grade, this increases the price unfortunately but the quality speaks for itself, having a weight capacity of up to 250lbs (even I could sleep on that)
Due to the elevated bed, it has orthopedic benefits for your dog and will keep cool with the nice draft blowing from underneath.
It’s chew proof and the majority of dogs will have a really tough time trying to get through this, given the heavy duty vinyl fabric used for the material. This is one of the toughest fabrics you will see on this list.
Key Features
- 250lbs Weight Capacity
- Patented Design
- 6 Sizes to Choose From
6. Coolaroo Elevated Pet Bed
This best-seller comes in a variety of shapes and sizes, making it totally versatile for environment on pet size. Coolaroo’s elevated bed works to keep your pet off the ground floor and away from the damp or hot ground, depending on the weather.
The 7-inch elevation provides a smooth air current to pass from up underneath, giving a cool air circulation through the bed. A cool feature of using elevated beds such as this, is the alleviation of pressure on the dog’s joints as it rests on a suspended platform.
The fabric that the dog bed utilizes is HDPE which stands for High Density Polyethylene. This fabric is dense yet breathable and will help to stay cool in hot weather. The protection comes in the form of a resistance to natural dangers and annoyances, such as mold and mildew which occurs when damp.
Being able to cater for pets weighing up to 100 pounds, it has substantial strength and has a powder coated steel frame to boot. This will stop the frame from rusting or corroding with extensive usage.
Key Features
- 100lbs Weight Capacity
- Coated Steel Frame
- 7 Inch Elevation for Air Circulation Beneath
7. K&H Pet Products Cool Bed III
It provides a different method of use than the raised cot beds and can actually be used in unison with a cot bed, to lay on top, or it can be used to fill a dog tent.
A cooling dog bed and it works by absorbing the heat from your dog, cooling the animal while lying on the bed. It then works to change it to room temperature for a more comfortable sleeping environment.
For example with a room temperature of 80 degrees Fahrenheit the cooling bed will be approximately 22 degrees cooler than this, being able to reduce your pet’s body temperature in the process.
With a few sizes to choose from it’s pretty versatile and can be used indoors and outdoors alike. However, bear in mind to keep out of direct sunlight to allow the coolant to function effectively.
Key Features
- Can Cool your Pets Temperature
- Easy to Use, Add Water
- 3 Sizes and 2 Color Options
8. RUFFWEAR Highlands Sleeping Bag
If you want to travel light and stay in isolated locations during your camping trip, this would be ideal due to the flexibility of using a sleeping bag as opposed to a fixed frame, like the camping cots or larger dog beds.
Perfect for when you’re out on the trail, you can keep him/her wrapped up and insulated with this sleeping bag style dog bed. It’s lightweight which will pack well into your hiking gear, weighing around 12.7 ounces.
When packed away in its small carry bag its dimensions are 12 x 4 in inches. However, when out the stuff sack and unwrapped it will be around 35 x 26 inches with a 1-inch loft thickness.
It can be used in conjunction with the Highlands Pad, which is fully compatible with the sleeping bag. It slides in and provides an extra layer of insulation to offer further warmth. The Polyester fabric used in manufacturing is water resistant and is easy to maintain.
Key Features
- Great for Hikers and Backpackers
- Free Stuff Sack Included
- Fully Insulated
9. K&H Pet Products Coolin’ Pet Cot
There is a coolant pad integrated into the cover, in the central area, which is effective for hours and will provide a comfortable sleep for bigger dogs.
The frame is also very sturdy, being a steel frame it’s stronger than the fiberglass models and can support up to 200 pounds of weight, so it’s perfectly suitable for larger dogs.
This is much higher than any model we have seen yet, however with this it will be slightly heavier than other models.
Also with non-skid rubber feet, it will stay steady while your pets are jumping up and down from it, alleviating the danger of any slips or falls while in use.
Additionally with a simple set up and just as easy to put away, there are no tools required in the set up. Just fold the legs away and slide it back into the vehicle after use.
Key Features
- 200bs Weight Capacity
- Skid-Proof Rubber Feet
- Suitable for Larger Dogs
10. The Dog’s Bed Premium Dog Bed
A premium choice for the kings and queens out there. This top-quality outdoor dog bed is a top notch dog bed that can also be used outdoors and for camping.
With a vast range of sizes and colors, over 6-7 for each, helping you to choose the perfect dimensions and color for your pet. This is very useful when we consider use with a camping cot or using it under a screened porch.
The fabric is Oxford which is renowned and widely used among tents and tarps for its non-rip/tear features and additionally its waterproof properties. Not only this it has a natural resistance to scratches and abrasion, which is great for pups who aren’t quite passed that playful biting period.
It also has a resistance to chemicals agents which makes it easier to clean.
Consisting of a solid mattress which is made of foam, will support the dog’s body better than a soft and weak surface. There is also a removable pillow that has been designed in a tube shape.
Key Features
- Rigorously Tested before Sold
- Zero Choking Hazards
- Wide Variety of Colors and Sizes to Choose
11. GigaTent Elevated Pet Cot
GigaTent have an excellent pet cot that is a decent choice for camping with your dog. This company also makes pop up tents for dogs, which we have featured in our dog tent article, so they know what they are doing in this department, regarding outdoor gear for pets/dogs.
It’s elevated so it will work well on rough ground or wet, additionally being 8 inches off the ground it has enough space between to provide a cool breeze for ventilation through the bed panel.
This cot is made of steel frame, tubular in design that can hold up to 100lbs in weight, sturdy enough for average-sized dogs and comes with a considerably low price tag.
The feet are unique in design, as opposed to 4 pronged feet in each corner, it has U shaped legs, which provide a wider base to support the bed on.
Storage is good too, the whole bed panel folds in half, so when storing its half the size. This makes it plausible for backpacking and hiking, given the compact folding size.
Key Features
- 100lbs Weight Capacity
- 4 Colors and 2 Sizes
- Easy Fold Up and Pitch System
12. Ozark Trail Dog Sleeping Bag
This camping dog bed form Ozark Trail is a great economical choice for a quick trip or outdoor event. Weighing only 2.6 pounds it’s a great choice for hiking and backpacking, because it also rolls up and packs into its stuff sack easily.
Extremely economical in price it’s probably the cheapest model we have in our list, of course, it won’t be as durable as the premium options, but definitely a good choice for temporary shelter and warmth.
A nice aesthetic cave-like design in a solid green color, with a cool stitched patterned top.
Key Features
- Hiking Dog Bed
- Economical Price
- Lightweight and Easy to Carry in the Stuff Sack
13. Lightspeed Outdoors Dog Bed
The inflating travel dog bed from Lightspeed is ideal for camping trips and outdoor travel. Easily rolled up and secured with nylon buckle straps, it can be stored in the car or with your other gear easily.
Inside the bed is an inner foam mattress that is 1.5 inches and can be inflated independently by just twisting the nozzle and the air will enter the foam padding.
Conveniently it is machine washable because it has a puncture-resistant fabric used in the manufacturing, additionally, the bottom of the bed is waterproof so it will stop damp encroaching from a wet floor surface.
The top is of a fleece design which is very comfortable and in one size only as far as we can see. It is 32 x 42 inches and rolled up and packed it is around 32 x 6 inches, which is a decent, portable travel size.
Key Features
- Cozy Fleece Top
- Machine Washable
- 1 Year Warranty
14. Coleman Dog Bed
Our penultimate addition for a dog bed will be this portable roll-up model, courtesy of Coleman. The main bonuses are that it can be easily rolled up and stored away, additionally its fully waterproof which is perfect for outside use.
Although the dog looks incredibly unhappy, we can assure you these are not bad outdoor beds haha.
The dimensions are 34 x 27 x 2.8 in inches for length, width and height respectively and when folded its 27 x 10 x 9 in inches for L, W and H. The fabric is strong and durable and benefits from an anti-wear resistance.
Using Oxford material, it has numerous advantages such as being waterproof, durable and anti UV. The filling is a polypropylene cotton fabric, which is soft and comfortable to lay on, easily compressed and folded too.
This is a multipurpose camping dog bed, it can be laid out in the car and kennel, as well as in the screened room or annex of your tent.
Key Features
- Waterproof Oxford Fabric
- Multi-Purpose
- Ready Roll Up System
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an Outdoor Dog Bed?
It is a specially designed travel bed, for this reason, they have slightly different features to regular dog beds They generally have some waterproofing features, be lightweight, foldable, employ breathable material and have some kind of resistant framework if using a cot for example. The material will be rugged and can resist wear and tear while out on the trail, they tend to be easily washable too given the waterproof fabric used in its manufacture.
What is a Camping Canopy for Dogs?
The cots are just like the traditional camping cots but on a smaller scale. These are excellent when used in conjunction with a foam pad or dog tent bed. They provide an elevated sleeping area that keeps your dog off the ground and away from dangers like cold, wet, heat, bugs and alleviates joint pain for dogs that suffer from this. They also tend to have an attachable canopy top, which is great to use when outdoors to protect from the sunlight.
Where to buy an Outdoor Dog Bed?
There are many places to get an outdoor dog bed, you could make a rough one up yourself using a foam pad, blankets and a bit of stitching, but it’s not likely to suffice on a camping trip. Your best bet is to have a look online, so you can compare and search multiple brands and styles simultaneously. All in our list have been checked for quality features, materials and waterproofing abilities, to better serve you out on your camping trip. Scroll up to find out the best ones.
What Size Outdoor Dog Bed do I need?
You want to have enough room for your dog to sleep on, too short will cause discomfort, while too long may impinge on your backpacking or camping gear space unnecessarily. We’ve got a chart here you can look at for size estimation, its a rough guide and you may want a larger size than the chart shows, if you want to treat your dog to a bigger bed area.
So as you can see, a smaller dog may require a 30 x 20 if we line it up for the smallest size, and a XXL sized camping dog bed would be around 50 x 35. Again this is just rough estimation, but useful nonetheless.
When shopping you can use these measurements and round up or down where necessary, as manufacturers have various measurement sizes.
Camping Dog Bed Buyers Guide – How to Choose?
Size
If your dog is fully grown, then be careful not to choose an oversized bed. When camping, space is limited and an important factor in a comfortable experience. A bed larger than necessary will waste space, also a bed that is too small will cause discomfort. Measure accordingly and plan the set-up.
Orthopedic
If your dog suffers from arthritis and joint pains, you may already have an orthopedic dog bed at home. You will be pleased to know they do have these available in travel form as well. So it is possible for them to get out and enjoy nature once again.
Camping Pet Cot
These are great for so many reasons and to be honest a necessity for dogs with joint pains. The elevation is known to provide a respite to the joints, as the dog is off the hard floor and on a soft and supportive, weightless surface. Another important factor is they are off the floor altogether. Whether it’s hot, cold or wet, you can be up and away from the dangers of coldness and burnt paws.
Hot Spots
If you are camping in hot weather, make sure you cover any metal frame showing. This is to stop the metal absorbing heat and causing burns.
Breathable
Make sure a breathable fabric like polyester or polyethylene is used. This will stop the bed absorbing too much heat and provide a cool surface for resting. The camping pet cots do a great job with this as they are off the floor and often have a meshed panel on the bed.
Foam Pad and Pad Liner
A pad can often be slid onto the outdoor dog bed and also into a pet sleeping bag. Useful, especially with the thinner models that aren’t offering enough warmth. Especially if you plan to camp in colder elements, it would be wise to reinforce and insulate the bag or bed. A few dog tents come with a free foam pad and some also have a compatible dog pad.
Pet Sleeping Bag vs Dog Bed
Pet Sleeping Bag
If you are a hiker and like to trek with your dog and get into isolated locations, then a sleeping bag for dogs is the best way to go. Significantly more lightweight than the traditional outdoor dog beds and much easier to use and carry. A light load on your trail weight, you won’t notice it as much. However the issue can be warmth, again if you are camping in cold weather, utilize the foam pads or some form of extra insulation.
Outdoor Dog Bed
If you’re going to be setting up at a location or campsite for a few days/weeks then a proper outdoor dog bed or camping pet cot with foam /pad will be more ideal, creating a much more comfortable and personal experience for the dog. Perfect for sliding into the annex of your tent or setting up in the screened room, providing top-quality protection to your dog for the duration of your trip.
Conclusion
All in all a very useful bit of gear when you’re camping with your dog. Providing a cool, safe and comfortable area inside your shelter. Whether it’s an air, pop up or instant tent, an outdoor dog bed will slot in nicely out the way.
We hope you enjoyed this article and if you found it useful or informative please share it with your fellow camping friends and dog lovers!
Until next time, happy camping!
Resources and Sources
Suggestions When Keeping Dogs Outside
Looking for a bed that easily rols up (or deflates) into a manageable size that a dog (lab) could easily carry himself (he’ll have the Kurgo Baxter dog backpack) and that isn’t too expensive (something like the Coleman dog bed featured in your best outdoor dog beds article.) Do you have any ideas? Would the Coleman bed be easy to either attach to the top of the harness or stuff into one of the side packs? Thanks.
Hey Jeanne thanks for your question, you’re right to be inquisitive regarding this, gotta get those measurements right etc. I would definitely consider the Noblecamper (#2), you could follow brands with your backpack with the Kurgo Loft Wander (#3) or lastly the Ruffwear Highlands (#8). These 3 pack down, roll up, and stuff into a sack very neatly and are compact to carry.
Ruffwear – 403g
Kurgo Loft – 936g
Noblecamper – 2.2.5lbs
With these details in mind, probably go for the Ruffwear? Would be less strenuous for your dog over the long haul. Hope this helps 🙂
Keeping recent photos of your dog on hand may come in handy on the unlikely chance your dog runs off the trail and you have to enlist others to help you search for them.