Camping with your dog can be so much fun for both of you. You get the pleasure of going on holiday and exploring with your pup, and your dog gets to experience so many new sights and smells. Of course, their favorite part will be spending quality time with you! Choosing the right tent is key: we’ll take a look at 5 suitable tents, comparing tent type, quality, and suitability for dogs.
The Best Tents for Camping With Dogs2023 Review
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The Best Tents for Camping With Dogs
Editor's Choice
Coleman Sundome Tent- Best overall
- Highly durable
- Easy to assemble
Runner Up
Hillman 3-4 Season Lightweight Windproof Camping Tent- Best 4 season tent
- Completely weatherproof
- Highly durable
Also Good
Coleman Montana 8-Person Tent for Camping with Easy Setup- Best family tent
- Room for 8 people
- Durable and practical
In-Depth Reviews of Our Recommended Tents for Camping With Dogs
Ann-Marie Sharpe
Coleman Sundome Tent review
Features
- Best overall
- Highly durable
- Easy to assemble
Ann-Marie Sharpe
When you’re looking for the best tent for camping with dogs, the Coleman Sundome Tent is well worth considering. The WeatherTec system works to keep you dry while the sturdy, durable frame is tested to stand up to 35+ mph winds. Variflo airflow ventilation allows you to adjust the ventilation level to keep air flowing through your tent.
It’s easy and quick to set up with clear instructions, and it even comes with a carry bag to make transporting it easier. Polyguard 2X double-thick fabric means it’s durable, making it perfect for camping with a dog. It has a pocket inside to keep your stuff in (or to store your dog’s things).
It even has an electrical access port to allow you to use electronics inside the tent if you’re connected to a campsite’s electric supply. It comes in a range of sizes, from 2 person to 6 person.
Pros
- Owners found this tent was very waterproof and kept them warm and dry, even in bad weather
- Tent is easy to assemble, with many people saying it didn’t take them long to figure out
- Many found that this tent was very durable, with some even saying it had lasted them years of regular camping
- Owners liked that there was a port to run electrics into the tent, finding it very handy
- Owners found this tent was very roomy, even for people camping with dogs
- Owners liked that there were pockets for their belongings and a space to attach a light
- Many owners felt that this tent was amazing value, stating it was high-quality and for a very low price compared to other similar tents
Cons
- Some owners found the tent wasn’t as waterproof as expected and let water in
- Some found that the tent wasn’t durable enough, especially in heavy wind
- Some experienced breakage during use, in particular mentioning the poles and the zippers
- Many owners stated that this tent wasn’t as high-quality as they expected, especially when compared with other tents they’d tried
Ann-Marie Sharpe
Hillman 3-4 Season Lightweight Windproof Camping Tent review
Features
- Best 4 season tent
- Completely weatherproof
- Highly durable
Ann-Marie Sharpe
If it’s just you and your dog and you’re going on backpacking adventures in all sorts of weather, the Hillman 3-4 Season Lightweight Windproof Camping Tent could be the perfect choice for you. This 2-person (or 1 human and 1 dog) tent is very lightweight, perfect for carrying on the trail. It’s designed to stand up to all weathers allowing you to camp in any season: it’s fully waterproof, durable enough to stand up to heavy wind, has UV protection, and even has a snow skirt.
It’s easy and quick to set up for 1 person, making it very convenient. High-quality material, double layers, reinforced stitching, and 7001 aluminum poles ensure this tent is as durable as possible. Adjustable vents provide plenty of airflow and a 2-way zipper makes accessing the tent easy for you and your pup.
Pros
- Owners found this tent kept them warm, dry, and safe in all types of weather, including for cold weather camping in snow and ice
- Owners found this tent was very lightweight, making it perfect for backpacking
- Many felt this tent was quite roomy for the size and comfortable to sleep in
- Owners typically found it was easy and quick to assemble and re-pack
- Many said this tent was durable and they felt it would last them a long time
- Many owners felt this tent was great value compared to other 4-season tents they’d seen
Cons
- Some found this tent was too small for them and felt it would be cramped, especially for those who were tall
- Some owners experienced breakage during use and felt it wasn’t durable, in particular mentioning the poles, the seams, material ripping, and the zippers breaking
- Some found it difficult to put up on their own and others found the instructions confusing
- Some felt this tent wasn’t high-quality and were disappointed with their purchase
Ann-Marie Sharpe
Coleman Montana 8-Person Tent for Camping with Easy Setup review
Features
- Best family tent
- Room for 8 people
- Durable and practical
Ann-Marie Sharpe
The Coleman Montana 8-Person Tent for Camping is 1 of the best tents for camping with dogs if you’re a big family, with enough space for 8 people (or a few people and multiple dogs). The WeatherTec system makes the tent durable and keeps you dry in wet weather. Angled windows provide ventilation while still keeping the rain out.
There’s plenty of room for all of your things and for everyone to stretch out comfortably. There are even storage pockets to keep your things in or to keep your dog’s supplies at hand. The tent is easily set up in an estimated 15 minutes and has a handy carry bag to make transportation easy.
There’s an awning over the door which is perfect for storing muddy items like your shoes or your dog’s harness, while still keeping them dry. This large tent is designed for comfort and practicality.
Pros
- Owners typically found this tent was easy to set up, especially for a larger tent
- Many owners said it was roomy inside, with plenty of room for people, dogs, and belongings
- Owners found the tent stood up to rain and wind well, keeping them warm and dry
- Owners found that there was plenty of ventilation to keep them comfortable, even when the tent was at maximum capacity
- Many owners felt that this tent was a great price for the size and quality, especially when compared to other similar tents
- Many felt that this tent was durable and excellent quality, feeling it would stand up to wear well
Cons
- Some found the tent was waterproof, experiencing water leaking in during wet weather
- Some found the tent was difficult to assemble and that the instructions were confusing
- Some found the tent wasn’t as durable as they expected and experienced breakage, mentioning the poles or rips in the material
Ann-Marie Sharpe
ayamaya Pop Up Tent with Vestibule for 4-6 Person review
Features
- Best pop-up tent
- Simple, quick pop-up assembly
- Separate room for dog
Ann-Marie Sharpe
If you want a tent that’s really easy to put up, the ayamaya Pop Up Tent with Vestibule for 4-6 Person could be the best choice for you: it simply pops up once you take it out of the bag. It comes in a small carry bag to make it easy to transport wherever your adventures take you. A waterproof ground sheet and waterproof fabric roof work to keep you warm and dry.
Big enough for 4 people (or people and dogs), this tent gives you plenty of room to camp comfortably. There are storage pockets for your things, and there’s even a separate room which is perfect for your dog to sleep in. Mesh windows provide ventilation while keeping bugs out of your tent.
The double layer design works to reduce condensation. There’s even an electric cord access port so you can hook up to electrics if you’re on a campsite.
Pros
- Owners found this tent was extremely quick to assemble, mentioning it took seconds
- Owners mentioned the tent was very lightweight and had a handy carry bag to make transportation easy
- Many found the tent was waterproof and kept them dry in wet weather
- Most owners found the windows provided plenty of ventilation
- Many owners found this tent had plenty of room for them, their dog, and their belongings
Cons
- Some owners found the tent wasn’t waterproof in heavy rain, experiencing leaks
- Some found the material wasn’t durable, mentioning it was thin and could rip easily
- Despite the double layer, some owners experienced a build-up of condensation
- Some owners found that while the tent was easy to put up, it was hard to get back into the bag
- Some found the tent was too small for their needs and were disappointed
Ann-Marie Sharpe
Napier Backroadz SUV Tent review
Features
- Best for car camping
- Attaches to back of vehicle
- Quick, easy set up
Ann-Marie Sharpe
The Napier Backroadz SUV Tent is an excellent option if you prefer to go car camping, meaning the tent connects securely to the back of your vehicle to give you extra room (or a suitable sleeping area for your pup). This tent fits all CUV’s, SUV’s, and Minivans with secure straps to ensure a watertight fit. The tent is designed to be waterproof, keeping you safe from the elements while you’re camping.
2 shock-corded fiberglass tent poles make setting the tent up easy, with an estimated 10 minute set up time. There’s enough room for 5 people or dogs, with plenty of floor space. 1 large door and 3 mesh windows provide plenty of ventilation.
There are pockets for your gear and even a holder for a lantern to light up your tent at night. As an added bonus, with every tent sold a tree will be planted through Napier’s partnership with Trees for the Future.
Pros
- Owners typically found this tent was easy to assemble, as well as to attach to their car and detach when needed
- Many owners found this tent gave them plenty of space, and appreciated that they could use the space in the back of their car
- Some owners mentioned this tent was excellent for camping with a dog, giving them enough space for their dog and their belongings
- Owners liked the big windows, allowing them to see out of the tent and to have plenty of airflow even in hot weather
- Many owners found this tent was fairly waterproof and stood up to changes in weather well
Cons
- Many owners found this tent wasn’t waterproof, particularly at the bottom where they found water leaked in
- Some found the tent wasn’t durable and experienced rips and breakage
- Some owners found the tent was difficult to put up and attach to their car, with others saying it was also difficult to take down
- Some felt this tent wasn’t as high-quality as they expected and stated they wouldn’t recommend it
Things to Look for in a Tent for Camping With Dogs
Below are some factors you should look for when you’re searching for the best tent for camping with dogs:
High-Quality Materials
A tent made from high-quality materials is more likely to be weatherproof, durable, and last longer.
Correct Size
Of course, you want a tent that’s big enough for both you, any other people going with you, and your dog, as well as your belongings. Check the size carefully and look at reviews to see how roomy the tent is.
Waterproof and Weatherproof
You want the tent you choose to stand up to wind and rain so it keeps you warm and dry. Depending on what season you’re camping in, this may be even more important. Some tents will be ‘4-season tents’, meaning they will stand up to all weathers.
Durable
Durability is crucial with any tent, but it becomes even more important when you’re camping with a dog. Dogs can get excited and even a well-behaved dog may accidently rip the material with their nails, so look for tents that are highly durable. High-quality materials are key here, as well as a tent having durable seams (some will have reinforced stitching).
Easy to Clean Base
Your dog is going to get dirty when you’re on outdoor adventures together: there’s no avoiding that. A tent that has an easy to clean base will be key so you can get rid of mud. This is also handy if your dog gets excited or nervous and has an accident in the tent. Many tents will wipe down to make your life easier.
Easy to Put Up and Take Down
Some tents will be easier than others to assemble and take down. Check the description and reviews for indications of this, especially if you’re new to camping or you’re camping alone with your dog.
Easy to Transport
Most tents will come with carry bags to make them easy to transport. This is even more important if you’re backpacking rather than taking a car. You can also look for a tent that is lightweight and easier to carry.
Multiple Rooms
It can often be helpful to buy a tent with multiple rooms or vestibules, so that your dog can sleep in room of their own. This keeps mud and dog hair away from you and your belongings. However, some people prefer to sleep with their dog in the same room, so this is personal preference.
Tips for Camping With Your Dog
If it’s your first time camping with your dog, we’ve included a few tips below to help you get started:
- If it’s your dog’s first time being in a tent, it’s a good idea to get them used to it before you go. Put the tent up and allow them to investigate. Encourage them and keep it fun. Give them plenty of treats and praise when they’re inside the tent. You could even do a test night close to home to ensure they’re prepared and comfortable before planning a big trip.
- Take a bed and blanket that they’re used to and that smells like home to reassure them while you’re away.
- Ensure you take plenty of warm layers for them, as they might get cold (even large breeds can get chilly as they’re used to being inside your warm home at night).
- Take a change of harness or collar in case it gets wet, so your dog has a dry option.
- Ensure you take plenty of food for them: it can be handy to measure out how much they’ll need and store it in a small tub or food bag.
- Take towels, bowls, toys, any medication they’re on, a tether for outside the tent, a spare lead, and any other items you may need (it’s better to be over-prepared than not take enough).
- It’s a good idea to have first aid supplies with you in case your dog gets hurt.
- Plan ahead and have the information of vets near where you’ll be staying in case of emergency.
- Ensure your dog is up to date with their flea and worm treatments before you set off.
- Bear in mind that your dog might be nervous or overly excited on your trip, so you might find they have an upset tummy or may act a little out of character. Be patient and keep a close eye on them.
While there’s a lot to keep in mind, camping with your dog can also be extremely rewarding for both of you! Don’t forget to relax and have fun together.
Tents for Camping With Dogs FAQ
Can dogs sleep in tents?
Yes, dogs can sleep in tents as long as you get them used to it first and bring along the right equipment.
How do you keep your dog calm while camping?
You can keep your dog calm while camping by gradually getting them used to the tent before you go on a trip. Bring along comfort items, such as a bed and blanket that smells like home. Be patient with them and follow the tips we provided above. It’s also a good idea to give them plenty of exercise during the day, so that they’re calmer in the tent at night.
Conclusion
With the right tent, camping with your dog is an adventure like no other! You get to spend plenty of quality time with your pup, while seeing more of the world together.
The Best Tents for Camping With Dogs
Editor's Choice
Coleman Sundome Tent- Best overall
- Highly durable
- Easy to assemble
Runner Up
Hillman 3-4 Season Lightweight Windproof Camping Tent- Best 4 season tent
- Completely weatherproof
- Highly durable
Also Good
Coleman Montana 8-Person Tent for Camping with Easy Setup- Best family tent
- Room for 8 people
- Durable and practical
