I’ll admit it – when I first decided to take my dog camping, I had a moment of panic. Not about the weather, or the midges, or even forgetting the marshmallows (which, let’s be honest, would be tragic). No, my first question was: Can my dog actually sleep in the tent with me?
If you’ve ever had that same thought – or you’re planning your first adventure under canvas with your canine companion – then this post is for you. Let’s dive into the ins, outs, do’s and don’ts of camping with your dog and whether they can, in fact, share your tent. Spoiler alert: yes, they can. But there are some things you’ll want to consider first.
Yes, Dogs Can Sleep in Tents – and Here’s Why That’s a Good Thing
Let’s get this one out of the way early: yes, your dog can absolutely sleep in a tent. In fact, it’s often the best option for both you and your pooch. Tents provide shelter from the elements, help keep them safe from wildlife (and vice versa), and they allow you both to feel more secure during the night.
Dogs are pack animals, after all. They want to be where you are – especially when it’s dark, unfamiliar, and filled with mysterious forest sounds that may or may not be owls auditioning for Britain’s Got Talent.
Pros of Letting Your Dog Sleep in the Tent
1. Safety First
A tent keeps your dog contained and protected. Wandering off in the night chasing squirrels, rabbits, or ghosts (I’m convinced mine sees them) is a real concern if they’re not zipped in with you. In unfamiliar surroundings, even the most obedient dogs can get a bit… adventurous.
2. Temperature Control
Tents are warmer than the outside air – not by a huge amount, but enough to matter. If it’s a chilly evening, your dog will appreciate the extra warmth and the closeness to you (and let’s be honest, you’ll love the added heat source too – a living, breathing hot water bottle with paws).
3. Bonding Time
There’s something incredibly special about sharing a tent with your dog. Listening to them snore gently (or in my case, snore like a lawnmower with a sinus infection) is oddly comforting. It’s proper quality time – no distractions, no screens, just you, your dog, and the rustle of sleeping bags.
But Not All Dogs Are Natural Campers…
Before you chuck your dog in the back of the car and head to the hills, there are a few important things to think about.
1. Is Your Dog Tent-Trained?
Tents are full of exciting new smells, strange noises, and flappy walls that move in the wind – not all dogs know what to make of it. Some love it instantly. Others treat it like a giant nylon monster sent to ruin their day. So before your trip, do a trial run in the garden or even the living room. Let them explore the tent at their own pace, with plenty of treats and reassurance.
2. Does Your Dog Settle Easily?
If your dog’s the type to bark at every creaking branch or insists on rearranging their bedding every five minutes, you may be in for a long night. Practice calmness, bring familiar items like their bed or favourite toy, and don’t be surprised if they insist on sleeping right on top of you. Personal space? Never heard of it.
Tent Setup Tips for Camping with Dogs
Here are some practical tips to make tent-sharing with your furry friend go smoothly:
- Bring a dog-friendly sleeping mat or bed: Not only will it make them more comfortable, it’ll also protect your tent floor from muddy paws and claws.
- Zip the tent fully at night: You don’t want any Houdini-style escapes or midnight “I heard something!” patrols.
- Use a tether if needed: Especially if your dog is prone to darting out when the zip opens.
- Wipe paws before bed: Keep a towel handy – mud, ticks, and campfire ash have a way of ending up everywhere.
- Ventilation matters: A damp, dog-breath filled tent is nobody’s idea of fun. Make sure there’s good airflow, especially if you’re camping in warm weather.
What If My Dog Isn’t a Tent Fan?
Some dogs just don’t take to tents – and that’s okay. If yours gets too stressed, you can look into alternative sleeping arrangements like:
- Dog-specific camping crates or travel kennels – great for dogs who prefer their own space.
- Sleeping in a car or campervan – if the weather’s appropriate and you can keep them cool and secure.
- Dog-friendly cabins or pods – for the glampers among us (no shame, I’ve done it and loved it).
Just make sure your dog isn’t left alone at any point. Most campsites don’t allow unattended dogs – and even if they did, it’s not very kind to leave them in unfamiliar surroundings on their own.
Final Thoughts – A Paw-some Experience Awaits
Camping with your dog can be one of the most rewarding experiences you’ll ever share. Watching them sniff the air, splash in streams, and curl up next to you under the stars is pure magic. And yes – dogs can sleep in tents. In fact, many thrive on the adventure of it all, as long as you make them comfortable, safe, and feel included.
So pack the dog food, grab the lead, and don’t forget that extra blanket (for them or for you – we don’t judge). Happy camping!
And remember – if your dog farts in the tent, there’s nowhere to run. You’ve been warned.