For many people, their dog is part of the family – and of course, they want to come along on vacation. Camping is particularly well-suited for this: plenty of time outdoors, new smells, exercise, and closeness to their loved ones. With a little preparation, a camping holiday with your dog can be relaxing for everyone.
Here you'll find the most important tips for camping with a dog.
The right campsite for dogs
Not every campsite is automatically dog-friendly. Therefore, it's worth checking the website or campsite rules beforehand.
Here's what you should pay attention to:
- Are dogs allowed?
- Are there any additional costs for dogs?
- Is the surface comfortable for paws?
- Are there quiet areas for dog owners?
- Are dog parking spaces separate from other parking spaces?
A well-chosen campsite reduces stress – for the dog, its owner, and other guests.
Sleeping place for the dog – together or separately?
When camping with a dog, the question quickly arises:
Will the dog sleep in the family tent or will it have its own space?
Both options can work. However, having your own sleeping space offers many advantages:
- The dog has a quiet retreat.
- less disturbance in the personnel tent
- ideal for small spaces or multiple people
Especially with larger dogs or small tents, a separate sleeping area is often the more relaxed solution.
What matters when choosing a dog tent
Whether it's a dog tent or a separate pop-up tent – the sleeping place should:
- be large enough (allowing for standing, lying down, and turning)
- have a waterproof base
- be well ventilated (mesh inserts)
- can be securely closed
- be easy to assemble and disassemble
The dog should be able to move freely inside and not feel confined – especially medium and large breeds.
Sun protection on the go
Whether at the beach, by the lake or at the campsite: dogs absolutely need shade.
A lightweight tent or sunshade offers:
- Protection from direct sunlight
- a cool retreat
- Rest in the heat
If the tent is used solely as a shade provider, it does not necessarily need to be waterproof – good ventilation is more important here.
Transporting a dog safely in the car
Safe transport is also part of holiday preparation. Legally, a dog in a car is considered cargo and must be secured accordingly.
Depending on the size, the following are suitable:
- Transport boxes (especially for small dogs)
- Sturdy crates in the trunk (for large dogs)
- Safety harness with strap (for medium-sized dogs)
It is important that the dog can travel safely, comfortably and calmly during the journey – for its own safety and that of the other passengers.
Conclusion: Camping with a dog means spending time together
Whether your dog sleeps in the family tent or has its own retreat is an individual decision. What's important is that it feels safe, comfortable, and included.
With the right campsite, a good place to sleep, and a little preparation, camping with a dog becomes a relaxing break – for both human and animal 🐾
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