Everyone loves bringing their furry friends along for a camping trip. After all, they’re part of the family too! Unfortunately, this can be more complicated if you’re using a rooftop tent. It is important to have a plan in place for where they will sleep and how they will get in and out of the tent.
There are many ways you can accommodate your pup while using a roof top tent. This guide will offer various tips and solutions to help you and your dog feel more comfortable while camping.
As I suggested in the Youtube video, I think the best way to get your dog into the RTT is by setting up a ramp for them to climb onto the hood and then into the side of the tent. Here is the non-slip and compact ramp I recommend using!
Use an annex for your dog
This is my all around favorite solution. For many reasons, this can accommodate all dogs and owners.
Roof top tents are often sold with an annex attachment. If not, almost all offer this attachment to be bought seperately. Installation is super easy as they are attached by a zipper near the entrance of your RTT.
You can expect the cost to be around $250 give or take. Depending on your roof tent’s brand, the annex may or may not cover your ladder. When an annex covers your ladder it connects directly to the entrance.
This is perfect for being able to poke your head out of the tent and look down to check on your pupper. If your dog is dependent this is a great option. Also, if you don’t want them in the tent with you or can’t get them up there, then this is the next best thing. Personally, I want to keep my 60 pound fluff ball as close as I can.
I have listed all of my favorite and must-have roof top tent essentials here if you’re interested in shopping around!
This purchase is multidimensional and is an accessory that is useful for much more than a place for your dog to sleep. Oftentimes, if the area is big enough people sometimes sleep in that area. Annexes offer a covered floor space for extra storage, privacy, and even a sleeping area.
Your dog will be safe from critters and other animals because you can zip the annex up too. I really like this option because it is practical. You will find so many uses for an annex other than a great sleeping area for your dog.
Getting in and out of the tent with your dog
This comes down to compromise. If you just don’t think it’s possible to get your dog in the tent, make accommodations for them.
The most obvious concern of camping with a dog and using a RTT is getting them in/out. If you have a smaller dog that’s under 30 pounds you can pretty easily pick them up.
For myself and many others, having a big dog makes this much harder. Luckily, I am strong enough to muscle him up into a roof tent. If you’re unable to get your large pup in the tent by carrying them, there are some accommodations you can do to make this more achievable.
If you put a harness on your dog, many have a handle on the back which will give you a better grip. There isn’t a science to carrying your dog into a RTT. It’s going to be awkward but eventually you will get a system down. Just be sure to take your time and be safe every time.
The process will probably look similar to this guy’s!
Dogs temperament is a factor
Each dog has their own personality. Some are calm, while others are crazy balls of energy. If your dog tends to flail around every time you pick them up, then carrying them into your RTT might not be realistic nor safe.
Dogs can often be perfectly content sitting alone in the RTT as you get work done around camp. Personally, if my dog were to see a squirrel he would jump right out of the RTT to chase it. This would be horrible. Oftentimes, a RTT is five to six feet off the ground. Way farther than you would ever want your dog jumping.
With that said, limit the time your dog spends in the tent. Maybe you only bring them in when it’s time for bed! This will make it safe for you and your loveable furball!
Height of your roof top tent for lifting dog
The higher your roof tent is placed, the harder it’s going to be getting them in it. While the most common place to have a RTT is the roof of your vehicle, there are other options.
If you have a truck, you can get a low profile rack for the bed and mount it there. Having the tent in the bed will decrease the height of your tent by a couple of feet. Getting your dog on the tailgate should be fairly easy. Now they are only a couple of feet away from the entrance of the tent and may require a small boost up!
Overlanding trailers having been gaining popularity like crazy lately. It’s easy to understand why once you see one too. Similar to having the RTT in your truck bed, a trailer sits lower to the ground than many vehicles’ roofs.
We drive a lifted FJ Cruiser so the height of our vehicle is extremely tall. For vehicles like a Subaru or other SUV, your vehicle probably isn’t very tall. This should make it easier to lift your dog quickly into the tent.
Build a ramp for your dog to get into the roof top tent
I stumbled across this website when looking for common answers. This video and website does a really great job showing how to build a dog ramp.
They list the materials used and have a step by step video to complete the project. They did a great job with this. To see the required materials for a dog ramp build click here.
I love this idea for an older couple or someone that just isn’t able to leave their dog outside. It’s a lot of work, but we’re suckers and would do just about anything for our doggos!
Getting the ramp out to the campsite may be difficult depending on your vehicle. This is when having a truck pays dividends. You can modify the ramps specifications to be sure that it will fit in your vehicle.
Another tip I saw was to put a step or elevated surface your dog can hop onto. Then placing the ramp on that elevated surface which in turn would reduce the required length of the ramp. You don’t want it to be too steep for your dog to walk up.
Where do dogs sleep when camping?
This really depends on the owner and your dog’s personality. Some owners don’t want the dog in the tent, while others wouldn’t have it any other way.
If you have a truck bed or camper shell this is a prime place for your dog to sleep. You can put a dog bed in there and they will have plenty of room. Plus, they will be protected from the elements and any predators!
Another option that may seem pretty obvious is keeping them in the car. Now, this can be debated depending on the weather, and if your dog is okay being left alone for long periods of time.
Obviously, I wouldn’t recommend closing the windows and leaving them in the car. Don’t do that! But you’re a responsible owner, so use your best judgment and make it comfortable for them.
The most obvious option is in your tent. When using a ground tent this is a no brainer. RTTs have their limitations and this is definitely one of them.
Many people just feel comfortable having their dog sleep outside. Take caution doing this though. If you’re in the mountains or an area with predators, I just rather not risk it.
Are roof top tents safe for dogs?
In general, tents are very safe for dogs! You should have them leashed around camp and only in the tent when you are. If it’s too hot in the tent for you, then it’s too hot in the tent for them too!
RTTs are more dangerous for dogs than a regular ground tent. Jumping out or falling when trying to get in can very well leave your dog injured. Taking proper precautions is a necessary step before camping with them.
Overall, your dog will be safe inside the tent. They are protected from predators and the elements. Be sure you and your pup have enough room to comfortably sleep together. If you can, leave a water bowl out for them because they get hotter quicker than you will!
Can you leave your dog in a roof top tent?
You shouldn’t leave your dog unattended in a tent. Especially during the day, the inside of a tent can get pretty toasty and those little guys have all that fur!
It would be just as easy to put a leash on them and have them tied to something nearby. Your dog will probably enjoy being closer to you and not be stuck in a tent.
A consideration to make is if it is night time and there are predators. If you have to leave camp quickly for any reason, you will be okay. Just be sure to close the tent securely. In cooler weather, I wouldn’t be as concerned with the heat because many tents have multiple vents for airflow.
As a rule of thumb, it’s probably best to leave your dog outside of the tent during the day, just to be safe!
How do you secure your dog when camping in a roof top tent?
The most surefire way to secure your dog when camping is to use a harness and leash. Harnesses are much more comfortable for your dog. You can simply tie them to a tree or piece of equipment around camp.
Some dogs cannot stand being leashed! In this scenario, I would pack a crate or kennel for your trip. This might seem like a pain but you will be glad you have it when the time comes.
If the weather allows for it, keep them in the car. You can even roll the windows down all the way if you know they will stay inside. This way your dog can see everything happening around camp and not be tied up!
Practice makes perfect
Before heading out to your campsite for the first time I would highly recommend practicing a bit with your dog. This may sound silly but it will help a lot!
Dogs are creatures of habit just like you and me. Therefore, practice makes perfect. You will get a routine in place and become more comfortable overtime getting them into the RTT.
It shouldn’t take too long to complete this task. Bring some treats and be patient with your dog. They’re quick learners and just want to please you at the end of the day!
Are roof top tents good for dogs?
As any owner would tell you, this is one of the cons associated with using a rooftop tent. No matter how you slice it, it is more inconvenient to lift your dog in and out of the tent every time.
For owners with tiny dogs, I wouldn’t consider this much of an inconvenience. But for us large dog owners, it’s going to be a hassle getting them in the tent!
You can’t debate the fact that a ground tent would be better for dogs. With all products, each presents its own pros and cons! I don’t think this should turn you off completely to buying a rooftop tent, just know what comes with it!
Other tips for camping with your dog in a roof top tent
There are some preparations you should make before you take a dog camping.
The most obvious is to check your campsite to see if they allow dogs. You may be surprised but a good number of them won’t allow it. Talk about a bummer.
Make sure the dog is healthy and up to date on vaccinations. Check with your veterinarian to confirm they are up to date on all vaccines, especially rabies. Accidents happen while camping, mitigating the risk beforehand is a simple task you should do.
Pack a bag for them! Bring plenty of food, water, and toys. It’s important they are comfortable on the trip too. Pack bedding for them and have an idea of where they will be sleeping. Bring a food dish and water bowl to continue their regular diet.
Check for ticks and thorns frequently. It is pretty normal for ticks to be around when you’re camping. If a tick does bite your dog you need to remove them quickly by pulling it out gently from the skin. Wear a glove or some other protective material when you do this.
You can buy tick prevention medicine which I would highly recommend before camping. You should be able to find some at your local pet store!
Conclusion
Each person may prefer one solution over another depending on their dog’s personality and temperament. Not every dog can be carried up the ladder to your tent, nor do all dogs feel comfortable sleeping outside alone.
Take these solutions on a case by case basis. You can make many accommodations to make camping with your dog in a RTT much easier. This way, you and your dog are happy campers!
I hope you were able to find a solution to your problem within this article. If not, at least you came away with pointers on some simple dos and don’ts!