Hitting the open road in an RV with your dog sounds like the perfect adventure and it absolutely can be. Freedom, fresh air, new trails, and your best four-legged friend along for the ride? That’s the dream. But RV travel with dogs takes planning. Without proper preparation, your pup may feel stressed in a new environment. Without the right gear, small issues can turn into big problems. And without understanding what to expect, you risk safety concerns along the way. This guide covers everything you need to know about RVing with dogs – from choosing the right RV to essential gear, safety tips, and travel planning. As an Amazon affiliate, when you click on some of the links on this page and make a purchase, we may earn a small commission, at no cost to you! By using our affiliate links, you’ll find our favorite picks and support us at the same time. And we really appreciate your support! Choosing the Best RV for Traveling with Dogs Not all RVs are equally pet-friendly. If you’re buying or renting, here’s what to look for: 1. Easy Entry and Exit Some RVs sit high off the ground with steep stairs. That’s tough on small dogs, senior pets, or large breeds with joint issues. Look for: -Low entry steps -Wide doorways -Room to add a ramp if needed -Your dog should be able to enter and exit safely and comfortably. 2. Reliable Temperature Control Air conditioning isn’t optional, it’s essential. RV interiors heat up quickly, especially in summer. If you ever need to step away (laundry, quick grocery run), your RV must have: -Strong A/C -Reliable power supply -Backup power option (generator or solar) Consider investing in a remote RV temperature monitor. These devices alert you if the interior temperature becomes unsafe. Just like cars, RVs can become dangerously hot please don’t take chances. 3. Pet-Friendly Flooring Carpet and dogs are not a great mix. Look for vinyl or laminate flooring. Vinyl may be better since it has small grooves which make it not as slippery. They’re easier to clean after muddy hikes, water spills, or accidents and they’ll help keep your RV looking good long-term. 4. Space for Dog Beds Most RV layouts aren’t designed with pets in mind. Make sure there’s room for your dog’s bed. If your dog is used to sleeping in the bedroom with you, then be sure to have space in the bedroom. By having their own familiar bed they will feel more secure and comfortable. Familiarity means less stress. How to Introduce Your Dog to RV Life Before your first big trip, help your dog adjust. Take Short Practice Drives Start with short, positive trips, maybe just to the park. This helps your dog associate the RV with fun instead of stress. Gradual exposure makes a huge difference. Spend Time Inside the RV at Home Hang out inside the RV before your trip. Spend time doing familiar things like watching TV with your pet or even making dinner. Put their bed in there and let them nap. You get the idea. The more time you can spend here without driving, the more comfortable your pup will feel. Schedule a Pre-Trip Vet Visit RV travel can mean increased activity, long travel days and remote locations without quick vet access. Before leaving, schedule a wellness check with your veterinarian to ensure your dog is healthy and travel ready. Get tips for bug control and reducing stress. Pro Tip: Research veterinary clinics and emergency animal hospitals along your route and at your destination. Essential Safety Tips for RVing With Dogs Update ID Tags and Microchip Information Make sure that your contact information is up to date. If you have a microchip in your pet, be sure to update the registration. Consider getting a GPS Tracker for your dog. They help track where your dog is heading and can give you real time locations quick. We like this one from Tractive. Pro Tip: Carry printed photos of your dog in case cell service is unreliable. You can pass them out for people to keep an eye out if your pup gets lost. Build a Dog First-Aid Kit You can make your own kit or buy a pet specific first aid kit. Your RV dog first-aid kit should include Tick removal tool, Gauze and bandages, Antiseptic wipes, Tweezers, and antibiotic ointment or cream. Be Sure to include Emergency vet contact numbers. Prepare for Emergencies If you’ll be camping out in remote areas, have a plan in place for how you’ll handle any injuries or health emergencies that arise. Make plans for medical help and evacuations. If you’re planning activities that aren’t normal, like steep hiking trails, consider what type of safety gear you will need for your pet. It’s also recommended to keep all of your dog’s safety gear in the same place as the first-aid kit, so you’ll always know where to find everything you need. Travel Tips for RVing with Dogs Make Frequent Stops No one likes staying locked away all day, no matter how nice your RV is, and the same goes for your pets. Plan shorter driving days, less wear on both of you. Make sure to regularly stop and let them get out to stretch their legs, get fresh air, and relieve themselves. This is important not only to relieve some stress, but it is healthier for them. Never Leave Your Dog in a Towed Trailer If you’re towing a travel trailer or fifth wheel, your dog should always ride inside the tow vehicle with you – never inside the trailer while moving. Trailers can become extremely hot and unsafe during transit. Not to mention your dog may get stressed by not being with you. Follow State and Campground Leash Laws Leash laws vary by state and campground. Many state and national parks require a 6-foot leash. Always check regulations ahead of time. Prioritize Exercise Long driving days may reduce their usual activity level. Balance it out with long walks, hikes and short play sessions. A tired dog is a happy camper. Choose Dog-Friendly RV Parks and Activities Not only do you want to make sure the RV parks you’re staying at allow dogs, but you also want at least some of the places you’ll be visiting to allow your pet to join you. Look for hiking trails, dog-friendly beaches and other activities that your dog can enjoy with you. At the very least look for campgrounds with dog parks. It wouldn’t be fun for your dog to have to stay in the RV and you would worry about your pup while you’re away and ruin your experience. It makes for a better vacation if you and your pup enjoy it together. Essential Gear for RV Travel with Dogs Must Have Basics You’ll need the essentials: Food, lots of water and treats. If your dog takes medication, don’t forget to bring it. Make sure they have their favorite toys, blanket and dog bed. Collapsible food and water bowls are nice, since there isn’t a lot of room in an RV. You’ll want to get a pet bowl mat that is waterproof to save the floor from dribbles. You’ll want to bring grooming supplies especially if you’re hiking or your pup will be in the water. Brushing them after a walk can help with not only getting the loose dirt out but will help you find ticks. There are pet-friendly insect repellants, but I would check with your vet first. You don’t want to use something your pup may be allergic to. Bring along a collapsible bucket, shampoo and both microfiber towels (to dry them faster) and old towels to wipe their muddy feet when they are out playing in the water. Don’t forget the leash! This is a must for any adventure with your dog. Be sure to bring both a 6 ft. leash, a lot of state and national parks require these, and a longer retractable leash so your pup has a little more freedom. Along with your poop bags you’ll need when walking your dog, you may want to bring a pooper scooper for around your camp site. Smart Safety Accessories Think about activities you’ll want to engage in with your dog and pack accordingly. Here are some items you might want to bring along: Safety harness with a handle- This is great for a little more control when you need it. Leash Light – Find one that attaches to a leash or collar. You know you’ll have to take your dog out before bed to relieve themselves! Dog life vest– Even if your dog can swim, you never know when they could get caught in an undercurrent. These are a must if you’re out on a boat or kayak. Booties– Bring these to protect paws in snow and ice or on hot or rocky surfaces. If your dog absolutely hates these, then get them some paw protection wax. Mushers Secret is a good wax. Dog sunscreen– Yes this really is a thing. It really helps protect their nose, ears, and other exposed areas. I advise checking with your vet for what type is best for your pup. Sun goggles– Not something I would have thought of, but I learned if you’re going to be out where the sun is glaring, they help protect your pet’s eyes just like they do ours. Umbrella– This helps both you and your pet for shade at your campsite. Keep in mind what activities you are planning and pack based on your activities and climate. Final Thoughts on RVing With Dogs RVing with your dog can be one of the most rewarding travel experiences you’ll ever have. With the right preparation, proper gear, and thoughtful planning, you’ll create adventures filled with hiking trails, campfire evenings, and open-road freedom all shared with your best friend. A little preparation goes a long way toward keeping your dog safe, comfortable, and happy. And when they’re happy? The whole trip just runs smoother. We love sharing information and tips that we learn along the way to help you plan your next trip. We hope to inspire you to find your adventures, have lots of fun, and make many memories. Post navigation How to Find Pet-Friendly Hotels for Your Vacation – Without Stress