The 4 Best Dog Tents You Should Buy: Reviewed

Written by Kellianne Matthews
Updated: December 5, 2022
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Best forProduct
Best OverallPickle and Polly Dog Teepee Tent
Best for CampingAlcott Explorer Tent
Best Play TentPurrfect Fence Play Tent
Best Elevated Cot with CanopySUPERJARE XLarge Outdoor Elevated Pet Cot with Canopy

Your furry companion deserves a place to call their own. Even if it is just a small corner in your room, they need a place to go and rest or unwind. And if you’re looking to give your pets that special space, why not choose a cute little tent bed that offers all of the comfort of a regular bed along with some incredible style? 

Who says your little companion needs to stay in a simple bed when they can have an adorable tent to themselves? A dog tent provides plenty of comfort and can make for a nice addition to playtime. The soft materials ensure that your puppy is having a good time, while the sturdy construction ensures that it can withstand the harshest playtimes. 

Dog tents are useful in multiple ways. If you enjoy camping and taking your canine companion with you, there are tents that will keep your dog safe, dry, and comfortable when roughing it outdoors. Tents can also be utilized for shade, like if you are at an outdoor event or maybe the beach and you’d like your pet to have some shade.

When making our recommendations for the best dog tents, we sought choices that would suit different purposes — a play tent/bed for indoor use, a tent for playing indoors or out, a tent that would be suitable for camping, and an option to be used for shade and elevation off the ground. 

Of course, no product is perfect, but we found some beds that came close. We want to provide you with an honest and unbiased look at these options to make a more educated decision. So, if you are looking for a dog tent to add to your home or use outdoors, we have the perfect selections for you. 

  1. Pickle and Polly Dog Teepee Tent
    • Pentagonal indoor plush dog tent
    • 100% pine frame
    • Machine washable outer cover
    • Removable dog bed pillow
    • Gray or white
    Check Amazon
  2. Alcott Explorer Tent
    • Easy assembly nylon dog camping tent
    • Waterproof base
    • Dimensions 32" Wide x 42" Deep x 30" Tall
    • Includes 4 ground stakes and travel bag
    Check Amazon
  3. Purrfect Fence Play Tent
    • Heavy duty indoor or outdoor pet play tent
    • Two zipper doors and breathable mesh for optimum ventilation
    • Adjustable waterproof weather cover
    • Dimensions 76” Long x 62” Wide x 40” Tall
    Check Amazon
  4. SUPERJARE XLarge Outdoor Elevated Pet Cot with Canopy
    • Portable canopy covered dog cot
    • Great for the beach, camping, or other outdoor adventures
    • Durable 1680D Oxford fabric and breathable mesh
    • Dimensions 36"L x 30"W x 7.2"Th
    Check Amazon

The Top Picks for the Best Dog Tents

#1 Best Overall Dog Tent: Pickle and Polly Dog Teepee Tent

The overall best dog tent is the Pickle and Polly Dog Teepee Tent. The bed features fairly sturdy construction, which allows it to withstand your excited canine. The cloth material on the sides is easy to wash and is machine-washable. The wooden stands ensure plenty of durabilities. 

The tent is quick and easy to assemble. However, some customers reported that the tent was too small for their dog. Unfortunately, this tent only comes in one size to fit small- to medium-sized dogs, so it will not work for larger breeds. Be sure to check the measurements of the tent before you make a purchase.

Pros and Cons of the Pickle and Polly Dog Teepee Tent

ProsCons
This tent is super easy to set up and can be done quickly.The tent only comes in one size, so it is not suitable for all dog breeds (especially larger ones).
It is machine-washable, making it easy to clean.
The fabric and wooden stand are durable and are made to last.
This tent is an excellent hideaway for small- and medium-sized dogs.
Best Overall Dog Tent
Pickle and Polly Dog Teepee Tent
  • Pentagonal indoor plush dog tent
  • 100% pine frame
  • Machine washable outer cover
  • Removable dog bed pillow
  • Gray or white
Check Amazon

2. Best Dog Tent for Camping: Alcott Explorer Tent

The Alcott Pup Tent has a very sleek and portable design, making traveling so much easier. If you’re someone looking to travel a lot more and hit the road, then you need a tent bed that is just as versatile as you are. This tent has a waterproof base that ensures your pup stays nice and dry, while the sides of the nylon tent help to keep light rain out. However, be aware that only the base of the tent is fully waterproof; the rest of the tent can still get wet, especially with heavy rainfall.

It even has plenty of space for bigger dogs to rest easily. Of course, the best thing about this tent is its ability to fold up into a portable package for you to carry. However, there have been some complaints from buyers that the tent is not as durable as they thought. You will have to be careful when setting it up, taking it down, and storing it, as many say that is when it ripped. 

Pros and Cons of the Alcott Explorer Tent

ProsCons
The base is waterproof to help keep your dog clean and dry.Some customers reported that the sides of the tent ripped/the poles punctured the fabric, so you’ll need to be careful setting it up/taking it down, and storing it.
The tent can fit bigger dogs as well as smaller breeds.The sides of the tent are not waterproof (only the base is).
It is portable and folds up fairly easily.It cannot withstand heavy rainfall.
Best for Camping
Alcott Explorer Tent
  • Easy assembly nylon dog camping tent
  • Waterproof base
  • Dimensions 32" Wide x 42" Deep x 30" Tall
  • Includes 4 ground stakes and travel bag
Check Amazon

3. Best Play Tent for Dogs: Purrfect Fence Play Tent

The best thing that the Purrfect Fence Play Tent has going for it is that it is easy to set up and has plenty of space for your four-legged companions to play. It is especially great if you’re looking to keep your small dogs safe as they play outside. However, it is not suitable for large dog breeds.

The mesh of the tent’s sides is thick and sturdy, and there are two different entry points with large zippered doors. It also comes with stakes so you can anchor the tent to the ground if needed.

The mesh panels are easy to see through and allow for ample ventilation. The mechanism on the top allows you to set up and pack away the entire tent in seconds. However, even though it has seen a lot of praise from many customers, some have reported that the play tent is flimsy and does not last very long. 

Pros and Cons of the Purrfect Fence Play Tent

ProsCons
This is a great tent for small-breed dogs.This tent is for small breeds and is unsuitable for larger ones.
The mesh is thick and sturdy, and there are two different doors with zippers.Some customers were disappointed with how long the tent lasted.
The tent comes with stakes so you can anchor it into the ground if you need to.
The mesh sides provide lots of ventilation.
There is a mechanism on top of the tent that makes it easy to collapse and quickly put away.
Best Play Tent
Purrfect Fence Play Tent
  • Heavy duty indoor or outdoor pet play tent
  • Two zipper doors and breathable mesh for optimum ventilation
  • Adjustable waterproof weather cover
  • Dimensions 76” Long x 62” Wide x 40” Tall
Check Amazon

4. Best Elevated Cot with Canopy: SUPERJARE XLarge Outdoor Elevated Pet Cot with Canopy

The SUPERJARE XLarge Outdoor Elevated Pet Cot with Canopy is not only great for camping but also keeps your dog shaded and comfortable at the beach. This outdoor dog bed comes in two sizes: large (for dogs up to 100 pounds) and extra-large (for dogs up to 120 pounds). It is a great choice for those with larger dog breeds. It comes in the colors dark gray, silver gray, and brown.

The fabric of the bed and canopy is breathable, sturdy, durable 1680D Oxford fabric, and is held in place with a steel frame. The canopy is removable, and the bed and canopy have their own lightweight carry bag. However, it is important to note that the canopy and bed are not rain-resistant, so if you were camping and it rained, it may be best to bring the cot into your tent so your dog can stay dry and cozy next to you.

In addition, some customers reported trouble with dogs that like to chew. In a few cases, their dogs chewed the corners of the bed (especially if the canopy was not attached). Unfortunately, this is precisely where the canopy attaches to the bed, so once chewed, you cannot use the canopy anymore. However, customers also reported excellent customer service from the company and were able to get replacements.

Pros and Cons of the SUPERJARE XLarge Outdoor Elevated Pet Cot with Canopy

ProsCons
An elevated cot with a canopy is great for both camping and keeping your dog shaded and comfortable.This product is not rain-resistant, so you’ll need to be sure to keep your dog in your tent if it rains.
There are two different size options: large (for dogs up to 100 pounds) and extra-large (for dogs up to 120 pounds).You’ll need to watch out if your dog likes to chew. The four corners of the cot are where the canopy attaches, so if your dog chews them the canopy will no longer work.
This is a great option if you have a larger dog.
There are three colors to choose from (dark gray, silver gray, and brown).
It is made with durable and breathable 1680D Oxford fabric and held in place with a steel frame.
The canopy can be removed if needed.
It has its own lightweight carry bag for easy transport.
Customers have reported that the company offers excellent customer service.
Best Elevated Cot with Canopy
SUPERJARE XLarge Outdoor Elevated Pet Cot with Canopy
  • Portable canopy covered dog cot
  • Great for the beach, camping, or other outdoor adventures
  • Durable 1680D Oxford fabric and breathable mesh
  • Dimensions 36"L x 30"W x 7.2"Th
Check Amazon

Criteria: How to Choose the Best Dog Tent Bed 

There are always certain features that you should look out for when buying a good tent bed for your dog. Here are a few of the things that you should consider:

  • Fire resistance
  • Base
  • Ease of setup
  • Size
  • Durability and breathability

Fire Resistance 

The first thing that you should look for in a good dog tent is flame-resistant materials so you can be assured of your dog’s safety. Of course, you should still practice proper fire safety procedures because other materials might still be flammable, but having some flame-resistant materials in its construction will make your dog’s pet tent that much safer.

Base

Another thing you should look for in a good dog tent is a good base, preferably one that is waterproof. A waterproof floor will protect the cushion and padding from getting wet, ensuring that it stays in the best shape. This will also help to prevent bacteria growth and odors.

Ease of Setup 

The last thing you want to do is go through the hassle of pulling out all of your tools when setting up the tent. If camping, you need a tent that is preferably easy to set up, such as a pop-up. It should also be easy to pack away and even carry if you are considering back-packing.

Size

The size of your dog may dictate which type of tent will work well. Many dog tents are suited to small- or medium-sized dogs. But what if you’re wanting something suited for a Saint Bernard? You’ll want to make sure that the tent is not only wide enough but also tall enough for your dog to stand.

Durability and Breathability

The tent you choose should be able to stand up to repetitive use and the wear and tear your dog may inflict on it. The last thing you need is your dog scratching a hole in the tent to escape! But beyond that, there should be vents and openings to provide your dog enough ventilation, especially if camping in a hot or humid place. 

Up Next…

Best forProduct
Best OverallPickle and Polly Dog Teepee Tent
Best for CampingAlcott Explorer Tent
Best Play TentPurrfect Fence Play Tent
Best Elevated Cot with CanopySUPERJARE XLarge Outdoor Elevated Pet Cot with Canopy
About the Author

Kellianne Matthews is a writer at A-Z Animals where her primary focus is on anthrozoology, conservation, human-animal relationships, and animal behavior. Kellianne has been writing and researching animals for over ten years and has decades of hands-on experience working with a variety of different animals. She holds a Master’s Degree from Brigham Young University, which she earned in 2017. A resident of Utah, Kellianne enjoys creating, exploring and learning new things, analyzing movies, caring for animals, and playing with her cats.

The 4 Best Dog Tents You Should Buy: Reviewed FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) 

How do I care for my tent?

Tents can last a fairly long time, especially if you treat them with care. Keep your tent away from moisture and condensation, keep wet items outside the tent, and never put a wet tent away for over a day. If you have to pack up a wet tent, be sure to unpack it as soon as possible and let it dry out completely before putting it away. Clear the zippers of dirt and wipe the interiors with a white cloth from time to time.

What should I do when using the tent for the first time?

If you have bought a teepee tent, you should first season it. You can easily season a tent by lightly misting it and letting it dry. This process will expand the fabric and make it ready to use.

The first time you open and set up any type of tent, be sure to read the instructions and go slowly. There may be sections that twist or turn unexpectedly, and you do not want to break, tear, or rip a part of your tent. This will help you to get to know how it works so that you can keep it in top condition as long as possible.

Will my dog like sleeping in a tent?

Each dog is different; some dogs will jump right into their new tent and snuggle up, while others may be scared to get too close to it. It is best to set it up at home/in a safe space for your dog before you actually use the tent. Let your dog sniff the tent and check it out so they can get used to it. Be patient and never try to force your dog into the tent; you can put treats inside the tent to help them see that it is a safe place for them to rest.

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