Key Takeaways
- A camping dog bed should be chosen for ground insulation, weather resistance, and packability—not just softness. Cold, wet ground can quickly sap warmth, especially in alpine areas and during shoulder seasons.
- For most Australian camping conditions, the most practical approach is a two-layer system: a waterproof, tough outer bed or mat plus a removable insulating layer (foam pad or blanket) that can be adjusted for heat or cold.
- Elevated (raised) beds are excellent for summer and humid coastal camping because they improve airflow and reduce ground moisture contact; they are less packable than roll-up mats but often last longer.
- In tick regions (particularly along much of Australia’s east coast), the bed setup should support daily tick checks and hygiene. Paralysis ticks can be fatal; signs may appear 3–5 days after attachment and even a single tick can be dangerous.
- The “best” camping bed depends on your dog’s body type and health. Older dogs and dogs with arthritis often need more joint support and consistent insulation than young, athletic dogs.
- Look for materials that suit Australian conditions: ripstop shells, water-resistant coatings, quick-dry fabrics, and durable stitching. A bed that is easy to clean is safer and more realistic for regular trips.
Recommended by PetCareShed: Smart Choices for Every Dog Owner
Introduction
Camping with a dog in Australia can be deeply rewarding. Many dogs settle quickly into the rhythm of outdoor days—long walks, new smells, and calm evenings. However, the comfort and safety of those nights often depends on one item owners tend to underestimate: the dog bed.
A camping dog bed is not simply a travel-sized version of a lounge-room bed. Outdoors, the bed becomes part of a dog’s thermal management, their protection from damp ground, their barrier against prickles and grit, and their stable resting place when the campsite is busy. A well-chosen bed also reduces the chance of your dog pacing at night, waking repeatedly, or seeking warmth by pressing against gear, heaters, or sleeping bags.
Australia presents unique variables that influence dog bedding choices. A single trip might involve hot afternoons, cold night air, abrasive red dust, coastal humidity, and sudden rain. In some regions, parasite pressure (including ticks) is a genuine health risk that interacts with hygiene and sleeping arrangements. The practical goal is to select a bed that is lightweight enough to bring, tough enough to last, and supportive enough to help your dog rest properly.
This guide explains what to look for, what to avoid, and how to choose a camping bed that matches the way Australians actually camp—whether that is car camping, caravan parks, bush camps, or multi-day hikes.
Because Every Dog Deserves the Best — from PetCareShed
What Makes a Dog Bed “Camping-Ready” in Australia?
A camping-ready dog bed must perform under conditions that indoor beds never face. The Australian outdoors can be wet, dusty, sharply abrasive, and unpredictable. A bed that is perfect in a tiled laundry may fail quickly when it is dragged across gravel, packed damp into a vehicle, or placed on cold ground night after night.
The essential functions of a camping bed can be grouped into five performance needs.
1) Insulation from the ground
Dogs lose heat to cold ground through conduction. Even when the air temperature feels mild, the ground can be markedly colder—particularly after sunset, near waterways, on sand, or in alpine regions. Insulation is also relevant in hot conditions because a dog needs a stable surface that does not trap heat.
Owners often focus on blankets only. While blankets can add warmth, a blanket directly on cold ground can compress under a dog’s weight and provide limited insulation. A layer of foam or an elevated platform can be more reliable.
For camping gear, “R-value” is used to describe thermal resistance; higher numbers generally indicate better insulation. As a broad guide used in camping contexts, summer conditions may suit lower R-values around 2, while 3-season use often benefits from mid-range values around 2.5–4 (noting these figures are typically discussed for sleeping mats rather than dog products).
2) Water resistance and fast drying
Dew, damp grass, condensation inside tents, spilled water bowls, and overnight rain are common. A bed that absorbs water becomes heavy, cold, and difficult to dry in the field. It can also begin to smell quickly.
3) Durability against abrasion and claws
Camping surfaces are harsh: coarse sand, sticks, bark, sharp grass seeds, and stone. Seams and zips are common failure points. A tough outer shell and reinforced stitching typically matters more than plushness.
4) Packability and weight
Many Australians travel with dogs in packed vehicles or caravans. Space is limited. Hiking with a dog adds strict weight constraints. The ideal bed is one you will consistently bring.
5) Hygiene and parasite management
Outdoor beds collect dirt and organic debris. In tick regions, the bed should allow easy inspection and cleaning. Paralysis ticks are a serious risk along much of the east coast of Australia and can be fatal. Dogs Queensland warns that even a single paralysis tick can be dangerous. Signs may be delayed for several days after attachment, with early weakness and voice change among reported signs.
Australia-Specific Camping Conditions That Influence Bed Choice
Australia is not a single camping environment. Selecting a bed becomes much easier once you map your typical trips to the conditions your dog will actually sleep in.
Hot, dry inland camping
Inland camping can involve high daytime temperatures followed by rapid cooling after sunset. Dust and fine grit are constant. For these trips, the bed must resist dust ingress, be easy to shake out, and avoid heat retention.
A breathable surface helps prevent a dog lying in a pocket of trapped heat. Raised beds often perform well in these conditions because they allow airflow underneath.
Humid coastal camping
Coastal trips frequently involve damp sand, dew, salt air, and higher humidity. The issue is not only water; it is slow drying. A bed that holds moisture can remain clammy for days.
In these regions, a quick-dry bed with a water-resistant base is usually a better choice than a thick, absorbent cushion.
Wet-weather bush camping
Rain, mud, and wet vegetation place heavy demands on fabrics and seams. A bed needs a water-resistant base and a removable cover that can be cleaned. If you cannot dry the bed, you need a system that still works damp—such as a tough outer mat plus a dry insulating layer you can protect inside a bag.
Alpine and high-country camping
Cold ground is the main challenge. Even strong, healthy dogs can become uncomfortable if their resting surface draws heat away. Puppies, seniors, and lean-coated breeds need additional insulation.
Tick-prone regions
On many east-coast trips, the “bed decision” also becomes a hygiene decision. You need to be able to fully inspect your dog and keep their bedding clean.
Animal Poisons Helpline Australia notes tick paralysis signs may be delayed 3–5 days from when feeding begins. Dogs Queensland emphasises the seriousness of even one tick.
The Main Types of Camping Dog Beds (and Who They Suit)
The “best” camping bed is the one that suits your camping style and your dog’s comfort needs. Below are the main categories Australians typically rely on.
1) Roll-up camping mats
These are slim, packable beds designed to be rolled tightly. They are usually best for car camping and short hikes, and they suit dogs that prefer to stretch out.
Strengths
- Compact storage and low weight
- Simple to shake clean
- Useful as an insulating layer in a multi-layer setup
Limitations
- Can provide limited joint cushioning for older dogs
- May shift around inside tents
- Thin mats can struggle on sharp gravel unless paired with a groundsheet
2) Lightweight padded travel beds
These resemble thinner versions of indoor beds and often include a cover. They suit small to medium dogs and owners who want a familiar “bed feel” without bulky foam.
Strengths
- Familiar comfort and a sense of routine for the dog
- Often machine washable
- Can add warmth on cool nights
Limitations
- Some absorb moisture and dry slowly
- May be bulky in smaller vehicles
3) Elevated (raised) dog beds
Elevated beds use a frame and tensioned fabric. They keep dogs off the ground, reduce contact with dampness, and allow airflow.
PetCareShed’s own outdoor bed guidance emphasises that elevation helps reduce contact with ground moisture and improves airflow in warmer weather (raised designs are commonly promoted for these benefits). Source: PetCareShed content. https://petcareshed.com.au/blogs/pet-supplies/are-elevated-dog-beds-better-for-your-dog
Strengths
- Excellent cooling in summer due to airflow
- Keeps dog away from damp ground and mud
- Typically very durable against abrasion
Limitations
- Bulkier than roll-up mats
- Less suitable for hiking
- Some dogs need training to settle on a raised surface
4) Waterproof mats and outdoor beds
These are practical, tough options that can be used outside the tent, under an awning, or in a crate. They suit dogs that move between campsite areas.
Strengths
- Easy to wipe down
- Good barrier against damp
- Strong fabric can handle claws
Limitations
- Can feel firm without an added insulating layer
- Some waterproof surfaces can be noisy inside tents
5) Crate mats and compact orthopaedic pads
These are more relevant for older dogs, dogs recovering from injury, or dogs that sleep better in a crate.
Strengths
- Stable sleeping “zone” inside a crate or vehicle
- Better pressure distribution than thin mats
Limitations
- Heavier and bulkier if made with dense foam
- Must be carefully protected from moisture
What to Look for: A Practical Camping Bed Checklist
Camping beds can look similar online. A structured checklist helps separate “looks comfortable” from “will perform outdoors”.
Bed weight and packed size
For most Australian car campers, a bed that packs flat is often more practical than a thick cushion. For hikers, weight is critical and you may prioritise a thin mat plus a small insulating blanket.
A useful rule: if the bed is awkward to pack, it will eventually be left at home.
Outer fabric: toughness and repairability
Look for descriptions such as:
- Ripstop-style weaves (designed to limit tear spread)
- Reinforced seams or binding
- Heavy-duty stitching
- Replaceable covers
Even a very tough fabric can fail at stitching if seams are not reinforced.
Base fabric: water resistance and grip
A camping bed base should resist dampness and ideally have a slightly grippy finish to reduce sliding in tents. A fully waterproof base is valuable, but it should not trap moisture inside the bed (a common issue when the bed is packed away wet).
Cushioning and support
Support is not only for senior dogs. A fit, young dog can still wake stiff if they sleep on hard ground after long hikes.
When considering support, assess:
- Thickness under load: does the bed compress flat?
- Pressure distribution: does it concentrate pressure on hips and shoulders?
- Edge support: does your dog like a bolster for security?
Washability and drying time
Camping beds get dirty quickly. A removable cover that is washable makes the bed realistically maintainable. Fast drying matters in humid coastal weather and winter trips.
Noise, smell retention, and “tent manners”
Some waterproof materials crinkle and can wake light sleepers (dogs and humans). Odour retention is another practical issue. If a bed holds smell, dogs may be more reluctant to settle or you may struggle with vehicle odour after trips.
Choosing the Right Bed by Camping Style
Most owners benefit from selecting a bed system based on how they camp in practice.
Car camping and caravan parks
Car camping allows more bedding options. Comfort, durability, and easy cleaning usually matter most.
Recommended approach
- A tough, wipe-clean mat for outside use
- A padded mat or travel bed for inside the tent/annex
- Optional: an elevated bed for warm-weather trips
This keeps the sleeping area clean while still giving your dog a comfortable “home base”.
Tent camping in wet conditions
Wet weather is the strongest test for dog bedding. The goal is to avoid a bed that becomes soaked and remains heavy and cold.
Recommended approach
- Waterproof base layer
- Removable insulating top layer stored dry until needed
- Spare dry blanket in a sealed bag
Hiking with a dog
Weight and volume dominate. Many hikers use a compact closed-cell foam mat or a very lightweight roll-up mat.
Recommended approach
- Thin mat for insulation from the ground
- Lightweight blanket or jacket as a flexible top layer
In this scenario, the “bed” is often a system rather than a single product.
Beach camping
Sand is abrasive and gets into everything. Choose a bed that is easy to shake clean and will not hold moisture.
Recommended approach
- Quick-dry mat with water-resistant base
- Avoid thick plush beds unless you can thoroughly dry and clean them
Choosing the Right Bed by Dog Type and Health Needs
Your dog’s body type, coat type, age, and medical status should influence the bed decision.
Puppies and adolescent dogs
Puppies can sleep deeply and for long periods, but they may also chew and dig. Choose a bed with fewer exposed zips and a tough outer.
Sleep needs are substantial in young dogs. In a cohort study of dogs, sleep patterns and where dogs sleep were assessed in real homes (highlighting that environment matters for rest).
Adult dogs (healthy and active)
Most adult dogs cope well with simple bedding, provided it insulates them from the ground and stays dry.
If your dog hikes or runs all day, consider that muscles and joints benefit from uninterrupted rest at night. A stable sleeping surface helps reduce night-time repositioning.
Senior dogs and dogs with arthritis
Senior dogs often need more consistent warmth and pressure distribution. While camping, the ground can aggravate stiffness. In practice, a senior dog usually benefits from:
- A thicker supportive base layer
- A water-resistant cover
- Extra insulation from cold ground
Geriatric dogs commonly sleep more than younger dogs. One veterinary-focused summary notes senior dogs may sleep around 16–18 hours daily.
Lean-coated breeds and small dogs
Dogs with low body fat and short coats lose heat quickly at night. For these dogs, insulation matters even on trips where humans feel comfortable.
Large breeds
Large dogs create higher pressure points at hips and shoulders. Thin mats can compress flat. Consider thicker padding or a supportive foam layer protected by a waterproof cover.
Understanding Insulation: Why Cold Ground Matters More Than Cold Air
Many owners plan for air temperature: they pack a coat if the forecast looks cold. Dogs, however, spend many hours lying on the ground. Ground temperature and dampness can be more influential than air temperature.
A practical way to think about insulation is to imagine the bed as a barrier that slows heat transfer from your dog’s body into the ground. The more compressible the bed, the less insulation it provides under the dog’s weight.
Raised beds solve this by removing contact with ground altogether, while foam mats reduce conduction through thickness.
If you camp in regions where nights are cold or where the ground remains damp, consider a layered arrangement:
- Bottom: waterproof barrier (prevents moisture rising into bedding)
- Middle: insulating layer (foam or thick mat)
- Top: washable comfort layer (blanket or cover)
This system is adaptable and often more reliable than a single thick bed that becomes damp.
Water Resistance vs Waterproof: What Australian Owners Should Prioritise
Camping product descriptions often use terms loosely. Understanding the difference prevents disappointment.
- Water-resistant: repels light moisture and dew but may wet through under pressure or prolonged exposure.
- Waterproof: prevents water penetration, often through coatings or laminated layers.
For dog beds, fully waterproof products are valuable, but they must still manage internal moisture. If your dog lies down wet after a swim, water can become trapped inside some constructions.
A practical approach is to choose beds with:
- Waterproof bases
- Removable, washable covers
- Inner materials that do not hold water
Durability: The Hidden Failure Points (Seams, Zips, and Corners)
Outdoor dog beds tend to fail at predictable points.
Seams and corners
Corners are dragged and twisted during packing and when dogs dig. Look for reinforced binding.
Zips
Zips collect sand and grit. Covered zips or minimal zip exposure is preferable. If the bed uses a removable cover, ensure the zip is robust.
Underside wear
Some beds use good top fabric and a weaker base fabric. For camping, the base takes the greatest abuse.
Chewing and stress behaviours
Some dogs chew bedding when unsettled. A familiar, stable sleeping location and a bed that does not slide can reduce this. If your dog is a persistent chewer, a tightly tensioned raised bed or a tough mat can be safer than a soft stuffed bed.
Hygiene and Parasites: Bedding Choices That Support Tick Checks
Tick risk is not just about preventative treatments; it is also about detection and hygiene.
Dogs Queensland states that paralysis ticks can be highly dangerous and that a single tick can be enough to cause severe illness.
Animal Poisons Helpline Australia explains that signs may be delayed 3–5 days from when feeding begins, with early signs including weakness.
Bedding setup to support safer camping in tick regions
A camping bed can support tick management when it:
- Uses a lighter colour fabric (ticks are easier to see)
- Has a removable cover that can be hot washed when you return
- Avoids deep shag or long pile that hides debris
- Can be shaken out thoroughly
Daily checks and practical routine
In tick areas, integrate checks into your campsite routine:
- Morning: quick scan of face, ears, neck, chest, between toes
- Evening: full-body check with a torch
- After walks through long grass: targeted check immediately
If your dog shows weakness, wobbliness, voice changes, or vomiting after a camping trip, seek urgent veterinary advice, especially in tick-prone regions.
Bed Placement at Camp: Small Decisions That Change Comfort
A good bed can still underperform if it is placed poorly.
Choose a stable, sheltered location
- Under awning or vestibule to reduce dew
- Away from vehicle paths and foot traffic
- Away from food preparation zones
Avoid direct contact with wet ground
Even a waterproof bed is colder when placed directly on wet soil. Use a groundsheet, tarp, or a foam layer underneath.
Consider wind direction
Wind strips warmth quickly. Place the bed where the dog is shielded.
Manage radiant heat and hazards
Dogs may seek warmth near heaters or campfires. While this guide focuses on bedding, owners should treat heat sources as hazards and keep dogs a safe distance from flames, embers, and hot metal parts.
Building a Reliable “Two-Layer” Dog Bed System for Camping
Many experienced campers find that the best outcome comes from a modular system rather than a single perfect product.
Why a two-layer system works
- You can separate “dirty layer” from “sleep layer”.
- You can adjust warmth without changing the whole bed.
- You can keep one layer dry if the other gets wet.
Example setups
Warm-weather coastal trip
- Base: elevated bed or quick-dry mat
- Top: light blanket (removable)
Cold-weather high-country trip
- Base: waterproof mat or groundsheet
- Middle: foam pad (insulating)
- Top: washable cover + warm blanket
Mixed conditions (common in Australia)
- Base: tough mat that can be placed outside tent
- Top: padded travel bed used inside tent only
Product Selection Guide: Features to Match to Real Use
The following table summarises key features and when they matter most.
| Feature | Why it matters outdoors | Best for | Watch out for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Water-resistant / waterproof base | Stops dew and ground moisture soaking in | Coastal, wet grass, river camps | Trapping moisture inside if dog lies down wet |
| Quick-dry fabric | Prevents clammy bedding and odours | Humid and rainy trips | Very thin fabrics may sacrifice durability |
| Raised / elevated design | Airflow and separation from damp ground | Summer, humid regions | Bulkier; some dogs need acclimation |
| Supportive foam layer | Pressure distribution for hips/shoulders | Seniors, large breeds | Heavier; must be protected from water |
| Removable washable cover | Improves hygiene; easier post-trip cleaning | All trips, especially tick areas | Zips can fail or collect grit |
| Non-slip underside | Reduces sliding in tents and on tarps | Tent camping | Rubberised bases can crack over time if poorly made |
Common Mistakes When Buying a Camping Dog Bed
Small purchasing mistakes can become major frustrations once you are on the road.
Choosing plushness over performance
A thick, fluffy bed can seem ideal, yet it may absorb water, trap sand, and become difficult to clean. For camping, the best comfort often comes from a stable, dry, supportive surface rather than maximum softness.
Buying a bed that is too bulky
If a bed is difficult to pack, owners often stop bringing it. A slightly less luxurious bed that always comes along is more beneficial to your dog than the “perfect” bed that stays at home.
Underestimating cold ground
Owners frequently prepare for cold air but forget that dogs lie on the ground for long periods. A thin blanket on cold soil is rarely enough in alpine or winter conditions.
Forgetting drying time
If you camp in humid conditions, a bed that takes days to dry is not practical. This is where quick-dry materials and removable layers are valuable.
Overlooking hygiene in tick-prone areas
Deep shag beds can hide debris and make tick checks harder. In known tick regions, owners often benefit from simpler, lighter-coloured bedding that can be washed.
Practical Packing List: Bedding and Sleep Accessories for Camping Dogs
A dog bed is the foundation, but small accessories often determine whether the night goes smoothly.
- Lightweight groundsheet or tarp (protects the bed and can be cleaned easily)
- Spare dry blanket in a sealed bag
- Small towel dedicated to drying paws and belly before bed
- Brush or comb for removing seeds and burrs
- Torch/headlamp for evening tick checks
- Basic first-aid supplies appropriate for pets
This list supports comfort and hygiene without adding excessive bulk.
Recommended Related Products from PetCareShed
The following product categories are commonly useful when selecting a camping-ready bed setup. These are presented as practical options to match different camping styles and dog needs.
- Outdoor dog beds (weather-resistant): Suitable for under awnings and on damp ground when you need an easy-to-clean base layer.
- Elevated dog beds: Useful for warm-weather camping and humid regions where airflow and separation from damp ground improves comfort.
- Portable dog mats: Appropriate for packability, short trips, and as an insulating layer in a two-layer system.
- Orthopaedic dog beds: Helpful for senior dogs or dogs with joint stiffness that need better pressure distribution during long rest periods.
- Waterproof pet blankets: Useful as a removable top layer to manage dirt, moisture, and hair in tents and vehicles.
- Travel bowls and feeders: Support predictable routines at camp, helping dogs settle after activity.
- Dog grooming tools: Helpful for removing grass seeds, sand, and debris before your dog settles on bedding.
Cleaning and Maintenance: Keeping a Camping Bed Safe and Long-Lasting
Camping beds tend to fail early due to poor cleaning routines, not only due to poor construction. Dust, salt, and organic debris degrade fibres and increase odour.
Field cleaning (during the trip)
- Shake bedding daily to remove grit.
- Wipe down waterproof surfaces.
- Dry the bed in sun and airflow where possible.
- If the bed becomes wet, separate layers and dry individually.
Post-trip cleaning
- Wash removable covers promptly.
- Clean zips and seams to remove sand.
- Air dry completely before storage to reduce mould risk.
If you camp in tick areas, consider washing bedding promptly and continuing checks after returning home.
Comfort at Night: Helping Your Dog Settle in a New Environment
Some dogs are unsettled during their first few camping trips. A familiar bed can reduce stress because it provides a known scent and a consistent place to rest.
Practical settling strategies include:
- Use the same bed for travel and camping where possible.
- Place the bed in the tent at home before the trip so it is not “new”.
- Keep evening routines stable: dinner, short toilet walk, then bed.
- Avoid allowing the dog to roam all night; a lead line or crate can help.
The sleeping environment matters. Research on canine sleep patterns highlights that where dogs sleep and how they are settled can influence sleep behaviour in real-world settings.
Safety Notes: When Bedding Choice Intersects with Health Risks
Camping bedding is often thought of as “comfort only”. In reality, poor bedding decisions can contribute to health problems.
Cold exposure and stiffness
Cold, damp conditions can worsen stiffness in older dogs and dogs with arthritis. Insulation and dryness are basic welfare requirements.
Moisture, skin irritation, and hotspots
Dogs lying on damp beds can develop skin irritation, especially if they have allergies or sensitive skin. Quick drying and clean covers reduce this risk.
Parasites (especially ticks)
As noted earlier, paralysis ticks can be dangerous and signs may be delayed. Maintaining clean, inspectable bedding supports daily checks.
How to Compare Dog Beds Online: A Short Decision Framework
When shopping online, product descriptions can be vague. This framework helps you make a sound decision.
- Define your camping style: car, caravan, hiking, beach, bush.
- Define your region and season: humid coastal, alpine cold, inland heat, wet season.
- Assess your dog’s needs: age, coat type, size, joint issues, chewing.
- Choose bed type: mat, travel bed, raised bed, waterproof outdoor bed, orthopaedic pad.
- Select materials and construction: tough shell, water resistance, removable cover, quality seams.
- Plan a layered system: ensure you can add or remove insulation.
This approach reduces impulse purchases and increases the chance the bed will suit multiple trips.
FAQ
What is the best type of dog bed for camping in Australia?
The best type depends on your camping conditions and how you travel. For many Australian owners, a two-layer system works best: a tough, water-resistant base mat plus a removable insulating layer (foam pad or blanket). In hot and humid conditions, an elevated bed can provide excellent airflow and comfort.
Should a camping dog bed be waterproof?
A fully waterproof base is highly practical for camping because dew and damp ground are common. However, it is equally important that the bed is easy to dry and clean. Many owners prefer a water-resistant or waterproof base combined with a removable, washable cover.
Are elevated dog beds better for camping?
Elevated beds are often excellent for camping in warm or humid areas because they allow airflow under the dog and reduce contact with damp ground. Their main drawback is bulk: they are generally better for car camping than hiking.
How can I keep my dog warm at night while camping?
Focus on ground insulation first. Add a foam layer or an insulated mat under your dog’s sleeping surface, then use a blanket on top as needed. Keep the bed off wet ground, and place it out of wind. Lean-coated dogs, small dogs, and seniors usually need more insulation.
Can my dog sleep directly on the ground in a tent?
Many dogs will tolerate it, but it is not ideal. The ground can be cold, damp, and abrasive. Over multiple nights, it can lead to stiffness, poor sleep, and discomfort—particularly in older dogs or after long active days.
What is the best camping bed for an older dog with arthritis?
Older dogs often benefit from a supportive foam layer that distributes pressure at hips and shoulders. For camping, the foam should be protected with a water-resistant cover and placed on an insulating base layer so cold ground does not worsen stiffness.
How do I choose a camping bed for a dog that chews or digs?
Choose a bed with a tough outer fabric, minimal exposed zips, and reinforced seams. Raised beds or heavy-duty mats can be safer than soft stuffed beds. Also focus on helping your dog settle with familiar routines and adequate daytime activity.
How do I manage ticks when camping with my dog in Australia?
Use vet-recommended tick prevention and do daily checks—especially in known tick regions. Bedding should be easy to inspect and clean; avoid deep shag fabrics that hide debris. Dogs Queensland warns that a single paralysis tick can be dangerous, and Animal Poisons Helpline Australia notes signs may be delayed 3–5 days after attachment.
How often should I wash my dog’s camping bed?
As a minimum, wash covers after each trip. During longer trips, shake out bedding daily and wipe down waterproof surfaces. In humid or wet conditions, cleaning and drying promptly reduces odour and skin irritation risk.
What size camping bed should I buy?
Measure your dog from nose to base of tail and add space for their preferred sleeping position. Dogs that sprawl need more length; dogs that curl may be comfortable in smaller beds with raised edges. For camping, also consider whether the bed fits inside your tent or annex without blocking walkways.
Is a sleeping bag-style dog bed good for camping?
For cold-weather camping, sleeping bag-style beds can add warmth if they include effective insulation. They can be less useful in warm, humid conditions and may take longer to dry. They also need to be sized so your dog will actually stay inside the warm zone.
What should I do if my dog’s bed gets soaked while camping?
Separate layers and dry what you can immediately. Use a spare dry blanket from a sealed bag so your dog has a dry surface overnight. If you cannot dry the bed, prioritise a dry insulating layer (even a foam mat) and keep your dog off cold, wet ground.
