RVing With Dogs? 43 Helpful Tips (RV Park Rules & Checklist)

Traveling with a family in an RV is a special experience.  But, there is one vital member of the family that is often forgotten about.

Dogs are such a special and essential part of most families.  This is why we sometimes forget to take special consideration when it comes to traveling with a dog.

However, there are so many things to keep in mind.

This is why RVing with a dog takes a little extra care and planning to do it right.  You also have to consider that dogs are not welcomes everywhere that you are.  This can drastically change anyone’s traveling plans.  So if you’re looking for the best experience with your dog or just want some helpful tips, stay tuned!

Here are some of the must-know essentials to keep both man and man’s best friend happy on the road!

Let’s start with the disadvantages and then move on to the really good stuff 🙂

The Disadvantages of RVing with Dogs

Let’s start first by going over the disadvantages of RVing with dogs.  For starters, you’ll need to stop more during your trip.

This can be a disadvantage because it adds time and complexity to your trip.  However, it can also be an advantage as well because most people don’t stop as often as they should.

Here are the points in a neat list:

• Frequent Stops
• More Cleaning
• More Expensive
• More Planning Required
• Less Space
• Dog Walking
• Crossing Borders Can Be Difficult

In fact, even though the UK’s Department of Transport says that motorists should take a 15-minute break every two hours, many people drive for four hours or more before taking a break.

Ironically, people who won’t stop to give themselves a break are highly likely to stop to give their dogs a break.

In addition to stopping more frequently, you’ll also have to clean more frequently.  Let’s face it, dogs are dirty.  They shed, the drool, and they don’t mind running through the mud.  This type of dirt can quickly build up within an RV so you’ll end up having to clean much more than you usually do.

On top of all of this, your dog and his/her food and other items will take up space in your RV.  Space in an RV is already at a premium so you’ll definitely notice how much extra space your dog is taking away from you.

The cost of traveling with a dog is usually more than traveling on your own.  You’ll have to find pet-friendly campsites and you may end up having to pay an extra fee to bring your dog along.

This being said, if you already have a dog, you may end up saving money by not having to board them.

Pet-Friendly Campsites?

Speaking of pet-friendly campsites, you’ll have to find them.  Not all campgrounds and state parks are friendly so you’ll need to check before you head to your destination.  It would be unfortunate to show up to a state park only to be turned away at the gate due to your dog.

You might think that you can sneak your dog into a state park, which leads me to the next disadvantage.  You’ll have to walk your dog while you’re on your trip.  You won’t be able to sneak a dog into a state park because people will see it the moment you step out of your RV.

Are you used to letting your dog out into the yard each morning?  Do you pick your dog’s waste up only after you’ve had your morning coffee?

When you’re at a state park or campground, you won’t be able to just let your dog out the door and you’ll be required to pick up the dog’s waste as soon as it hits the ground.  This might not be the best way to spend your vacation.

Will you be driving your RV into another country?

If so, you may find that you need to get additional vaccines for your dogs.   You might also find that your dog needs to be quarantined for a certain amount of time within each country.  This could add many days to your trip and might even make it easier to just leave your dog behind on shorter out-of-country trips.

The Advantages of RVing with Dogs

• More Exercise
• You Don’t Have to Board Your Dog
• You Have a Traveling Companion
• Increased Safety
• You Don’t Have to Find Pet-Friendly Hotels

While there are many disadvantages to RVing with dogs, there are also many benefits.  Also, some of the disadvantages are also advantages so it really depends on how you look at things.

For example, having to wake up and walk a dog each morning might seem like a disadvantage, but it does give you more exercise. 

Also, dog people tend to meet people easier than people without dogs.  You’ll have an excuse to walk around your campground and a reason to get to know your neighbors better.

Another advantage of taking your dogs RVing with you is that you might save money.  This is because spending a little bit of extra money for a pet-friendly campground is almost always less expensive than boarding a dog.

The cost savings are even more apparent when you compare RVing with a dog to staying at hotels with a dog.  Dog-friendly hotels are almost always very expensive and they can sometimes be hard to come by.

In addition to all of this, you get to have a built-in traveling companion.  This can be especially beneficial to solo travelers who might need the extra companionship.

Many studies have been done on truckers who drive spend long periods of time on the road and loneliness is a real problem.  Some studies have even found that it can have a large negative impact on the trucker’s health.  Having your dog along with you can help mitigate feelings of loneliness among solo RV travelers.

Having your dog with you might actually keep you safer as well.  A barking dog is a deterrent to would-be RV invaders and can serve to alert you of any impending danger.  Dogs can even scare off wild animals when you’re out in the wilderness and they can alert other people for you when you’re in danger and can’t do so yourself.

3 Best LARGE Dog Breeds For RVing

Sometimes it isn’t about the journey the dog will take, but the dog itself.

If you are already an avid traveler and are looking for the right companion to join you on the road – you have come to the right place!  Finding the best dog is like finding that missing puzzle piece for your family.

While some people like to find their dog based on a feeling and how their family feels, some would rather have all the facts up front.  This is because some dogs are just better equipt to handle life on the road.  However, if you are very particular about the size of your dog, you will have to do a little more digging.

This is especially true when it comes to larger dogs.  One misconception about large dogs is that they are destructive.  This simply isn’t true.  I have seen 100lb dogs think that they are lap dogs.  Any dog can be a loving companion if they are raised in the right home.  So, what are some of the best large dog breeds for traveling along in an RV?  Heres what we got:

3 Good Large Dog Breeds For RVing

It is important to remember that not all dogs are created equal.  Just because a dog is large in size doesn’t mean that are not useful in small spaces.

It all comes down to characteristics and personalities. 

While each dog may be different, the common qualities are often the same.  Here are some of the best large dog breeds for traveling in an RV:

1) Great Dane

Many people get intimidated by the size of Great Danes.  But, these gentle giants could not be further from violent and aggressive.

Great Danes have been known to be sweet and soft while also remaining stoic and loyal.  These are just some of the qualities that make them perfect for the road.

However, the main reason why they are perfect for RV life is that they have a very mild temperament.  This means that they can handle long hours on the road and won’t be bouncing off the walls if you can’t stop for hours at a time.

Plus, you can’t deny the absolute beauty of a regal looking Great Dane!

2) Labrador Retriever

We have all seen those family friends movies where the family sees a dog grow old.  Most times the dog at the center of this plot is a Labrador Retriever.

This is because their kind faces and wide smiles are often synonymous with happy homes.

However, this is much more than just movie magic and lip service.

Labrador Retrievers are also amazing additions to any home.  Especially those families who are focused on finding adventure.  This breed of dogs loves open and air and adventure but, also can sit still when needed.  This is why this ultra-soft dog would be the perfect addition to any RV loving family.

3) Husky

There is no other dog built better for an adventure that a traditional husky.  These large beautiful dogs are most known by their piercing blue-green eyes and their love for the cold.  Husky’s were once regarded as dogs that should be used for manual labor.

Jobs like pulling sleds and carts through the snow are perfect for these fiercely loyal dogs.

However, along with their spirit for work, Huskies have a ton of spirit and joy for the family.  This is why they are so loyal and dependable.  Having a dog that is not only loving but great in a crisis situation is perfect for living life in an RV.

Beyond those sharp blue eyes and their sense for adventure is a loving creature who takes care of their family.

If you already own a dog, the best dog breed for RVing is the dog you already have.  However, if you’re considering getting a new dog for RVing, you might want to think carefully about which dog breed you choose.

In my experience, small dogs tend to be the best breeds as they’re easy to manage and they take up less space within an RV.  They also require less food and water so you won’t have to pack as much or even spend as much on dog food.

Additionally, you might want to think about getting a friendly dog breed that doesn’t shed or bark.  You won’t get as much security out of a dog like this but you’ll have a very pleasant traveling companion to take with you on your journey.

6 Best SMALL Dog Breeds For RVing

On the other side of the scale are smaller dog breeds.  Some people get intimidated by larger dogs and wonder if their size is simply too much to handle.

We would love to tell you that smaller dogs are easier but, that is rarely the case.

Each breed of dog will have their own sets of advantages as well as challenges.

However, wanting a smaller dog can also be a personal preference.  Some people just prefer smaller animals because that is simply what they want.  So, are there smaller dog breeds that are better suited for living in an RV?  Absolutely yes!  But, it is important to remember that any size or breed of dog will still require you to specially train them for this unique style of living.

If you have your mind set on adding a smaller companion to your RV family, you should know what breeds are best.  Luckily for you, we have already done the research for you!  Like larger dogs, smaller dogs also are unique depending on the breed.  What works for some small dogs is out of the question for others.

Here are some of the best small dog breeds for living in an RV:

1) Maltese

There is no dog breed cuter and cuddlier than a Maltese.  These dogs are often recognized by their curly snow white fur and their bouncy defender.  These little dogs are so full of energy and adventure that they would be the perfect addition to any RV home.

This is because above all things, a Maltese dog is loyal and loving to their family.  These dogs love nothing more than curl up on your lap at the end of the night.

Also, because of their youthful spirit, they bring exciting new energy to any home.  Best of all, they are great dogs to have if you have children.

2) Yorkshire Terrier

Yorkshire Terriers are often seen as smug little dogs that were once fashionable to put in a purse.  However, these dogs are much more than just fashion accessories.  Yorkshire Terriers love to stay by the side of their owners.  This means that you won’t have to worry about them running off at any moment in search of adventure.

However, the biggest advantage of having a Yorkshire Terrier while living in an RV is that they are fairly healthy dogs.  This means that they don’t require extra exercise to stay healthy and fit.

This is a great match for older couples who are looking for companionship but not a lot of work.

3) Boston Terrier

Boston Terriers are known for their pointy ears and their goofy wide smiles.  But, they are also known to be able to adapt perfectly to new situations.  This is one of the reasons why they are perfect for living on the road in an RV.

It will take very little time and effort to adjust them to a new way of living.

By nature, Boston Terriers are easygoing and joyful dog breeds.  This way you will not only have a dog but an excited travel partner.

The joy of having a furry friend as excited about adventures are you are is everything you need for a loving and lasting relationship.

Another great thing about terriers is that they don’t shed much. You can read much more here about how little terriers shed.

4) Miniature Golden Doodle

The miniature golden doodle is small, friendly, and does not shed.  This means that you’ll have less hair to clean up inside your RV and your dog won’t take up much space.  You’ll also have the added benefit of a friendly dog that you can take around the campsite with you.

The downside to this dog is that it is full of energy.  High energy dogs require more walks and they may end running around your RV more than you care for.  This can create wear and tear on your RV and you might end up having to do repairs more often.

5) Bichon Frise

The Bichon Frise is a hypoallergenic dog that does not shed and rarely drools.  This is great for tight RV quarters where allergens can quickly build up and cause issues even in people who do not normally experience allergy problems.  It is also great because you don’t have to worry about cleaning up dog hair, pet dander, or drool.  This dog is also a small dog so it is easier to manage than bigger dog breeds.

The downside to this dog breed is that is isn’t always the most confident dog.  This makes the dog more prone to aggression and you could have issues with it interacting with other dogs and people.

6) Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

The cavalier king Charles spaniel is a small dog with low energy levels.  This is great because this type of dog won’t mind the fact that it doesn’t have an entire house to run around in.  You’ll also find that this dog is less likely to bark so you won’t have as many issues with noise.

The downside to this dog breed is that it tends to shed a lot.  In order to deal with this problem, you’ll have to do regular grooming and you’ll have to clean your RV much more often than you would have to with other dog breeds.

12 Tips for RVing With Dogs

Traveling in an RV with a large dog may seem like a huge undertaking.  From clunky bumps to overexcitement, there is a lot of concern with how to handle their size in a small space.  But, there are plenty of ways to make the process go smoother.

You not only want you and your family to be able to travel comfortably, but want the dog to be comfortable as well. 

This is why it is so important to make sure that both your family and your RV is prepared for a large addition to the team.  Here are some of the best tips for RVing safely and smoothly with a large dog:

1) Make Them Comfortable

Dogs, much like humans, need a space to call their own.  This is especially important when living in such a small space like an RV.  While dogs love to run around in the open air, they will need a comfortable place to rest their heads as well.

One great way to ensure that your dog has the comfort they need is to get them their own bed.

Large dog beds can be found at any pet store and do a great deal to offer comfort to large dogs. 

Best of all, these beds are lightweight and can be moved anywhere that it is needed.  This way your large dog always has a place to recharge after a long day of adventure.

2) Have Plenty Of Water

One of the most important ways to keep your dog calm during long trips in the RV is to ensure you have plenty of water.  Dogs are more active by nature than humans and require much more water to get by.  Many times dogs can become agitated and even lethargic when dehydrated.

One way to prevent this is to make sure your dog as round-the-clock water.

Large water bowls are one way to go but, there is an easier way.  Try to find dog bowls that have a water reservoir so that you don’t have to refill your dog’s dish every time they are thirsty.  This way there is always a steady supply of water there for them when they need it!

3) Re-Train Your Dog

Your dog is only as good as their training.  What once worked wonders in a traditional home may no longer work in a smaller setting.  This is why it is so important to train your dog for the road.  The two key areas you will want to focus on is house training and behavior.

There are some useful aids available to help re0train your dog.  Number one thing you will want to keep on hand is potty pads.  These scented pads are a great way to keep your dog from having happy little accidents all over the RV.

With the proper training, your dog can easily go from relying on these potty pads to letting you know when it’s time to take a walk.

The other tool that you will want to have to help with behavior training is plenty of treats.  Dogs catch on quickly and can easily recognize their good behaviors with a simple reward system.  By using the treats as a tool to help them recognize this behavior – your dog is more likely to continue on the right path.

4) Plenty of Fresh Air

One of the most important tips for keeping your dog under control while on the road is to ensure they have plenty of outdoor time.  Most of us with dogs know that morning and nighttime walks are key to a happy dog.  But, when living in an RV, this special outdoor time is even more important.

Make sure that you are not only keeping up with regular walks but, that you are also allowing extra time for outdoor play.  This is especially important at night time when your family is unwinding after adventure.  Dogs can get restless at night when they haven’t had enough fresh air.

So tire out your dog – and your family – with nightly outdoor playing sessions.

5) Get Your Dog Used to Your RV Before Heading Out

Your RV trip with your dog will not be a happy one if your dog is not happy.  Dogs are usually agreeable but they can become confused or scared easily.

Unfortunately, you can’t just sit your dog down before the trip to explain to them what is going on ahead of time.  Because of this, it is usually best to help your dog get used to your RV before you head out on your journey.

One way to do this is to move their bed into the RV to let them know that you intend on having them sleep there.  This will also serve to help your dog feel more comfortable as they’ll have a piece of home along with them when you take your trip.

Another great way to help your dog get acclimated to your RV is to spend a night or two sleeping in your driveway.  This will help both you and your dog get a feel for what it is like to sleep in your RV without the added stress of traveling far away from your home.  After all, if you forget to pack something, you’ll only be a few steps away from getting it from your house.

6) Leave White Noise On

Your dogs are probably used to the sounds they hear when you’re at your house.  However, the sounds your dogs hear when you’re traveling will most likely be quite different.  At rest stops and busy roadside campgrounds, you’ll hear the sounds of the highway and people walking by.

Campgrounds might bring the noise of children playing or people playing loud music.  Your dog might be bothered by these sounds or he/she might get excited and might want to join in on the fun.

The sounds of nature might even frighten or excite your dog.  Does your dog normally wake up to sounds of birds, frogs, and other noise-making animals?  If not, these new sounds might cause your dog to bark.

One way many RVers deal with this is to block out new sounds so that their dog doesn’t have to hear them.  Some people turn on fans, others put the television on, and others play music.  I used to leave the television on at the house but eventually realized that dogs sometimes come on TV and my dogs love to bark at them when they do.  Because of this, I’d recommend you find some relaxing music for your dog to listen to while you’re away.

7) Keep an Eye on Temperatures

RVs don’t hold their temperatures very well.  They get hot quickly in hot weather and they get cold quickly in cold weather.  While you might plan to bring your dog everywhere you go, this isn’t always possible.  You’ll eventually have to leave your dog alone in your RV so you’ll need to know how to do it safely.

The first step you’ll want to take is to know what the temperature is outside of your RV.

If you’re staying in a shaded spot in 70-degree weather, you probably won’t have any issues with heat.  However, if it is 70 degrees in the morning and the forecast is calling for a 20-degree rise in temperatures, your dog may be subjected to temperatures above 90 degrees inside of the RV.

Many people deal with this issue by staying at campsites with electrical hookups.  They plug their RVs in and set the air conditioning so that the dogs will not be subjected to high temperatures.

The issue with this strategy is that sometimes the power can go out at RV parks.  Even if this only happens for a moment, the AC might not turn back on by itself.  Remember, an RV can change temperatures quickly so even a recently air-conditioned RV can quickly get hot.

One way to deal with this issue is to set up a monitoring system inside of your RV.  You can set something up that directly monitors your RV’s temperatures or you can simply aim a camera at your RV’s thermostat.  Use your smartphone to access the camera each hour and you’ll always know what the temperature is inside of your RV.

Another way to deal with this issue is to ask the campground to keep an eye on your RV to see if the AC is running.  You could also ask your neighbors to do this for you as well.  After all, you’ll probably know them already because you probably stopped to talk to them when you walked your dog.

One of the last things you will want to do to ensure your dog is comfortable in their smaller setting is to keep an eye on your thermostat.  Dogs run much hotter than humans.  This is why it is important to not only keep the thermostat low but to ensure there is water.

One tip to help keep the humans in your family comfortable is to keep plenty of layering clothes and blankets on hand.  Also, during the hotter months, try to use open windows to cool the RV instead of forced air.

This will not only help your dog’s comfort but their health as well!

8) Make it Easy for Your Dog to Get in and Out of Your RV

Climbing the steps in and out of an RV can be difficult for many dogs.  This is especially true for older dogs as well as smaller dogs.   Smaller dogs can be carried in and out of your RV but are this something you really want to do each time you move in and out of your RV?

One way to make things easier for both smaller and older dogs is to get a ramp for your entryway.  A ramp will make it easier for your dogs to get in and out by themselves and will give them more control over whether or not they stay inside or out.  This is great for remote areas when you might not necessarily have to worry about keeping your dog leashed.

Another way to make getting in and out of the RV easier for your dog is to make the steps easier to navigate.  Many RV steps are built from metal grates.  This is nice because it reduces their weight and helps to keep the dirt of off the steps.

Unfortunately, these types of staircases aren’t so great for your dogs. 

This is because your dogs may not feel comfortable walking on steps that they can see through.  Also, the metal grating can be uncomfortable on your dog’s paws and he/she might feel pain when they walk on these types of steps.

To alleviate this pain and to block the holes in your steps, lay down carpeting.  Just make sure you choose carpeting that is specifically made for staircases so that you and your dogs don’t slip when walking on it.

9) Get a Spill Proof Dog Bowl

Water can quickly ruin the floor of an RV.  Consistently spilling water from your dog’s bowl onto the floor of your RV will rot the floor out and you’ll end up having to replace the wood.  This is costly and can create an unsafe situation for you and your dogs.

Even if the floor doesn’t rot out completely, you’ll still end up with mold and mildew on the floor of your RV.  This is bad for your health as well as the health of your dogs.

One way to deal with this issue is to buy a spill-proof dog bowl.  These dogs are designed to help keep your dogs water from spilling out of your dog’s bowl.  This means that even if you forget to dump your dog’s water bowl out before heading back onto the road, you’ll still have a dry floor when you get to your destination.

It also means that you’ll waste less water as you won’t have to worry about dumping unused water out over and over again at each stop.  Your dog will get the water he/she needs and you won’t have to worry about wasting any water during this process.

10) Find a Dog Sitter at or Near The Campground

Just because you’re on the road, doesn’t mean you can’t find a dog sitter.  When you’re out exploring new places in your RV, you might not want to always come back every few hours to tend to your dog’s needs.

Some campgrounds will offer dog walking but most will not.  To get around this, you may want to look for people in the campground who will be around when you’re not.  These people might be willing to walk your dog in exchange for you walking their dog on a different day.  Other campers without dogs might be willing to walk your dog for a small fee.

If you can’t find someone within the campground to walk your dog, consider bringing someone in.  Websites like Rover can help you quickly find dog walkers and pet sitters in every town across the country.  If possible, go onto the site ahead of your trip and plan your trip accordingly.  This will help get you the best rates and will ensure that you have a dog walker when you need one.

11) Groom Your Dogs (Often!)

As we said earlier, dogs can quickly create a mess within your RV.  One way to help reduce this mess is to get your dog groomed before you head out.

This is especially true for dogs with long hair.  Give your dog a haircut and he/she will be cooler and less likely to shed.  Also, even if the dog does shed, there will be less hair to deal with.

Grooming should also include a bath so you won’t have as much built-up pet dander and loose dog hair to worry about.  Your dog will also smell better which is a big plus when you’re all confined to one small space.

Another step your dog groomer should take is to clip your dog’s nails.  This will make your dog more comfortable and will reduce wear and tear on your RV’s floor.

12) Don’t Let Your Dogs Roam Free

One mistake many dog owners make is to let their dogs roam free.  They either let their dogs run off of the leash in public places where they risk fines or they let their dogs roam free in wild areas where they risk encounters with wild animals.

You might think your dog is big and tough but this won’t matter when he runs into a porcupine or skunk.  Do you really want your dog to come out of the nearby bushes injured or smelling like a skunk?

To avoid these issues, always keep your dog on a leash when out walking.  When at your campsite, consider leasing your dog to the side of your RV outside or set up a small and portable dog pen for your dog to safely sit inside.  With a dog pen and an open RV door, your dog can go in and out of your RV as he/she pleases.

4 Tips Specifically For RVing With Big Dogs…

If you already have a large dog or plan on getting one to go RVing with, you’ll have some extra challenges to deal with.   Large dogs are harder to manage and they take up more space in an RV.

On the other hand, they can get in and out of RVs much easier and they can offer much better security than a smaller dog can.

Here are some tips for RVing with large dogs.

• Get a big RV with an open layout.
• Check to make sure your dog’s breed is allowed at your campsite.
• Bring a dog harness.
• Train your dog.

Big dogs take up more space than smaller ones.  They also need more room to maneuver.  A big RV with multiple slides will offer both you and your pet more room to move around.  Class A and class C motorhomes might be best for you and your big dog.

Unfortunately, many large dog breeds are restricted from certain campgrounds.  This is especially true for more aggressive dog breeds like German Shepards, Dobermans, and Pit Bulls.  Your dog might be the nicest dog in the world but you still may end up being barred from certain locations based off of his/her breed.

Make sure you check the pet restrictions before you head to your destination or you may end up without a place to stay when you arrive.

Large dogs can sometimes be harder to manage.  This is especially true in new places where your dog may get more excited than usual.  Make sure you bring along a good dog harness to make walking your dog easier.  This will help to keep you, your neighbors, and your dog safe throughout your trip.

Providing your dog with proper training will also help you to manage your large dog.  While a small dog can physically be restrained, a large dog often cannot.

Train your large dog to follow your commands and you won’t have to worry about physically restraining him when issues arise.

3 Tips For RVing With Multiple Dogs

What is better than one dog?

Multiple dogs of course!

Dogs are so full of positive energy and love that it is natural to want to surround yourself with furry friends.  But, what is the best way to do this when living in an RV?  Just like living in an RV with a large family, having multiple dogs is a challenge.

So, how can you balance it all while still maintaining your sanity?

More importantly, how can you ensure that each dog will have the space and attention that they need?

While it may be difficult, it certainly isn’t impossible!  Here are some great tips for traveling comfortably with more than one dog:

1) Spread Your Attention Around

Dogs are like children in the sense that they need their own individualized attention.  Feelings of jealousy are common in dogs that live with other dogs. So, how can you keep everyone happy?  Each dog will have its own special personality.  It is important to recognize the needs of each individual dog.

By doing this, you will be in a better position to understand the special needs of each animal.  If one dog loves to run and jump in the rain but another hates getting wet, divide your attention.  Make sure to have special moments carved out for each dog so that knows they have a unique place in your family.

2) Breed Of Dog Is Key

Some breeds of dogs simply do not get along with others.  This has nothing to do with anything other than simple biology.  Because it is impossible to reason with a dog, you have to ensure that you are giving them the best chance to get along.

Understand that choosing a breed of dog will directly impact your experience living in an RV.  So, give your home – and your family – the best shot by selecting breeds that get along together well.  This way there will be less conflict and more harmony within your limited living space.

3) Get Out As Much As Possible

The best advice we can give you for surviving on the road with multiple dogs is to take advantage of your unique setting.  While RVs are tight on space they are loaded on the adventure and fresh air.  This puts you and your family in the best possible position to handle multiple dogs at once.

Because the outside world is just a step away from your moving home, you should be taking advantage of having the world as your backyard.  Get out of the RV as much as you can and let your furry little friends run around as much as possible.  This will not only help to bond the dogs but will help to tire them out after a long day of traveling.

RV Modifications You Should Consider When RVing With A Dog

Sometimes you have to work with what you have in order to make your unique way of life productive.  But, there are always tweaks and changes you can make to make things easier on yourself.  This is especially true with living full-time in an RV.

There are plenty of modifications you can do to ensure that both you and your dog will have a happy life on the road.

This way you are not only working toward a healthy lifestyle but also are preparing for potential bumps along the way.

Here are some of the best RV modifications you should consider to make living with a dog in an RV go smoother:

• Pet Stairs Can Work Great

It is easy to forget that even larger dogs at times have a hard time navigating high spaces.  While we certainly want to discourage our furry family members from jumping up on tables, we don’t might the nighttime snuggles.  Adding pet stairs to areas of your RV like the sleeping areas will help your dog get to where they need to be!

• Easy Outdoor Access

It isn’t always easy to spot the signs that your dog needs to get out of the RV and into the fresh air.  This is why modifying your RV to have easier access to the outside world is key to living with a dog.  This also means that you have to trust that your dog won’t wander off too far.

This is especially important when traveling in an RV because the surroundings are always new.  However, if your dog has an easy way to get out and in, their overall mood will improve!

• Avoid Carpets (!)

If you can, avoid installing carpeting and soft floors in your RV.  Accidents are bound to happen.  The larger the dog, the larger the accident.  You want to avoid having your large dog making a habit out of having indoor accidents.

Because fibrous flooring like carpets can hold smell, they are not ideal for large dogs.

Try to stick with a surface that is easier to clean like hardwood and tiling.

This way you are not only encouraging your dog to keep the indoors clean, but you are also extending the life of your RV as well.  Replacing carpeting is expensive.

So, avoid this expense and go with flooring that is better suited for your lifestyle.

 

Wrapping It Up!

If you’re a dog lover, you and your dog will probably have a fun and safe RV trip together.  Just make sure you plan everything out in advance and be aware of the additional complications that bringing a dog along with you can have on your RV trip.

A dog is a perfect partner in crime to have by your side when seeking adventure in the great unknown.  However, adjusting your dog to this way of life isn’t always easy.

Sometimes the best thing to do is to take it one step at a time.  This is especially true if you have a dog who is already uneasy to change.

Stay the course and make sure to keep up with the positive reinforcements. Take it slow and make sure to keep in mind the changes you can make to ensure they are happy and comfortable.  After all, a happy dog is a happy home. Good luck!