The first backpacking trip we took after we adopted our husky, Luna, last year was in the Lincoln National Forest near Capitan, New Mexico. We had studied up on backpacking with dogs, and had gotten all the necessary gear. Only one question remained: where does the dog sleep when we go camping or backpacking?

It might seem like a simple question, but it had me puzzled for longer than I’d like to admit. There were so many options and opinions! As with all things outdoors, it seems like the answer to “where does the dog sleep when camping?” is really up to you.

However, I did manage to distil it down to a few different options. Hopefully, this will make your life a little easier when trying to decide where your dog sleeps.

Option 1: In the tent with you!

I’ll go ahead and admit that I’m biased toward this option, since this is the one we chose for camping with Luna. It makes the most sense to me, since it is the safest for your dog and the most worry-free for you. Camping with your dog in the tent with you ensures that your pooch is safe from the elements, large predators, and disease-carrying insects.

Plus, you get to cuddle up with your pup on cold winter nights!

The downside to having your dog in your tent with you is that their nails can do damage. Make sure you pack a repair kit, just in case you get a tear in your tent’s fabric. Another concern is with your dog’s comfort. Not all dogs feel secure in enclosed areas. Crate-training can help with this, but if your dog has anxiety from sleeping in a tight space with you and training isn’t working, you might consider another option.

Option 2: In your tent’s vestibule

If you don’t want to commit to bringing your dog all the way inside, you can create a sleeping space for her in your tent’s vestibule. Throw down a doggy-sized sleeping pad or other bedding down, and tether the dog to your waist. That way your pup can sleep in comfort while still being under your control.

Option 3: In his own (pup) tent!

Another option is to buy or make a small tent for your dog to sleep in overnight. Dog tents exist, but some can be pricey. Try to make or buy a tent with no floor to avoid rips and tears, and make sure you provide proper bedding for your dog.

If your dog can freely enter and exit his tent, make sure that you also tether him so he can’t run off.

Option 4: Tethered outside

There are some occasions where it is acceptable to tether your dog outside your tent at night. A tether will keep your dog relatively secure and close by. This can be a good option if your dog refuses to sleep in your tent with you, and you don’t have a doggy tent available.

A high-quality tie-out cable that is appropriate for your dog’s weight and strength is essential to your dog’s safety. You definitely don’t want to wake up to snapped cable and a missing dog when you’re out camping!

Keep in mind that dogs are not magic (though they can certainly seem like it sometimes). By that I mean, weather affects them too! Your dog is not immune to cold temperatures, especially if they have short coats. On cold nights, or if your dog is wet, do whatever you can to make sure he stays warm. If that means putting your begrudging pup in the tent with you, do it! Even on mild nights, you should provide some bedding for your dog at the very least.

Also, from experience, I can tell you that not all dogs understand how tethers work, and some can get tangled up fairly easily. Make sure your dog is comfortable being tethered before trying this!

Overall, this isn’t the best option for most dogs.

Option 5: Loose outside

This option is, frankly, all cons. Please don’t ever leave your dog loose and unattended when camping. The risk of injury or predation is just too high. Not to mention the risk of your pup getting spooked and running off (or deciding to go on a midnight deer-chase). Even well-trained dogs should be under control at all times, whether in the backcountry or in a crowded campground.

Car Camping Option: A crate

If you’re car camping with your crate-trained dog, you can always bring her crate along. If the weather is unpleasant, you can always cover the top with tarp, providing your dog with a familiar, secure environment in which to catch some zzz’s.

All said, your best option is to have your dog sleep with you in your tent. However, it’s up to every dog owner to do what’s best for you and your pup. You know her needs and behaviors better than anyone else, after all!