Tips for dog owners: Camping with your dog: Holidays on four paws – how to make it relaxing for everyone

For many dog ​​owners, it's clear: their four-legged friends are a must-have on vacation. Camping, in particular, offers ideal conditions for a shared vacation with your dog—nature, exercise, and flexibility. However, not every site allows pets—and not everywhere are dogs truly welcome. With the right preparation, camping with your dog can be a relaxing experience for everyone involved.

Jenny Krutzinna holds a PhD in philosophy and is a passionate camper. When switching from a tent to a motorhome presented her with challenges in finding a campsite, she and her partner quickly developed a digital solution. For eight years, they have been running a leading camping app that helps hundreds of thousands of campers find suitable overnight spots across Europe. Jenny also regularly gives talks on camping and travel topics at camping trade fairs and van life events. She spends about six months of her year on the road in a camper van.

While many campsites advertise "dogs allowed," this doesn't say much about the actual comfort for both two-legged and four-legged friends. Those traveling with dogs should check whether there are suitable exercise areas , whether dog showers or water bowls are available , or whether certain rules, such as leash requirements, apply throughout the site.

Many campsites offer special "dog zones" : plots with direct access to walking paths, fenced-in meadows, or even small dog playgrounds with agility elements. Some operators provide poop bag dispensers and disposal facilities , making it easier to be considerate of other guests.

An ideal dog-friendly campsite meets several criteria:

1. Close to nature : forest, meadow or water within walking distance
2. Clear rules : Clear communication on leash requirements, access zones or rest periods
3. Special offers : dog shower, playground, shady areas or dog beach
4. Dog tolerance also among guests : Depending on the target group, some places are more patient with dog noises – for example, on family pitches or dog-specific facilities

Especially during peak season (July/August), some campsites restrict access to dogs – sometimes completely, sometimes to specific pitches. In Italy, for example, it's common practice not to allow dogs during the summer holidays. Seasonal bans also exist in some areas of France and Spain.

In Scandinavia, however—that is, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, and Finland—dogs are allowed on campsites almost everywhere. Dog bans are rare exceptions here, and many campsites are geared toward pet-loving guests. Therefore, if you want to travel with your dog as easily as possible, Northern Europe is the perfect place to stay.

Important: Many countries have additional regulations. Depending on the region, it may be that:

1. a muzzle must be carried – for example when traveling on public transport, ferries or in city centers
2. only a certain number of dogs are allowed per plot , for example a maximum of two dogs per pitch
3. So-called listed or fighting dogs are completely banned – regardless of their behavior or temperament tests. This applies in many parts of Europe, such as France, Denmark, and Italy. Entry may also be restricted or prohibited for certain breeds.

It is best to obtain information before your trip directly from the campsite or via the official tourism website of the destination country.

Some countries and regions are considered particularly dog-friendly:

1. Germany : Many places in Bavaria, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania and Lower Saxony have specialized in dog holidays – even with their own dog beaches, for example on the Baltic Sea.
2. Denmark & ​​Sweden : Extensive beaches, dog-friendly facilities and many off-leash areas – especially outside of peak season.
3. France : Dogs are welcome in many places during the off-season. In the South of France, there are numerous places with direct access to dog-friendly beaches.
4. Austria & South Tyrol : Many mountain regions offer perfect conditions for long walks and dog-friendly campsites with views.
5. Netherlands : Dogs are welcome on many coastal areas – outside of peak season they are even allowed to be kept on a leash on the beach.

There are now a growing number of campsites dedicated entirely to dog-friendly vacations . Here you'll find:

1. Dog showers and bathing ponds
2. Training or agility areas
3. Veterinarian nearby
4. Dog-friendly restaurants
5. Welcome packages for dogs

Some of these places even offer dog training, physiotherapy, or nutritional advice during your vacation. It's worth checking the site description – or asking for a tip from the community.

Even if you are on holiday at a dog-friendly site, you should follow certain basic rules:

1. Leash with you – even if there is no obligation
2. Remove leftovers – everywhere
3. Avoid leaving dogs alone for long periods of time – not every neighbor finds constant barking charming
4. Respect other guests – not everyone loves four-legged friends

With a little consideration and foresight, the holiday will be relaxing for everyone – not just for the dog.

On social networks like the Facebook group "Motorhome with Dogs," over 32,000 dog owners share experiences, campsites, and destinations. Most apps offer a "dogs allowed" filter, and camping-app.eu also provides a list of particularly dog-friendly campsites across Europe—including reviews from other dog owners.

For many, camping with a dog is the best way to travel – provided the spot suits your furry friend, their daily routine, and the surroundings. The good news: The selection of dog-friendly campsites is constantly growing. With a little planning, respect for the rules, and consideration for other guests, a vacation with four paws can be a truly memorable experience – for both humans and animals.

This article is from the EXPERTS Circle – a network of selected experts with in-depth knowledge and many years of experience. The content is based on individual assessments and is aligned with the current state of science and practice.