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The Ultimate RV Dog Must Haves List: Road-Tested Favorites for Your Furry Copilot

  • Writer: Fern's Big Adventure
    Fern's Big Adventure
  • Apr 16
  • 6 min read

Updated: Apr 22




Bishop has been riding shotgun with us since the very beginning. RV life with a dog comes with its own set of quirks, challenges, and straight-up hilarious moments (wait until you hear about the water bowl situation). Over the years, we've found a handful of RV dog must haves that make life on the road easier, safer, and way more comfortable—for all of us.


This isn’t a list filled with trendy gadgets or things we never use. These are the real-deal, road-tested RV dog essentials that have earned their spot in our tiny rolling home. If you're traveling with a pup (or dreaming of it), here's what we swear by for keeping our four-legged copilot happy, healthy, and ready to explore.


1. Bishop’s Sweatshirt 


We were never dog clothes people… until we were. Bishop’s a short-haired pitty who gets cold easily, especially in the mountains. Good friends from Redwoods River passed along their pup’s old blue sweatshirt (it says Love is the Adventure—cue the tears). He loves it. Sleeps in it. Never tries to take it off. Looks like a little boy in it and I cannot handle how CUTE he is. It’s cozy, sentimental, and keeps him warm. Super Snugs approved.



2. Tick Remover Brush 


Ticks are just part of the deal when you spend this much time outdoors. We give Bishop monthly meds, but when he does pick up a tick, this metal tick-removal brush is a lifesaver. He thinks he’s just getting a brushing, sits still, and the tick comes right out—no stress, no drama.


3. Omega 3 Treats 


Desert life = dry skin. Bishop scratches himself raw in the dry season, and these Omega 3 treats don’t fix it entirely, but they help a ton. Bonus: they’re treats, not a messy oil, so he’s all in. His coat looks shinier, too.


4. Hot Spot Spray


Dry air, shifting climates, and Bishop’s sensitive skin are not the best combo. He’s gotten hot spots from scratching, and this spray gives him some much-needed relief. We’ve tried a few, but the one we keep in the RV helps soothe the itch and keeps him from going full lizard-brain on himself. A solid go-to for our itchy boy.


5. Antiseptic Spray


Accidents happen—especially when your pup is constantly exploring. Bishop once broke his dew claw mid-adventure (don’t worry, he’s fine), and this antiseptic spray was a lifesaver. We used it to clean the wound and prevent infection. It’s a staple in our pet first-aid kit now. You never think you’ll need it… until you do.


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6. Dog Sunscreen Spray 


Yes, it’s a thing—and yes, it’s essential. When we’re in the desert sun, we spray Bishop’s ears, nose, and tummy to protect his exposed skin. No burns, no fuss, and he gets to keep sunbathing like the little lizard he is.


7. Elevated Outdoor Bed 


We sit in gravity chairs, so Bishop deserves his own chill spot too. This raised bed keeps him off the dirt and gives him a comfy place to nap outside. He’s more of a wanderer than a lounger, but he’s definitely caught a few sun naps here.


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8. Cooling Mat (Non-Gel) 


Summer temps can hit triple digits, and while we do run the A/C when needed, this water-filled cooling mat is great for conserving energy. Bishop lays on it to cool down after adventuring—and since he’s got claws for days, we went with a durable, non-gel option.


9. Raincoat with Hood 


I didn’t think it was possible for him to be cuter, and then we zipped him into a raincoat with a HOOD. It swishes when he walks. I can’t even. We spent a winter in the Redwoods where it rained constantly, and this little outfit helped him still get outside time, even when the weather wasn’t ideal.



10. Collapsible Water Bowl 


A must-have on hikes. Bishop can drink from a stream, but he prefers you pour it mid-air like a fountain. He’s a little weirdo. Still, the bowl comes with us every time—hydration is key.


11. Life Vest/Jacket


He’s a wild swimmer and once paddled out way too far. Now he wears a vest when he’s in open water and we keep him tethered with a long leash just in case. Safety first for our little fish.


12. Hiking Harness 


Our go-to for big adventures. He carries his own treats and poop bags, and the harness fits snug so we never worry. One time he jumped off a cliff to follow us—no joke. James caught him mid-air. Never again. This harness holds him securely and gives us peace of mind.


13. Speed Harness 


Perfect for quick potty breaks or short walks around campgrounds. It’s easy to slip on, and Bishop knows the drill—this isn’t a hike, it’s business.



14. Extendable Leash 


We are firmly team leash. Bishop doesn’t like dogs running up on him, and not all dogs are friendly—please be responsible. His extendable leash gives him just enough freedom to sniff and explore while staying close.


15. Dog Stake 


Sometimes we’re workamping or parked near others, and this keeps Bishop close but able to enjoy the outdoors. He’s got a strong nose and a wanderer’s heart, so it keeps us both happy and stress-free.


16. Favorite Toys


Bishop is obsessed with his rubber bones—we call them his “anxiety bones.” He has a whole collection and will pick a favorite each day to carry around, chew, and whine over. He also loves stuffies (mostly for destroying), and tug-of-war is a daily ritual while we make coffee. But those bones? Essential. You can’t live the RV life without your go-to comfort toy.


17. A Favorite Stuffed Animal


Bishop has a best friend named Lamb Chop. Yes, that Lamb Chop. And somehow, she survived. We were adamant: Lamb Chop is not for shredding—she’s a companion. And now? He gets it. She’s his cuddle buddy, his pillow when we leave the RV, and watching him curl up with her is a guaranteed daily heart attack from the cuteness.



18. Favorite Pillow & Blanket


As a short-haired pitty, Bishop gets cold all the time—and he’s fully embraced his identity as a little blanket burrito. We’ve got blankies galore in the RV, and he loves nothing more than burrowing under them, especially with his beloved “B” pillow. I’ve nicknamed him Super Snugs because the coziness is next-level. If you’ve ever seen a dog sigh contentedly while wrapped like a cinnamon roll, you get it.



Because Every Good Boy Deserves a Little Extra


RV life isn’t always glamorous, but it’s ours—and Bishop’s too. These essentials help us keep him safe, comfortable, and part of every adventure. Whether it’s sunscreen or a sweatshirt, these little things make a big difference in how we care for our pup on the road.


Got a pet essential you love? Or a travel tip for adventuring with your furry sidekick? Drop it in the comments or shoot me a message—we’re always learning, and we’d love to hear what works for you. 🐾


Affiliate Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through them at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products that I truly believe in and use myself. Your support helps me continue creating helpful content—thank you! #ad

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