Last updated on July 25th, 2023 at 07:48 am
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There’s nothing like RVing and camping with the entire family- and this should include your dog! But finding an RV with room for everyone, including Fido, is easier said than done.
If you’re looking for some of the best Class C RVs for dogs, you’re in the right place.
Class C RVs are versatile, popular, and easy to drive, making them a great choice for many RVers. But you might be wondering if they are the right fit for you and your dog.
Bringing your dog RVing can be a rewarding and fantastic experience, both for you and your pet. But what should you consider before making your final Class C RV purchase?
Let’s go over some of my top recommendations, and then on to my list of Class C RVs made with dogs in mind!
What To Look For In A Class C RV For Dogs
It can be overwhelming, shopping for an RV, especially a Class C. You may feel like there are too many options, especially ones that don’t seem to have any special features for Fido.
But thankfully, you’re not alone in your desire to travel or camp with your dog. Given that the American Pet Products Association (APPA) found that 37% of families want to travel with their dogs every year, it’s no wonder that RVing is a popular form of vacationing with pets!
Here’s what I recommend looking for in a Class C RV for dogs. If you find yourself leaning more toward a different style of rig, I’ve already compiled a list of some of the best rigs overall for pets.
Easy To Clean Furniture
As a pet owner myself (and living full-time in a vintage RV) I can attest that easy-to-clean furniture is a must for any dog owner! Dogs mean well and can be the sweetest members of our family. But there’s no denying these pets can be messy, especially in a small space. That’s why it’s important to keep an eye out for an RV with easy-to-clean furniture and fixtures.
This can be anything from your dinettes and living room seating to your bed and cabinetry. While there’s something to be said for furniture covers or blankets tossed on beds, dogs are notorious for making a space their own (which doesn’t always mean it will be easy to clean).
While I am a stickler for pet hair, you may be too! Keeping an eye out for finishings that don’t trap dog hair may be a good idea, especially carpets or other soft surfaces. While these design choices may not be the most stylish, they will be efficient!
Never forget that accidents happen, especially if you’re on the road for a great deal of time. Some dogs may also scratch up furniture, including doors or walls. You may want to look out for RVs with proper bedroom doors, rather than folding privacy screen options.
Durable And Easy Ro Clean Flooring
Most RVs are built with high-traffic situations in mind, so having durable flooring is a no-brainer if you have dogs. It’s just an added bonus if the flooring is also easier to clean!
I had the benefit (or chore) of remodeling the interior of my vintage rig myself. My partner and I knew we wanted waterproof and durable laminate flooring because of our rambunctious puppy.
While you may not get many flooring choices in your new Class C RV, make sure to ask about its durability over time. There may be a flooring warranty to consider as well. Or perhaps your RV manufacturer has already taken Fido into account when installing flooring!
Overall Length
The overall length of your Class C is important for a lot of reasons, especially if you want to travel with your dogs. Length and height are some of the biggest decisions for you to make when shopping for any RV!
You may not think it matters much, but Class Cs range in length, which affects every part of your RVing experience. Usually from 20-40 feet long, a 20-foot Class C will feel a lot different both inside and out than driving a 40-foot RV.
A longer rig has a lot of perks, including more space inside and more unique layouts. These layouts and extra breathing room can make or break camping with your dog!
However, a longer rig may prove much more difficult to drive, as well as more difficult to find parking spots. Some RV parks or campgrounds have length limits to their sites, meaning a 40-foot rig may not fit into every single place you want to stay.
This is a very important consideration for you to make before you make your final purchase!
Pet-Friendly Features
If you’re shopping for a Class C RV with your dog in mind, why not shop for one that includes pet-friendly features? These can range in specificity, and some RV manufacturers have even carved out special space in their RVs for Fido.
This can include food and water dish drawers that pull out and roll in for easy storage, an outdoor pet shower, a built-in pet bed area, and more. While a lot of these features can be added in after you make your final purchase, choosing a rig with dogs in mind is always a good place to start!
You should also consider a bathroom that is more pet friendly than others. This could include rigs with bathtubs, or perhaps a wet bath will suit dog owners more. The easier a room is to clean, the better it will suit your dog!
Pet-Friendly Layout
Layouts are arguably the most important thing for any RV owner to consider. Layouts will often make or break your RVing experience, but it may be difficult to determine what layout you and your family need- including your dogs!
Choosing a layout with the proper number of beds is a good place to start, and this layout should include a bed for Fido. Unless your dog sleeps in the same bed that you do, having room in an RV layout to keep your dog’s bed should be at the top of your list of priorities!
You should also consider RVs with ample storage. You need space for everyone’s luggage, food, and accessories- and this includes your dog! It is important to pack anything that your dog might need to be comfortable on the road, so bring treats, toys, and more for them.
Do you want to have the ability to close your dog in a separate room while you are packing or unpacking the rig? How about space for your dog to eat away from the rest of the family but not keep them outside?
These are all important situations to consider, and only certain Class C RV layouts will support these scenarios. Think about how your dog is being taken care of at home- this is the best way to replicate their needs while on the road!
Appropriate Climate Control
One of the scariest things to think about when on the road with your dog is your rig’s climate control. Leaving your dog in a hot vehicle can be life-threatening, and this includes leaving your dog unattended in your RV.
Most RVs are outfitted with reliable air conditioners nowadays, but it is important to keep this in mind for your pet more than anyone else traveling with you. Dogs are deeply affected by both heat and cold, more so than humans.
Make sure that your dog is always kept in a climate-controlled area of your RV, and perhaps consider RVs with multiple air conditioners should you be planning many summer destinations.
What Are The Pros And Cons Of Class C RVs For Dogs?
Class C RVs are wildly popular these days, whether you’re a trendsetting couple or a family of five. This makes them a great choice for those of you wanting to travel with your dogs!
However, there are pros and cons to any rig, including Class Cs. Here are some to consider, from Fido’s perspective!
Pro: Many Layouts Have Room For Fido
Class Cs can be small, but because of this, they have learned to maximize their overall space and layout. Many Class C RVs have plenty of room for your dogs to eat, sleep, and play, and you won’t feel too crowded!
As I’ve already mentioned, your layout is incredibly important to consider, but thankfully Class C RVs are flexible. Many manufacturers offer loads of layout options, including ones that will give both you and your dog some breathing room.
You can’t (and shouldn’t) always send your dog outside, especially if you are camping in inclement weather. Make sure you get a layout that pleases the entire family, including your pets.
Con: Containing Your Dog May Be Difficult During Travel
Class Cs can be tricky when it comes to traveling with the whole family. You need to make sure a Class C has enough seatbelts for everyone, but what about your dog? How can you best contain them while a Class C RV is in motion?
Distracted driving while RVing can be very dangerous, and having a dog roaming or causing mischief while you’re driving can spell disaster. Many Class Cs don’t offer restraints for dogs, so this is definitely something to consider.
However, it is easy to bring along and store a dog crate while you are traveling or camping. This could be the most natural solution for any RVer hoping to drive a Class C with their dog in tow!
Pro: Some Class Cs Have Special Features For Dogs
As I’ve already mentioned, some Class C RVs have already taken your pup into consideration when building out their rigs. Many brands offer special features, designed just for dogs! This can include special feeding areas, sleeping nooks, showers or baths, and even pet ramps. Keeping an eye out for these special touches can make all the difference in the comfort of your pets.
Dogs are just as stressed out as humans when it comes to traveling. I encourage you to do whatever you can to make them comfortable during your upcoming RV trip!
Con: Dogs Can Wear Out Some Class C RVs
Kids are one thing; dogs are a whole other when it comes to messes and wear and tear. Dog claws, teeth, and fur can cause some serious damage to any interior, including the interior of your brand-new Class C RV.
You may want to research RV warranties and see what they include for pets or overall interior damage, as dogs are notorious for damage. Just remember, it’s not their fault (most of the time….)!
Most RVs are built with durability in mind, but some aren’t. You may want to keep an eye out for RVs designed for more high-traffic situations, or ones that have already taken pets into account!
Pro: Most Class C’s Are Made From Easy To Clean Materials
Since dirt, sand, and mud are all a part of camping, RVs are usually designed with easy-to-clean materials in mind. This extends throughout a rig, from the floors to the walls to the upholstery.
You can no doubt find a rig with pet and kid-safe materials in it. The last thing anyone wants to do while they are on vacation is spend an age cleaning! Thankfully, RV manufacturers have already considered this, and have taken extra care to choose their materials wisely.
Dogs can have accidents or make messes, especially if traveling and stressed. Thankfully, a Class C interior design should have you covered, or you could even consider a rig with a washer and dryer onboard.
What Are Some Good Brands Of Class C RVs For Pets?
Shopping around and noticing just how many RV brands there are in the world? Me too! Thankfully, I know of a few good names in the game, especially brands making RVs with humans and dogs in mind.
Thor
Thor brand motorhomes are popular, especially for those of you with pets! Known for being budget-friendly like Winnebago, Thor is proving to be another reliable brand in the RV world. They are great for families, including families with multiple dogs!
Winnebago
You’ve heard of Winnebago, right? Known for their affordability and overall customer service, Winnebago keeps wowing RVers with their innovations, usually for a good price. They know the importance of bringing Fido along on any and all camping journeys!
Entegra
If your budget isn’t at the top of your list of concerns, an Entegra coach may be a good fit for you. With a superior foundation, unrelenting attention to detail, and old-world craftsmanship, Entegra makes quality Class Cs for every single member of the family!
Coachmen
Coachmen is another classic RV brand with a focus on family and dog-friendly layouts. They use their space wisely more often than not and are a well-known brand. Their overall interior design may be simple, but it will be durable enough for the average dog.
Forest River
Forest River is well regarded in the RV world and has been for decades. They make a great variety of rigs, from fifth wheels to Class C’s, so definitely keep them on your shortlist! They have many layouts, including ones that greatly benefit families with dogs.
How Else Can I Make My Class C RV Dog Friendly?
If you are shopping for a Class C RV and noticing that there still isn’t enough to keep your dog happy or comfortable while traveling, you are not alone. How else can you make your RV a safe and dog-friendly space without compromising any other features?
Here are my top recommendations for what you can do to make your Class C a hit with any dog!
Use A Travel-Safe Crate
The number one consideration for any RV owner? It should be safe. This includes the safety of your pooch, and purchasing a travel-safe crate is a great place to begin.
These crates could be found built into your Class C, but more often than not they are an aftermarket addition. Many RV owners may already own a dog crate, something that can be moved from your regular vehicle and into your Class C.
These crates should be able to be secured in some way when placed inside of your Class C. Your pup isn’t going to have a good time if their crate is sliding around during transport!
Install A Pet Ramp
Do you own a puppy or a senior dog with hip problems? Many RVs are difficult enough for people to climb into, let alone your aging dog!
Installing a reliable and safe pet ramp may be a huge plus for your pups, especially if you notice your dog struggling to jump onto other surfaces or locations in your home. Pet ramps are designed to work in conjunction with your RV, and some are strong enough for humans to use as well.
A pet ramp is one of the kindest gifts that you can give to your pet. RVs are tall, and going easy on your dog so that you can maximize your outdoor fun can make all the difference in the world.
Provide A Sleeping Area
Dogs are creatures of habit, so ensuring your dog has a safe and consistent sleeping area is key to RVing with them. Whether it be in their pet crate, a nice sunny spot near the driver’s seat, or even in bed with you, your dog will appreciate their own sleeping space!
A stress-free dog is a happy dog, but any amount of traveling is usually a stressor for our pets. Giving them time to decompress, just like people, can make all the difference for your next RV vacation. Give them their pet bed or favorite blanket, some toys, and treats- I’m sure they’ll start to feel right at home!
Place Food And Water In Set Location
Just like it matters where they sleep, having a specific and routine location for a dog’s food and water bowl matters. Changing your dog’s bowl location frequently can cause distress and confusion, but this can be difficult to avoid in a small space like an RV.
Try to pick a spot out of the way, and somewhere that your dog is familiar with. Many Class C RVs come equipped with a specific place to keep a dog’s water and food bowls, so definitely keep this in mind while shopping!
Purchase A Class C With Outdoor Shower
If you know your dog likes to get messy, your Class C interior bathroom may not be able to handle them. Having an outdoor shower may be a lifesaver for those of you with dogs that love to dig or roll in the sand or dirt!
The last thing you need to be doing on your vacation is cleaning your dog each and every single time they play outside. Having an outdoor shower is the perfect solution- just wash and dry off your dog before letting them back inside!
The Best Class C RVs For Dogs
Are you ready to take a look at some of the best Class C RVs for dogs? Have you taken all of their needs into consideration, as well as your own? Great! It’s time to check out some of the best Class C RVs for Fido- and the whole family.
Best Overall: Jayco Greyhawk
While the Jayco Greyhawk doesn’t have all of the bells and whistles specifically for Fido, it should have enough to please every member of the family. This roomy Class C is built using all of Jayco’s proprietary construction methods and materials with added safety features to keep the most precious cargo safe: the pups!
I’m always looking for a convenient place to clean up my dog after a long day at the beach or on the trail, and the Greyhawk has the answer. There’s an outdoor shower ideal for washing muddy paws, and I love that I can have a dance while scrubbing the dog thanks to the marine-grade exterior speakers. There’s an LED power awning too, as well as a powered entrance step that makes getting in and out of the rig considerably easier (especially if you’re a dog with short legs).
While it doesn’t come standard, I would personally opt for the dual AC unit option so I never have to worry about my dog getting too hot while camping. It’s a tad annoying this feature is an optional extra, incurring additional costs, but it’s a great investment for those who have furry friends on board. It’s even possible to do a bit of boondocking with your pooch, as there’s an onboard gas generator, a decent-sized solar panel included, and house batteries to keep everything running.
The Greyhawk is priced well, making it one of the more budget-friendly rigs on this list. The interior design is high-end and gives the rig a truly residential feel, allowing any dog to feel at home. With four available floor plans, with an array of different sleeping and living options, the entire family will have room to spread out, as shown in the tour video above.
Jayco builds all of their rigs with sturdy hardwood cabinetry, giving the interior yet another residential upgrade. There are even blackout roller shades, perfect for any dog that loves to bark at anything they may see outside!
The Jayco Greyhawk has a lot to offer the entire family, including Fido. With ample exterior storage and interior sleeping places, you and your dog will no doubt find yourselves feeling right at home in this rig.
Best On A Budget: Coachmen Cross Trail EV
RVing costs a substantial amount, so it’s always nice to find rigs on a budget. That’s why I’ve added the Coachmen Cross Trail to our list. This rig is available standard, in EV with three floor plans (all measuring 24’1″ in length), or an XL version with four floor plans (ranging in length from 23’9″ to 29′ 4″) I love this flexibility as it allows RVers to experiment with different layouts, and find the one that works best for them.
The Cross Trail’s size and capabilities provide nearly endless possibilities, especially when taking a look at the several floor plans available. The storage is extensive with this RV, and it means everything can come on board without things feeling cramped. This means spare bags of dog food, toys, and equipment can be stored neatly away.
The Cross Trail comes with ample exterior storage depending on the model, as well as an efficient ducted cooling system. This means I have to worry about my dog getting too hot while I’m on the road! It also has durable cabinets and laminate flooring for any and all puppy paws that are notorious for leaving scratches.
The available upholstery options are easy to clean, stylish, and durable. There are rolling blackout curtains over the available windows, though fewer windows mean less for Fido to bark at! Plus there’s a Wi-FI ranger installed in every Cross Trail, ideal for when I need to get connected and work from the road.
While the Cross Trail doesn’t have a drawer for your dog’s food bowls, it does have a 2,000-pound weight capacity for anything that you plan on storing. It also has a large three-way power fridge for any and all human food. Plus, the Cross Trail has been designed with a unique power system, capable of running everything inside of your rig on battery power, including the AC.
While it may not be the fanciest or most feature-packed, the Cross Trail is a Coachmen rig, which means you can stand behind their craftsmanship and sturdy Azdel sidewalls. They build rigs that last, and on a budget no less!
My dog is one of my high priorities, and I want her to feel as comfortable and happy on the road as possible! The Winnebago Navion is a luxurious rig with a wealth of features suitable for RVers and their fluffy sidekick. The Navion is a great diesel Class C, with a 25-foot rig and three available floor plans on the frame. I find it useful when manufacturers offer several different floorplan options, as it means there’s more freedom to choose the exact layout that works best for individual needs.
However, the three available floorplans from Winnebago are quite different, and all of them manage to pack plenty of features. The Navion has been kitted out with durable vinyl flooring and faux leather seating, making it easy to clean and care for, especially when my pup runs in with muddy paws! I also like the addition of the wet bath with a separate sink as it makes for far easier dog showers, and the flexible showerhead is a game-changer for getting to hard-to-reach places.
The kitchen is a beauty, which I’m a bit surprised to find in a Winnebago. They have revolutionized their cooktop system, making half of it induction and electric-powered and the other half propane powered. This is an awesome perk in my eyes as it means there are two methods of cooking, so if electricity is low the propane can be used, and vice-versa.
The fridge is also a huge bonus in the Navion as it’s just shy of residential size, providing ample room to keep stocked up with fresh produce. Safety for me is paramount, and I love that Winnebago feels the same, as the safety features on this rig are top-notch. For starters, this rig is built on a diesel Mercedes Benz Sprinter chassis which is renowned for being durable and capable.
The chassis is then matched well with active brake assist, lane keeping assist, and an MBUX touchscreen infotainment system with an interactive voice interface, navigation, Wi-Fi hotspot, and much more. There are many storage solutions to appreciate in this Winnebago Class C RV as well. Cross-coach storage holds larger items, while the above-bed storage stows necessities.
Roof port wiring access simplifies accessory wiring, available hydraulic jacks with automatic controls make for an easy set-up, and the wide running board with a pet loop keeps Fido close by. I’m always interested to learn about the off-grid capabilities of RVs as I adore jumping in the front seat and heading into the trees.
The Navion might not tick every single box for boondocking or off-griding, but it has a pretty good set of nomadic features such as industry-leading holding tanks, standard 200W solar, Group 31 batteries (or available lithium smart batteries), and a 2,000W inverter.
With large pass-through storage compartments and an on-demand hot water heater, there’s no trouble bringing everything the whole family needs along on vacations, and enjoy knowing a hot shower is waiting at the end of the day. Any dog will find a place to curl up in this rig, and I bet you and the rest of the family will too!
Easiest To Clean: Forest River Solera
There’s no denying how messy a dog can be. From shedding to muddy paws, dogs are our best friends and our messiest ones! That’s why the Forest River Solera takes the easiest-to-clean spot, as they’ve built out their rig with many durable and easy-to-clean materials, from the floors to the counters to the upholstery.
Solera’s contemporary style and residential luxury are offered in a value package designed to help get RVers into the Class C RV lifestyle. Popular standard amenities include an Android radio, 12V LED TV, and 10.7 cu. ft. 12V Refrigerator, convection microwave, back-up, and side view cameras, a 12V Solar charging system, Bilstein shocks with a lifetime warranty, and a choice of seven floor plans across three different chassis’.
I love the peace of mind I feel knowing everything in the Solera is made with stain-resistant fabrics and that there are child seat head tethers in every available floor plan. I always say safety first, especially for newbies hitting the road in an RV for the first time! It’s not just the easy-clean features that standout to me, however as the optional leveling system, LED power awning, and outdoor speakers all mean the exterior space can be transformed into another part of the RV to enjoy.
For off-gridding, there’s an onboard generator and small solar panel that come standard, with an option to add an additional AC unit on longer floor plans. I think opting for the AC is a wise idea when traveling with a dog, as the sun is sometimes unpredictably warm! Also, the various RV storage tanks are heated, making off-season or winter travels so much easier as both fresh water and waste water won’t freeze.
The kitchen looks like a proper residential kitchen, with a large three-burner stovetop and ample counter space so I can prep all the veggies I want! The backsplash is a unique tile, giving the rig a classy and bespoke look- all while maintaining its easy-to-clean materials! Plus, if the kitchen storage isn’t enough, there’s loads of exterior storage as well.
If you don’t want the hassle of cleaning up after your dogs and kids for your entire vacation, definitely consider the Solera. It’s on the lower end of our budgeted rigs, has plenty of charm, and is made for those of you just starting your RVing journey- including your dogs!
Most Pet-Friendly Layout: Thor Quantum
With nine floor plans, including room for a stackable washer and dryer, the Thor Quantum is definitely my top pick for pet-friendly layouts. Whether you’re looking to full-time in your Class C or perhaps travel with it during the off-season or winter months, this Class C can get you there with all the amenities you need. There’s a lot I love about the Quantum, and that’s not surprising given how many of them I see on the road.
The versatility and living amenities make this Class C motorhome suitable for full-time living or weekend travel, whilst the aesthetics are kept clean, modern, and fresh. Bunk beds and washer and dryer prep are perfect for families but I know they’d come in handy for my dog too as she’s often getting dirty marks and fur everywhere! Thor Quantums are homes-on-wheels with seating and sleeping options, a fully-equipped kitchen, and a bathroom.
The kitchen is fit for any RV chef, with a gas cooktop, a large stainless steel sink with a pull-down sprayer, and a double-door refrigerator. Some floor plans come with a flip-up countertop extension, microwave or convection microwave, pop-up outlet, and kitchen pantry, so there’s lots of choice in the overall design of the kitchen. I also adore that I’m able to keep an eye on my pup through the large kitchen window whilst I’m preparing dinner.
For pups, there’s no issue with lack of space, and they will be sure to find a cozy spot somewhere in the Quantum. There are more than enough floor plans to choose from able to allow each member of the family their own space. And for packing, there are MEGA-Storage exterior compartments on select floor plans and standard roto-cast storage compartments too.
An outside shower comes standard, making it easy to clean up under the large awning with an LED-lit patio. An optional second air conditioner can be added which may be ideal for those wanting to travel far and wide, experiencing a range of climates. Standard solar prep is included and adding panels is an additional extra, but something I would advise for full-timers and those not wanting to rely on campground electric.
This rig has the most versatile floor plans of any on this list, and everything is high-quality, easy to clean, dog and kid-friendly. It’s not hard to feel at home in the Thor Quantum, and since it packs such a hefty punch as a Class C, it’s well worth taking a tour inside if you ever get the chance!
Best Diesel Engine Option: Entegra Coach Accolade
A diesel Class C is one of the most economical decisions you can make when shopping for a new rig. While the Entegra Coach Accolade may have a high upfront cost, it may prove worth it in the long run as it’s an efficient and reliable rig. If you plan on RVing for quite some time, or perhaps you wish to do so in style, this is a rig to consider for the entire family- including the pups of course!
The Accolade feels like so much more than just a Class C RV. With a king-size bed, washer, and dryer prep, a fireplace, and so much more, it’s easy to forget this is a vehicle and not an apartment. I know for sure my pup would head straight in front of the electric fireplace and get cozied in. She’d probably love to sleep there too which is ideal as then I’d close off the master bedroom so my partner and I can have some peace and quiet.
This may be considered a Super C rig with its long frame, but the diesel engine makes this Class C in a league of its own. Plus, it has a powerful onboard diesel generator and two AC units, keeping the whole family cool. There’s an exterior shower for cleaning off the dogs, an entire outdoor entertainment system, and lockable pass-through storage compartments which I’d make the most of during sunny days when friends and family are visiting the RV park!
This is a big rig, with a length of 39′ 4″, so it may be a little tricky to maneuver around at first, but practice makes perfect so after a few successful journeys, watch your confidence skyrocket! The overall length and grand size of this rig really help make it a roomy RV where couples, families, friends, and dogs can enjoy the space easily. I know I’d get glued to the kitchen as it’s an entirely residential space!
The kitchen is even complete with an ice and water dispenser in the refrigerator door, durable and elegant hardwood cabinetry, and high-power recessed LED lighting throughout. While the price of this rig is high, the features and possibilities are endless. There’s such an abundance of space, everyone will feel at home whether they are human or canine!
The Accolade may be a beast, but having a reliable diesel engine and a luxurious, spacious floor plan may be just what you’ve been looking for.
Ideal RV Layout For Dogs: Thor Motorcoach Outlaw 29J
It’s no secret RVs aren’t the best-looking motors on the road, however, some rigs are built to look rugged and capable, just like the Thor Motorcoach Outlaw with the 28J floorplan. I love how able and ready this rig looks on the road, and the impressive exterior is met perfectly with an interior jam-packed full of features the whole family can enjoy.
With a length of 31′ 2″, this isn’t the longest or shortest RV in the world, but that’s one of the things I like about the Outlaw. It’s large enough for a family with a dog or two to feel comfortable and not cramped inside. Built on a trusty Ford chassis and powered by a 7.3L Triton V8 engine, I can only start to imagine the places this rig could take my partner, dog, and me.
The 29J floorplan is best suited for those traveling with pups for a few different reasons, but primarily because of the porch area at the rear of the vehicle that’s ideal for drying off wet doggos and storing additional equipment for pets. With two swivel chairs at the front of the RV, the living area feels open and airy, ideal for when four-legged family members are in a playful mood!
This layout is also great as there’s a handy railed drop-down ramp door for the patio perfect for additional space to enjoy. The capacity of the porch space is 1,800 lbs which is ample for my dog and me to chill out and relax on a summer’s day. Additionally, having exterior space extends the RV so fewer people are inside, making the rig feel bigger.
For such a sizeable rig, I think it would be suitable for the fresh water, and black and gray tanks to be a bit bigger than they are, but at the end of the day, having 40 gallons of clean, fresh water on board is a substantial amount! The Thor Outlaw is relatively affordable as it’s under the $200k price point, but it’s still a hefty investment, especially for those just kicking off their RV journey.
Best RV For Large Dogs: Coachmen Leprechaun
The Coachmen Leprechaun is a mighty Class C RV and is arguably one of the best large RVs for dogs out there. There are currently seven different floorplans to choose from, and all are ideal for families, couples, and big dogs too! The overall length of the Leprechaun 220XG is 24′ 3″, and this is the layout I think is best suited for large dogs as it’s a very open floorplan with plenty of space for big pups to move around.
I’m impressed with how much comes standard with the Coachmen Leprechaun, including premium hardwood cabinetry, sleek countertops, an antenna, a backup camera, and full aluminum-framed walls, roof, and floor structures. I also love the freedom to choose graphics and paint as it makes this Class C a bit more tailored and personal to my taste.
It’s a bit annoying only two of the available floorplans include a washer/dryer combo (298KB and 311FS) as this is something I couldn’t do without… I’m always needing to wash dog towels or bedding! However, the 220XG has a lot of awesome dog-friendly features, such as a large corner bathroom with a shower for easy wash-downs, an exterior shower for EXTRA muddy days, and a multi-function cargo space for additional equipment such as sacks of dog food or a ramp.
A common issue I find living full-time on the road is keeping my rig cool in summer and warm in winter, but this is easy in the Leprechaun. Although some of the heating and cooling equipment is limited to certain floorplans, options include a 13,500 BTU ducted roof A/C and a propane furnace. I like that there’s also solar prep on the roof, as it will be an essential part of off-grid adventuring in this Class C.
Best RV For Small Dogs: Jayco Melbourne
Jayco has already earned a place as our best overall Class C RV for dogs, but the Jayco Melbourne is one of the best options for those traveling with small dogs. It’s considerably compact at 25′ 2″ and there are three different floorplans to choose from, each with a slightly different sleeping and bathroom area. This RV may look small from the off, but that doesn’t mean it lacks any features.
Built on a dependable Mercedes-Benz 3500 chassis with a V6 turbo diesel engine, this is a rig I trust to take me on any and all of my wildest adventures across the country. I like that it’s not overly long or wide so I’m able to maneuver through tight areas if I need to. This isn’t the best rig for large breeds of dogs, but small pups will enjoy the available space since the U-shaped dinette has stow-away legs so the space can be opened up instantly.
I like the off-grid considerations Jayco has given the Melbourne as it means a few days unsupported by a campground is possible. The optional 200W solar panel with controller and second battery is a must-have addition in my eyes as it opens up camping opportunities massively! This is a rig matched perfectly for singles, couples, or even small families given the different layouts available.
The outside shower, 13,500 BTU AC, and 30,000 BTU auto-ignition ducted furnace are also great dog-friendly features. Together, they mean Fido can stay clean and fresh, warm, and cool, no matter the time of year. This is essential for pets on board an RV as temperatures can rise quickly and pose a risk to fluffy ones.
The 4-point hydraulic leveling jacks are another option I’d go for with the Melbourne. Again, it’s a little frustrating the jacks are an additional extra, but they should be a one-time purchase and can make such an improvement when camping wild on potentially unlevel spots. Overall, the Jayco Melbourne is an impressive Class C RV, ideal for small dogs, and a few travelers, for an affordable price.
Conclusion
Choosing a Class C RV with your dog in mind can seem overwhelming at first. Naturally, RVs are more so designed for humans rather than their pets! However, there are many Class Cs out there that have taken dogs to heart, so it’s possible to find a rig for the whole family. Just don’t forget to pack the doggy biscuits!