Do you enjoy spending your free time relaxing in a hammock? Whether you’re lounging in your backyard or heading out to the campsite with your pet, you may find yourself wondering which hammocks (if any) are considered safe for our pets.

The key to safe and comfortable hammocking with our pets is choosing the right hammock for all parties. You want to find an option that you personally find comfortable and meets your needs, but also allows your dog or cat to join you safely. The options listed below have been carefully chosen to consider both your preferences and the well-being of your pets.

Pet-Friendly Hammocks to Share With Your Cats and Dogs

Finding a pet-friendly hammock means concerning yourself with not only your pet’s safety but also choosing an option that will make them feel both safe and secure. Whether you are searching for a dog-friendly hammock to take on your next camping trip or a cat-friendly hammock to enjoy in your backyard, this list is for you.

Parachute-Style Camping Hammock

    Wise Owl Outfitters Double Camping Hammock

A black and grey parachute-style hammock with a black stuff sack, 2 black tree straps and 2 black carabineers.

    This lightweight and compact parachute-style hammock is ideal for your next backpacking or camping trip.

Parachute-style camping hammocks like this hammock from Wise Owl are made from high-quality, heavy-duty parachute nylon. The material is lightweight, soft to the touch and surprisingly strong. However, not all parachute hammocks are created equally.

When selecting a parachute hammock, check the quality of the nylon that is used. High-quality nylons like the one used on the Wise Owl Outfitters Double Camping Hammock are more likely to survive contact with your pet’s nails if they are moving within the hammock. This hammock was constructed with 210 Ripstop Nylon Weave. Even if your pet does accidentally put a nail through the hammock, the ripstop fabric will prevent that hole from turning into a larger rip that compromises your ability to use the hammock.

Before spending time with your pet in a nylon hammock, you should always take a moment to trim or file their nails removing any sharp points that can easily pierce the fabric. Running your finger over the tip of the freshly cut nail to check for sharp edges should also be addressed. This will help to extend the life of your hammock.

Brazilian Hammock with Anti Roll Spreader Bars

    MOSFiATA Canvas Hammock with Anti Roll Balance Beams

A red, purple, yellow and green striped cotton hammock with curved wooden bars, a striped stuffed sake and 2 white ropes.

    Made from durable canvas fabric and wooden anti-roll spreader bars, this hammock is not only comfortable but also offers a unique level of stability.

Another great fabric option to consider when purchasing a hammock that you plan on sharing with your pets is the canvas commonly used in Brazilian-style hammocks. Made from a blend of cotton and polyester, the fabric is incredibly strong and durable, allowing you to relax without any fears of damage caused by your pet’s nails.

Another great feature of this MOSFiATA canvas hammock is the wooden anti-roll spread bars included on each side. A hammock spreader bar works to help keep the fabric spread out, creating a flatter surface to lounge on. Hammocks with traditional straight spreader bars are often easier to get into because they hold the hammock open. However, they are also less stable which could be an issue if your pet tends to shift or move about.

The spreader bars on this specific hammock are curved offering an anti-roll benefit. This allows you to enjoy the benefits of a spreader bar, making it easier for you and your pets to get into the hammock, without worrying about the increased risk of your pet rolling the hammock and knocking you both onto the hard ground.

Handwoven Artisan Hammock

    Yellow Leaf Classic Woven Hammock

A traditional grey and white chevron-pattern woven hammock.

    This beautifully handwoven hammock has been made from over 150,000 interwoven loops creating a beautiful work of art that also serves as a comfortable and durable hammock.

If you prefer the classic look of the hammocks that you often see on the cover of travel magazines, many of the options on this list aren’t going to match your aesthetic. While a rope hammock isn’t going to offer the security that most dogs need to be comfortable in a hammock, this handwoven hammock is the best of both worlds.

Handwoven with more than 150,000 interwoven loops, the fine details on this hammock are stunning. It’s a showpiece hammock that is sure to add to any deck or backyard space. The acrylic is incredibly soft, creating a comfortable sleeping area. At the same time, it is incredibly durable, capable of supporting up to 400lbs.

Due to the woven design, you want to be sure to trim and check your pet’s nails before allowing them up with you. For pets that tend to move around a lot or that you think may be tempted by the woven surface (especially the cats), you may want to put a blanket or towel down for your pet to lay on top of to protect the delicate artistry of the hammock itself.

Quilted Fabric Hammock

    Bathonly Double Quilted Fabric Hammock with Curved Spreader Bar

A red, white and navy blue quilted hammock with an off-white pillow and a black carry bag.

    Durable and easy to maintain, the quilted fabric of this hammock creates a feeling of luxury and comfort for your backyard, patio, balcony, or indoor space.

Quilted fabric hammocks are often overlooked. However, they are a great hammock for nearly any location and situation. This is especially true if you plan on sharing your hammock with a dog or cat. The hammock is made from a comfortable quilted fabric that you will be able to allow your pet to move around on without fear of damage.

This hammock also has spreader bars like those seen on the Brazilian hammock above. Made from durable bamboo, these spreader bars hold the fabric out in a way that makes it easier to get in and out of the hammock while also providing more stability. On a hammock like this, it’s not uncommon for pets to want to get up and walk around (especially cats and smaller dogs). The added stability will help prevent the hammock from rolling over as they do.

Camping Hammock with A Suspended Bug Net or Tarp

    Kootek Camping Hammock with Mosquito Net

A two-tone blue parachute hammock with a bug net suspended over top. Beneath it, a blue stuff sack, 2 tree straps, carabineers and ropes are displayed.

    This lightweight nylon hammock is both portable and highly durable, while the addition of the mosquito net will keep you and your pets free from unwanted visitors.

As mentioned above, parachute-style hammocks made from high-quality nylon are a great choice when sharing your hammock with your pets. However, there are some situations where additional features may be needed. More specifically, bug nets to keep out the mosquitoes and tarps to protect you from the elements.

When choosing a bug net or tarp, you'll want to choose an option that is suspended a little higher above the hammock to give your pet additional headroom. The amount of space needed is going to depend on your pet’s size. A chihuahua isn’t a big concern in this regard, but a German Shepherd may feel confined with a tarp or bug net too close to where it is lounging.

This is important to consider both to help minimize any anxiety your dog may be feeling but also for the longevity of your gear. By giving your pet room to move, they are less likely to accidentally rip or damage anything. Small accidents can happen quickly such as a bug net getting caught on your dog’s ID tag causing a tear.

Rope Hammock with a Hammock Pad

    Sunnydaze Rope Hammock with Spreader Bar, Stand, Pad and Pillow

A white rope style hammock hanging from a black metal hammock stand. On the hammock is a green, blue and pink chevron hammock pad and pillow.

    A traditional rope hammock is complimented by a hammock pad in this set, allowing you to safely enjoy the hammock on your own or with your pets.

Rope hammocks are generally not recommended for use with pets for safety reasons. If your dog or cat were to get overly excited or startled, they may try to suddenly run off the hammock. With so many large holes in the hammock, your pet’s leg can get caught up in the rope causing an injury. Many pets are also nervous using this style of hammock since they can see right through to the ground below.

If a rope hammock is something you love, there are steps that you can take to make your hammock more pet-friendly. A thick blanket or sleep mat can be placed on top of the hammock to create a safe surface. Avoid thinner blankets or towels as they aren’t thick enough to support your pet’s weight. In the situation described above, the pet’s leg can still fall between the ropes.

The best option, if it is within the budget, is to use a hammock pad. These are specifically designed for use with the hammock, easing any fears that a makeshift solution may not work.

Traditional Cotton Hammock

    KEPEAK Double Cotton Hammock

An off-white cotton traditional hammock.

    This simple, traditional cotton hammock will fit into any space or backyard aesthetic while providing a comfortable place for you and your pets to relax.

We've all heard the saying "if it’s not broke, don’t fix it" and the same can be applied to hammocks. Traditional cotton hammocks have long been a favorite for a variety of reasons. They are basic, low-cost, and surprisingly comfortable. This hammock is a plain, off-white color, making it suitable for any aesthetic.

Cotton hammocks are highly breathable, making them ideal for the warmer months. They are also portable, rolling or folding up easily to fit in your suitcase or backpack. In terms of spending time with your pets, a traditional cotton hammock is a great option as it offers comfort and security for your dog.

The Real Question: Are Hammocks Pet-Friendly?

While not all hammocks are pet-friendly, there are many different options that will allow your pet to join in on the fun without concerns about their health or well-being. Choosing the wrong hammock could easily lead to injury or trigger anxiety. The good news is that there are many great hammocks that will allow your dogs and cats to join in on the fun.

Do you hammock with your pets? If so, feel free to comment below and share your pet-friendly hammocking tips and tricks!