Traveling with animals

How to Travel with Dogs - Tips for a Stress-Free Trip

 
Josie F. Turner
By Josie F. Turner, Journalist specialized in Animal Welfare. January 16, 2025
How to Travel with Dogs - Tips for a Stress-Free Trip
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Traveling with your dog can be an incredibly rewarding experience, enriching your adventures while strengthening the bond you share. More pet owners are choosing to travel with their dogs, recognizing the benefits of shared experiences. Research shows that with proper preparation, dogs can adapt well to new environments, often improving their behavior and responsiveness.

This AnimalWised article covers all aspects of traveling with your dog, from essential health requirements and transportation options to practical tips for ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable journey for both of you.

You may also be interested in: How to travel With an Emotional Support Animal
Contents
  1. Benefits of traveling with your dog
  2. How do I prepare my dog for travel?
  3. How do I calm my dog with travel anxiety?
  4. What to pack when travelling with a dog?
  5. Tips for safe travel by different methods

Benefits of traveling with your dog

Research shows dogs adapt well to travel when their owners plan ahead and stay consistent with routines. In fact, many owners find that traveling with their dogs opens up new ways of experiencing destinations.

Travel strengthens the bond between you and your dog through shared experiences. Your dog's presence helps you stay present and engaged with your surroundings. Moreover, studies indicate that owners who travel with their dogs report feeling more connected to their pets after returning home.

The emotional benefits work both ways. Dogs show reduced stress markers when traveling with their owners compared to staying in kennels. Additionally, the change in environment provides mental stimulation for your dog, which can improve their behavior and responsiveness to commands. These improvements often persist after returning home.

Traveling with your dog also encourages a more active lifestyle. You'll find yourselves walking more, exploring parks, and enjoying the outdoors together. This increased activity is a win-win for both of you, improving your overall health and fitness. Plus, you'll often stumble upon hidden gems in towns and cities that you might otherwise miss.

Finally, from a practical perspective, traveling with your dog can actually save you money. While some hotels may charge a pet fee, it's often more affordable than the cost of boarding your dog. Plus, you'll have the peace of mind knowing your furry friend is happy and safe by your side, eliminating the stress of worrying about their care while you're away.

Many people think traveling with dogs limits their options, but this view needs updating. Hotels, restaurants, and attractions increasingly welcome dogs. While planning a trip with your dog takes preparation, it doesn't restrict your activities as much as you might expect.

Looking to certify your dog as an emotional support animal for travel? Our detailed guide walks you through the process and requirements.

How to Travel with Dogs - Tips for a Stress-Free Trip -  Benefits of traveling with your dog

How do I prepare my dog for travel?

Starting preparations several weeks before your trip creates the foundation for comfortable travel with your dog. This time allows you to address health needs, build comfort with travel gear, and establish routines that will help during the journey.

Schedule a vet check-up at least three weeks before departure. Your vet will update vaccinations, provide required health certificates, and assess your dog's fitness for travel. Discuss any specific health concerns and get advice about motion sickness medications if needed. Ask about preventive treatments for your destination, including flea, tick, and heartworm protection.

If you'll use a crate for travel, start crate training well ahead of time. Choose one that gives your dog enough space to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Place it in your living area and make it inviting with comfortable bedding and familiar toys.

Create positive associations by feeding meals near or inside the crate. Place favorite toys inside and practice short periods with the door closed, gradually increasing the duration. Use consistent commands like "crate" or "bed" to build routine. Add comfort items like a piece of your worn clothing to provide familiar scents.

How to Travel with Dogs - Tips for a Stress-Free Trip - How do I prepare my dog for travel?

How do I calm my dog with travel anxiety?

Dogs react differently to travel, but proper preparation helps reduce stress. Rather than the outdated advice of fasting before travel, feed a light meal 3-4 hours before departure. Keep water available until you leave, then offer it during regular breaks.

For dogs with severe travel anxiety, consult your vet about modern anti-anxiety medications. These differ from old-style sedatives and keep dogs alert but calm. Natural options like pheromone sprays or thunder shirts might help with mild anxiety. Never give human medications to dogs and only use treatments prescribed by your vet.

Exercise your dog well before the journey, but avoid overexertion. A good walk helps tire them naturally without causing stress. Create a calm environment during travel preparations. Dogs pick up on their owners' emotions, so stay relaxed while packing and loading.

Maintain access to water throughout the trip unless your vet advises otherwise. Plan regular stops every 2-3 hours for water, bathroom breaks, and short walks. Keep familiar items nearby to provide comfort and security.

At your destination, set up your dog's crate or bed in a quiet area. This creates a consistent safe space throughout your stay. Maintain regular feeding and walking schedules as much as possible to help your dog adjust to the new environment.

Remember that every dog handles travel differently. Pay attention to your pet's specific stress signals and adjust your approach accordingly. Learn to spot stress signals in our other guide.

What to pack when travelling with a dog?

Packing the right items for your dog makes travel easier and safer. Your dog needs essential supplies for eating, walking, and comfort. Here's a starting point:

  • A secure harness and two leashes (pack a backup)
  • Collapsible food and water bowls
  • Sealed containers for your dog's regular food
  • A portable water supply
  • Waste bags
  • ID tags with updated contact information
  • For longer trips, consider bringing your dog's familiar blanket or bed for added comfort.

Also, don't forget about emergencies. A well-stocked pet first-aid kit is a must-have. It should include:

  • Gauze pads and self-adhering bandages
  • Antibiotic ointment
  • Tweezers
  • Saline eye wash
  • All current medications
  • Digital copies of medical records

Finally, make sure to store all items in your kit within clear, labeled bags. Don't forget to familiarize yourself with the use of each item beforehand, and promptly replace any used or expired supplies.

How to Travel with Dogs - Tips for a Stress-Free Trip - What to pack when travelling with a dog?

Tips for safe travel by different methods

Each way of traveling with your dog needs specific preparation. Transportation safety rules change frequently, so always check current regulations before your trip.

Car travel:

Car trips offer the most flexibility with your dog, but require proper safety measures. Never let your dog roam loose in the car, this puts both you and your pet at risk and is illegal in many countries and states. Most areas require dogs to be secured while driving through crash-tested harnesses, sturdy barriers, or secured carriers.

The safest option is a crash-tested harness attached to seat belts. If using a barrier between seats or a carrier in the trunk, ensure it's properly anchored and well-ventilated. Some dogs prefer back-seat hammocks with safety attachments, but these should be used with a proper harness.

Stick to your home schedule during car trips. Feed your dog at regular times and plan stops every 2-3 hours for walks and water breaks. Familiar items like their bed, toys, and regular food bowls help create comfort in the car.

Air travel:

Airlines have varying rules about pet travel, with size and weight limits differing by carrier. While many airlines allow small dogs in the cabin, weight limits and carrier specifications vary significantly. Contact your airline directly for current requirements, as these change often.

Before flying, obtain current health certificates and vaccination records. Keep in mind that requirements vary by destination and airline. Exercise your dog before the flight and use a carrier that meets your specific airline's requirements. Include comfort items, but check airline policies about what's allowed in carriers.

Train travel:

Train policies vary widely by country and service. Some rail services welcome dogs of all sizes, while others have strict weight limits or ban pets entirely. Research your specific train service's current policies and book pet accommodations in advance when required.

Most trains that allow pets require them to stay in carriers. Exercise thoroughly before boarding and bring water for longer trips. Some services provide designated pet areas, while others restrict pets to certain cars.

Planning a train journey with your pup? Our railway guide explains current pet policies and regulations.

Boat travel:

Ferry and boat policies differ by company and route. Common requirements include leash control and muzzles during boarding and departure. Some services restrict pets to specific deck areas or require them to stay in vehicles during crossing.

Check vaccination requirements well before sailing. Many services require proof of specific vaccines. Some boats provide designated pet relief areas, but availability varies by vessel.

In general, for all travel methods, maintain regular feeding and walking schedules when possible. Watch for stress signs and keep emergency contacts readily available, including local vets at your destination. Creating a calm environment with familiar items helps reduce travel anxiety for most dogs.

Remember that transportation rules change frequently. Always verify current requirements directly with your travel provider before booking.

If you want to read similar articles to How to Travel with Dogs - Tips for a Stress-Free Trip, we recommend you visit our Traveling with animals category.

Bibliography
  • Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food . Travelling with your pet. Dogs, cats, ferrets . Government of Spain.
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How to Travel with Dogs - Tips for a Stress-Free Trip