Top Tips for Road Trips with Dogs
Before you set out on a dog road trip, check our top 10 tips for making sure your dog travel is as smooth and enjoyable as possible!
Planning a dog road trip? Buckle up and get ready for a tail-wagging adventure! Whether your furry co-pilot is a road trip rookie or a seasoned traveler, hitting the open road with your dog can be a blast with the right prep.
These fun and practical tips will help you make sure your dog travel is as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
Ready to roll? Let’s get this dog road trip started!
1. Pack Like a Pro: Must-Have Road Trip Gear
Before you hit the road, make sure you're fully prepared and pack all the essentials for dog travel. This should include a first aid kit, your dog's vaccination record, their favorite toys and treats, and all their essential gear. We love Dog Jaunt’s packing list (and check out their blog for more pet travel tips!).
Think of it as packing for a toddler – but furrier. You can get a dog travel bag with several compartments for organization (our users recommend Ruffwear’s Haul Bags), or just put all of their things in a bucket for easy access. Keeping everything organized will make your trip smoother and more enjoyable.
2. Tire Them Out: Pre-Road Trip Playtime
A tired dog is a good traveler. Take your dog for a long walk or have an intense play session before setting off on your road trip.
They'll be less restless during the journey and might even snooze for a good chunk of the drive, leaving you to enjoy the open road in peace.
3. Comfort is Key: Car Setup 101
Create a comfy space for your dog in the car. Use familiar blankets or their favorite dog bed to make them feel at home. Packing extra towels and blankets is always a good idea.
You should also ensure they have enough space in the backseat (put all those suitcases in the trunk!) and are buckled up with a crash-tested harness.
Finally, while your dog may love the wind in their fur from an open window, watch out for flying debris – safety first!
4. Adventure-Proof Your Pup: Updated Dog Tag
Nothing ruins a dog road trip faster than a missing pet. Ensure your dog's tag is up to date with your contact information and the dog’s name clearly written.
For extra security, consider a microchip or a GPS collar. Our users like the Tractive GPS Tracker which clips on to your dog’s collar, is waterproof, and lets you track their location at all times.
Having a recent photo of your dog can also be handy - just in case your pup decides to channel their inner explorer and embarks on an unexpected solo adventure!
Finally, remember, letting your dog off the leash is only a good idea in a fenced area – don't want them turning into a four-legged Houdini on the loose! If your dog loves to explore, consider getting an extra-long collar or line to keep them secure while letting them roam and discover the world.
5. Hydration Station: Bring Plenty of Water
Keeping your dog hydrated is crucial, especially on a long dog road trip. Bring plenty of water and a portable water bowl to ensure they stay refreshed. Consider a no-spill water bowl to avoid accidental splashes and spills and a waterproof liner for the dog bed and car seat.
As a general rule, most dogs need about one ounce of water per day for each pound they weigh.
Frequent water breaks are essential for their comfort and health. You might even consider putting the bowl on the floor of the backseat of your car, so that your dog can get a drink anytime, without you needing to stop.
Finally, if you’re out on a hike, keep an eye on those tempting lakes and rivers. The water might look refreshing, but it can be a bacteria party that could upset your dog's stomach.
6. Pit Stops and Playgrounds: Find Dog Parks
Plan your route in advance with plenty of stops at dog parks or highway rest areas. Apps like AllTrails can help you find great hiking spots along the way.
Aim for a 15-20 minute walk every couple of hours to let your dog stretch their legs and burn off some energy. If your pup is a social butterfly, dog parks are perfect for some playtime and making new furry friends.
Finally, while you’re researching the best pit stops, don’t forget to locate some emergency vets on your route, just in case.
7. Rules of the Road: Do Your Research
Before you set off, research the rules and regulations for pets at your destinations. Some states may require health certificates for your dog.
Make sure there are pet-friendly hotels and restaurants on your route. BringFido is a great resource for dog-friendly hotels, restaurants, and activities wherever you’re going!
Knowing the dos and don'ts in advance will save you from any surprises along the way.
8. Heat and Critter Cautions: Be Aware
There are several important precautions to take when traveling with a dog.
Always be mindful of the temperature inside your car. Never leave your dog alone in a hot car, even for a short time - temperatures inside cars can climb to 20 degrees within the first 10 minutes, even if the window is open.
Also, watch out for wild animals at rest stops or campsites to avoid any unfriendly encounters. This is another great reason to keep your dog on a leash at all times. Safety first – it’s best to keep a friendly distance from any critters you might meet along the way.
9. Treats and Tummies: Snack Wisely
Bringing treats is great for rewarding good behavior during your trip - feel free to toss your dog their favorite snack when they’re being a model traveler!
However, avoid overfeeding and don't start the trip with a full stomach – motion sickness is no fun for anyone, especially your furry friend.
10. Camp it Out: Choose Camping Over Hotels
Whenever possible, opt for camping over hotels, especially at your final destination.
Many campsites are dog-friendly and offer a more relaxed environment for your pet, plus they’ll get plenty of fresh air and space to run around and play. Camping is also a great way for both of you to enjoy the great outdoors together. Check out more tips for camping with dogs in our Top 10 Tips for Camping With Dogs post.
Feeling wanderlust? See how many of the top dog-friendly campgrounds in North America you can check off!
Conclusion
Embarking on a dog road trip is a fantastic way to bond with your pet and explore new places together. With these tips, you can ensure your journey is safe and enjoyable for both you and your dog.
Here at PugMug, we celebrate your adventures with unique Explorer art styles (like Road Trip, Camping, and more) and hundreds of other designs.
Upload your dog’s photos to get amazing AI portraits and order your favorite styles on a variety of products.
Looking for even more ideas for dog adventures? Check out our post for 10 Unique Places to Take Your Dog.
Safe travels and happy dog road trip adventures!
