best road trip for dogs

The ultimate dog-friendly summer road trip guide

Not every dog mom or dad has an easy time leaving their pup behind (hi!). When it comes to summer road trips , why not bring Buddy along for the ride?

For pups that do well in the car (my Frenchie Jaxson loves soothing jams and good vibrations), road trips are a great way to include your canine companion in your adventures.

Unlike air travel, most vehicles provide plenty of room for your pooch. It also provides freedom and flexibility to plan and pivot as you see fit, along with increasingly appealing options when it comes to dog-friendly accommodations .

Still on the fence? We've broken down everything you need to know, prepare and pack so you can bring your favorite tail-wagger along on your next exciting road trip.

Buckle up Fido

The term "precious cargo" applies to more than just the little ones. Ensure your four-legged friend is safe and secure before you leave your driveway. Lucky for you, there's a plethora of options that cater to your dog's security while on the road.

Secure a seat belt

My personal preference is a dog-friendly seat belt, including an actual harness seat belt or seat belt restraints like the EZYDOG. If your dog does well cozied up on the actual seat of your car, this is a great choice. Make sure the seat belt is tightly fastened to the dog and that it properly clicks into the seat belt jack before you get moving.

Use a car seat or booster

Yes, doggy car seats are a thing. These typically also buckle into the seat belt and can be tethered to the dog's harness or collar for a second level of security. Or you can opt for a booster seat like the Kurgo , which also buckles in and offers a bit more space while keeping your doggo in place.

Fasten a hammock

Looking for a cool lounge vibe for your pup by creating a padded cradle to keep your dog contained? Strap up a hammock — also great for keeping dog hair and treat crumbs contained. However, this option is best paired with a dog seat belt because the hammock alone won't secure your pup.

Set up a crate

If you have a larger vehicle with plenty of breathing room and your dog does well crated, this may work for you. Keep in mind you will need to find a way to secure the soft crate so it stays in place. Consider a travel crate that is impact-safe. Note that crating may not be the best option for anxious pups.

Build a barrier

If you have a large dog and an even larger cargo area, you can secure a barrier made of netting or metal bars. This also works if you have more than one dog and a designated section of the vehicle reserved just for them. The cargo bars may keep the dogs from traveling within the vehicle, but they won't secure your dog, so use a seat belt.

Create a comfort zone

Dogs sleep an average of 14 hours per day, which means once safely fastened, your pooch needs a comfortable place to rest and relax while you're taking in the scenery. Make sure your dog has enough space to stand up, turn around and adjust as needed.

A good rule of thumb is to provide a space as large as their standard dog bed. In fact, taking your dog's actual bed is one easy solution. Don't want to take the regular dog bed on the road? Buy one for the trip and let your pup cuddle up in prep so they know exactly what to expect on departure day. Bonus: they'll have infused the bed with not only their scent but familiar ones from inside your home.

Help your dog feel cozy by adding a blanket or a few soft toys.

Breaking down the basics

With so much packing and planning, don't forget the bare necessities, as well as toys and chews that will keep your dog happy throughout your journey.

Necessary accessories

Typically, these include a collar/harness (with current ID tag) and leash, pet waste bags and food and water bowls. Collapsible silicone bowls are also handy and great for excursions.

Soft, plush toys are the safest for road travel. Consider soft toys your dog cannot tear into easily. Perhaps leave the squeaker toys at home, as well as rope toys – both are choking hazards, and no incessant squeaking may preserve your zen mode.

Bones and chews

Stock up on bones, chews, bully sticks and rawhides. However, make sure you stow them for long stops or once you are at your lodging accommodations – these are choking hazards, too. Fillable cones like rubber Kong toys also fall into this category.

Outdoor toys

If your pup loves playing fetch, make sure to pack tennis balls, frisbees and ball launchers for fenced stops and dog parks.

Related: A comprehensive guide to traveling with pets

Food, glorious dog food

Everybody's got to eat, including Bowser. Dogs consume two kinds of foods: dry and wet. The most convenient food is dry kibble. Many brands sell 5-pound bags, which makes it easy to grab one (don't forget the measuring cup) and keep it with you for a long haul. If you're taking a shorter trip, you can portion the food ahead of time into meals in reusable silicone bags.

In terms of wet food, it should be as easy to purchase the cans or packets you need. However, be cautious of temperature advisories. For example, if your pup takes wet food (or freeze-dried food) that should be stored at or below a certain temperature, you will need to make this accommodation. Pack a small cooler dedicated solely to your dog's food.

If you forget your dog's food, run out or thought you'd be able to purchase it when you arrived at your destination but can't find it, buy a food with a similar ingredient list and arm yourself with one secret ingredient: organic, canned pumpkin.

"The fiber in the pumpkin may help avoid any digestive disturbances the new food may cause," offers Johnna Devereaux, clinical pet nutritionist and director of nutrition and wellness for Bow Wow Labs.

Don't forget about dog treats. You should include these in your food inventory. Also, consider packing some extra to reward your pup for being a good boy or girl throughout the journey.

Additionally, make sure to pack your pup's vitamins and supplements. It's important to keep up with your dog's regular nutritional routine – the road is no exception. If your dog tends to have a nervous belly when traveling, consider ginger root as a solution. "Ginger root may help calm and unsettle stomach and is best given just before departure," Devereaux suggests.

TPG tip : Store the dog food and treats out of range from where your pup will be seated in your vehicle so they aren't tempted by the familiar scent.

Pack an emergency stash

Just like you packed yourself an emergency sustenance stash of protein bars and trail mix, you should the same for your loyal companion. There are a lot of unknowns associated with the open road. You could be delayed by weather or a car issue, and you will need to prepare extra dog food just in case. (I like to pack two additional days of food, at minimum.)

Splurge a little

Obviously, stopping for special treats and indulgent meals is one of the best parts of a road trip. When your pup accompanies you, they should be no exception to the rule. Once you've carved out your route and itinerary, do your due diligence to find some pitstops for Spot. (While the occasional Starbucks puppuccino can be fun, it's best not to make that a daily treat.)

Pet bakeries

For fresh gourmet treats, bookmark these bark-worthy bakeries with outlets nationwide:

Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming: Not only will you find gourmet mix-and-match treats, but if your companion could use a refresh, jump into the grooming schedule. Founded in Florida, this barkery now has 200 locations in 18 states, from North Carolina to New Jersey and Colorado to Las Vegas.

Three Dog Bakery : Find fresh-baked treats from "collieflower pupcakes" to eggs-and-bacon-shaped cookies in Indiana, Tennessee, Kentucky, Missouri, Texas, Minnesota and other states.

The Dog Bakery : Want to celebrate your pup's birthday on the road? Order a celebration cake. Or, settle for delicious biscuits, jerky and assortment treat packs with locations across California.

Hotel pampering and doggy socials

Want to spoil your pup? Plan a hotel stay where you can treat your pup to a gourmet meal or just stop for a relaxing dinner at a doggy social club.

Loews Hotels : In addition to a check-in care package featuring treats, bowls, placemats and waste bags, there's a full gourmet room service menu for dogs developed by the hotels' executive chefs. Serve up bow wow tenderloin of beef, a mix of filet, eggs and rice, or chicken puppy bites, tender shredded chicken with carrots.

Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World : Once you're done devouring Mickey Mouse pops and jumbo turkey legs, order K-9 crudite, the hot diggity dog (scrambled eggs, rice and veal stock), and frozen peanut butter and banana bites for the doggy.

Lazy Dog Restaurants : In Florida, Virginia, Texas and Colorado, this casual dining chain services pup-friendly brown rice bowls with grilled hamburger or grilled chicken.

Boozehounds in Palm Springs , California : This restaurant features dog-friendly outdoor spaces, as well as a dedicated dog menu that includes teriyaki salmon bowls, gazpacho, loaded sweet potatoes and doggie TV dinners.

Pacific Hideaway in Huntington Beach, California : Inside the Kimpton Shorebreak Resort, Pacific Hideaway welcomes dogs on the outdoor patio where they can enjoy three savory menu items: chicken and white rice, fish and sweet potato, and beef and vegetable.

Bark Social in Bethesda and Baltimore, Maryland : This social club for dogs serves craft brews, nachos and pizza for you, and pupcakes, pupsicles and chicken strips for your doggo.

Don't forget the H2O

It goes without saying that water is a necessity for summer road-tripping dogs and humans alike. Even though you may have done your research about your trip ahead, it's likely you won't know much about the water quality at each stop.

According to Illinois-based veterinarian Dr. Allison Pepich, your dog needs a rough estimate of at least 1 ounce of water per 0.5-1 pound of body weight. For example, a 30-pound dog would need between 15-30 ounces of water per day at a minimum, but it could be more depending on their fluid losses throughout the day.

"If they will not drink water while in the car, giving them water at rest stops throughout the journey is recommended," Dr. Pepich said. "The more panting, activity, or just general fluid loss that your pet has, the more water they will need."

Always store a few extra gallons of water in your car — in a cooler is even better.

Avoiding the dehydration danger zone

As the weather warms up through the summer months, Dr. Pepich says dehydration and overheating could be a concern during extended car travel.

"If you feel that your pet is experiencing either, the safest option is to get them to the nearest veterinary clinic for evaluation," she said. "Pets can often mask signs that they are not feeling well, especially if they are already anxious from travel. Watch for signs of reduced energy, poor appetite, not drinking well, tacky mucus membranes (gums), or heavy panting."

A normal temperature for a dog is between 100-102 degrees Fahrenheit, and the most accurate way to check this is with a rectal thermometer – add this to your first-aid kit (more on that below), according to Dr. Pepich.

In order to avoid dehydration and overheating, Dr. Pepich says never to leave your pet alone in the car during travel. Also, keep the car at a comfortable temperature while traveling. If you spend time outdoors, make sure your pet has a cool, shady area to go to for rest. Dr. Pepich also recommends paying extra attention to breeds that may be at significant risk for heat stress. These are typically brachycephalic dogs like French bulldogs, pugs, shih tzus, boxers, Boston terriers and others.

Meds and first aid

Before you head out, make sure you have medication and first-aid options for your pup, too. The Red Cross offers a comprehensive list of what to pack , which includes many household items that will come in handy. Some include latex gloves, gauze, tweezers, a muzzle, rubbing alcohol, antibiotic ointment, a baby-dose syringe, 3% hydrogen peroxide, an emergency blanket, sterile saline wash, petroleum jelly, cotton swabs and needle-nose pliers. As mentioned above, make sure to pack a rectal thermometer for temperature checks.

De-stressing your doggo

Additionally, take extra precautions if your dog tends to get easily stressed.

"There are a few over-the-counter products that can be used for stress reduction during car trips," Dr. Pepich said. "My favorite products are Rescue Remedy and Adaptil pheromone products. You can also use CBD products, but I've found success varies considerably across different products."

If your dog gets carsick, Dr. Pepich recommends using an anti-nausea medication or one aimed at treating motion sickness may help calm their car-related anxiety. Before your trip, discuss prescription anxiety medications for car travel with your vet, "though the specific product prescribed may vary greatly depending on your dog's needs," according to Dr. Pepich.

For the record

Whether digitized or hard copies, keep your dog's latest vaccination records on hand. If your dog is microchipped, make sure you have the ID number and registration information before you leave. Confirm you also have a collar with an ID tag that displays your most up-to-date contact information for peace of mind.

TPG tip : Work in advance to help your dog get comfortable in the car. If there are signs of car-related anxiety, employ a trainer to help desensitize your pup to car trips.

Keep 'em clean

Grooming on the go can be a pain, so make sure your car is stocked with the essentials. You can very easily craft a handy DIY travel grooming kit with these necessities:

Shampoo : Whether your furry friend enjoys regular puppy spa appointments or bath time at home, it's important to pack a bottle of your pup's shampoo – just in case. If your hotel or lodging doesn't happen to have a bathtub or sink to refresh Sparky, opt for a dry shampoo. Test out any new products in advance so you aren't dealing with any unpleasant surprises like allergies or skin reactions.

Wipes : Pet wipes can be a lifesaver when traveling. They're great for muddy paws at a rest stop to avoid caking dirt onto your leather seats and a full wipe-down from outdoor dander, pollen and the elements. Try these out at home before the road trip and opt for scented or unscented based on what works best for the doggy.

Nail clippers : Either a manual tool or an electronic device, a set of dog-friendly nail clippers are handy. Just like human nails, dog nails and dewclaws (essentially the thumbs and big toes) can split while adventuring and be painful for your pup.

Toothbrush : It's important to stay up on your doggy's dental hygiene. Grab a small travel-size toothbrush for longer trips.

Scissors : While you may pack these for your own emergency kit, you can also use them to remove fur tangles on long-haired dogs.

Dog waste bags : Do the math on the length of your trip and how many times your dog does his or her business per day to determine how many poop bag rolls you need. Pack a couple of extra rolls for any surprise messes along the way.

Related: The 15 best dog-friendly hotels in the US you need to know about

Bottom line

Don't let hitting the road with your favorite furry friend intimidate you. There may be plenty of prep work, but once you're en route, it will be worth it.

Dogs make amazing summer road-trip companions, whether heading out solo, as a couple or even with the kids. With so many dog-friendly lodging, activity and dining accommodations, there's no reason to board your bestie or spend hundreds on a dog sitter this summer.

The best part about dog-friendly road trip travel is that you never need to "ruff" it because everything is accessible along the way. So, what are you waiting for? Rev up, hit the cruise and lift that sun "woof."

Related reading:

Top pet-friendly Marriott hotels for animal lovers World's top pet-friendly Hilton hotels for animal lovers 8 things to consider before flying with your pet Your pet travel primer: Answering questions about vaccination records, EU pet passports and how to find dog-friendly restaurants

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USA TODAY 10Best

You don't have to leave your dog behind at these 10 pet-friendly destinations

August 26, 2021 // By Stacey McKenna

By Stacey McKenna August 26, 2021

As COVID-19 swept the globe throughout 2020, the resultant lockdowns and shifts to work-from-home drove a rise in dog adoptions . Now that travel has opened a bit, it’s no surprise that people are more than ready to hit the road. But, who wants to leave their best friend behind just when it’s time to start adventuring again?

Fortunately, although some of the country’s classic road trip destinations, such as most national parks, barely allow canine companions, there are plenty of alternatives that welcome visitors with well-behaved pooches. Here are 10 of our favorite spots – all of which have plenty of pet-friendly accommodation – that should be on every dog-lover’s itinerary.

Kanab, Utah

Surrounded by the red rock majesty of southern Utah, Kanab is the ultimate gateway to outdoor adventures – you’ll find slot canyons, ancient ruins, sand dunes and desert trails, many of which are both safe for and welcoming of dogs. But the region is also famous as the home of Best Friends Animal Sanctuary , the nation’s largest no-kill farm and companion animal rescue.

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In 2019, they opened Best Friends Roadhouse and Mercantile , a pet-centric motel that’s the perfect spot to rest between excursions or leave your pooch in trusted care while you visit one of the nearby national parks (Zion, Bryce Canyon, and the north rim of the Grand Canyon are all within 90 miles). And, if you’re looking for a(nother) forever companion, they can arrange an overnight foster experience with sanctuary animals.

Mackinac Island, Michigan

To step off the ferry on Michigan’s Mackinac Island is to step back in time. With zero cars, several beaches and more than 70 miles of trails in the state park , it’s the perfect place to slow down, and it’s pup paradise.

Whether you opt to cycle the 8.3-mile perimeter – many rental companies have bike trailers for hire – take a carriage tour, sip cocktails on a patio, shop for souvenirs or just spend the day splashing in the turquoise waters of Lake Huron, your dog can join in most of the fun. And pets ride free to and from the island on Shepler’s and Star Line ferries.

Colorado Springs, Colorado

There’s a reason Colorado Springs is consistently named among the U.S.’s most pet-friendly cities: no matter how you choose to spend your days, you’ll rarely have to leave your pooch behind. Hit the trails at Pikes Peak (the mountain that inspired “America the Beautiful”), the Broadmoor Seven Falls and iconic Garden of the Gods, which has a designated off-leash area.

For a taste of local culture and history, head to the Manitou Cliff Dwellings or Peterson Air & Space Museum – both of which welcome dogs. And if you find that you and your four-legged friend are hungry, don’t fret. Loads of restaurants have dog-friendly outdoor seating, and Pub Dog is Colorado’s first restaurant to welcome canines in the indoor dining areas (plus, it has a 3,000-square-foot off-leash social area).

Dog Mountain (Saint Johnsbury), Vermont

With plenty of nature and quaint, walkable towns, dogs will find Vermont to be an excellent place in which to stretch their legs and get their sniff on. But it’s Dog Mountain , an epically canine-centric attraction created by the artist Stephen Huneck and his wife Gwen, that stands out.

Complete with 150 acres of leash-free open space – packed with trails, meadows and ponds – and a dedicated Dog Chapel packed with memorials, this is a site where dogs (and the people who love them) are truly cherished.

San Juan Islands, Washington

Just off Washington’s coast, the San Juan Islands beckon travelers with promises of whale watching, artisan eats, quirky history and more. With most of the wildlife off the coast or soaring overhead, nature on the islands is very dog-friendly.

On Orcas Island, hike to the highest point in the archipelago – Mount Constitution rises 2,398 feet above the sea – or grab your boat and paddle to the island at the center of Mountain Lake . Across the water on San Juan Island, dogs are welcome to explore the 20-acre San Juan Islands Sculpture Park .

Thanks to the pet- and car-friendly Washington State Ferry system, the islands can easily be tacked on to a PNW road trip.

Savannah, Georgia

If you’re itching for some city time with your pet in tow, Savannah, Georgia is ready for you. Not only are there dozens of eateries, bars and coffee shops that welcome dogs, visitors are encouraged to bring well-mannered pets on many historic, architectural and ghost tours.

One highlight is Oliver Bentley’s Historic Dog Walk Tour , which is set up so that you can learn all about the historic district while your pooch smells the sites. For more independent-minded travelers, many shops and some historic sites welcome dogs, and several areas – including the Moon River District and Skidaway Island State Park – have trails with educational markers.

Bend, Oregon

Stretching along the banks of the Deschutes River in central Oregon, the town of Bend has that perfect mix of outdoor fun and bring-your-pup-along establishments that makes any dog-loving road-tripper’s day. You’ll find plenty of urban trails, plus off-leash areas in both Bend City Parks and the surrounding federal lands.

But the best part is bringing your best friend along as you explore the town’s famous craft beer scene, as many breweries have outdoor spaces that are dog friendly.

Hot Springs, Arkansas

Tucked into Arkansas’s Ouachita Mountains, the town of Hot Springs is unsurprisingly best known for its array of thermal bathhouses. But, between soaks at the 19th and 20th century sites, visitors will find plenty to do with their canine companions.

Maybe most exciting, Hot Springs National Park is one of the few pet-welcoming national parks in the system: Dogs are permitted on all 26 miles of its trails and even indoors at Superior Bathhouse Brewery . And after a day exploring nature, snag your pooch a (human-friendly) pupcake from Fat Bottomed Girl’s Puppy Bakery .

Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minnesota

In the Twin Cities, the region’s famed hospitality most definitely extends to our four-legged friends. With acclaimed urban trail systems, there’s no way your daily walks will get stale – meander the banks of the Mississippi one day, tour the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden the next.

Once you’re done exploring, this may be one of the best cities in the country to dine with your dog. In addition to an abundance of dog-friendly patios, sister restaurants Stanley’s Northeast Bar Room and The Howe both have food on order for your pup. Think meatloaf, bones and even ice cream. And Unleashed Hounds and Hops is a combination dog park-bar for when your pooch is craving the company of other canines but you’re craving a beer.

Fredericksburg, Texas

If you’re looking for a southern getaway with just a smidge of Europe, head to Fredericksburg, Texas. The German-rooted city has a scenic Main Street area loaded with shops and dog-friendly eateries. And it’s the epicenter of Texas Hill Country’s growing wine scene. The region is home to more than 100 wineries and vineyards, dozens of which are more than happy to have you bring your dog along.

About Stacey McKenna

Read more about Stacey McKenna here.

• Pet Travel Tips

The Ultimate Guide to Taking a Road Trip With Your Dog

by Lavanya Sunkara

Published on July 20, 2020

If you’ve ever wanted to take an epic road trip with your dog, there is no better time than the present. After being cooped up for months to prevent the spread of COVID-19, you are probably eager to hit the open road. 

Road trips allow the freedom to enjoy the great outdoors with all family members, without having to leave your pup behind. And your dog will be all the more happy to sniff new scents and frolic alongside you in new places. 

To help you prepare for a smooth and memorable dog-friendly road trip, here are tips to ensure that your pet stays safe, healthy, and happy on the road. 

Benefits of Road Trips : The Perfect Way to Travel With Dogs

Road trips are a wonderful way to travel with dogs and strengthen your human-canine connection. Best of all, there is no need to worry about getting on a plane during a pandemic, or researching an air carrier’s safety record or requirements. 

Traveling by car (or RV or van) means your furry friend doesn’t have to be boarded or left behind with a dogsitter. You can make the most of your vacation while practicing physical distancing and have a grand adventure with your pooch. 

One of the biggest benefits of a road trip with dogs is the flexibility it affords—stop whenever you want and select dog-friendly spots to experience. Bring along your pet’s favorite toys and treats as well as a bed or blankets in the trunk without having to worry about luggage limits.  

Dog Road Trip Basics: Essentials to Bring  

If you’re going to be hitting the road with your canine family member, there are a couple of essentials that you need to bring along. Here’s what you shouldn’t leave home without. 

Medical Records/Health Certificate

Whether it’s a weekend getaway or a cross-country trip with your dog, book an appointment with your pet’s veterinarian to get your dog up-to-date on his vaccinations. Carry both electronic and paper copies of his medical record or a recently obtained health certificate from the veterinarian, especially when you are crossing state borders. A health certificate is valid for up to 30 days. Having medical documentation will also become crucial if you run into an emergency while on the road. 

Food and Medication

Pack your dog’s food, medication, and supplements for the duration of the trip and bring an additional week’s worth of these items to be prepared for unexpected delays. Feed your dog at least three to four hours prior to leaving to avoid any accidents in the car. 

Johnna Devereaux, clinical pet nutritionist and the director of nutrition and wellness for Bow Wow Labs , recommends pet parents bring their dog’s own food on the road. “This will help avoid the potential for an upset stomach and the possibility of loose stool, especially if stores where you are going don’t carry the food you feed.” 

If your dog has a tendency to get motion sick in the car, Devereaux says ginger can assuage his tummy. “This potent plant helps with all forms of nausea and may make your trip easier on the whole family.” You can purchase pet-friendly ginger chews online or at your local pet store. 

Microchip, GPS Collar, and Identification

It’s one thing if your dog goes missing in your neighborhood…and another thing entirely if you and your pet get separated while road tripping in unfamiliar territory. To improve your odds of reuniting with a dog who’s taken an unplanned detour, at a bare minimum, ensure your contact information is clearly legible on your dog’s ID tag. And if your road-trip buddy hasn’t been microchipped, consider having one implanted prior to your departure.

But even if your dog is properly tagged, chipped, and your registry info is up-to-date, a location tracking device or collar, like the Tractive GPS Dog Tracker , can be a literal lifesaver on the road. With Tractive, there’s no need to wait and hope that someone finds your dog if they go missing. The waterproof, clip-on GPS tracker provides real-time tracking info to help you reunite with a lost pet quickly. Plus, you can also use the powerful location and activity monitoring features to keep tabs on your pup while on the beach, during hikes, and wherever you may roam.

Updated Pictures of Your Dog

No one wants to think about losing their pet while on vacation, but accidents can happen. Don’t leave home without some current pictures of your pup. Print a few out and have some on your phone in case you need to show local shelters or get flyers made. 

Dog First Aid Kit

Pack a pet first aid kit to treat minor nicks, remove ticks and foxtails, and wrap any injuries. Make a list of clinics and hospitals located along the way and at your final destination, and add the ASPCA Pet Poison Helpline number (888-426-4435) to the list in case your dog ingests a toxin. If you are concerned about a lack of access to veterinarians, sign up for telehealth services for healthcare advice and live triage support while on the road. 

Dog Road Trip Packing List  

In addition to the essentials listed above, make sure to pack items that will keep your dog comfortable, entertained, and happy along the way. We recommend you include the following items for road tripping with your canine bestie:

• Plenty of water for the car ride and rest stops
• Food and water bowls 
• Crash-tested safety harness seat belt
• Long and short leashes 
• Travel crate or carrier
• Bed and/or blanket (to offer a sense of home in unfamiliar situations) 
• Treat and puzzle toys, treats 
• Life jacket, if you are planning water activities 
• An extra collar with ID tags
• Booties, if you are visiting a destination with hot temperatures to provide protection from hot surfaces 
• Coat, if you are bound for cooler weather 
• Poop bags 
• Old towels and grooming supplies for cleaning 
• Calming aids and supplements (if needed)

Road Trip Safety for You and Your Dog

To ensure that you and your dog experience the pure joy of life on the road, it’s essential to follow safety protocols to protect your pet. Follow the below advice to make sure your dog stays safe. 

Keep Dogs Crated or Restrained While Driving

It’s pure joy seeing your tail-wagger enjoying fresh air and new scents from the open window, but an unsecured pooch can be dangerous in an accident, or during a hard turn or sudden stop. 

Michelle Belio, head trainer and owner at Pawsitively Waggin’ Academy LLC serving New York City and Long Island, recommends the use of a crate that has been crash tested for road trips. “If conditioned correctly, a crate could be a safe space for a dog, which is awesome for the road,” she says. “It also keeps our dogs safe and away from us, to pay attention to the road.” 

Travel crates come in different sizes and materials. Select a crate that’s big enough for your dog to stand up and turn around in, and make sure it’s firmly attached to the vehicle floor or the back seat. 

For your anxiety-prone dog, use a crate designed for separation anxiety , or cover it with a blanket to provide a calming, den-like environment. If crating is not an option, secure your dog with a crash-tested safety harness and seat belt. The harness goes around the dog’s chest and the attached strap plugs into the seat belt buckle. 

For dogs who have trouble relaxing when restrained, use a guard attached to the floor in the trunk/boot of the car or install a back-seat barrier to create a safe section in the back of the car. A dog sling or hammock in the back provides added security and keeps any messes off of the seat. If you are driving an RV, make sure your pet is within your eyesight to ensure he’s still safely secured. 

Leash Rules

Remove your dog’s regular leash once in the car, so that he doesn’t get tangled or get whiplash from the collar. When letting the dog out of the car, leash him back up to prevent him from taking off on his own. “Never allow your pet to jump out of the car without a leash,” says Devereaux. “If something were to startle them, you would have no control over where they go.” 

Never Leave Your Dog Unattended in the Car  

Pets left in cars are at high risk of heat-related illnesses or even death. Temperatures inside vehicles can rise almost 20 degrees within the first 10 minutes, even with the windows cracked open. When driving in warm weather, keep your pet comfortable by using the air conditioner or have the fan running.  

Keep Safe Distance from Wildlife

When you are visiting areas brimming with wildlife, maintain a safe distance from animals and keep your dog on a leash or in a designated closed off area (or a collapsible pen) to prevent any stressful situations or encounters that could result in injuries or bites. If an attack happens, seek medical attention immediately. 

Practice Social Distancing and Follow CDC Guidelines

Keep at least six feet of distance from others at gas stations, campsites, and on hikes to prevent COVID-19. Avoid dog parks, as they tend to be highly frequented. Wear a cloth face covering if you can’t maintain distance in public and keep a supply bag with disinfectant, gloves, and wipes. Properly dispose of PPE after use. 

Dog Road Trip Tips: How to Make the Most of Your Journey

Road trips with your dog should be a fun experience, not a stressful event. To help the whole process go smoothly, follow along with these tips: 

Take Test Drives

If the only places your pet has been in the car include the clinic, groomer, or the local dog park, Belio recommends “bringing your dog on long car rides, increasing the amount of time they’re in the car each time.” Test driving ahead of time lets you address any issues your pet may have on longer rides. 

Train Your Dog To Love New Places 

If your dog isn’t used to visiting new places, Belio suggests bringing him to at least three new locations a week prior to embarking on your journey. “When you get there, bring out your dog’s favorite treats (or toy) and reward them every single time they interact with their environment,” she says. “This way, all of these new things form associations with the things they love.” 

Address Anxiety

Pet parents have a few options if their dogs show signs of discomfort or anxiety. “Desensitization, consulting your vet, and using supplements such as CBD oil could help,” says Belio. “For desensitization, work on your dog eating their meals in the car, playing in the car, and going in and out of the car using fun car games.” 

Take Frequent Breaks

If you are doing a long road trip with your dog, incorporate frequent breaks (every three to four hours) for pet relief, a short walk, and water. Puppies and senior pets need breaks more often. “I don’t find exercise to be overly important, as the car ride is stimulating enough,” says Belio. “A short walk (under 10 minutes) is enough for your breaks.” 

You don’t have to wait until you are ready for a pit stop to allow Fido to drink. Leave a no-spill water bowl by his side so he can drink whenever he’d like. 

Provide Stimulation

While you are focused on the drive, use a stuffed toy to keep your active dog stimulated, entertained, and to keep them from gnawing on seatbelts and other items. Belio recommends packing frozen Kongs and safe dog chews. During breaks, play a game of tug or fetch to add exercise to your dog’s day. 

Give Your Dog Space

No matter what type of four-wheeler you are using, give your pooch space of his own to be comfortable and decompress. Avoid stuffing items next to him in the back seat or cramming him in the back of the car without much room. 

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9 Dog Friendly U.S Road trips

Explore the top 9 dog-friendly U.S road trips with your furry friend! Tips on accommodation, parks, and keeping your pup happy on the go. Perfect for pet-loving travelers.

Your dog is your companion, your friend and boy do they love a good road trip! There head out the window with the wind in their hair, most dogs love a great road trip across the U.S.A.

However, it can be difficult finding the most "Dog friendly hotels" & dog friendly parks in the U.S.A, many simply will say no to your pooch. Also, it's good to know some tips to stop you from going barking mad along the way!

Can you take a dog on a road trip?

Lots of dogs suffer from car sickness, so a top tip is to  feed your dog  a few hours before you set of on your road trip! Then take your dog your a nice, long walk so he/she is tired & relaxed ready to hit the road.

Dog friendly Road Trip USA

On the road trip try and remain as consistent as you would at home with walk/mealtimes, it will keep your dog in a better pattern, ready to travel.

What can I give my dog on a road trip?

Before setting off, put your dog in the back seat or cargo area. Pet them, praise them and  give them treats  if they look nervous. Make it fun & not forced.

Should I sedate/Drug my dog before setting off?

Sedating/drugging your dog/pet is not necessary, some choose to do this if they are flying with there dog...but precautions should be taken either way. According to the  American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA ) , "sedating dogs or cat during air travel may increase the risk of heart and respiratory problems.

Except in unusual circumstances, veterinarians should not dispense sedatives for animals that are to be transported. Speak to your veterinarian before hand.

Dog Friendly Road Trip USA

Which type of Road Trip should I take my dog on?

Shorter road trips, with lots of scenic nature around are the ideal road trips to take your dog on.

These are great as you can pull up anytime and take a wonderful walk through a national or state park! I would prefer to stay away from big cities to be honest, but it can be done!

Top 9 Road Trips with your dog:

9. montana road trip:.

Montana is heaven for Dogs! With plenty of nature & breath taking scenery its the ideal place to hop out of the car for some hiking with your dog!

A. Missoula

Begin your road trip in  Missoula,  a college town with a heap of dog friendly accommodation & restaurant patios.

Afterwards take the drive 50 miles north to the  National Bison Range  in  Dixon,  MT. Here your and your doggie friend can take the 2 hour loop through scenic meadows & hills.

Jack Dykinga | Wiki

This is the ideal place to do some wildlife watching. You & your pooch can spot birds, bison and even the odd bear!

Dog Road Trip Tip:

While driving through the National Bison range there are plenty of place to park up and enjoy a walking trail where your dog can go to the toilet. (Dog must stay on its leash)

C. Big Fork,Montana

Nearby to Dixon is the town of Big Fork MT, located on the northeastern edge of Flathead lake. Here you can enjoy some fine dining (dog patios), camping & canoeing around the lake. There is also some great hikes through  Flathead National Forest.

D. Glacier National Park

Finish of your road trip with a drive north to Glacier national Park and take the epic  Going to the Sun Road  which runs for 50 miles.

pray-lake-Glacier National Park

Insider Tip:

Going to the Sun Road  opens when the snow has melted, which sometimes doesn't happen till late july so aim for road trip later in the summer.

Dog Road Trip:

Dogs aren’t allowed off-leash at Glacier National Park, but you’ll see the best scenery in the park from the comfort of your car.

8. Great Lakes Road Trip: Chicago, Michigan

There are some epic great lakes loop tours, but I would recommended starting in dog friendly Chicago before driving up the eastern shore in Lake Michigan and then looping through Indiana before reaching the  dog hiking trails  of Michigan. This is a great midwest road trip where you will get to see most of the great lakes!

There is also plenty of  State Parks within 1 hour of Detroit.

The Haunted Tunnel of trees Michigan, is a ghostly drive.

Round Barn Winery, Distiller & Brewery

As you drive over the state border between Indiana and Michigan, be sure to stop by   Round Barn Winery, Distiller, and Brewery  for some drink tasting.

Dogs are allowed to explore the area on a leash.

As you drive father north, check out   Sleeping Bear Dunes  close to the town of Glen Arbor. At this state park, you & your dog can enjoy some nature walks, with view of lake Michigan.

7.  Chicago to Iowa Road Trip : Wicked Mid West!

Another great Midwest road trip you can combine with the above is from Chicago to Iowa. This will take you to the following stops along the way.

• Iowa City, Iowa
• Bonus: Amana Colonies

Dog Friendly highlights:

For Hiking on a series of historic & scenic trails at the  Mines of Spain state Recreation area.

dog road trip usa

Davenport (Dog Road Trip Heaven!)

Drive South on a scenic drive along the Mississippi River to reach Davenport City. Davenport was founded in 1836 and is known as a very green city with  pleathora of 50 local parks! These are great for walking your Dog!

Credit Island:

Credit Island is a island on the Mississippi to the south west of Davenport. This was an historic native american trading area and spans 420 acres!

These days it’s a vibrant community park which offers its own golf course including rugby, soccer and softball areas.

Credit Island-Davenport Iowa

Vander Veer Botanical Park

Vander Veer Botanical Park is a lush 33-acre botanical garden. It was established in 1885 and features a range of displays.

Location:  215 W Central Park Ave, Davenport.

Terry Trueblood Recreation Area (Iowa City)

A 5,870 square foot  recreation area   great for dog walking and it even has a large lake great for Kayaking & paddle boarding.

Map of Chicago to Iowa Road Trip (Dog Friendly)

6. dog friendly new england road trip.

New England is perfect road trip area for your dog! Here you will find plenty of states with short driving distances in between and plenty of dog friendly attractions along the way!

• Portland, Maine
• Dog Mountain, Vermont.
• Newport, RI
• Martha Vineyard, MA
• New Haven, CT

A. Portland, Maine:

Begin your road trip in Portland Maine, where you and your dog and hop on a  ferry  to explore all the nearby islands.

Afterwards head northwest to New Hampshire before stopping at the  White Mountain National Forest  for some dog-friendly  hiking  (on leash) and camping.

B. Dog Mountain, Vermont

Afterwards continue driving towards Vermont before stopping at the world renowned  Dog Mountain   this is a farm and art galley in St Johnsbury with plenty of scenic trials, ponds, sculptures and even a Dog Chapel!

Alan Sandercock | Wiki Commons

Many choose to leave a note for a previous dog which has passed away & is in doggie heaven.  The entire area is DOG FRIENDLY all year round!

Dog Friendly Lodging?

For one of the most Dog friendly lodges you will ever see head to the  Paw House Inn , a farm country inn which catering to dogs and their owners

Fun Fact:  Paw House actually charges a $10 fee to anyone staying  without  a dog!

Afterwards, take the drive to Boston and head to its most famous food halls,  Quincy Market,.  Here you will find which houses nearly 40 gourmet food vendors. Just 10 mins walk from there is Faneuil Hall, in Bostons little Italy district.

Dog Friendly Road trip usa

D. Newport, Rhode Island

Take the drive down to Newport road island to the Dog friendly Brenton Point State Park. Here you and your pooch can sit back and watch the  kite flyers.

E. Marthas Vineyard

Take the drive to beautiful Marthas Vineyard here you can check out dog friendly activities in Edgartown:

• Edgartown  Lighthouse.
• Norton Point Beach.
• Manuel F. Correllus State Forest.
• South Beach State Park.
• Kalmus Beach. Barnstable, MA.
• Craigville Beach. Centerville, MA.
• Island Queen Ferry. Falmouth, MA.
• Black  Dog  Tavern.  Vineyard  Haven, MA.

Brando | Wiki Commons

F. New Haven

East rock park.

You & your pooch can check out the epic views of New Haven from East Rock Park. You can drive right up to the summit and take in the breath taking scenery. This is especially beautiful during the fall.

Map of Dog Friendly New England Road Trip:

5. route 66: with your dog.

We can't have any road trip post without including Route 66!  There is a section of the route which still exists this will take you from Chicago southwest to Los Angeles. The southwest is the most memorable part!

It can really hot in the South so DON'T leave your Dog unattended in the Car and its even recommended you take your road trip during the cooler month.

Enroute be sure to check out the dog friendly  Big Texan  in Amarillo, Texas. A retro restaurant (great steaks!) with an adjacent motel. they welcome well behaved pets.

Route 66 is the number one most Iconic American road and Historic Legend.[/caption]

Also enroute be sure to check out  Petrified Forest State Park , where leashed dogs are welcome to explore the trails and backcountry with their owners. Remember to bring lots of water!

For more on Route 66, check out:  25 Most Epic Driving Roads in the U.S.A: Road Trip Ideas!

4.  New York to Niagara falls Road trip

If you fancy exploring New York State with your Dog I would recommended a road trip to Niagara Falls.

I would avoid New York city though! They recently introduced a law where if you wish to take your dog on the subway it must fit inside a bag! Classic New Yorkers saw this as a challenge so started to cut holes in giant bags for very big dogs!

A. Gilbertsville (Otsego County)

Enroute to Niagara be sure to drive through Gilbertsville (Otsego County) and head down to  Wagner Farm State Forest  offers with over 450 acres to stroll through.

However, be aware that  hunting & trapping allowed during appropriate seasons in designated areas, so keep your dog on a lease if your unsure or ask the visitors centre/warden.

B. Milford ( Otsego County )

Just nine miles south of Cooperstown and just a 20 minute drive from Oneonta, NY, you will find Milford. You and your pooch should head down to  Middlefield Orchard , for some Raspberry, strawberry and apple picking!

C. Coopers town  ( Otsego County )

Cooperstown  in Ostego County is a quaint village area which packs a big punch in New York state. Baseball fans will know the town as home of  National Baseball Hall of Fame  which celebrates the legendary players & managers from yesteryear.

The best place for dogs is  Glimmerglass State Park ,  a 593 acre park which offers year round activities including swimming and camping on the wood lined shores.

D. Fly Creek:

Fly Creeks lies just 4 miles (6 min) drive north west of Coopers town. The town was founded by Dutch traders who harnessed the power of the fast moving creeks by building 8 mills in the 19th century.

Be sure to check out  Fly Creek Cider Mill,   which is 163 years old and still open to visitors today. There is also the Cooperstown Beverage Trail and variety of tasty restaurants.

E. Richfield Springs ( Otsego County )

As you drive out of Coopers town or cherry valley be sure to take the drive to  Canadarago Lake  which is just one mile south of the village,  this is known as the second cleanest lake in NYS, and is 7 miles long/2 miles wide.

Unknown | Wiki

Insider Tip:   Head to  Deowongo Island  in the center of the lake for a picnic & some exploring.

F. Worcester, NY

Small town Worcester offers a indoor flea market, quilt zoo and quaint 1 screen theatre (Wieting Theater).  Decatur State Forest  spanning 582 acres and is the perfect place for hunting, bike rides and picnics.

G. Go wild at Seneca County

Drive west into New York’s Seneca County, and be sure to check out  Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge  an area which offers of 10,000 acres of swampland and has been a national landmark since 1973.

H. Finger Lakes

Take the short drive to the Finger Lakes Regions where I suggest you spend a few days.

Fun Fact:  The name “ Finger Lakes ” comes from the finger shape of two lakes Seneca and Cayuga, which are some of the deepest in the US.

I. Niagara Falls

You & your dog have now made it to the wonderful Niagara Falls!

• Niagara Falls is over  15,000 years old,  formed just the last  Ice age
• The  Largest Fall (Horse shoe falls)  is on the Canadian side 176 feet / 53.6 meters high.
• 600,000 U.S. gallons / 2,271,247 litres per second  flow over Horse shoe falls.

Are Dogs allowed at Niagara Falls?

Yes, Dogs are allowed at Niagara Falls, however there are a couple of conditions. Dogs need to be leashed and rabies vaccinated. You can walk your dog along the footpaths & green spaces.

3. Western National Parks Road Trip

On the West Coast of the U.S.A, are some of the most epic National Parks which stretch from Sequoia National Park and Yosemite National Park in the south west, to Olympic National Park & Mt Rainer National Park in the north west.

Cost Saving  Tip:

If you plan on traveling to alot of National Parks then I suggest purchasing a “America the Beautiful Pass” which renews annual for $80. This pass will get you into every national parks and also into any federal lands which charge fees.

You could explore any of americas western National park for an eternity with your dog! Here are some ideas below!

A. Grand Canyon National Park – Arizona

With over 6.38 million visitors in 2018, Grand Canyon National Park is the MOST popular National Park in the U.S.A.

Aerial Photo over horseshoe river at the Grand Canyon. Awe-inspiring!

Are dogs allowed at the Grand canyon National Park?

According to the  NPS :  Pets  must be leashed (up to 6 feet) at all times. On the South Rim, leashed  pets  are allowed on trails above the rim, Mather Campground, Desert View Campground, Trailer Village, and throughout developed areas.  Yavapai Lodge  is the only in-park lodge that has pet friendly rooms.

B. Yosemite National Park – California

Yosemite National Park is a real west coast highlight, located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, it is best known for it’s massive sequoia trees and the granite cliffs of El Captain & half dome! Head up to the famed cliffs and you will find an incredible glacier valley with majestic waterfalls.

Yosemite-National-Park-[/caption]

Are dogs allowed in Yosemite National Park?

Dogs are allowed in Yosemite National Park. However, there are some restrictions & regulations, dogs are allowed on fully paved trails and roads, on a leash 6 feet or shorter, and cannot be left unattended.

C. Crater Lake National Park – Oregon

Crater Lake National Park, is Oregons only National Park and they are so proud of it! Highlights include the deepest lake in the United States (Crater Lake) (1,949 feet) which is also the ninth deepest lake in the world!

"Phantom Ship" rises above the surface of Crater Lake. | By Glenn Scofield Williams, via Wikimedia Commons.

Are dogs allowed at Crater lake National Park?

According to the  NPS  dogs are welcome at Crater Lake National Park, but only in certain areas. Pets are not allowed on other park trails or off-trail. They are also not allowed inside park buildings, including Crater Lake Lodge and The Cabins at Mazama Village.

D. Olympic National Park/National Forest – Washington

As we drive further up the north west we enter the Olympic National Park. One of the most diverse in the United States. Here you can find everything from glacier clad mountains such as Mt Olympus to vast expanses of wilderness, rainforests and even secluded beaches!

Are Dogs Allowed at Olympic National Park?

Though much of the peninsula is pet friendly, the trails in the Hoh Rain Forest  do  not allow  dogs!  However, you should head to the  Dog Friendly Olympic National Forest , where dogs on a leash are welcome!

E. Mt Rainier National Park – Washington

We’ve left the biggest till last at 14,410 feet above Sea level Mount Rainier is one the  tallest peaks in the United States. ..it is also an ACTIVE volcano.  Mount Rainier National Park offers the most glaciated peak in Contiguous U.S.A. In addition to wildflower meadows, five meandering rivers, ancient forests and an abundance of wildlife.

Mount-Rainier-National-Park. Source: the great ww.beyondthetent.com[/caption]

Are dogs allowed at Mount rainier National Park?

Dogs are not allowed on trails, or in any buildings. However dogs on a leash are allowed on the Pacific Crest Trail near the park's eastern boundary.

2. California State Park Road Trips

State Parks are generally more relaxed when it comes to dogs compared with National parks. However, alot of them tend to state "Dogs on leash" and "Paved Road Only" just so your aware. However, often there is dog friendly areas very close by to these great parks. Here are some of the most Dog Friendly state parks.

Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park

Julian Pfeiffer Burns is probably the biggest bang for buck State park in California. After just a short 1/2 mile round trip along  Waterfall Overlook trai l, you will find a fantastic oceanfront views and jaw dropping views of the cascading McWay Falls. The water falls over 80 feet from the granite peak to the bottom.

julia-pfeiffer-burns-state-park-California

Are Dogs allowed at Julian Pfeiffer Burns state park?

At Pfeiffer Big Sur SP (four miles south on Highway 1),  dogs are allowed on leash  in the developed  campground  and  day use areas . Dogs are also allowed on United States Forest Service (USFS) property, including Pfeiffer Beach.  Source

Salt Point State Park

A great fusion between the land and sea, Salt Point State Park offers 6000 acres of wave carved cliffs & headlands stretching along the Sonoma Coast, 95 miles north of San Francisco.

Are dogs allowed at Salt Point state park?

Dogs of all sizes are allowed at the campgrounds  and in any of the developed areas. Dogs are not allowed on the trails or on the beaches, and they must be inside at night. There is no additional pet fee.

1. Road trip to  Woofstock!

This has to be the most Dog Friendly Festival in North America! Its designed to celebrate all things great about your pooch, so a road trip here, is the ideal place to go.

Dubbed as one of the best festivals in Canada and winner of numerous awards, Woofstock is a barking mad, fun packed event which draws thousands from all over North America.

Over 200,000 people from all over the U.S and Canada ascend upon Woodbine Park in Toronto for this annual two day event with their furry friends!

Peace and Love at Woof stock Dog Festival!

According to Melissa Granite, from Woofstock:

“Woof stock is to celebrate dogs as companions in our lives and, as well, bring together a community of people who are passionate about dog ownership and looking for the best dog products”

Activities/Events at Woofstock:

There are so many crazy events at Woofstock, from dog fashion shows to dog concert and even a Mr. and Mrs. Canine Canada Pageant!! Other events include:

• Running of the Pugs!
• Best Costume Contest
• Dog Racing Arena
• On-Stage Competitions
• Celebrity Dog Show
• and many more!

For more info check out our ultimate guide to  Woofstock: Largest Dog Festival in North America!

Want a great Car rental deal?

For the best rental car deal for your road trip be sure to check out:

Ultimate Car Rental Travel Hacks!

car rental travel hacks

Have you got everything you need??

Check out our   Travel Essentials .   (Things You can’t travel without!)

• Recommended  Backpacks
• Recommended  Camping Gear
• Recommended  Hiking Boots.
• Recommended  Photography Gear  (Capture Instagrammable photos!)

A high quality Backpack is essential to any traveling trip![/caption]

Wish to Book a trip?

To get the best hotel prices check out:   Hotel Deal Secrets!

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When you're planning your next adventure or business trip, the airline you choose is a big deal. You want comfort, good service, and most importantly, safety. Malaysia Airlines often pops up as a tempting option with its attractive routes and competitive prices. But there's that nagging question in the back of your mind: Is Malaysia Airlines safe?

Is Japan Airlines Safe? Unveiling the Truth for Anxious Flyers

When planning your next trip, safety is likely at the top of your list, especially when it comes to choosing an airline. You might be wondering, "Is Japan Airlines safe?" Well, you're in the right place to find out. Japan Airlines, known for its impeccable service, also prides itself on its safety record.

Is ANA Safe? Discover How They Ensure Your Peace of Mind in the Skies

When you're planning a trip, especially one that involves flying, safety is likely at the top of your mind. You might be wondering about All Nippon Airways, commonly known as ANA, and its safety record. Is it a reliable choice for your next journey?

Is Singapore Airlines Safe? Unveiling the Secrets Behind Their Flawless Safety Record

When you're jetting off to exotic locales or crucial business meetings, the last thing you want to worry about is your safety in the sky. That's where Singapore Airlines comes into play. Known for its impeccable service, it's natural to wonder about its safety record too.

Is Emirates Safe? Unveiling What Happy Travelers Really Think

When you're planning your next journey, safety is likely at the top of your list. You've probably heard a lot about Emirates, known for its luxurious experience, but how does it stack up in terms of safety? Let's dive into what makes an airline safe and see where Emirates lands.

Is LOT Safe? Unveiling the Truth Behind Your Flight's Safety

When you're planning a trip, the safety of the airline you choose is a top priority. You might've heard about LOT Polish Airlines and wondered, "Is LOT safe?" Well, you're not alone in asking. Safety concerns are valid, especially when it's about flying thousands of feet above the ground.

Is Aeromexico Safe? Unveiling What Every Traveler Needs to Know

When you're planning your next trip and considering flying with Aeromexico, safety might be at the top of your mind. It's natural to wonder about the safety records of airlines these days, especially with the amount of travel we all do. Aeromexico, as one of the leading carriers in Latin America, often comes under scrutiny.

Is Norwegian Safe? Discover Why Travelers Trust Its Skies

When you're planning your next adventure, safety is always at the top of your list. And if Norway's on your radar, you're probably wondering, "Is Norwegian safe?" Let's dive into what makes this Nordic country a destination worth considering from a safety perspective.

Is Allegiant Air Safe? Unveiling the Truth About Your Flight's Safety

When you're planning a trip, the safety of the airline you choose is a top priority. You've probably heard mixed reviews about budget airlines, and Allegiant Air often comes up in those conversations. It's natural to wonder, "Is Allegiant Air safe?"

Is Hawaiian Airlines Safe? Discover Why Flyers Trust This Paradise Airline

When you're planning a tropical getaway, the last thing you want to stress over is whether your flight will be a smooth sail or a turbulent ride. Enter Hawaiian Airlines, a name that's almost synonymous with the aloha spirit and island hopping. But beyond the lei greetings and in-flight POG juice, you're probably wondering, "Is Hawaiian Airlines safe?"

Is Frontier Airlines Safe? Unveiling the Truth Behind Your Flight Fears

When you're planning your next adventure or business trip, the airline you choose can make all the difference. You've probably heard about Frontier Airlines, known for its budget-friendly fares, but you might be wondering, "Is Frontier Airlines safe?" It's a valid question that deserves a closer look, especially in today's travel climate.

Is Spirit Airlines Safe? Unveiling the Truth Behind Your Flight Fears

When you're planning a trip and looking for budget-friendly options, Spirit Airlines often pops up as a tempting choice. But amidst the excitement of snagging a great deal, you might pause and wonder, "Is Spirit Airlines safe?" It's a valid question, especially when you're about to trust them with your most precious cargo—yourself!

Is JetBlue Safe? Uncovering the Truth Behind Their Safety Measures

When you're planning your next trip, the airline you choose is as crucial as your destination. You've probably heard a lot about JetBlue, known for its comfy seats and ample legroom, but how does it stack up in terms of safety? It's a question worth asking, especially in today's travel climate.

Is Alaska Airlines Safe? Discover Why Flyers Trust Their Journey With Them

When you're planning your next trip, safety is likely at the top of your list. You're not just looking for a smooth flight; you want peace of mind from takeoff to touchdown. That's where Alaska Airlines comes into play. It's a name you've probably heard tossed around when talking about reliable air travel, but how safe is it really?

Is Southwest Airlines Safe? Uncovering What Every Traveler Needs to Know

When you're planning your next trip, safety is always at the top of your mind. And if you're considering flying with Southwest Airlines, you might be wondering just how safe your journey will be. It's a valid concern, especially in today's world where travel safety has become more important than ever.

Is United Airlines Safe? Real Passengers Share Their Experiences

When you're planning your next trip, safety is probably at the top of your list, especially when it comes to choosing an airline. You've likely come across United Airlines, a major player in the aviation industry, and wondered, "Is United Airlines safe?" It's a valid question that deserves a closer look.

Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Live in Hawaii for Every Lifestyle

Dreaming of living in paradise? Hawaii's got you covered, with its stunning beaches, lush landscapes, and Aloha spirit. But with so many amazing spots, deciding where to plant your roots can be tough.

Ultimate Guide: Top Places to Live in Florida for Everyone - Beaches, Festivals & More

Thinking about moving to Florida? You're not alone! The Sunshine State is famous for its gorgeous beaches, vibrant cities, and laid-back lifestyle. But with so many great places to choose from, deciding where to plant your roots can be tough.

Ultimate Guide: Top Family-Friendly Spots in NC - From Asheville to Outer Banks

Looking for the perfect spot in North Carolina to plant your family roots? You're in luck! This state's got a little something for everyone, from bustling cities to quiet, leafy suburbs.

Top Places to Thrive in Your 20s: A Guide to Affordability, Adventure, & Opportunities

Ah, your 20s! A time to explore, grow, and maybe even settle down in a new spot that feels just right. It's all about finding that perfect blend of fun, opportunity, and affordability.

Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Live in Houston for Everyone - From Retirees to Families

Houston's a big city, with even bigger opportunities for finding the perfect spot to call home. Whether you're all about the hustle and bustle of city life or looking for a quiet corner to settle down, there's something here for everyone.

Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Live in Missouri for Everyone - From Retirees to Young Adults

Thinking about moving to Missouri or just curious about the best spots to call home in the Show-Me State? You're in luck. Missouri's got a little something for everyone, from bustling city vibes to quiet, leafy suburbs.

Ultimate Guide: Top Places to Live in Connecticut for Every Lifestyle

Thinking about making a move to Connecticut? You're in for a treat! This state's got a little bit of everything – from cozy small towns to bustling cities. It's all about finding the spot that feels just right for you.

Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Live in Indiana for Everyone - Schools, Costs & Lifestyle

Thinking about calling Indiana home? You're in for a treat! The Hoosier State is packed with charming towns, bustling cities, and everything in between. Whether you're after the quiet of the countryside or the buzz of city life, Indiana's got you covered.

Ultimate Guide: Top Places to Live in Illinois for Everyone - Families to Retirees

Thinking about making a move to Illinois? You're in for a treat! The Prairie State is not just about deep-dish pizza and the Windy City. There's a lot more to discover, from cozy small towns to bustling suburbs that offer the best of both worlds.

Ultimate Guide: Top East Coast Havens for Every Lifestyle & Age

Dreaming of waking up to the sound of waves or perhaps craving the vibrant city vibes only the East Coast can offer? You're in luck because we're diving into the best spots that just might make you want to pack your bags today. From quaint towns with rich history to bustling cities with endless opportunities, the East Coast has something for everyone.

Ultimate Guide: Top Places to Live Near Nashville for Every Lifestyle

Thinking about moving close to the heart of country music? Nashville's got more than just tunes to offer. It's surrounded by some pretty sweet spots that give you the best of both worlds: serene living and easy access to the city vibes.

Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Live in New Mexico for Every Lifestyle

Thinking about making a move to New Mexico? You're in for a treat! With its rich culture, stunning landscapes, and sunny weather, it's no wonder you're considering it. But with so many awesome places to choose from, where should you start?

Ultimate Guide: Top Places to Live in New Hampshire for Every Lifestyle

Thinking about making a move to New Hampshire? You're in for a treat! From the stunning White Mountains to the serene lakes, there's a spot for everyone in this charming New England state. Whether you're after the hustle and bustle of city life or the peacefulness of the countryside, New Hampshire offers a unique blend of both.

Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Live in Delaware for Everyone [2024]

Thinking about making Delaware your new home? You're in luck! This little gem of a state might be small, but it's packed with some of the best places to live on the East Coast. From cozy beach towns to bustling city life, Delaware's got a spot for everyone.

Ultimate Guide: Top Places to Live in Massachusetts for Everyone

Thinking about making a move to Massachusetts? You're in for a treat. This state's got a little bit of everything, from bustling cities to quiet, quaint towns. Whether you're after top-notch schools, vibrant cultural scenes, or just some stunning nature, Massachusetts delivers.

Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Live in Minnesota for All Lifestyles

Thinking about making a move to Minnesota, or just curious about the best spots to call home in the Land of 10,000 Lakes? Well, you're in luck. Minnesota's not just about the cold and snow; it's packed with cities that boast great jobs, vibrant communities, and plenty of outdoor fun.

Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Live in Alaska for Everyone - From Retirees to Families

Thinking about making the big move to Alaska? You're in for a treat! It's not just about snow and sled dogs; Alaska's got some of the most stunning landscapes and tight-knit communities you'll find anywhere.

Ultimate Guide: Top Places to Live in West Virginia for Every Lifestyle

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Ultimate Guide: Best Places in Florida for Families - Live Happily Ever After

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Ultimate Guide: Top Places in North Carolina for Retirees & More

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Ultimate Guide: Best Affordable NJ Spots Near NYC for Every Lifestyle

Living close to NYC is a dream for many, but let's be real, it can get pricey. Good news, though! New Jersey offers some gems that won't break the bank and still keep you close to the Big Apple. Whether you're after the bustling streets or a quiet corner, there's a spot for you.

Ultimate Guide: Top Vermont Havens for Everyone - From Retirees to Young Families

Thinking about making a move to Vermont? You're not alone. This charming state, known for its stunning landscapes and cozy small towns, is a magnet for those seeking a quieter, more scenic life. With its mix of vibrant communities and peaceful countryside, Vermont offers the best of both worlds.

Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Live in Arkansas for Everyone (2024)

Thinking about making a move to the Natural State? You're in for a treat! Arkansas is known for its stunning natural beauty, friendly folks, and a cost of living that's hard to beat. Whether you're drawn to the hustle and bustle of city life or the peace and quiet of the countryside, Arkansas has got something for everyone.

Idaho's Top Living Spots: The Ultimate Guide for Everyone - From Retirees to Families

Thinking about moving to Idaho? You're not alone. With its stunning landscapes and friendly communities, it's no wonder more and more people are calling it home. But with so many great spots, it can be tough to decide where to plant your roots.

Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Live in Wyoming for Everyone

Thinking about making a move to Wyoming? You're in for a treat! This state's known for its wide-open spaces, stunning scenery, and a lifestyle that's both laid-back and adventurous. Whether you're drawn by the call of the wild or the promise of a peaceful, community-focused life, Wyoming's got a spot for you.

Ultimate Guide: Top Spots in South Carolina for Young Adults - Live, Work & Play

South Carolina's charm isn't just in its sweet tea and beaches. For young adults looking for a fresh start or a new scene, it's got some hidden gems that might just be your next home sweet home. From bustling cities to cozy coastal towns, there's a spot for every vibe and ambition.

Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Live in Washington State for Everyone

Thinking about making a move to the Evergreen State? You're in for a treat! Washington's got a bit of everything, from bustling city life to quiet, cozy towns. Whether you're after the techy vibes of Seattle or the serene landscapes of the Olympic Peninsula, there's a spot just for you.

Ultimate Guide: Top Places to Live in Montana for Everyone – From Retirees to Families

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Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Live in Virginia for Every Lifestyle

Thinking about making a move to Virginia? You're in for a treat! This state's got everything from bustling cities to quiet, cozy towns. Whether you're after top-notch schools, job opportunities, or just a beautiful place to call home, Virginia's got you covered.

Ultimate Guide: Top Places to Live in North Carolina for Happiness, Weather & More

Thinking about making a move to North Carolina? You're in for a treat! From the bustling streets of Charlotte to the serene beaches of the Outer Banks, North Carolina's got a little something for everyone. Whether you're after the hustle and bustle of city life or the quiet charm of small-town living, you'll find your perfect spot here.

Ultimate Guide: The Best Places to Live in Georgia for Everyone—from Retirees to Families

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Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Live in Indianapolis for Everyone

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Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Live in Orlando for Families & More

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Ultimate Guide: Top Places in Oregon for Young Adults - Live, Play, Thrive

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Ultimate Guide: Top Places to Live in Columbus Ohio for Every Lifestyle

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Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Live in Portland for Every Lifestyle

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Ultimate Guide: Top Austin Neighborhoods for Every Lifestyle & Budget

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Ultimate Guide: Top Places to Live in Washington DC for Every Lifestyle

So, you're thinking about moving to Washington, DC? Great choice! The city's not just about politics and monuments. It's got neighborhoods that'll make you wanna stay forever. From trendy spots buzzing with cafes and galleries to quiet, leafy streets perfect for Sunday strolls, DC's got a bit of everything.

Ultimate Guide: Best Affordable Places to Live in North Carolina for Every Lifestyle

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Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Live in Georgia for Every Lifestyle

Looking for the perfect spot in Georgia to call home? You're in luck! Georgia's got a little bit of everything, from bustling city vibes in Atlanta to the laid-back coastal charm of Savannah. It's a place where you can find your niche, whether you're after top-notch schools, thriving job markets, or just a great community feel.

Ultimate Guide: Top Places to Live Near Orlando for Every Lifestyle

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14 Dog-Friendly Midwest Road Trip Destinations

Best buds make the best travel companions—especially when they let you call all the shots and pick the snacks. We sniffed out our top 14 Midwest Fido-friendly road trip destinations for when your doggo’s wanderlust just can’t be held at bay any longer. Read on to find out about these dog-friendly road trips including what to bring, where to stay, and more!

Before You Hit the Road…

Make sure you are PAW-pared! Here are just a few tips to make sure your road trip is a success.

Think about a trip to the vet

First, make sure  sure pup is up to date on her vaccinations and physically able to take a road trip. Also, ensure fren’s flea and tick treatments are up to snuff! If your pup is an anxious shot-gun rider, ask your vet about meds or other solutions to make him more comfortable.

Always come prepared 

Not sure what to pack for the pup? Here is a list of essentials to consider adding to the luggage.

• Identification papers and vaccination records
• Collapsible dog bowls 
• Plenty of food and treats
• Leash with collar or harness 
• So many poop bags
• A towel or two (for muddy paws) 
• A first aid kit 
• Any medications that Fido might be taking 

For more information about how to prepare your pup for an amazing road trip, check out Dog Road Trip Essentials: 5 Tips for Your Drive before you hit the road! 

Buckle Up, Pups! It’s Road Trip Time

From Minnesota to Ohio, and back around the Dakotas, the Midwest is a region like no other! If you’re ready to see what you’ve been missing, or revisit some amazing sites, then check out these dog-friendly vacation destinations.

More than simply fun to say, Bemidji has a lot to offer to road-tripping pups and humans. We recommend checking out Lake Bemidji State Park for its over-water sunsets and pup-friendly hiking trails.

After that, head over to the patio of B emidji Brewing for some delicious beer and food, plus complimentary treats and water for your pup.

Our dog-friendly lodging pick: Candlewood Suites Bemidji . This spot allows two pups up to 80lbs for $25 the first night, followed by $15 for each subsequent night.

Duluth is your quintessential MN vacation spot, and it’s one of the dog-friendliest as well. Duluth is home to a number of fantastic dog-friendly restaurants and breweries: We love the patios of At Sara’s Table Chester Creek Caf é or U rsa Minor Brewery in paw-ticular.

As for outdoor activities, the options are endless. Check out Ely’s Peak for a leisure hike with some amazing views. Spend a day relaxing on Park Point Beach where your water woofer can take a dip when the sand gets too toasty.

Our dog-friendly lodging pick: Sheraton Duluth Hotel . Allows two dogs up to 80 lbs. per room with a $75 fee.

3. Wisconsin Dells

The Dells is a Midwest must-see for both you and your pup. Start off your vacation with a river ride from Dells Boat Tours (small dogs allowed), and if you and Fido are still on the prowl, head out to Devil’s Lake State Park for some terrier-iffic views.

Hungry after all of that fresh air? The Keg & the Patio and the Brat House Grill both have dog-friendly patios, and the latter has a special menu just for pups.

Our dog-friendly lodging pick: While there is no shortage of pet-friendly lodging options in the Dells, our recommendation is Baker’s Sunset Bay Resort , where you can bring up to two pets for $20 a day per floof. 

4. Door County

A famous, stunning slice of land surrounded by Lake Michigan, Door County is home to a fabulous hiking opportunity in Whitefish Dunes State Park , which even has access to a dog-friendly beach area on Lake Michigan.

After you get in some walking, swimming, and socializing, consider a stop by Waterfront Mary’s Bar and Grill for delicious food and fantastic music on the deck. You and pup’ll love taking in the panoramic views of Sturgeon Bay.

Our dog-friendly lodging pick: Edgewater Resort in Ephraim . Allows pups for $30/night for the first dog, $15/night for the second dog.

5. Mackinac Island 

Hit the water with a trip to Mackinac Island in the UP of Michigan. Soak up the sun with a ferry ride from Shepler’s Mackinac Island Ferry (Fido rides for free). We know your history hound has been beggin’ to see a recreation of an 18th-century fort and fur trading village, and he’ll get his fill at Colonial Michilimackinac . 

Looking for something to cure your sweet tooth on this vacation? Head to the famous Ryba’s Fudge Shop and experience some delicious T-R-E-A-Ts for pups and humans. It’s the best of both worlds. 

Our dog-friendly lodging pick: Stay right on the island at the Mission Point Resort , or the Holiday Inn Express Mackinaw City is just a short ride to the mainland of Michigan. 

6. Cleveland 

Ready to have a ball? Cleveland is home to tons of dog-friendly excitement including the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath which has access to some of the most beautiful views of the canals and wildlife. If pup is more of a city slicker, get tickets to a Cleveland Scavenger Hunt where you and Fido can search the city for landmarks, artwork, and more!

Bring your woofer to the dog-friendly patios at Nano Brew Cleveland and Luxe Kitchen , which are both top rated in the city for both food and dog-friendliness

Our dog-friendly lodging pick: Hotel Indigo Cleveland Downtown is a great place to unwind, and they’re dog-friendly! Their pet-policy allows for 2 dogs up to 50lbs for a fee of $50 per pet, per stay.  

7. Indianapolis

Let’s set our road trip GPS to Indy! First stop is Broad Ripple Park which is home to a beautiful view of the White River and lots of doggos. From there, check out the Cultural Trail , which connects Indy’s six Cultural Districts. You’ll find pup tons of dog-friendly breweries, coffee shops, and stores along the way (Mass. Ave is a mutts visit!).

You’re sure to be hongry after your day of play, so zoomie over to Cafe Patachou for some top-rated breakfast and lunch! After your meal, hit up Hotel Tango Distillery for a few cocktails with your pal.

Our dog friendly lodging pick: Ironworks Hotel Indy LOVES dogs, and if you call them in advance, they’ll even prep your room with dog bowls, a custom Ironworks mat, and a treat!

There’s no dog-friendly vacation station like the Windy City for your road trip! If your pup has been cooped up on your long ride, head over to Puptown Dog Park in Margate Park! Chicago has some of the best gardens and outdoor shopping in the Midwest; take Fido to Farmers Market Garden Center for some retail therapy. 

Take a break at Lake Bluff Brewing where they welcome both you and your pooch on the patio for views and brews!

Our dog-friendly lodging pick: the Staypineapple Hotel is an iconic spot in The Loop of Chicago. Not only are they pet-friendly, but according to their website they are, “Pet Obsessed!” 

9. Des Moines

Treat your pup to a road trip to Des Moines. We recommend checking out the dog-friendly and scenic Kruidenier Trail , a relatively short hike which passes beautiful Grey’s Lake and connects to other local trails.

You won’t want to miss Paws & Pints , which is basically the Disneyland of dogs. This huge facility offers an indoor/outdoor dog park, bar, coffeehouse, treat shop, and more.

Our dog-friendly lodging pick: La Quinta Inn & Suites Des Moines West Clive . Like almost all La Quinta locations, this spot allows pups—with some restrictions.

5 Dog-Friendly Day Trips from Denver

10. st. louis .

Another great pet-friendly road trip destination is St. Louis! Get outdoors and go to the Ellen Clark Sculpture Park & Dog Park for a peek at the St. Louis University campus. You should also add the iconic Gateway Arch National Park for some fun and very cute photo-ops! 

Head to Boathouse at Forest Park to enjoy an American style dinner on their pooch-loving patio. If you’re looking for more variation in your menu, try Tamm Avenue Grill for the largest dog-friendly patio around.

Our dog-friendly lodging pick: Magnolia Hotel St. Louis offers a unique lodging experience, and is also proudly pet-friendly.

11. Kansas City 

Put Kansas City on your Midwest road trip vacation checklist. You and your pooch can catch a flick at the Boulevard Drive-In Theater or take a stroll at the Shawnee Mission Off-Leash Dog Park .

You can’t leave Kansas without tasting some KC BBQ. Woodyard Bar-B-Que has tons of amazing KC-style options, and the dog-friendly patio is perfect for you and pup to enjoy a meal together. 

Our dog-friendly lodging pick: The Residence Inn Kansas City at the Legends is a comfortable stay that allows 2 pets (50 lb max) per room for a $150 fee. 

If you’re looking for some history on your dog-friendly road trip, Omaha is a great place to stop. Memorial Park showcases trails and monuments that honor the fallen soldiers from WWII, Korea, and Vietnam. Then head to Omaha Dog Bar where your dog will get a chance to socialize with tons of other pooches while enjoying the “bar” of dog treats. 

Bärchen Beer Garden is a great place to settle down from your busy day to a nice lunch (weekends only) or dinner on their patio with your bud.

Our dog-friendly lodging pick: The Element Omaha Midtown Crossing is an affordable hotel with great amenities. Maximum of two dogs allowed, 40 lb. limit, and $30/night.  

South Dakota

13. rapid city.

Rapid City is one of the Midwest’s great, often-overlooked gems. While you’re in town, make a stop at the in-progress, ten-times-larger-than-Mount Rushmore Crazy Horse Memorial , which will be among the world’s tallest monuments once completed. You’ll enjoy the short walk, the breathtaking view, and the look at the Midwest’s Native American heritage. 

Consider a stop at the sprawling, gorgeous patio of Murphy’s Pub and Grill for some drool-inducing eats like street-style tacos, unique sliders, chicken wings with wacky flavors like strawberry-habanero, and much more.

Our lodging pick: Grand Gateway Hotel . Dog-friendly rooms are available for $20 per dog, per night (up to 30 lbs, 2 dogs per room).

North Dakota

When traveling to North Dakota, Fargo is a must-see destination. Your pup will love joining you at the Fargo Air Museum where you can both see some airplanes and fascinating memorabilia. When your hound is ready to roll, get some fresh air at the Village West Dog Park . 

Fargo has many dog-friendly breweries and restaurants, and one that should be on your radar is Wild Terra Cider . From sweet spiked ciders to street tacos and nachos, this bar is one that you and your furry friend will definitely enjoy. 

Our dog-friendly lodging pick: Red Roof Inn offers a homey atmosphere while also being super welcoming to four-legged frens.

Woof to the Wise

Not every road trip is going to be ideal for your furry friend—nor your furry friend for every road trip. Remember to consider your dog’s individual personality and needs when deciding whether or not they should tag along. And, as always, never ever leave your dog unattended in a vehicle—especially during the scorching summer months.

There you have it, friends. You now have a summer’s worth of pup-lovin’ road trip inspiration to keep you and your best bud busy.

Can’t wait to explore all of it

This was VERY helpful! We were looking for things to do on our cross country trip and didn’t know if bring our pup was good for him…nice to know there’s so many things we can do now! Thank you

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Planning a Pup-Friendly Road Trip

Your dog is your favorite person anyway — why not plan the perfect vacation with them?

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Memorial Day weekend marked the unofficial start of summer vacations — and road trips with dogs, of course. Whether you are thinking of going on a brewery tour opens in a new tab with your pup or heading to the beach opens in a new tab , there are plenty of dog-friendly travel options. But there are a few things to consider before heading off on that spectacular road trip with your pup.

How do I prepare for a road trip with dogs?

Road trips with dogs involve a decent amount of time in the car, so it’s important to think about how your dog will safely ride opens in a new tab with you. A crate opens in a new tab or specially designed dog seatbelt (that is well-fitted) will help keep your dog safe in the event of an accident while also preventing distractions while you drive. The crate or seatbelt should be set up in the backseat, away from airbags which can be fatal. When you’re going on a road trip with dogs, the cargo area of hatchbacks and SUVs isn’t ideal because of crumple zones, where the most damage could happen to a vehicle. But you might need to put a crate there because of space restraints if you’re traveling with multiple people.

Oh, and be sure to get your dog used to their restraint before you need to use it by easing them into longer rides. You don’t want a multi-hour road trip to be their first time in a crate or seat belt.

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All 363 miles of the state’s coastline are publicly accessible, and almost beaches all are pet-friendly.

How can I ensure my pup is safe during the road trip?

As cute as it is to have your pup’s head hanging out of the window opens in a new tab , it's important to secure them safely in your car opens in a new tab . Follow these steps to ensure the safest way to drive with a dog:

1. Schedule lots of stops.

Let your dog get out of the car to stretch, pee or poop, and burn off some energy.

2. Start with shorter journeys.

Some dogs get nauseous in the car, so it’s best to slowly build up to longer trips.

3. Don’t feed while driving.

Instead, feed your dog at least three hours before your trip, especially if they get motion sickness. Keep them hydrated along the way.

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All the essentials you need to hit the road with your co-pilot, from dog seatbelts to crash-tested carriers.

4. Don’t let your dog hang out the window.

It’s generally not safe, and it’s not good for their eyes. The wind can dry them out and may also expose them to flying debris. 

5. Don’t give them treats on the trip.

Dogs have been known to choke while eating in transit, so don’t risk it.

6. When you arrive, check the floor of the hotel room carefully.

Dangerous medication in the form of pills is often dropped on hotel floors.

7. Don’t leave your pets in the room unattended. 

This is against most hotels’ pet policies, and also increases the likelihood they might damage something in the room.

8. Be mindful of people and dogs you encounter.

Especially in hallways and elevators — as hard as it is to believe, not everyone wants to say “hi” to your dog.

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It’s good for you both — promise.

What should I consider when choosing a destination for my dog-friendly road trip?

When you’re planning for the best road trip with a dog, you won’t have much difficulty finding pet-friendly accommodations because of the growing market for vacationing with pups. Most websites can filter hotel search results by pet-friendly accommodations and let you know of any size limitations. Websites like Go Pet Friendly opens in a new tab  and Bring Fido opens in a new tab will list only dog-friendly lodging, including campgrounds. Online reviews are invaluable for narrowing down choices. TripAdvisor opens in a new tab is a great choice since there are millions of users, and you can search reviews by keywords such as “dog” or “pet.” Check out our list of 51 spots for awesome dog-friendly summer trips opens in a new tab .

How do I plan the route on my dog friendly road trip?

When figuring out how to road trip with a dog, check your route for pet-friendly spots in the major cities that you’ll pass through. Go Pet Friendly’s Road Trip Planner opens in a new tab has lots of road trip essentials for dogs and lets you map your route and view pet-friendly hotels, restaurants, parks, and stores along the way. Many restaurants with outdoor seating allow pets, but not all, and policies can change, so be sure to call ahead to confirm.

What are the rules for dog parks on my route?

Abide by park leash laws, as tempting as it is to let your dogs run around outside.

Don’t leave bagged poop on the side of the trail. Even biodegradable bags opens in a new tab take a long time to degrade. It’s preferable to carry out the bag until you see a trash can or bury the poop (without the bag) off the trail.

Follow trail etiquette opens in a new tab , such as yielding to passing hikers and keeping your pup close and under control.

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Some like it hot (but not most dogs). Here are the season’s health hazards, from fleas to foxtails.

How do I make sure nothing bad happens to my dog on the road trip?

Before you leave on your trip, make sure microchips opens in a new tab and identification tags are updated with your current cell phone number because that will be your main point of contact.

Carry a photo of your dogs so that you have it handy in case one of them gets lost.

Look up the closest emergency hospital to the hotels you’ll be staying at along the way. This way, you’re not scrambling to find a veterinarian if something happens.

What are the best tips for dogs on road trips?

Remember to take enough breaks to let your dogs stretch their legs and have pee breaks.

Have snacks and water handy so your pups don’t get hungry or dehydrated. 

Be careful when leaving your dogs in the car when it’s warm out opens in a new tab . Cars can heat up to a dangerous level even if it’s only 60 degrees outside.

Attach important information to your dog’s crate that would be invaluable in a car accident.

The Macro Benefits of Microchipping Your Dog opens in a new tab

Sure, microchips can feel a little 1984 . But if your pup has a chip, they’re four times more likely to make it home if they get lost.

FAQs (People Also Ask)

1) how can i keep my pup entertained during the road trip.

Give your dog a safe chew toy they can’t choke on in the car, and make sure to plan stops so you can get outside and play with them if it’s a long trip.

2) What are the tips for making the car ride more comfortable for my pup?

Remember to take enough breaks to let your dogs stretch their legs and potty, and have snacks and water handy so your pups don’t get hungry or dehydrated. 

4) What are the precautions I should take when visiting new environments with my pup?

Ensure microchips and identification tags are updated with your current cell phone number, and look up the closest emergency hospital to the hotels you’ll be staying at.

5) What should I feed my dog before a long road trip?

Don’t give your dog food the day of a long road trip to reduce the risk of nausea and vomiting. Instead keep your pup hydrated and feed them on arrival.

Planning a road trip with your dog this summer? opens in a new tab

Tips for a dog-friendly road trip opens in a new tab

How to Road Trip with Dogs for the Best Vacation Ever opens in a new tab

How to Road Trip with a Dog Like a Pro opens in a new tab

Road Trips and Car Travel With Your Dog opens in a new tab

• dog opens in a new tab
• dog lifestyle opens in a new tab
• dog safety opens in a new tab
• dog travel opens in a new tab
• summer opens in a new tab

JoAnna Lou is a New York City-based researcher, writer and agility enthusiast.

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HOME / BLOG / Travel Resources Planning A Pet Friendly Road Trip

Planning A Pet Friendly Road Trip

• By Amy at GoPetFriendly.com
• June 29, 2022

You’ve been dreaming about it forever, and it’s finally happening … you’re planning a pet friendly road trip! With a little preparation, your trip will come off without a hitch.

You can almost feel the wind in your hair (or fur). And just imagining all the new sights and scents along the way is giving you goosebumps. It’s going to be fantastic! But before you hit the next doggy road trip, there’s some work to do. We’ll walk you through the steps to planning a pet friendly road trip that you’ll never forget.

Steps To Planning A Pet Friendly Road Trip

Step 1: choose your destination.

The first thing to decide when planning your road trip is where to go! If you’re moving, visiting family or friends, or traveling for some other purpose, the end point of your trip might already be set.

If you’re planning a vacation and the options are wide open, choosing a destination can feel overwhelming. Start by imagining your perfect getaway. Do you see yourself relaxing on the beach ? Hiking a mountain trail ? Admiring the landscape at a pet friendly national park ? Picturing yourself in your ideal location will help you determine the “goal” of your trip.

READ MORE ⇒ Best Dog Friendly National Parks in America

Next, decide how many days you’ll be away and how many of them want to spend driving. Maybe you’ll make a bee-line to and from your destination, maximizing the amount of time you get to spend there. On some road trips, on the other hand, driving shorter distances gives you a break from the car and allows more flexibility to see some sights along the route.

It’s also important to consider your pet’s needs when determining your dog friendly road trip style. Puppies and dogs on their first road trip might appreciate more frequent stops and shorter driving days. Whereas well traveled pets might be comfortable with longer trips and sleeping through long stretches in the car.

READ MORE ⇒ The Ultimate Pet Friendly American Road Trip

The most important thing is to plan your road trip so that you and your pets enjoy the journey. Whether you’re an early riser or prefer to sleep in and then linger over your morning coffee — everyone is different, so do what makes you happy! Once you choose your destination and decide how much time you’ll take getting there your road trip plan will start taking shape.

Step 2: Envision Your Route

It’s totally old-school, but I believe the best way to take a cross country road trip is to plan the road trip on a paper map. So pick up a road atlas or grab maps of the states you’ll be visiting!

READ MORE ⇒ Route 66 – Pet Friendly Sights From Chicago to Santa Monica

Planning your trip on a map gives you a great visual of your route and allows you to prioritize when several interesting attractions are located close together. Visualizing your route on a map also gives you perspective on the distances you’ll be traveling and helps you keep in mind what’s coming up each day.

Find your markers and start by highlighting the most direct route between where you are and your road trip destination. Then, using different colors, circle places you’d like to visit — from stops you REALLY want to make to places that might make convenient breaks.

Keep in mind that the most direct route isn’t necessarily the best way to go. Your road-tripping style and the amount of time you’re planning to spend traveling will influence whether you stick to the highways or backroads and how many things you get to see when you’re passing by.

Step 3: Plan Your Stops

The most common mistake people make when planning a road trip is trying to do too much. It’s a problem with the way our brains work. We find the most popular 1,000 things to do, pack it all into a one-week itinerary, make the reservations, and then freak out when things go sideways. That’s no way to spend a vacation!

Flexibility is key when you’re traveling with pets. The weather might not be ideal on the day you planned to hike. Or, you might want nothing more than to lay on the beach on the day you scheduled a guided walking tour. So, tread lightly when planning your stops.

Unless your trip will be ruined if an event doesn’t work out, think twice before making reservations. From dinner to kayaking – you can often call at the last minute and find availability. And with no deposits to lose, you’re free to spend more time, leave early, or add a new discovery to your itinerary.

While we recommend underestimating how much you can do, we encourage you to keep your trusty map handy. If you’re fortunate enough to have some free time, check your map to see what’s close and allow serendipity to fill the gap in the most spectacular way.

Step 4: Book Where You’ll Stay

One thing you might want to book in advance is where you’ll staying during your road trip. Reserving pet friendly hotels, vacation rentals, or campgrounds can be a tricky proposition, and not having your accommodations lined up can cause stress.

As you review the map you’ve been marking up, calculate the time it will take to drive between different points along the route. Add some time for bathroom breaks, eating, and filling the car with gas. Also consider the time you’d like to spend at attractions and rest stops along the way.

Then, using all of this information, decide where you want to end each day of your road trip and circle those locations on the map.

READ MORE ⇒ Pet Policies For All U.S. Hotel Chains

With the locations where you’ll be spending the night determined, you can start searching for  pet friendly lodging . GoPetFriendly is a great place to start! Type in the name of the city you’ll be visiting, then click “Lodgings” at the top of the page. You’ll be able to see the pet friendly hotels and accommodations available, as well as their pet polices. From there, you can explore pet friendly accommodations and find restaurants, activities, and service providers in the area.

Though more and more accommodations are welcoming pets, not all places are equally pet friendly. These questions will help you narrow down the best places to stay with your pet:

Do you accept pets?  

Hotel and vacation rental pet polices change quickly, so it’s important to verify that the property you’re considering still welcomes pets.

Do you charge additional pet fees?  

This is where pet friendliness really shows. Some hotels welcome pets to stay for free, while others heap on additional charges that can add up to more than the nightly room rate!

Be sure you have a clear understanding of the cost before making your reservation. Determine whether the fee is per night or for the entire stay, and whether it’s per pet or fixed regardless of the number of pets. Also ask if any portion of the fee is refundable if the hotel room isn’t damaged during your stay.

READ MORE ⇒ Hotel Chains Where Pet Stay Free

Are there any weight or breed restrictions?

It’s common for accommodations to impose weight restrictions. If you’ve found an option that’s a perfect in every way – except that your pup is a little too big – ask if they’ll make an exception. Most hotels have a little wiggle room in their size limitations and will try to accommodate you when asked.

How many pets are allowed per room?  

When you travel with multiple pets, this is an important consideration.

What pet amenities does the hotel offer?  

The most important amenity is always a convenient, grassy pet relief area. But some pet friendly hotels also provide treats at check-in, pet beds and bowls in the room, doggy room service menus, spa treatments, and pet sitting services. It’s always nice when your hotel has a restaurant with a pet friendly patio. And some dog friendly hotels even host a “yappy hour” in the lobby each evening! Deciding how much to pamper your pet is entirely up to you. Another nice perk is a nearby dog park!

Can pets be left unattended?  

Determining whether you can leave your pet alone in the room while you step out for something to eat or to run an errand helps you plan appropriately.

Hotels are primarily concerned with two things when pets are left unattended: damage to the room, and barking that disturbs other guests. To alleviate those concerns, some hotels require crates for pets when you’re away. And following our tips for a quiet stay will help ease any worries about barking.

Are some areas off limits to pets?  

Pets are generally not allowed in breakfast areas, restaurants, pools, and fitness rooms. Ask up front and be sure you can live with the pet policies and restrictions.

Step 5: Prepare Your Vehicle

With your route planned and your accommodations booked, the next step is making sure your car is “pet ready.” Coming home together safely is the most important part of any trip, so be sure you have a way of securing your pet while you’re traveling.

A crate, carrier, or car harness will prevent your pet from making an unannounced visit to check the view from the back seat or your lap while you’re driving, and will protect you both in case of an accident.

READ MORE ⇒ Best Crash-Tested Dog Harnesses For Traveling By Car

If you’re using a crate or carrier, be sure it’s attached to the floor or the seat belt so it doesn’t become a projectile in an accident. Also remember to deactivate the airbag for any seat your pet will be occupying.

If your pet isn’t used to buckling up in the car, the sooner you get him used to the idea, the better! Start by allowing him to explore his new carrier or crate, or wear harness, in the house. As he gets more comfortable, take him for short drives to fun places. Take it slow, and before you know it, he’ll be road trip ready.

Step 6: Talk To Your Vet

When planning your road trip, call your veterinarian to confirm that your pet’s vaccinations are up to date and discuss any possible health concerns that might exist where you’ll be traveling.

Also ask about possible remedies for car sickness, diarrhea and restlessness – just in case!

Finally, consider having your pet micro-chipped, or update your contact information if your pet’s already chipped. It would be a nightmare, but pets do become separated from their people while traveling. Shelters, animal hospitals, veterinary clinics and humane societies have scanners that read the chips, so they can quickly notify you of your pet’s recovery.

READ MORE ⇒ What To Do If Your Puppy Gets Motion Sickness

Step 7: Polish Your P’s and Q’s

You can avoid embarrassing and potentially dangerous situations by teaching your dog safe and reliable Come, Heel, Quiet, and Settle commands. Practice is the key!

Before setting out on your road trip, test your progress somewhere with a lot of distractions, like an outdoor café, beach, or dog park.

READ MORE ⇒ Training Your Dog To Travel

Step 8: Gather The Gear

Pets need a lot of stuff when they go on vacation! This checklist will help you gather the things you’ll want to take along for your furry friend.

• Food and Treats And, for canned food, don’t forget the can opener!
• All medications, vitamins, and supplements
• Drinking Water – If your pet’s stomach is easily upset, take along drinking water from home.
• Food and Water Bowls
• Your pet’s bed and a couple of toys
• Current Identification Tag – Include your cell phone number or other phone number where you can be reached while you are away.
• Leash – Many places require your pet be on a leash no longer than six feet. If you want to give your pet more freedom and exercise, but not risk being off-leash, pack a long-line leash as well.
• Litter box and litter for cats
• A roll of paper towels for muddy paws and other messes
• An old towel in case of rain or after swimming
• First aid kit
• Proof of vaccinations
• Medical records – Scan the documents to a USB drive and you’ll have them in case your pet gets sick or injured.
• Photo of your pet – In case you get separated, have a current photo handy so you can create posters quickly.

READ MORE ⇒ What Should You Pack When Traveling With Your Cat?

Step 9: Stick To The Routine

Whether they show it or not, many pets feel anxious when they’re away from home. You can help relieve their stress by sticking to your pet’s normal feeding and exercise schedule.

Set an alarm to remind you when meal time is approaching. And plan time each day to let your dog stretch, run, and burn off some energy. Isn’t that what being on vacation is all about, after all?!

Setting aside time for a nice walk before you hop in the car and another stroll at the end of the day means you’ll have less time behind the wheel. But experiencing the places you stay with your pet is part of the fun of road tripping together!

Making more frequent stops is also part of traveling with your pet. Figure on taking a break from driving every two hours or so to let your pup stretch his legs, sniff what’s new, and get a drink of water.

Step 10: Roll With It

No matter how much effort you put into planning your pet friendly road trip, things will sometimes go wrong. When they do, you can choose to let it ruin your day, or see it as a new adventure.

Pets are great teachers in that they’re never attached to the outcome. Where you end up, how many places you see along the way … it’s all irrelevant to your pet. He just wants to be with you and have fun.

If you can embrace that mindset, you’ll see every detour as an opportunity, and you and your pet will grow closer for the experience.

Remember To Be Considerate

When you travel with your pet, you are an ambassador for all pet travelers – so make a good impression! Abide by the rules of the places you visit, always keep your pet on-leash, and clean up after him.

The inconsiderate behavior of a few can lead to unfortunate repercussions for future pet travelers and local pet owners.

All this advance preparation takes some time, but it’s the secret to planning a pet friendly road trip that’s enjoyable for everyone. And, most importantly, you’ll be making memories with your canine companion best friend that will last a lifetime.

Waggin’ trails!

Great article. Thank you

great article, looking forward to our doggy road trip to myrtle beach

YAY!! Wishing you a wonderful trip, Kerry.

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The Best Dog-Friendly Road Trips in the U.S.

Heading out on the highway? Your pup is the perfect travel companion.

Planning a summer vacation this year? Take one where you can bring your entire family—and that includes your lovable, furry four-legger. Hit the road and drive to a fun destination where your pup is more than welcome. Here are five road trips that feature lodging, patio dining, beaches, and hiking, so everyone can enjoy the big adventure together.

St. Louis, MO to Nashville, TN

New Orleans, LA to Austin, TX

On this foodie-friendly route, you and your dog will drive seven-and-a-half hours west on Interstate 10, passing through Baton Rouge and Houston. Spend some time walking the grounds of the Baton Rouge capitol (the tallest one in the U.S.!), which spans 27 acres. Then take a detour and head to Galveston, Texas, to take a dip in one of the area’s many dog-friendly beaches on the Gulf Coast. When you get to Austin, you’ll discover that weekends there mean taking the dogs out and dining al fresco. After walking the trails along the river, head over to a restaurant with a pup-friendly patio, like The ABGB and Banger’s Sausage House & Beer Garden , where they serve a house-made sausage for Fido. Bring along his favorite Nature’s Recipe meal to make sure he fuels up for a run on the shore.

Denver, Colorado to Grand Canyon National Park

What outdoorsy dog wouldn't love to accompany you to the Grand Canyon? On the mountainous route, you’ll pass through several national forests. Head to White River National Forest in Colorado where you can roam with your dog off-leash in the Flat Tops Wilderness . Or dive south through the Rio Grande and San Juan National Forests and stop for a hike or two. When you arrive at the Grand Canyon, make sure you abide by the park rules by keeping your pup on leash and sticking to the pet-permitted trails on the South and North rim.

Philadelphia, PA to Portland, MA

Up in the northeast corner of the country, Portland bills itself as a pup-friendly city. Visitors can hang out at off-leash beaches like the city’s Eastern Beach and hike Portland Trails woodland and coastal areas, according to VisitPortland.com , and some dog-friendly hotels even offer pet massages and turndown treats! On the way up, plan to stop for the night in a city like New York City or Boston, where you and Fido can both enjoy the attractions. In the Big Apple, for instance, go for a run or a round of fetch in Central Park, then swing by Bloomingdales on 59th and Lexington—the iconic department store will welcome your furry fella.

Chicago, IL to Minneapolis, MN

The easy six-hour trip brings you to one of the most gorgeous cities in the Midwest. Minneapolis has plenty of hiking opportunities for your BFF (best furry friend, of course) along the Chain of Lakes . Stop in Milwaukee, Wisconsin and grab a bite on an outdoor patio that welcomes your barking pal, like Stack’d Burger Bar . Just bring her Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Easy to Digest Salmon, Sweet Potato & Pumpkin dry food—a balanced, nutrient-rich meal—so she gets her own full meal, too. Every year, the Milwaukee Brewers host Bark at the Park , a game where you can buy your pooch a ticket to sit back and enjoy a baseball game. Then, hang out in Madison, Wisconsin, and tour the university campus, taking a long walk together along the gorgeous trails of Lake Mendota.

Atlanta, GA to Savannah, GA

It may be a relatively quick ride across the southern state (about four hours), but you’ll want to spend some time in the Oconee National Forest , where dogs are allowed on the trails and in the campgrounds for an overnight stay. (Bring lots of water for the hot-weather hikes!) Savannah has a rich history you’ll love to explore: The downtown is built around 22 historic squares that make for idyllic strolls, and you’ll be able to pop into many dog-friendly stores for an afternoon of window shopping. The fountain at Forsyth Park (which covers 30 acres) is the perfect Instagram opportunity for the fam. In the evening, it’s not hard to find a dog-friendly patio to dine. Try The Olde Pink House—a historical site that serves low country cuisine where you can bring your dog, according to VisitSavannah.com .

Like you, your dog deserves to live his best life, too. It’s why Nature’s Recipe® makes natural food with added vitamins, minerals, and nutrients that’ll fuel adventures with your dog, anywhere you are. Learn more ways to get your dog’s tail wagging in the Nature’s Recipe World of Wag .

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Windows Down, Head Out: The Ultimate Dog Road Trip Planner

As the weather becomes nicer, pet owners are considering going on a road trip with their dog for the first time. A dog road trip planner is key to keeping things organized when preparing to hit the road.

While you’re super excited about it, at the same time, you want to ensure that your dog is healthy and happy the entire car ride and has a positive experience exploring the open road. After all, he’s never done this before, and you aren’t exactly sure how he will react.

Before you set out for the adventure of a lifetime, read these tips for taking your dog on a road trip so both of you can have a wonderful time.

Go on Short Trips for Practice

If you’re taking a long road trip that could last for days or weeks on end, then dog owners should practice by bringing your dog along for short trips. This could include a weekend getaway or a day trip to somewhere nearby just to see how he reacts.

Does he need to use the potty every hour or so? Does he have to drink from his water bowl every few hours? You’ll know how to better prepare for longer road trips if you do a quick practice round.

Get the Right Safety Gear

When you’re driving, your dog should not be loose in the car. Not only is it distracting, but if you get into an accident, he could get seriously hurt. It’s best to  restrain your dog  in a carrier in the backseat that connects to a seat belt. The carrier needs to be big enough that your dog can stand up, turn around, and lie down to get comfortable.

A car hammock seat cover, car seat, or car harness are other good safety tools that prevent your dog from sliding to the floor.

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PupShield Protective Backseat Car Hammock, Black

Keep your pup safe, and your car’s seats clean, with the Outward Hound PupShield Hammock. This doggy seat protector keeps your dog safely in the back seat during drives. Doing double duty, this car accessory also protects your vehicle’s seats from hair and muddy paws! Explore new ground with Outward Hound Gear! Our high-quality performance gear will keep your pup safely equipped for every new…

You should also bring a dog life jacket if you’re going to be taking your pooch to the water. It’ll give you some peace of mind that your canine best friend is safe when he’s taking a dip.

Bring a Pet First Aid Kit

You never know when you’re going to run into trouble. If you have a pet first aid kit on hand, you can be more prepared if disaster strikes. In your  pet first aid kit , you might include:

• adhesive tape
• saline eye solution
• absorbent gauze pads
• antibiotic ointment
• alcohol wipes
• an extra supply of his medicine, supplements, and dog food
• 3% hydrogen peroxide (in case you need to make your dog vomit)

Additionally, if your dog gets motion sick/car sickness, pack  anti-nausea drugs and antihistamines . Just make sure you ask your veterinarian which ones are best for your pooch and how much to give them each time he’s acting sick. Keeping your windows rolled down a few inches should also help with the motion sickness.

Save Space: Take Portable Food and Water Bowls

When you’re creating your road trip planner, you might not think about how much space you’re going to have in your car. If you’re going on a long trip, it’s likely packed to the gills. Save some room and bring collapsible food and water bowls that you can easily store as well as hook onto your leash for walks.

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Never Keep Him in a Hot Car

A dog-friendly road trip is not dog-friendly at all if you leave him in a hot car . If it’s warm outside, your car can quickly heat up. Even if it’s just 70 degrees Fahrenheit, the car can become intolerable for your dog.

On the flip side, temperatures lower than 35 degrees Fahrenheit are unsafe, too. If you’re going on a road trip with your loved one or friend, ask them to stay with your dog or walk them around when you have to leave your car. This is a good time for your dog to pee and poop and get a drink from his water bowl as well.

Make Frequent Potty Stops

Normally, dogs need to  pee every four to six hours . However, when you’re on the road, your dog may become dehydrated more easily and drink more water to make up for it. This means he’ll need frequent potty breaks.

It’s a good idea to pull over at a rest stop and stretch frequently, too, so you can stay alert behind the wheel. When you need to refuel at a gas station, let your dog out for a little bit. Your pooch will appreciate getting a little walk and exploring different places along the way.

Don’t forget to pack extra poop bags for those bathroom breaks!

Find Local Dog Parks, Dog-Friendly Trails, and Dog Beaches

When making the perfect road trip planner, don’t forget to find dog-friendly destinations and fun pit stops. For instance, you could log onto  BringFido  to locate nearby pet-friendly restaurants, dog parks, and dog beaches. You could also check out  GoPetFriendly , which has suggestions for things to do with your dog along the road, such as going to the Grand Canyon in Arizona or a campsite in Colorado.

If you’re going cross-country, you could visit national parks and national forests – just make sure they are dog-friendly before booking your reservation. Since there are wild animals running around state parks, you should keep your dog on a short leash at all times and not veer off the people- and dog-friendly hiking trails.

If you’re going to be hiking when it’s getting darker out, putting a reflective vest on your pup is a good idea. You could also put a  hiking backpack on your dog  to ensure he gets enough exercise and is sufficiently tired out before hopping back into the car.

If you are visiting watering holes, get a dog life jacket for safety. The best dog life vests will have adjustable straps and sufficient padding for a secure fit.

See if you can plan your gas station stops along your route where your pup can stretch his legs, too.

Have a Copy of His Medical Records on Hand

Just in case there’s an emergency, you should bring along a copy of your pup’s medical records. It’s a good idea to store them on your phone and have hard copies because you could end up in an area where you have bad cell phone service.

The medical records should include a list of vaccinations your dog has gotten, which may be necessary if you’re staying in an Airbnb or other pet-friendly accommodations that need to see them. Make sure you save your primary veterinarian’s phone number so you can get in touch with any questions.

You may also want to think about staying in areas where there is at least one pet hospital nearby so that you can get emergency treatment should something happen.

Tip: Consider getting a microchip with updated contact information put in if your dog is prone to ‘pulling a Houdini’.

Find Pet-Friendly Accommodations

There are a number of hotel chains that provide  pet-friendly accommodations  for you and your canine best friend. They include Aloft Hotels, Best Western, Comfort Inn, Clarion Inn & Suites, Courtyard Marriott, Holiday Inn Express, Red Roof Inn, and Sheraton.

When searching for a pet-friendly hotel for your cross-country road trip, you should click the “pets allowed” option on sites like Hotels.com and TripAdvisor to filter out the results. Some dog-friendly hotels may even provide a dog bed for you!

Even if a place is dog friendly, it doesn’t mean that there won’t be a pet fee. Keep an eye out for these fees in their pet policies so there are no surprises when checking in. Be sure to clean up messes that have been left behind before checking out.

Ensuring Your Doggy Road Trip Goes Smoothly

Prior to hitting the road, make sure you follow these travel tips and create a pet-friendly road trip planner prior. Take frequent breaks, hydrate, pack his favorite toys, and overall, keep your dog safe. Then you can pretty much guarantee that you and your furry friend are going to have an amazing time together out on the open road.

For a packing list of key items to take with you, check out:

14 Essential Items to Bring on Your Next Road Trip With Your Dog

10 of the Best Cat Toys for Exercise

3 Benefits of Chewing for Puppies

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15 Awesome Dog-Friendly Midwest Road Trip Destinations

Best buds make the best travel companions—especially when they let you call all the shots and pick the snacks. We sniffed out our top 15 Midwest Fido-friendly road trip destinations for when your doggo’s wanderlust just can’t be held at bay any longer. Read on to find out about these dog-friendly road trips including what to bring, where to stay, and more!

Before You Hit the Road…

Make sure you are PAW-pared! Here are just a few tips to make sure your road trip is a success.

Think about a trip to the vet

First, make sure  sure pup is up to date on her vaccinations and physically able to take a road trip. Also, ensure fren’s flea and tick treatments are up to snuff! If your pup is an anxious shot-gun rider, ask your vet about meds or other solutions to make him more comfortable.

Always come prepared 

Not sure what to pack for the pup? Here is a list of essentials to consider adding to the luggage.

• Identification papers and vaccination records
• Collapsible dog bowls 
• Plenty of food and treats
• Leash with collar or harness 
• So many poop bags
• A towel or two (for muddy paws) 
• A first aid kit 
• Any medications that Fido might be taking 

For more information about how to prepare your pup for an amazing road trip, check out Dog Road Trip Essentials: 5 Tips for Your Drive before you hit the road! 

Buckle Up, Pups! It’s Road Trip Time

From Minnesota to Ohio, and back around the Dakotas, the Midwest is a region like no other! If you’re ready to see what you’ve been missing, or revisit some amazing sites, then check out these dog-friendly vacation destinations.

More than simply fun to say, Bemidji has a lot to offer to road-tripping pups and humans. We recommend checking out Lake Bemidji State Park for its over-water sunsets and pup-friendly hiking trails.

After that, head over to the patio of Bemidji Brewing for some delicious beer and food, plus complimentary treats and water for your pup.

Our dog-friendly lodging pick: Candlewood Suites Bemidji . This spot allows two pups up to 80lbs for $25 the first night, followed by $15 for each subsequent night.

Duluth is your quintessential MN vacation spot, and it’s one of the dog-friendliest as well. Duluth is home to a number of fantastic dog-friendly restaurants and breweries: We love the patios of At Sara’s Table Chester Creek Café or Ursa Minor Brewery in paw-ticular.

As for outdoor activities, check out Ely’s Peak for a leisure hike with some amazing views. If you are feeling adventurous, Duluth offers a unique experience for you and your pooch; Lake Country Air & Beaver Air Tours is an air tour company that showcases water plane rides up the North Shore! Adults can fly for just $119 per person, and doggos fly free!

Our dog-friendly lodging pick: Sheraton Duluth Hotel . Allows dogs up to 80 lbs, and a guest waiver must be signed at check-in.

4. Wisconsin Dells

The Dells is a Midwest must-see for both you and you pup. Start off your vacation with a river ride from Dells Boat Tours , and if you and Fido are still on the prowl, head out to Devil’s Lake State Park for some terrier-iffic views.

Hungry after all of that fresh air? The Keg & the Patio and the Brat House Grill both have dog-friendly patios, and the latter has a special menu just for pups. If you’re in the mood for a brew, hit up the dog-friendly beer garden at Port Huron Brewing Company . 

Our dog-friendly lodging pick: While there is no shortage of pet-friendly lodging options in the Dells, our recommendation is Baker’s Sunset Bay Resort , where you can bring up to two pets for $15 a day per floof. 

5. Door County

A famous, stunning slice of land surrounded by Lake Michigan, Door County is home to a fabulous hiking opportunity in Whitefish Dunes State Park , which even has access to a dog-friendly beach area on Lake Michigan.

After you get in some walking, swimming, and socializing, consider a stop by the Gibraltar Grill for delicious food and fantastic music. Maybe pup’ll even get a feature on the Dog Pals page of their website!

Our dog-friendly lodging pick: Hillside Inn of Ephraim . Allows pups with approval, so be sure to call ahead. Other great lodging options can be found here .

6. Mackinac Island 

Hit the water with a trip to Mackinac Island in the UP of Michigan. Soak up the sun with a ferry ride from Shepler’s Mackinac Island Ferry (Fido rides for free). We know your history hound has been beggin’ to see a recreation of an 18th-century fort and fur trading village, and he’ll get his fill at Colonial Michilimackinac . 

Looking for something to cure your sweet tooth on this vacation? Head to the famous Ryba’s Fudge Shop and experience some delicious T-R-E-A-Ts for pups and humans. It’s the best of both worlds. 

Our dog-friendly lodging pick: Stay right on the island at the Mission Point Resort , or the Holiday Inn Express Mackinaw City is just a short ride to the mainland of Michigan (one-time $30 pet fee). 

7. Cleveland 

Ready to have a ball? Cleveland is home to tons of dog-friendly excitement including the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath which has access to some of the most beautiful views of the canals and wildlife. If pup is more of a city slicker, get tickets to Cleveland Scavenger Hunt: A Ball Round The Mall where you and Fido can search the city for landmarks, artwork, and more!

Bring your woofer to the dog-friendly patios at Nano Brew Cleveland and Luxe Kitchen , which are both top rated in the city for both food and dog-friendliness

Our dog-friendly lodging pick: Hotel Indigo Cleveland Downtown is a great place to unwind, and they’re dog-friendly! Their pet-policy allows for 2 dogs up to 50lbs for a $35 deposit and $35 nightly fee per dog. 

8. Indianapolis

Let’s set our road trip GPS to Indy! First stop is Broad Ripple Park which is home to a beautiful view of the White River and lots of doggos. From there, check out the Cultural Trail , which connects Indy’s six Cultural Districts. You’ll find pup tons of dog-friendly breweries, coffee shops, and stores along the way (Mass. Ave is a mutts visit!).

You’re sure to be hongryafter your day of play, so zoomie over to Cafe Patachou for some top-rated breakfast and lunch! After your meal, hit up Hotel Tango Distillery for a few cocktails with your pal.

Our dog friendly lodging pick: Ironworks Hotel Indy LOVES dogs, and if you call them in advance, they’ll even prep your room with dog bowls, a custom Ironworks mat, and a treat!

There’s no dog-friendly vacation station like the Windy City for your road trip! If your pup has been cooped up on your long ride, head over to Puptown Dog Park in Margate Park! Chicago has some of the best gardens and outdoor shopping in the Midwest; take Fido to Farmers Market Garden Center for some retail therapy. 

Pizza is a Chicago staple, and 6 Mutts Chicago food truck is slingin’ pizza options for you AND your pup. What goes great with pizza? Beer. Lake Bluff Brewing welcomes both you and your pooch on the patio for views and brews!

Our dog-friendly lodging pick: the Staypineapple Hotel is an iconic spot in The Loop of Chicago! Not only are they pet-friendly, but according to their website they are, “Pet Obsessed!” 

10. Des Moines

Treat your pup to a road trip to Des Moines. We recommend checking out the dog-friendly and scenic Kruidenier Trail , a relatively short hike which passes beautiful Grey’s Lake and connects to other local trails.

After that, consider a stop at the dog-friendly patio of Gazali’s , a Mediterranean spot which churns out gyros, wraps, salads, and sandwiches.

Our dog-friendly lodging pick: La Quinta Inn & Suites Des Moines West Clive . Like almost all La Quinta locations, this spot allows pups—with some restrictions. Find deets here .

11. St. Louis 

Another great pet-friendly road trip destination is St. Louis! Get outdoors and go to the Ellen Clark Sculpture Park & Dog Park for a peek at the St. Louis University campus.You should also add the iconic Gateway Arch National Park for some fun and very cute photo-ops! 

Head to Boathouse at Forest Park to enjoy an American style dinner on their pooch-loving patio. If you’re looking for more variation in your menu, try Tamm Avenue Grill for the largest dog-friendly patio around.

Our dog-friendly lodging pick: Magnolia Hotel St. Louis offers a unique lodging experience, and is also proudly pet-friendly.

12. Kansas City 

Put Kansas City on your Midwest road trip vacation checklist. You and your pooch can catch a flick at the Boulevard Drive-In Theater or take a stroll at the Shawnee Mission Off-Leash Dog Park .

You can’t leave Kansas without tasting some KC BBQ. Woodyard Bar-B-Que has tons of amazing KC-style options, and the dog-friendly patio is perfect for you and pup to enjoy a meal together. 

Our dog-friendly lodging pick: The Residence Inn Kansas City at the Legends is a comfortable stay that allows 2 pets (50 lb max) per room for a $150 fee. 

If you’re looking for some history on your dog-friendly road trip, Omaha is a great place to stop. Memorial Park showcases trails and monuments that honor the fallen soldiers from WWII, Korea, and Vietnam. Then head to Omaha Dog Bar where your dog will get a chance to socialize with tons of other pooches while enjoying the “bar” of dog treats. 

J. Coco is a great place to settle down from your busy day to a nice lunch or dinner on their patio with your bud. They serve up great organic fare and will tell your pup how pretty she is (even tho she already knows).

Our dog-friendly lodging pick: The Element Omaha Midtown Crossing is an affordable hotel with great amenities, including being very pet-friendly. 

South Dakota

14. Rapid City

Rapid City is one of the Midwest’s great, often-overlooked gems. While you’re in town, make a stop at the in-progress, ten-times-larger-than-Mount Rushmore Crazy Horse Memorial , which will be among the world’s tallest monuments once completed. You’ll enjoy the short walk, the breathtaking view, and the look at the Midwest’s Native American heritage. 

Consider a stop at the sprawling, gorgeous patio of Murphy’s Pub and Grill for some drool-inducing eats like street-style tacos, unique sliders, chicken wings with wacky flavors like strawberry-habanero, and much more.

Our dog-friendly lodging pick: Grand Gateway Hotel . Up to two dogs allowed per room for a nightly fee of $10 per dog.

North Dakota

When traveling to North Dakota, Fargo is a must-see destination. Your pup will love joining you at the Fargo Air Museum where you can both see some airplanes and fascinating memorabilia. When your hound is ready to roll, get some fresh air at the Village West Dog Park . 

Fargo has many dog-friendly breweries and restaurants, and one that should be on your radar is Wild Terra Cider . From sweet spiked ciders to street tacos and nachos, this bar is one that you and your furry friend will definitely enjoy. 

Our dog-friendly lodging pick: Red Roof Inn offers a homey atmosphere while also being super welcoming to four-legged frens.

Woof to the Wise

Not every road trip is going to be ideal for your furry friend—nor your furry friend for every road trip. Remember to consider your dog’s individual personality and needs when deciding whether or not they should tag along. And, as always, never ever leave your dog unattended in a vehicle—especially during the scorching summer months.

There you have it, friends. You now have a summer’s worth of pup-lovin’ road trip inspiration to keep you and your best bad busy.

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Road trip with a dog: essential tips for a paw-some adventure.

Last Updated: April 15, 2024 by Lisa Melillo

There’s nothing like the road stretching endlessly before you, your favorite tunes playing, and your furry best friend in the passenger seat, head out the window, ears flapping in the breeze. It’s heartwarming too see your dog equally excited for every pit stop and new scent.

But as every seasoned traveler knows, a great journey with your pet requires some savvy preparation. It’s not just about packing your bags—it’s about ensuring your companion is as comfortable and secure as you are. Preparing means thinking of everything from their favorite chew toy to their snug safety harness.

So, ready to learn how to road trip with a dog? Stick with me as I guide you through creating the perfect travel experience for you and your pup. Let’s make sure your next road trip is unforgettable, filled with fun, fur, and plenty of paw-friendly pit stops!

Pre-Trip Preparations: A Tail-Wagging Start to Your Journey

Planning a road trip with your dog isn’t just about mapping your route—it’s also about ensuring your furry companion is as road-ready as you are. Let’s dive into some essential preparations that can make the trip smoother for both of you.

Health Check: The Vet Visit

Before you even think of packing, a trip to the veterinarian is a must. This isn’t just about a routine check-up; it’s about making sure your dog is fit for the journey ahead.

Last year, before a road trip to the mountains, I learned the hard way that my dog needed a tick prevention treatment after finding a tick nestled in her fur—something I’d have missed without a vet’s keen eye.

Discuss vaccinations that might be necessary depending on your destination—like Lyme disease in wooded areas or Bordetella for those frequent rest stop interactions.

Getting Microchipped: A Safety Net on the Road

Microchipping your dog can be a game-changer, especially when traveling. It’s a simple procedure where a tiny chip, about the size of a grain of rice, is inserted under your dog’s skin, typically between the shoulder blades.

This chip carries a unique ID number that can be read by a scanner at most animal shelters and veterinary offices. If your dog ever gets lost, a quick scan can help identify them and bring them safely back to you. It’s a small step that offers a big peace of mind.

After your dog is microchipped, the crucial next step is registering the chip with your current contact information and regularly updating it if anything changes. Many pet owners overlook this, but it’s essential for the microchip to serve its purpose.

Documentation: Keeping It All in Check

I keep a pet travel folder—yes, just like an important documents folder for humans. This includes health records, a recent photo of my dog, and copies of her registration and microchip numbers. It’s like her passport, proving invaluable at dog-friendly hotels or in case of a veterinary emergency far from home.

Desensitization: The Practice Runs

If your dog isn’t used to car travel, start with short jaunts to fun places—think a local park or a new hiking trail. It’s about making the car a gateway to fun, not just a moving box that leads to the vet.

On one of our first short trips, my dog was visibly anxious, pacing in the back seat. Over time, she learned that car rides often end in exciting walks and new smells, which helped her settle down.

Comfort: Their Home on the Road

The right setup is crucial for a calm trip. Test different arrangements to find what makes your dog most comfortable. Is it a crate filled with their favorite cushions, or a seat cover that allows them to look out the window safely? Whichever you choose, ensure it’s secure. Nothing spoils a trip faster than a loose crate sliding at every turn.

Dog Road Trip Essentials: Packing With Purpose and a Pinch of Fun

Heading out on a road trip with your dog isn’t just about tossing a bag and a leash into the backseat. Nope, it’s more like preparing for a furry, four-legged toddler.

From snacks to snooze setups, here’s how to ensure your dog is as well-packed as you are, making the journey enjoyable for everyone involved.

Don’t Skimp on the Snacks and Slumber

• Food and Water : I’ve learned that my dog, like most, can be a bit of a diva about her diet on the road. So, we bring along her regular food plus some canned pumpkin—it’s great for digestion and helps keep any travel-related tummy troubles at bay. Don’t forget a portable water dispenser; hydration is key, especially on those hot travel days.
• Bedding : Just like us, dogs appreciate a comfy place to crash. Whether it’s their favorite fluffy bed from home or a special travel mat, make sure they have a cozy spot to unwind after a day of adventures.

Safety First: Securing Your Sidekick

• Leash and Harness : Always have a sturdy leash and a well-fitted harness . I prefer a reflective or glow in the dark leash for extra visibility when those inevitable late evening or early morning pit stops happen.
• Crate or Safety Restraint : Safety restraints are non-negotiable. A crash-tested crate or a safety belt that clips into your car’s seatbelt system can make all the difference in an unexpected driving situation. Plus, it helps keep your dog from becoming a lap navigator!

Health Kit and Clean-Up Crew

• First-Aid Kit : Accidents happen, so having a first-aid kit for your dog is crucial. Mine includes the basics like bandages and antiseptic, plus a tick removal tool—essential for those impromptu nature walks.
• Grooming Supplies : A brush, eco-friendly poop bags, and a few old towels for muddy paws can make your car a cleaner, more pleasant space. Trust me, nothing’s worse than the smell of wet dog marinating in car upholstery.

Comfort and Entertainment: Happy Dog, Happy Drive

• Toys and Chews : A few well-chosen toys can prevent your dog from getting bored and chewing on, say, your car seats or travel bags. Last trip, we brought a new puzzle toy, and it was a hit—kept her busy and out of trouble.
• Calming Aids : For the more anxious pooch, calming supplements or a pheromone collar can be a game changer. They help soothe travel nerves, making the drive smoother for everyone.

Documentation: Cover Your Bases

• Medical Records and ID : Keep your dog’s medical records and a recent photo on hand in case of emergencies. Make sure their microchip information is up-to-date—this is the lifeline if they ever get lost.

Staying Safe on the Road

Traveling with your dog can transform a simple road trip into an unforgettable adventure. But as every pet owner knows, it also introduces a new layer of responsibility—ensuring the safety of your furry co-pilot.

Ensuring Safe Confinement

Securing your dog in the vehicle is one of the most important safety measures. From personal experience, a properly fitted crate has been a game-changer. It keeps my dog safe from abrupt stops and gives him a private space to feel secure. The crate should be large enough for him to stand, turn around, and lie comfortably.

On the other hand, a dog seatbelt harness offers more flexibility for him to look out the windows, which he loves, while ensuring he’s strapped in safely during the drive.

Many times, choosing between a crate and a harness depends on your dog’s temperament and your travel needs. For longer trips, I lean towards the crate because it allows for the inclusion of familiar bedding and toys, making it a cozy den on the go. For shorter trips, a harness connected to the car’s seatbelt system works well, ensuring he’s safe but also part of the action.

Window Safety

When it comes to windows, the rule of thumb is safety first. Letting a dog hang its head out the window is a popular image, but in reality, it can be quite dangerous. Road debris can cause injury, and the high winds can dry out their eyes or even lead to respiratory issues. I keep the windows only slightly open to ensure fresh air circulation without letting my dog stick his head out.

It’s also important to use child locks or window locks if available, to prevent your dog from accidentally opening the window wider with their paws. This measure helps maintain control over the environment inside the car and prevents any unexpected escapes or accidents.

Routine Stops and Supervision

Planning for routine stops is essential for a road trip with a dog. These breaks are not just for bathroom needs but also provide a crucial opportunity for your dog to stretch and decompress from the journey.

I aim for a stop every two to three hours, which keeps my dog from getting too restless or uncomfortable. During these stops, it’s a good chance to offer water and a small snack, check for any signs of stress or discomfort, and just let him enjoy a little playtime.

Never leave your dog unattended in the car during these breaks. Even with mild outside temperatures, the inside of a car can heat up rapidly, leading to dangerous conditions.

Managing the Environment

Keeping the car environment controlled and comfortable is key to a successful road trip with your dog. This includes maintaining a steady temperature and ensuring good ventilation. Overheating in cars is a serious risk, even on days that aren’t particularly hot. I always make sure the air conditioning or heating is adjusted so that it’s comfortable for all passengers, especially my furry friend.

Additionally, managing noise levels can help reduce stress. I find that playing soft music or even a podcast can soothe my dog during longer drives. It’s also beneficial to keep any sharp noises to a minimum, as these can startle and unsettle your pet.

Finding Dog-Friendly Locations and Accommodations

Planning a road trip with your furry friend in tow means ensuring every stop and stay caters to both your needs. Here’s how to make sure every step of your journey is pet-friendly.

Researching Dog-Friendly Spots

Before you hit the road, a bit of research can ensure you and your pup are welcome wherever you stop. I use apps like BringFido and websites like DogFriendly to scout ahead for pet-welcoming establishments. These tools have been invaluable, helping me find everything from cafes and parks to beaches that welcome wagging tails.

Here’s what I usually look for:

• User Reviews : They can reveal the true nature of how dog-friendly a place is.
• Amenities for Pets : Like complimentary dog bowls and dog treats.
• Surrounding Area : I look for nearby parks or trails for quick walks.

Last year, we stumbled upon a great little diner that offered a special menu just for dogs. It wasn’t just the novelty that made it memorable, but also how the staff went out of their way to accommodate us. It made our stop a refreshing break on a long drive.

Booking Accommodations

Finding the right place to stay with your dog requires more than just ticking the ‘pet-friendly’ box. Here’s a quick checklist for booking accommodations:

• Pet Policies : Always confirm the specifics as some places have restrictions on size, breed, or number of pets.
• Pet Fees : Check for additional charges so you’re not caught off guard.
• Facilities for Pets : Look for places with special pet areas or services.

On our last road trip, I booked a place through a popular travel site known for its pet-friendly filters. However, calling ahead saved us from a potential mix-up regarding their newly implemented pet weight restrictions.

Handling Emergencies and Other Potential Situations During Road Trips With a Dog 

No matter how well you plan, traveling with your dog can sometimes throw you a curveball. From health scares to unexpected detours, being prepared can make handling these situations less stressful.

Preparing for Health Emergencies

Even the healthiest pets can face sudden illnesses or injuries. Carrying a well-stocked pet first-aid kit has been a lifesaver on more than one occasion. Beyond the basics like bandages and antiseptics, I include items specifically for my dog, like styptic powder for nail injuries and a spare tick remover.

Before we leave, I always make sure to locate the nearest veterinary hospitals along our route and save their contact information in my phone.

It’s also a good idea to have a basic understanding of pet first-aid procedures—I’ve attended a couple of workshops, and the knowledge has given me much more confidence on our trips.

Once, my dog began acting lethargically after a hike; thankfully, I was able to quickly contact a vet for advice using the numbers I had saved. It turned out he was just dehydrated, but knowing I could get help fast made all the difference.

Navigating Non-Medical Emergencies

Not all road trip snags are health-related. Here are some examples of what you should prepare for:

• Extreme Weather Conditions : Dogs can be particularly sensitive to extreme temperatures. For instance, very hot or very cold weather can pose significant health risks to your dog if not managed properly. Ensuring your dog has a comfortable and safe environment, such as adequate cooling or heating in the car, is crucial.
• Car Breakdowns : If your vehicle breaks down, the stress and danger of being stranded on the roadside are heightened when you have a dog with you. It’s important to keep your dog restrained and calm while waiting for help, and ensure they have shade and water if you’re stuck for a prolonged period.
• Getting Lost : Losing your way can be more problematic when your dog needs regular stops for exercise and bathroom breaks. Delays caused by detours or getting lost can disrupt your dog’s routine and cause anxiety or discomfort.
• Traffic Delays : Unexpected delays due to heavy traffic or accidents can extend the time your dog is confined in the car, which might lead to discomfort or distress. Planning for frequent breaks and having water and snacks accessible can help manage this.
• Running Out of Supplies : Especially on long trips, you might find yourself running out of essential supplies like dog food , water, or medication. This can be a significant issue if these items aren’t readily available on your route.
• Encounters with Wildlife or Stray Animals : If you’re stopping or staying in rural areas, the presence of wildlife or stray animals can pose unexpected threats to your dog. Ensuring your dog is on a leash and monitored at all times during breaks can prevent dangerous interactions.

Tips for Protecting Your Car on a Road Trip With a Dog

Taking your dog on a road trip can be a blast, but it can also be tough on your car. Here’s how to keep your vehicle in tip-top shape while accommodating your furry friend.

Use Seat Covers or Blankets

One of the simplest ways to protect your car’s upholstery is to use durable seat covers or blankets specifically designed for pets. These covers prevent scratches, dirt, and fur from getting embedded in your car seats and are usually waterproof, which helps in any accidents or spills.

Invest in a Pet Hammock

A pet hammock not only provides a safe and comfortable space for your dog in the backseat but also protects the floor and back of your front seats. It creates a barrier that stops your dog from climbing into the front seat, which can be distracting and dangerous while driving.

Keep Windows Scratch-Free

Dogs often get excited and may paw at windows, which can leave scratches. Consider using a protective film on the windows that your dog can reach. These films are clear, so they won’t obstruct your view and will keep your windows looking pristine.

Regular Cleaning Routine

Even with all the right equipment, your car will likely get dirtier than usual. Establish a routine to vacuum your car regularly, focusing on removing pet hair and any dirt tracked in during the trip. Wipe down surfaces with a damp cloth to pick up any lingering fur or mud.

Air Fresheners and Odor Eliminators

Dogs can bring all sorts of smells into a car, especially on long trips. Use air fresheners or odor eliminators designed for pet odors to keep your car smelling fresh. Some products can be placed under seats or in cup holders to continuously combat odors without overwhelming the cabin with strong scents.

FAQs on How to Road Trip With a Dog

How long can a dog go on a road trip.

The length of time a dog can comfortably spend on a road trip varies depending on the dog’s age, breed, and health. Generally, it’s recommended to stop every 2-3 hours to let your dog stretch, use the restroom, and drink water. This not only helps to keep them comfortable but also reduces stress and anxiety.

How do I keep my dog calm on a road trip?

To keep your dog calm during a road trip, consider using calming aids such as a pheromone diffuser or calming treats. Make sure their travel space is comfortable with familiar blankets or toys. Regular exercise before and during the trip can also help reduce anxiety and keep your dog more relaxed.

Should I feed my dog before a long car ride?

It’s best to feed your dog a light meal 3 to 4 hours before departing on a long car ride. Feeding your dog right before leaving can cause motion sickness. Always provide access to water and consider packing snacks, especially for longer journeys.

Do dogs get tired from long car rides?

Yes, dogs can get tired from long car rides, similar to humans. The constant motion can lead to fatigue. Ensuring that your dog has a comfortable space to rest, taking regular breaks, and keeping the car well-ventilated helps minimize tiredness and keeps your dog comfortable throughout the journey.

Where should a dog sit in a car?

The safest place for your dog in a car is in the back seat, secured with a crash-tested safety harness or in a travel crate that is anchored. This setup protects both your dog and passengers in the car by minimizing distractions for the driver and securing the dog in case of sudden stops or accidents.

Make Every Mile Count 

Heading out on a road trip with your dog? It’s all about making sure you’ve got everything packed, knowing your dog’s needs, and being ready for anything that might come up. It’s not just about seeing new sights; it’s about creating fun and happy memories with your furry friend right beside you.

Honestly, there’s nothing quite like sharing the adventure of a road trip with your dog. Just remember to keep things safe and comfy for them, and you’re set for an amazing time. Here’s to smooth roads and tail wags, making every mile count on your journey together!

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Traveling Cross Country with a Dog: Great Travel Hacks + Guide

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Have you been wondering about the best ways to take a cross country road trip with your dog?

We have driven over 100,000 miles on the road with our dogs. We crossed borders, traveled top to bottom, and coast to coast within the United States. Our dogs have been along (lucky us!) for the journey. We have also done this in a car that only has space for us, our dogs, and the stuff we need for the trip. It doesn’t have to be anything fancy for you to have a great trip, but there are a few things that make a huge difference!

This guide weaves together our own experience as well as some of the professional recommendations that the AKC and the Center for Pet Safety provide for traveling with dogs. It is a huge topic, but I really wanted to focus on the things that are in your control and can make a difference between a chaotic trip and a smooth one.

My goal is for this to be useful whether this is your first cross country tip, or you just want some tips and tools to make your next trip go better than the last. Even for veterans there are some tools (see our packing list and food calculator ) that can help plan your cross country trip.

I hope this helps you on towards a great cross country road trip with your dog!

First, if in the back of your mind you are wondering “is it really so complicated you have to write a whole article?” then you are in the right place. As you will see, the actual “how to” is pretty straightforward. However, it is a lot of distance to cover, a lot of things can happen, so I want you to make the best of this trip. If you are like me, you want to know how to do this safely, comfortably, and efficiently.

A quick guide for a cross country road trip with a dog

This section is a quick review of the basic parts of a road trip. Skim through this part to make sure you didn’t miss anything, then keep reading to get to our hacks .

It helps to look at the simplest scenario: a solo cross country road trip where you are just trying to get coast to coast as quickly and as safely possible. Whether it is for fun or for necessity (like moving to a new place or an unexpected life event), a cross country road trip requires both you and precious pup to drive…and drive…and drive all the way across the map.

To achieve this you:

1) Plan your route 2) Drive 3) Make pits stops for food, water, bathroom, car fuel 4) Find and stay in accommodations that allow pets

Road trip essentials

So now with the power of the internet and some common sense, here is a quick guide to traveling cross country with a dog:

Plan and pack for your trip

• Use google maps or Wayze to plan your route
• Break the trip up into daily segments based on how long you can drive without getting tired (be conservative, this is a marathon not a sprint)
• Use the pet friendly filter on Expedia.com or Booking.com to find and book accommodations that allow dogs*
• Pack the basic dog necessities ( food , water, leash, poop bags, bedding, medicines)
• Pack your own travel necessities (clothes, toiletries, etc)
• Use a traveling harness or crate to keep your dog safe**

Hit the road

• Load up the car, get your dog comfy and secure
• Drive (so much driving!)
• Take breaks to keep you and your dog hydrated, fed, alert, relaxed and comfortable. Truck/travel are great pit stops usually with shade and good amenities
• Use shade, climate control, cooling devices/strategies, etc to keep your dog safe when you have to go inside without them (be very careful!)
• Check in to your accommodation. Sleep. Then begin again. * Accommodation is a huge topic all of its own but on trips where you spend one night in each place a hotel is usually your best bet for cost and convenience ** We will cover the benefits of safety restraints in more detail, but is also good to know that there are a growing number of states that by law require dogs to be restrained in your vehicle .

Yes. That’s it! Obviously, for your own trip this list might not be complete. If you are camping, or biking, or touring as a wandering minstrel and circus show … you’ll know best the special things and activities you require for your own adventure.

What should you pack for such a long trip with a dog?

If you have completed any kind of road trip with your dog already, I have good news! You probably have the essentials, but you might need a few extra things that are helpful on the road. If you want to double check that you have everything you need for a road trip, we put together a checklist for you. Our packing list is pretty comprehensive. Rather than exploding this post with long list, we put that at the end, and you can jump to that here if you want.

The checklist is also organized as a system, so the most frequent items are right at hand for you and your doggo, while the important but less used items are off out of the way.

Secure your dog with a Safety Harness or Crate

Both the AKC and the Center for Pet Safety are very clear that the best thing you can do to keep your pet safe is to secure them in a crash tested safety restraint such as a harness or crate. Since you will be spending a lot of time driving, it is one of the best things to minimize movement and distraction for you and your dog.

This can be a challenging topic, but we have a great Travel Hack that has worked really well for us (see Travel Hack #1 ).

TIP : Here is a surprising fact that has been true for all of our dogs. Safety restraints help our dogs settle into “driving mode “. If you help them get used to the setup, it becomes a familiar and even calming routine for them. We have terriers, folks, so if a terrier can get on board, yours can too.

What we have found most surprising is that when they are NOT in their harness or crate, they are more agitated, stressed and active. So bottom line in our car: we wear seatbelts, they wear seatbelts or go in a crate …it is just a part of safe and smooth driving.

3 Great Travel Hacks for a Road Trip With a Dog

Next let’s move next into the heart of this guide, and what I hope you’re really here for: how to maximize comfort, ease and safety.

There is no way around it, you are looking down the road at some serious amounts of travel and driving time. It can be a fun adventure. You might also find yourself wondering what if my dog gets anxious or how do I go to the bathroom if I’m solo driving and one of the biggest questions, what do I do if I need to leave my dog in the car?

So now let’s focus on how to make this trip safe and comfortable for everyone involved. Here are our 3 travel hacks that have really made a difference for us and we hope will for you too.

Travel Hack #1: Our Favorite Crash Tested Restraint

Since crates can take up more room in the back of the car, our first big tip is to use a crash tested safety harness for dogs up to 75 lbs.

We found that SleepyPod Clickit harness is the best for freedom of movement and flexibility while also being secure. We are able to use it as a harness both in the car and for walks. Sam is fine wearing it for long hikes. So it is both comfortable and very solidly constructed. This harness has sizes that fit larger dogs, so even labs can wear it.

For smaller dogs like Denver, a harness will not protect them. We found that the Sleepypod Air is also great. It is comfortable and is built to be secured by the seatbelt. Because it is made to sit in the car seat, we can move Denver in and out of it easily.

We don’t have personal experience with crates that get tied down in the back of a car. However, for larger dogs or to free up your backseat for other passengers, you may need a crate. The Center for Pet Safety tested and approved Cabela ‘s, Gunner , Lucky Duck , and Rock Creek Crates .

While none of these products are cheap, they are built with safety first. The reason why we like the safety harness is because it is one of the more affordable and flexible options.

There’s a great Facebook group for learning how to set up your crate in your vehicle.

Tip : Crates have different purposes and are not interchangeable. Wire house crates and plastic airline crates will not hold up to the impact of a crash

So to sum up here are some of the many reasons to use safety restraints. The biggest is to protect your most precious cargo. They deserve it!

• Safety : Protects your pup and passengers in case of an accident.
• Traffic Laws : Some states require safety restraints!
• Distraction Prevention : Keeps the dog from distracting the driver.
• Comfort : Ensures a more comfortable ride for your canine traveler.
• Stress Reduction : Lessens anxiety for both you and your pet.
• Emergency Preparedness : Easier to manage in unexpected situations.
• Vehicle Cleanliness : Keeps the dog hair, paw prints, etc in one consistent spot

Now do some dogs and their humans have a tough time with this equipment? YES , and yet dogs can learn to make it work. Traveling is a set of skills that almost every dog can master (more on this later).

Travel Hack #2: The Best Pit Stops for Traveling Solo with a Dog

The most efficient routes across the country are also major trucking routes. Gas stations that are built for truckers also make for great places to to take a break with your dog.

Recommended gas stations

Love’s are a pet parent favorite because they often have fenced dog parks TA Travel and Pilot are all over the United States Wawa and Sheetz are popular in many eastern states (and they have often superchargers) Buc-ees are great if you are down South

Our dogs may have seen Niagara Falls and the Golden Gate Bridge , but some of their favorite things have been grass patches at rest stops. I guess there’s a lot of “pee-mail”.

Dog-friendly retail stores are a lifesaver

There is a big problem when traveling solo, since travel stops serve food, you can’t take your dog inside . When the weather is extreme or when you are worried about the safety and security of your dog, retail stores are a great alternative!

Petco, Petsmart, Home Depot , Lowes , and TJ Maxx are just a few of the places that you can usually take your pet. They are large enough so that you can stretch your legs walking around. Home Depot and Lowes typically have big spacious bathrooms right near the entrance.

Note that many of these retailers have pet policies on a store by store basis, but we generally have not had any trouble just waltzing on in (thank you big box retailers!)

Tips for Leaving Your Dog in the Car (Travel Hack #3)

At some point, you will need to leave your dog unattended in the vehicle. It is almost unavoidable, especially if you are traveling solo. There are a few things people do that can really help when you need to leave your dog in the car to use the bathroom, grab something to eat, etc.

The method that works best for you will depend on the type of car you have.

• Remote Start : turn on climate controls while outside of the vehicle (newer cars)
• Physical Key : leave the fob in the car to keep it running, take the physical key out and lock it
• Tesla Dog Mode (This is a life saver. Never heard of it? Well, read on…)
• 3rd party vehicle cooling systems : these are especially popular with sprinter vans and RVs, but you can use them in a regular car too.
• Park in the shade: even on cool days, direct sun can make your car crazy hot

Please be very careful , even with automatic climate controls like Dog Mode, there are some risks to leaving your dog alone in the car especially in extreme heat.

Tips for what to look for in a vehicle

Most folks will just be using the vehicle that they have for their road trip. It is such a big ticket item and car rental prices can be stiff, so most of the time you just go with what you have. However, if you find yourself needing to rent a vehicle or actually are planning on getting a car that is great for traveling with a dog, then it is worth spending a little time on the topic. It is the MAIN piece of gear for your road trip.

Obviously we will only touch the surface here. Cars, trucks, vans all are such a huge topic that depend heavily on budget, style of travel and the size of your dogs. But I have been surprised at how little the “Top Vehicles for Dogs” articles focus on the things that are actually useful for traveling with a dog.

So here are our major features to pay attention to:

• Cargo Space : very important for dogs traveling in crates. You need generous space AND the seats need to lie completely flat
• Remote Start : most new cars will have this, helps keep your dog safe in a pinch
• Automatic Doors : easier to get in and out with your pup and all the stuff
• Configurable Space : seats that easily fold, seats that lie flat (for crates). Sometimes you need to have space for your dog(s), sometimes you need it for people.
• Easy to Clean : dog hair, muddy paws, you know the drill. Can the materials handle it?

Benefits of EV cars like Teslas when traveling with a dog

Dog Mode: this is amazing! It allows you to set the climate of the car to stay the same while you are away. Your dogs can stay comfy in their car while you grab a bite to eat or pop into a store. Using the Tesla App you can monitor the car to make sure the climate is staying on.

Safety Features: Tesla is also the safest vehicle on the road as independently tested by a bunch of different organizations. It has both active and passive safety features to protect you and your pups.

The main drawback – Charging . Our experience with EV Charging is mixed. Charging can be a hassle and in the middle states, the charging infrastructure is sparse. On the flip side more and more hotels are adding charging stations. So forget the gas station, if your hotel has EV charging you can be all fueled up and ready to go in the morning. So there are both pluses and minuses. Interested to learn more? Take one for a test drive ! You can both get some perks and send some thanks my way by using my referral code when you do a test drive or if you go all the way and get one for yourself! Use this link :

Traveling is a skill and your dog can learn it (Bonus Tip)

One last tip is a special combo that can really help your dog become a great traveler on the road and in life in general. A safe space helps your dog keep something familiar through all the changes. A learning mindset helps both you and your dog adjust to all these changes.

A safe space might simply be a favorite blanket and/or toy. The ideal safe space can easily be moved from the car to the room where you are staying. Your dog’s safe space can also be very useful when working on travel skills that help your pup become a happy camper.

The two main skills that will really help your pup make the journey are riding in the car and crate training . Your dog’s safe space can bring comfort and confidence to your dog as they take on these skills. It is a virtuous cycle.

Some dogs will naturally be good travelers, but many dogs have to learn how to travel. Others will have a negative experience and traveling with them can become a nightmare. In most cases this can be avoided.

Car training skills to practice

If this is your first big road trip with your dog, there is a lot you can do ahead of time to get them ready. This section is primarily for those making their first big trip with their dog. But even for folks with few trips under your belt, let’s do a quick sanity check. Here are skills that a well rounded dog will have that really help with traveling:

• Can they settle themselves down and sleep in the car when driving or stopped?
• Can they go for long stretches of driving without getting restless and crazy?
• Can you leave them to stay calm in an unfamiliar place (like a crate in a hotel room)?
• Are they fine to pee and poo on different surfaces and under a variety of conditions?
• Do they eat and drink easily in an unfamiliar place?

Why is this such a big deal? Because if your dog is miserable, than you will also probably be miserable and have fewer options when traveling. The more your dog knows, the more freedoms you both have to enjoy the experience. Since our goal is for and your dog to be comfortable and safe, teaching your dog traveling skills will really help.

Riding in the car : I know it sounds a little silly that riding in the car is a skill, but think about it. It can be bumpy, noisy, nauseating and scary to a dog. Wearing a safety harness or traveling in a crate will also be something your furry friend will need to get used to.

Crate training : this is a lifelong skill that will help your pup deal with separation, learn to calm themselves down, get used to relax in confined spaces, and to be patient. It is a true game changer.

While it is too long a subject to go through here, our post about dogs that refuse to get in the car provides more of a deep dive into some of the issues dogs face while traveling. You can also learn more about what panting in the car might mean for your dog. Most of these skills can fit naturally into your day. Like with anything useful it just takes a small adjustment but can bring a big payoff in the end.

Road trip packing list for your dog

We organize our gear into three categories. 1) things we use all the time, so it just stays right near the dog in a door cubby or footwell 2) things we use daily/nightly, we try to fit those all in one “overnight bag” 3) gear that is useful for longer stays, or used less often If you want to see a brief talk through of our stuff, here’s a video I threw together (plus Denver cameo)

What to pack: what we need all the time

• Water bottle
• Travel Harness /Crate
• Treats and Snacks
• Belly Band / Diapers (for Sam our senior dog)

What to pack: the daily/overnight bag

• Blankets (Pawtect Waterproof is great!) and/or Dog Bed
• Dog Bowls for Water Food
• Towels/Rags for spills and paws
• Stain Remover for spills and accidents
• Collapsible Dog Crate – this one pops open like a tent (fast setup/teardown)
• Toothbrush and Toothpaste

What to pack: important, but bulky or less frequent

• Collapsible Wire Dog Pen : outdoor use, for yards without fences, parks, etc
• Mr Peanuts Dog Packpack : for public transport or carrying dog on long outings
• Collapsible Soft Dog Pen : used inside as a sleeping area
• Grooming Kit
• Bulky Dog Bed
• Refills on frequent items (poop bags, snacks, wipes, etc)

How much dog food do I need for my road trip? Dog Food Calculator

Dog Food Calculator for Your Trip

Do’s and don’ts for traveling in a car with a dog.

To summarize, let’s touch on some dos and dont’s to be aware of. As a start, here is a condensed list of important things to consider for the road ahead.

• Get Records from Your Vet : Ensure vaccinations and medications are up-to-date. Keep your records with you! You can’t plan for everything and there are many dog services (doggy daycare, grooming, etc) that require the records
• Consult a Mechanic : Is your car ready and are your tires in good health?
• Create a Safe Space : A divider, favorite blanket or dog bed can help your dog relax in the car
• Use a Safety Restraint : Our recommendation is a crash test-certified harnesses.
• Have FUN! : Get some great audio books, podcasts and playlists for yourself. Bring toys and chews for the doggo. Take breaks for walks, site seeing, play games!
• Book Longer Stays in Advance : Good pet-friendly Airbnb and Vacation Rentals go fast in popular destinations. Book a few months ahead to beat the crowds
• Get Real Time data with Navigation Apps: Wayze, google maps, etc
• Prepare for Weather : Layers to manage temperatures, umbrellas/raincoats for rain
• Pack a First Aid Kit : Like with the weather, best to be prepared
• Always have a Jug of Water: Stay hydrated, keep it full especially in summer.
• Use Belly Bands or Diapers for Seniors or Puppies: the change and stress of a trip can cause a dog to lose some of the control they normally have. Disposable diapers can help keep everything clean and keep things moving.

DON’T

• Don’t Drive Drowsy, Angry or Distracted : It is as dangerous as driving under the influence. Pull over, take a break. Recharge. Take a nap if you need to.
• Don’t Ignore Signs of Stress : Be aware of your dog’s comfort and health. Take a break and check your dog out if they are showing signs of distress.
• Don’t Get Nailed by Crazy Pet Fees or Policies : Read the fine print, call to confirm, look through all of the house rules and policy sections on Airbnb, Vrbo, etc. The pet fee amount on 3rd party booking sites is often missing or incorrect. You may need to check with the hotel directly.

Wrapping Up: How to Travel Cross Country with a Dog

Planning a successful cross-country road trip with your dog can be intimidating, but with a little preparation and smart packing, you can be on your way. We hope that this guide helps you get ready for the road ahead.

We’ve learned a lot through research and planning, but most experience just came from hitting the road and learning from there. So I hope you have what you need for an enjoyable and memorable adventure across the country with your faithful companion.

Resource Guide for Travel with a Dog

🧳  What’s the best carrier for my dog when traveling?

You need different carriers for different types of travel

This is my favorite carrier for a small dog – Sleepypod Air

This is my favorite car harness for medium-large dogs – Sleepypod Clickit

This is the best for a large dog on a plane – Skymate Kennel

This is my favorite backpack for a small-medium sized dog – Mr. Penuts Tahoe

You can read more about my r eview of types of dog carriers for travel here .

🏨  What’s the best site to find cheap pet-friendly hotels?

To find cheap hotels, I recommend Expedia

Vacation Rentals are often the best option for people with pets VRBO

Stay for free or have someone watch your pet with   Trusted Housesitters!

—–We love traveling and we love our dogs

It’s not always easy to combine the two especially when that means getting on flights or crossing borders. We brought our first dog from Kenya to California, and a few years later she went with us to Ecuador before returning to California where we settled down for a while. Now we are gearing up for a new adventure as we look to bring Sam and Denver on our next global journey. This site is a gift of love to my dogs and to others who love their pets so much, they can’t imagine leaving them behind

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6 Practical Tips for Taking a Road Trip With Your Dog

These tips could make all the difference between a fun trip and a lot of stress—for you and your dog.

After loving 19 cats, 11 dogs, and a canary, Tracey married someone allergic to all those creatures. Thankfully, she receives oodles of animal goodness sharing stories on Daily Paws! When not traveling, teaching yoga, or doing voiceover projects, she's an editorial strategist and developer for print, digital, and multimedia platforms.

"A vacation isn't a vacation unless the dogs come along," Colby Lehew says.

The owner of Dogletics , a dog training and walking company based in Chicago, is serious about her love of going on road trips with her dogs in tow. So much so, she named one of her two Australian shepherds Haven after her favorite road trip destination of South Haven, Mich., about a two-hour drive from home. On several occasions every year, Lehew loads up her car with 2-year-old Haven and 4-year-old Loki. And she isn't the only one.

According to the 2021-2022 National Pet Owners Survey conducted by the American Pet Products Association (APPA) , 70 percent of U.S. households (or 90.5 million families) have a pet. And more than 60 percent of pet owners love taking their furry friends on vacation and are always in search of the next dog-friendly destination.

As you're planning a future road trip with your dog, it's important to consider how to make the event safe and stress-free for your pup so you can all get excited for the adventure.

6 Practical Tips for a Road Trip With Your Dog

1. create positive associations with your car.

"A lot of dogs are afraid to go for a ride in the car because the only time they go anywhere is when you take them to the vet or to get groomed," Lehew says.

If this is the case with your pet, you may want to start planning some fun things locally to get your dog more excited to go with you and be more comfortable in the car . That way, he won't associate car trips with stressful situations. Take him to a dog park or visit a nearby pet store and make sure he gets a treat out of the excursion.

"If you constantly do fun things, they will no longer be afraid, and from there you can go so far as to start planning a cross-country road trip with your dog," Lehew explains.

It's a good idea to start with small distances (30 minutes to two hours) before traveling long distances, and to pay attention to stress signals from your pooch. These signs can come in the form of yawning a lot , licking their lips, or even vomiting .

Another important thing to think about when bringing your dog along on any car trip is how to secure him safely . There are several types of restraints, and it pays to do some research on what kind of travel gear you should get for your individual pet, including a carrier, harness, crate, or a car seat.

2. Know How to Ease Motion Sickness

Wonder how to travel with a dog who gets car sick? It doesn't happen to every furry pal, but there are some key reasons it might. Kingsbrook Animal Hospital notes that it's common with young dogs under a year old because parts of their inner ears, which affects orientation and balance, aren't fully developed. Other dogs also have middle- or inner-ear infections or vestibular disease that causes nausea.

Additional symptoms of motion sickness include:

• Excessive drooling
• Lethargy or inactivity
• Extreme restlessness

If your pup is fairly acclimated to riding in the car but still prone to getting queasy, help them stay calm by keeping the interior cool, especially where they're riding. Maybe only offer a small nibble 6–12 hours before the trip starts to reduce the chances of stomach upset, and have plenty of fresh water available.

Finally, talk with your veterinarian about anti-nausea medications, such as Cerena , that may help. However, if your poor pooch has anxiety-induced motion sickness, your vet might prescribe something to help mitigate that first.

3. Research Dog-Friendly Destinations

When preparing for a road trip with your dog anywhere in the U.S., try to plot out a few fun dog-friendly stops along your route. This will give both you and your pup opportunities to stop and stretch your legs, as well as take in more of the sights in different areas before reaching your final destination. Especially if you can stop in places with walking trails to get your dog some much-needed exercise .

"I like to look at AllTrails for great places to go with Loki and Haven," Lehew says. "You can filter by dog-friendly trails. It's a great app to look at when planning road trips with dogs."

Before you leave home, do some research on dog-friendly places you can go to and activities you can partake in together. This will come in handy when you get to your final destination so you can start enjoying day one of your vacation. This could include dog-friendly restaurants , breweries, and wineries , as well as hiking trails or nature preserves, beaches , lakes , and anywhere else that piques your interest.

Apps like BringFido or BarkHappy are free and helpful resources for pet owners looking for pet-friendly travel options, and can help you find many attractions both you and your canine companion can enjoy. This includes pet-friendly Airbnbs , hotels , and cabins .

4. Plan for Emergencies

One of the best tips for traveling with your dog in general is to mentally prepare for any potential emergencies. This means researching emergency vets and pharmacies local to your destination and putting those numbers into your phone. And make sure you have your own vet's 24-hour emergency helpline (if they have one) in your contacts.

Some signs to look for that would indicate a potential emergency include:

• Obvious injury or bleeding
• Signs of poisoning
• Allergic reaction
• Excessive vomiting

Make sure you know some basic dog first aid techniques such as how to do CPR or the Heimlich maneuver , and always ensure your dog has an updated microchip and wears a collar with ID tags in case he gets lost.

5. Also Plan Potty Breaks

Try to stop for a bathroom break once every 90 minutes, Lehew recommends. While putting together your itinerary, check maps to see where you can stop along the way and make an effort to visit a few parks or trails so your pooch can run around for longer than just a few minutes.

"Just like it can be hard for a child to sit in the car for a long period, it's the same for many dogs," Lehew says.

6. Exercise and Play Often

Abide by your dog's exercise needs, even while traveling. This ensures they'll stay in tip-top shape the entire trip. Couple regular opportunities to leave the car with special vacation toys that your pooch can only play with while on excursions away from home. This positive reinforcement training means soon, your pup will point a paw in the direction of your next adventure!

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How To Road Trip With Your Dog: 15 Practical Tips

Want road trip with your dog? Here’s 15 practical tips I’ve learned traveling with two dogs.

Taking your dog on a road trip can be super enjoyable – and super stressful. When my boyfriend Ryan and I got our first dog, an Australian Shepard/Border Collie puppy named Charlie, it took a while for him to get adjusted to traveling with us. I remember one of the first nights we had him in my van, Charlie got scared and straight-up peed all over my lap.

Now, we travel with two dogs – Charlie and Gumbo – and never leave them behind. However, there are a few things to keep in mind to make sure your dog stays happy and comfortable in the car, and in this blog post, I share 15 tips for road trips with your dog.

Planning a trip with your dog? Here are 15 dog road trip tips to ensure a safe (and fun!) time.

Tips for Road Trips With Your Dog

1. have up-to-date dog tags.

Have you moved since you got your dog? Make sure your contact info on their dog tag is up-to-date in case your dog somehow gets away. The same goes for the contact information associated with their microchip.

2. Bring a copy of your dog’s vaccination record & pack a first aid kit

If you are on your road trip and your dog either gets sick or needs to be boarded for a day, you will need a copy of your dog’s vaccination records . Usually, a copy on your phone will suffice, but you can also keep a copy in your glove box for safekeeping.

I also recommend traveling with a dog first aid kit which includes an assortment of dressings, bandages, and tools like the splinter picker/tick remover to remove ticks, thorns, or those pesky fox tails from your dog’s paws and body.

3. Give them their own dedicated comfortable space in the car

Don’t pack your car to the brim to the point where you dog has to squeeze between luggage with barely enough room to lay down. Compare that to the middle seat on a 10 hour, oversold flight. No one wants that, and your dog doesn’t either. The more room and dedicated space they have, the better behaved they’ll be.

Bring a  dog bed , a yoga mat , a  blanket , or even a foam sleeping pad  that you can fold in half.

4. Use positive reinforcement & reward your dog with treats

A well-trained dog is going to be easier to road trip with than a dog that is constantly misbehaving. We’ve trained our dogs using the positive reinforcement technique . What that means is when they do what they are told, we reward them with a treat.

For example, when Charlie first jumps up in the van, he gets a treat which shows him that getting in the van without being coerced is what he’s supposed to do. Then if we stop at a gas station, and he goes to the bathroom, he gets a treat. Then when we call him back into the car, and he jumps in, he gets another treat. On the road, if we are eating lunch in the car, and he sits quietly in the back without begging, he gets a treat.

Over time, they learn to simply do that desired behavior, treat or not, but when you first begin to road trip with your dog, positive reinforcement with treats is a helpful tool.

5. Always give your dog access to water

Your dog shouldn’t have to wait until you stop for gas to get a drink of water. Get a small stable water bowl that you can put on the floor by your backseat and let them drink at their leisure.

6. Don’t ignore their bathroom needs on long drives

If you have to pee, your dog does too. Even if you are in a hurry to get to your destination, you need to take a few extra minutes whenever you stop to let your dog out to do their business. Just like humans need to get out and stretch their legs on long drives, so do dogs. Do a couple of quick laps around the parking lot with your dog to make sure they’re not just sitting in a car for hours.

7. Get toys that will last

Quality toys are an important thing to pack and this is a dog road trip tip that is often overlooked. Toys help keep your pup occupied and provides mental stimulation. Charlie destroys his toys pretty quickly. He loves ripping them apart and spreading the stuffing all over everything, leaving a mess for us to clean up. When we road trip, we try to bring toys that are more durable, so they don’t fall apart one day into our trip.

A few toys I like to keep on hand are a  frisbee ,  ball , or another toy (consider a  glow in the dark one  for nighttime stops). If your dog is into fetch, a quick way to get a lot of exercise is a chuck-it ball thrower . You’ll throw the ball much further than you can with your arm, meaning the dog runs a lot further in a shorter period of time. Plus with the chuck-it, you won’t have to touch that slobber-covered ball with your bare hands.

8. Find the local dog park

When you arrive in a new town, an easy way to blow off your dog’s steam is to stop by the local dog park . They will be bursting with energy, and it’s a good way to socialize them as well. Not sure where to go? This website has listings for nearly every town, and I’ve found them to be fairly accurate.

9. Camp rather than stay at hotels

Camping gives your pup more space to roam and can often be easier than finding pet-friendly hotels. While many campgrounds allow dogs on leashes, we prefer to dispersed camp so Gumbo and Charlie can be off-leash and have more freedom.

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10. Bring a collapsable crate for your hotel stays

For those times when you do stay at a hotel or Airbnb, a crate is a great tool to help your dog feel safe in a foreign environment. Even if you simply don’t trust your dog to not destroy your car when you are in a restaurant, then consider bringing a crate with you on the road trip. A collapsible crate is best because it won’t take up room in your car when you aren’t using it.

You’ll want to practice with the crate before your road trip (ideally when your dog is a puppy). The key is making the crate feel like their home. You can put an old sweatshirt that smells like you inside the crate, along with a few toys to make the dog feel more comfortable. Then use the positive reinforcement method mentioned above when they get into the crate, rewarding them with a treat.  Never use the crate to punish your dog or you will get the opposite result. Here’s a good resource if you are looking for more tips on how to crate train your dog.

11. Know your car is going to get dirty

Dogs are messy little creatures. Some shed, some slobber, and all of them get dirty. There’s no way around it and the best way to deal is to accept it. Don’t get mad at them for being dirty. Hopefully, the dirt means they were having a lot of fun, which is the entire point.

If you are worried about your car, seat covers and a portable car vacuum will go a long way. If your dog tends to roll around in poop or heavy mud, you can carry a short hose in your car and rinse the dog off at the nearest water hookup. Quick-dry towels are also convenient for drying dogs off when they get wet.

12. Know the regulations in your destination

Don’t show up somewhere assuming it’s dog-friendly. Most national parks, for example, have strict regulations about dogs. Pets aren’t allowed on most trails and must be kept on short leashes in campgrounds. If this doesn’t sound like the kind of vacation you want to have with your dog, go somewhere else . The bummer is when you don’t do the research ahead of time and show up after a long day of driving only to find out your dog isn’t allowed.

If you are dead set on a destination that isn’t dog-friendly, look on Yelp for highly-rated dog boarding services near the place you are visiting or find a local dog sitter on Rover. For example, during our ski vacation in Sun Valley, we dropped Charlie off at doggie daycare for the day while we skied, and it only cost us $20. We came home tired, and so did he.

13. Don’t leave your dog in the car on a hot day

The inside of your car gets hot when left in the sun on a summer day –   if it’s too hot in the car for you to be comfortable, it’s also too hot for your pet.  Be aware of this and don’t leave your dog sitting unattended for a long time in the heat . Use your common sense. Dogs can die in cars and you don’t want to lose your best friend to carelessness.

If you must leave them for a few minutes, crack the windows and you might even consider putting a portable battery-operated fan in your car to keep them cool. Reflective windshield covers also help keep the temperature down in your vehicle.

14. Pick up after your dog

Don’t be the jerk who doesn’t pick up after their dog. Not only is it gross to look at, or worse, step on, dog poop pollutes waterways. We like to keep a hearty supply of poop bags in the car so we are always prepared to pick up after our dogs.

15. Be aware of wildlife

We just got back from road tripping in Yellowstone, where it was very important to abide by leash laws at the campgrounds. Our campground host told us that bears and elk often strolled through camp, and the last thing we wanted was Charlie loose and barking at a bear. The point is you should know about the local wildlife and make smart choices so your dog doesn’t end up a bear’s next meal.

Are we missing any dog road trip tips? Or do you have questions? Share in the comments below !

With two decades of hiking and seven years of van life under her belt, Kristen has dedicated her life to helping people experience the positive effects of nature. As a pioneer in the outdoor blogging space, she founded Bearfoot Theory in 2014 and has since authored more than 350 blog posts about outdoor travel, hiking, camping, and van life. Her work has been featured in National Geographic, Outside Magazine, and Backpacker, and when she’s not on the road, she lives in Park City, Utah with her partner Ryan, their son, and two adventure pups.

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17 Comments

I’ve been traveling with my dogs for most of my adult life, starting when my now 52 year old No. 1 Son was about 2 1/2. Your points are well taken.

On providing water, the best water bowl I’ve found is called a Water Hole Pet Dish. It’s probably available elsewhere, but I’ve bought several from Camping World, http://www.campingworld.com/shopping/item/water-hole-pet-dish/3496 . It can be kept full and doesn’t spill (unless it gets dumped upside down). Conveniently, it holds about the same amount of water as a Nalgene bottle.

On bathroom breaks, every dog I’ve had has been easy to train to “go piddle” on command. That’s the next step after house breaking. Whatever term one wants to use, like every other training word, it’s necessary to be consistent. It really helps to shorten the rest stops, by telling the dog what needs to be done, rather than just relying on the smells of the dog walk area.

We like to think that our dogs should just do what we want because they love us, and to an extent, that’s true, but I agree with you that most training is more successful if there’s a reward. My current best friend, Molly (13+ year old Golden Retriever), is so conditioned that as soon as she comes in from outside, she expects a biscuit and will stand by the biscuit jar for a long time if nobody reacts. Same in the car–as soon as she comes back in from doing anything we’ve asked, she expects a biscuit. It works. Although I’ve always had bigger dogs, I buy small biscuits, so that there aren’t too many calories coming just from biscuits.

I enjoy your emails and blogs.

Thanks for this, it’s very useful! Were currently planning a 2-week road trip with our one-year-old dog and a puppy. We’re used to doing 6-8hr trips with dogs but spending that long in a van with two pups will be interesting. I need all the tips I can get!

What an informative list of great suggestions for traveling with your dog! I train and take care of dogs every day and you came up with some suggestions that I wouldn’t have thought of. I will be sharing this information with one of my clients that’s planning a road trip with their dog. As a trainer, if you don’t mind me adding to your tip about using positive reinforcement, when you reward a dog with a treat you should always give verbal praise a second before delivering the treat. The praise will eventually elicit a conditioned response that will feel as good as getting the treat.

Thank You, Neville Mistri http://www.doglifepro.com

Thanks for the advice that it’s best to keep my dog’s vaccination record in hand in case he gets sick during a road trip. Since I just got him, I think I’ll take him to a professional to have his vaccines taken care of. I got him from a shelter last week, and since the people in the shelter are giving vaccinations for a fee, and I had no money that time for one, I had to postpone his injection in the meantime, so now I’m looking for a place where I can get some since I have the budget for it now.

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Thoughts on battery powered air conditioners when leaving dogs in the car?

Unfortunately, we don’t have any experience with battery-powered air conditioners.

Really great tips to keep mind to have a good time with the family now that summer is here! Thanks very much.

Excellent tips, especially about being aware of wildlife. We recently camped at Caprock Canyons State Park, where they have free roaming bison, and it was quite a shock to open the RV door and to take our dog out in the middle of the night, only to find that a herd of bison had bedded down just outside our trailer.

Troy and Melissa http://www.Woofthebeatenpath.com

That would make for an interesting middle-of-the-night experience!

I’m taking my Jack Russell with me on a 1200 drive to my parent’s house next week. Two things I would add here is: secure your dog in the car. I have a harness and short attachment lead so I can clip him to the seat. I don’t want him suddenly flying around the car if I have to hit the brakes. Also it will keep him safe when I stop, so he can’t rush out the door when I open it. He’s trained not to, but there are some moments where he can’t resist. Regarding leaving him the car while I hit a restroom or run in for food, I took my Subaru to the dealership the other day, and they set the car so it will keep running while I’m away from it with the fob. I will manually lock the door, flipping the door lock with my finger inside, and then get out. When I come back to the car, I’ll use the small key inside the fob to unlock the door. He can wait a few minutes in locked, air conditioned comfort while I take care of things.

i use a 50′ leash and i don’t pick up crap. Don’t like it, then lump it…

Great list but I would suggest the dogs ride in a well made crate for their safety. No , it might not be quite as much fun for them but it could save their life.

Hi Carolyn, thanks for the tip!

The only thing that I would add is to have a pet first aid kit easily available. You never know what you might need it.

Hi Gretchen, great suggestion. I just added that to our post – thank you!

All About Dogs

9 Best Dogs for Road Trips

March 11, 2020 By Grigorina S Leave a Comment

Are you looking for the best dogs for road trips?

Traveling with your dog can turn into a nightmare if your pooch hates vans, RVs, or being away from home.

So, let’s see 9 best travel companion dogs that will never complain when you hit the road.

Do dogs like to travel ? It depends. For some, road trips, camping, or car rides are the most exciting thing.

For others, getting them into the vehicle to go to the vet is a mission impossible.

As a whole, dogs who like to travel are curious, adventurous, and adaptable.

These breeds love to explore new surroundings and aren’t shy or afraid of new experiences.

So, let’s see 9 adorable pooches that you can take with you on a road trip.

#1 Boston Terrier

Once upon a time, Boston Terriers used to be pit-fighters, but this cute dog has lost their ferocity long ago.

Instead, Boston Terriers have become one of the best companion dogs thanks to their cheerfulness, affectionate nature, and lively disposition.

Due to their size and gentle temperament, Boston Terriers make excellent indoor dogs and one of the best dog travel companions.

They are curious to explore the world, and their goofiness will amuse you during the trip.

However, these black and white dogs don’t tolerate cold or hot weather very well due to the structure of their faces.

#2 Golden Retriever

It won’t be a big surprise if I tell you that Golden Retrievers are one of the best dogs to take everywhere or that they make good van dogs.

They’re mellow, playful, and affectionate.

Moreover, Golden Retrievers bond tightly with their owners and will follow you to the end of the world. You just need to say the word.

In addition to this, Golden Retrievers are active and energetic dogs. They need plenty of exercise to prevent them from destroying your house.

As such, hiking or a road trip are excellent ways to keep this beautiful dog busy.

Golden Retrievers also make good van and RV dogs because they’re easy to train and won’t disturb your fellow campers.

Poodles are one of the most intelligent dogs in the world, and they come in sizes to suit everybody’s taste.

As a whole, Poodles are affectionate, friendly, and dignified.

Besides being excellent family companions, Poodles make great travel dogs and one of the best dogs for road trips.

They’re playful without being naughty, love to meet new people/animals, and have good manners.

Moreover, Poodles are easy to train and eager to please, which is a good thing because they’re also mischievous and curious.

Another excellent thing about Toy Poodles is that they’re one of the dogs that can travel in the cabin with you. So, you can keep them close during the flight.

#4 Dalmatian

If you’re looking for the best dog breeds for RV travel, you should consider a Dalmatians. These majestic spotted dogs are very intelligent, adventurous, and bold.

Dalmatians used to run behind carriages to scare highwaymen before they become famous thanks to Disney’s 101 Dalmatians .

So, they can be a good watchdog for your RV since they don’t warm up quickly to strangers.

They also have a goofy side that makes things interesting when you’re on the road.

Moreover, Dalmatians are one of the cleanest dog breeds because their coat repels dirt, and they don’t shed a lot. So, they won’t make much mess in your RV or car.

However, these dogs have quite the energy supply. Don’t expect them to stay still for hours while you’re driving.

As such, they’re more suitable for people with an active RVing lifestyle.

#5 Chihuahua

Chihuahuas might be tiny, but they have the personality and attitude of a large dog.

They’re highly adaptable, curious, full of energy, and fit in a backpack.

What more do you want when you’re looking for the best dog breed to take everywhere?

Another excellent reason why Chihuahuas make great travel buddies is that they don’t require a lot of grooming and exercise.

All Chihuahuas need is to be close to you and keep you company.

As such, you won’t have to worry about your dog getting bored and acting out while you’re driving.

However, they also have a naughty side that makes any trip with them interesting.

#6 Great Dane

You’d be hard to find a more impressive and imposing dog than the Great Dane .

When you look at this massive pooch, you start to wonder if they really are a suitable dog breed for RVing or road trips.

Despite their size, Great Danes are one of the gentlest and mellowest dogs.

They don’t make a fuss when they have to spend a couple of hours in the car.

So, they will wait patiently for you to reach your destination and nap on the coziest place in the RV or van.

Have you got fear of planes or get anxious when you’re stuck in a car for long hours?

Then nothing can calm your nerves better than snuggling with your travel companion dog. For such situations, you can’t go wrong with a Maltese.

Nearly all Maltese dogs are affectionate, sensitive, playful, and get on well with everybody.

These fluffy white dogs do an excellent job as therapy dogs and petting their glamour coat is bound to relax even the most anxious people.

#8 Bichon Frise

Another popular tiny dog that makes for a great traveling buddy is Bichon Frise.

While some breeds are created to be hunters or herders, the Bichon Frise is a cute companion dog .

These cuties are the happiest when they’re around their owners and will gladly follow you on a road trip.

As a whole, Bichon Frise has moderate exercise needs and won’t drive you crazy with attention demands while on the road.

They’re content to sleep next to you until you’re ready to have fun.

The only downside of traveling with Bichon Frise would be to take care of that magnificent fluff.

#9 Labrador Retriever

Last but not least, Labrador Retrievers make one of the best dog breeds for RV travel.

They’re calm, sensitive, and goofy. They love children and won’t mind cuddling with your kids to keep them company on the long road.

Moreover, Labrador Retrievers are outgoing and energetic and love to spend time with their owners.

They also learn tricks very quickly and can cheer up everybody on a gloomy day.

Going on a road trip with your dog for the first time is an incredible experience.

However, make sure that you’re well-prepared and that your dog is in good health.

Never leave your dog in an RV and ensure that your pet is protected from the elements.

What do you think about these 9 best dogs for road trips? Have you ever traveled with your dog? Share your experience with us in the comments.

I’ve grown up surrounded by animals – dogs, cats, cows, goats, sheep, and horses and that has shaped me into what I am today – a crazy cat lady who always has a place for one more cat (or a dog). I’ve got two female cats – Kitty and Roni, and two tomcats – Blacky and Shaggy, but I also feed my neighbors’ cats when they come for a visit. I just can’t say no to them.

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About Grigorina S

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20 Best Travel-Friendly Dog Breeds

Posted: May 2, 2024 | Last updated: May 2, 2024

Traveling with a dog can enhance the experience of exploring new places, bringing joy and companionship to your journey. Not all dog breeds are suited for the rigors of travel, whether it be by car, plane, or foot. The ideal travel companion is one that is adaptable, manageable, and comfortable with changes in environment and routine. From small breeds that fit snugly under airplane seats to energetic dogs that thrive on outdoor adventures, certain breeds stand out as perfect travel buddies. These dogs not only adapt well to new settings but also possess temperaments that make them easy to manage on the go. Here, we highlight twenty dog breeds known for their travel-friendly characteristics, ensuring your next adventure is enjoyable for both you and your furry friend.

French Bulldog

French Bulldogs are small, making them great companions for travelers with limited space. Their quiet demeanor ensures they’re well-suited for hotel stays and public transportation. Adaptable and easygoing, these dogs are perfect for urban explorations and relaxed vacations.

Labrador Retriever

Labrador Retrievers are known for their friendly nature, making them ideal companions for family trips. They are outgoing and enjoy being active, perfect for outdoor adventures like hiking and camping. Their adaptability and easygoing nature make them suitable for various travel settings, from countryside to beach vacations.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are adaptable and affectionate, thriving in both quiet countryside and bustling city environments. Their small size and gentle nature make them excellent companions for long flights and car rides. This breed’s loving demeanor ensures they are always ready for cuddles, making every trip more enjoyable.

Golden Retriever

Golden Retrievers are friendly, patient, and great for families, making them wonderful travel companions. Their love for adventure and outdoor activities makes them perfect for exploring new places. They are known for their adaptability and can easily settle into new environments, ensuring a smooth travel experience.

Yorkshire Terrier

Yorkshire Terriers are small and easily adaptable, making them perfect for travelers who are always on the move. Their compact size allows them to travel comfortably in carriers, ideal for air travel. Despite their small stature, they are spirited and enjoy exploring new sights and smells.

Dachshunds are small, curious, and have a brave nature, making them great companions for those who love to explore. Their compact size makes it easy for them to accompany their owners on various adventures, from road trips to outdoor explorations. Despite their small size, they have a big personality and can be quite adventurous.

Chihuahuas are the perfect travel companion due to their tiny size and ability to fit in small carriers. They are adaptable and can easily adjust to new environments, whether it’s a cozy hotel room or a bustling city. Their loyal and affectionate nature makes them great companions, always ready to accompany their owners on new adventures.

Poodle (Toy or Miniature)

Poodles, particularly Toy and Miniature sizes, are intelligent, easy to train, and great for travelers looking for a well-behaved companion. Their hypoallergenic coats make them suitable for travelers with allergies. Poodles are adaptable and can enjoy both city sightseeing and countryside walks, making them versatile travel companions.

Boston Terrier

Boston Terriers are known for their friendly and sociable nature, making them great companions for travelers. They are small and manageable, which makes traveling by public transport or staying in hotels easier. Their adaptability and easygoing personality make them well-suited for both city tours and relaxing vacations.

Maltese dogs are small, light, and easy to carry, making them excellent travel companions for those who prefer to keep their pets close. They adapt well to new environments, whether it’s a quiet countryside or a bustling urban center. Their affectionate nature ensures they’re always ready for a cuddle, making every trip more enjoyable.

Border Collie

Border Collies are highly intelligent and energetic, making them perfect for active travelers who enjoy outdoor activities like hiking. They are known for their agility and love for adventure, thriving in environments where they can explore and be active. Their loyalty and keenness to please make them excellent companions, always ready for the next adventure.

Shih Tzus are calm and adaptable, making them great companions for both short and long travels. Their friendly nature ensures they get along well with other pets and people, making social interactions during travels easy. Despite their small size, they have a robust personality and enjoy exploring new places with their owners.

Australian Shepherd

Australian Shepherds are highly energetic and love adventures, making them great for hiking and camping trips. Their intelligence and trainability make them easy to manage on the go, adapting well to new environments and situations. They are loyal and protective, ensuring a sense of security and companionship during travels.

Beagles are curious and friendly, making them ideal travel companions, especially for families. Their manageable size and robust health make them suited for various types of travel, from road trips to flights. Beagles are known for their keen sense of smell and love of exploration, adding an element of adventure to every trip.

Boxers are known for their high energy and playful nature, making them suitable companions for active travelers. They are loyal and protective, ensuring a safe and enjoyable travel experience. Their sociable nature makes them great at making new friends, whether it’s other dogs or people, during their travels.

Pugs are adaptable, friendly, and well-suited for both city and countryside settings, making them versatile travel companions. Their small size and easygoing nature make them ideal for travelers looking for a pet that’s easy to manage on the go. Pugs enjoy being with their owners and can make any trip more enjoyable with their playful and affectionate demeanor.

Cocker Spaniel

Cocker Spaniels are adaptable, friendly, and enjoy exploring new environments, making them excellent travel companions. They have a joyful and outgoing nature that makes them get along well with both humans and other animals. Their medium size and manageable temperament make them suited for various travel adventures, from long road trips to leisurely stays in pet-friendly accommodations.

Pomeranians are small, making them easy to travel with, and their adaptable nature allows them to settle into new environments quickly. They are lively and spirited, often providing entertainment and companionship on the go. Despite their size, Pomeranians have a bold personality, making them fearless adventurers ready to explore new destinations with their owners.

Vizslas are known for their loyalty and affectionate nature, making them great companions for long trips. They are highly adaptable and enjoy being active, making them suitable for various outdoor activities. Their calm demeanor and eagerness to please make them easy travel companions, always ready for a new adventure.

Italian Greyhound

Italian Greyhounds are small, quiet, and love being with their owners, making them perfect companions for travelers. Their slender build and gentle nature make them well-suited for travel, especially in tight spaces like airplane cabins. They are adaptable and can easily adjust to new settings, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable travel experience for both the pet and the owner.

Choosing the right dog breed for travel involves careful consideration of your pet’s temperament, size, and adaptability to new environments. Whether you’re embarking on a long road trip, flying to a new destination, or exploring the great outdoors, the companionship of a travel-friendly dog can make your adventure even more memorable. The breeds highlighted here are known for their ability to adapt and thrive alongside their human companions in various travel scenarios. By selecting a breed that matches your travel style and preparing them for the journey ahead, you can ensure a smoother, more enjoyable travel experience for both you and your furry friend. Remember, the key to a successful trip with your dog lies in understanding their needs and ensuring their comfort and safety throughout your travels.

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