take dog on road trip

• 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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HOME / BLOG / Travel Destinations 49 Places To See On A Pet Friendly American Road Trip

49 Places To See On A Pet Friendly American Road Trip

• By Amy at GoPetFriendly.com
• May 8, 2023

The American road trip … it’s iconic! And there’s no better way to see some of the most special places across the country. But what if you want to include your pet in the fun? Here are 49 breathtaking sights you’ll love exploring together on a pet friendly American road trip!

Road trip vacations are as American as apple pie. And yet, planning to see the “best” the United States has to offer can be overwhelming. Your trip could focus on cultural sites, national parks, state capitols, scenic landmarks, or sports venues.

But if you’re looking for a truly special experience, why not plan the best pet friendly American road trip? Visit the top pet friendly attraction in each state, and collect precious memories with your best friend along the way!

A Pet Friendly American Road Trip

The most difficult part of planning an epic road trip is choosing the stops. From beaches to mountain tops, bustling cities to secluded retreats, you want to see the very best places across the country.

We traveled full-time with our dogs for twelve years, spending time in all of the lower 48 states. And we’re happy to share what we’ve learned!

Whether you’re planning to see the whole country in one trip, or checking out one region at a time, the itinerary we’ve laid out for your pet friendly American road trip will give you a good feel for what each state is about. And very stop is guaranteed to be fun for you and your pet! Click on the name of each location for more details and photos.

READ MORE ⇒ How To Plan A Pet Friendly Road Trip

The Ultimate Pet Friendly American Road Trip

This itinerary covers nearly 15,000 miles and would take at least a couple of months to complete. If you can do it all at once, it’s absolutely the trip of a lifetime!

If you’re looking for shorter trips, choose one or two regions and do a deeper dive in each area. Any combination will make a fantastic pet friendly vacation.

The Northwest

We start this pet friendly American road trip in the northwestern United States. From Washington’s green isles to the heights of Beartooth Highway, this region has something for everyone!

READ MORE ⇒ Tips for Traveling Alone with a Pet

Washington – The San Juan Islands

In the far northwest corner of the contiguous United States, off the coast of Washington, lies a confetti of emerald jewels in the Salish Sea. Known as the San Juan Islands, the landscape is a patchwork of pine forests, stoney beaches, verdant pastures and fields, and sparkling lakes.

Each of the islands has its own charm, and no matter which you visit, you won’t be disappointed.

Oregon –  Portland’s Parks and Gardens

With eclectic neighborhoods, great eateries, and one of the most extensive urban park systems in the country, Portland, Oregon is a pet friendly playground!

Boasting 10,000 acres of natural areas and parks scattered around the city, there’s a treasure around every corner. And if your pup enjoys being social, don’t miss some of the 20+ off-leash areas!

Idaho –  Lake Coeur d’Alene

Among the rugged peaks of northern Idaho, where pine trees far outnumber people, lies one of the most beautiful lakes in the world. Unfolding over 26 miles with more than 135 miles of shoreline, Lake Coeur d’Alene is a sparkling blue jewel.

From scenic boat tours to miles of pet friendly trails, there are as many ways to enjoy Lake Coeur d’Alene as your imagination allows.

Wyoming –  Bighorn National Forest – Medicine Wheel

You’ll find some of Wyoming’s most diverse terrain in the Bighorn Mountains. It would be easy to spend weeks hiking the 1,500 miles of pet friendly trails and enjoying the three scenic drives. But for us, nothing speaks to the timelessness and beauty of the Bighorns like a visit to Medicine Wheel.

Montana –  Beartooth Highway

For 68 miles, between Cooke City and Red Lodge, Montana, the Beartooth Highway winds through some of the most awe inspiring terrain in the United States. This road, one of the highest in the lower 48 states, passes 20 peaks that rise over 12,000 feet.

You’ll experience pristine mountain landscapes, lush forests, and alpine tundra – all within a few miles. And there are numerous places to park the car and hit a pet friendly trail with your furry travel buddy!

The Southwest

The southwest section of this pet friendly American road trip starts with a romp on Carmel’s spectacular dog beach. The next two stops at Red Rock Canyon and the Grand Canyon offer fantastic pet friendly hiking. And we top it off with a trip up Telluride’s gondola. You and your active pets are going to love this adventure!

California –  Carmel’s Dog Beach

Carmel’s crowning glory is its magnificent beach. This mile-long stretch of sand begins just steps from downtown and runs to just below the 9th hole at Pebble Beach Golf Course. And it’s all pet friendly!

Dogs are welcome to romp off-leash on the beach. Or visit Carmel River State Beach, just down the road, where leashed pets will find plenty to explore.

Nevada –  Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area

It’s only 17 miles from the Las Vegas Strip, but Red Rock Canyon feels like a completely different world! From the 13-mile scenic loop road to the 30+ miles of pet friendly trails and picnic areas with great views, you’ll have a fantastic day here with your pet!

Arizona –  Grand Canyon National Park

Traveling to any national park is a wonderful experience, but seeing the Grand Canyon with your pet will make your vacation unforgettable!

The pet friendly South Rim Trail runs for 14 miles and is paved for easy walking. Make sure to allow plenty of time to take in the panoramic views!

Colorado –  Telluride Gondola to Mountain Village

Tucked high in Colorado’s San Juan Mountains, the village of Telluride is ideal for a Rocky Mountain adventure with your pet. Offering spectacular scenery, miles of hiking trails, a pet friendly gondola, and a nice selection of eateries and lodging that welcome pets, it might be the highlight of your pet friendly American road trip!

Utah –  Dixie National Forest’s Red Canyon

Covering almost 2 million acres, every inch of Dixie National Forest is pet friendly! And with 1,600 miles of hiking, horseback riding, and bike trails, and hundreds of miles of scenic byways, backways, and drives, you and your pet could spend a lifetime exploring here.

While you’re in the area, be sure to check out Bryce Canyon and Zion National parks. And don’t miss the chance to visit Best Friends Animal Sanctuary in Kanab, Utah !

READ MORE ⇒ Tips For RVing With Pets

The South Central

Bustling San Antonio is balanced by serene natural wonders on the South Central section of our pet friendly American road trip.

If you’re considering skipping the pet friendly paddle on the Buffalo National River … DON’T! We did it with Ty and Buster, and loved every minute. Though it was our dogs’ first time in a canoe, they did great. And now it’s one of our favorite memories with them.

New Mexico –  White Sands National Park

The name “White Sands” might be a little misleading, but that doesn’t make this pet friendly national park any less impressive! The shimmering dunes here are actually made of gypsum – not sand. And thanks to an ancient sea and some very fortunate geography,  it’s now the world’s largest dunefield!

You’ll find pet friendly trails and plenty to keep you busy at White Sands. And be sure to stay for sunset. It’s unlike any other you’ll see!

Texas –  San Antonio River Walk

Providing access to some of the city’s most precious historical and cultural sites, the 13-mile, pet friendly San Antonio River Walk is one of the most unique parks in the country!

It would be easy to spend several days exploring different sections of the River Walk, hopping on and off to visit all the connected neighborhoods.

Oklahoma –  Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge

As if watching the grazing bison, elk, and white-tailed deer weren’t enough reason to visit Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, you and your pet will also find 18 pet friendly hiking trails and lakes for boating and paddling!

Arkansas –  Canoe the Buffalo National River

Canoeing the Buffalo National River with your pets is easier than you might think! Pet friendly canoe rentals are a cinch to find, and the calm water will put every paddler at ease.

When you’re back on solid ground, there are also miles of pet friendly trails to hike along the river’s course and in the nearby Ozark National Forest.

READ MORE ⇒ Tips for Canoeing or Kayaking with Dogs

Kansas –  Monument Rocks

Monument Rocks is what’s left of a sea floor that formed millions of years ago when water covered the continent from Montana and the Dakotas to Texas and Louisiana. The chalk spires, buttes, and arches that remain now stand 70 feet tall on the Kansas plains. And your pets are more than welcome to explore them with you!

The Plains – North

The Northern Plains section of this trip takes you through the heartland and reveals what America was like before Europeans arrived.

You’ll spend time appreciating the vastness of Lake Superior and the powerful Mississippi River. Then walk in the footsteps of the Native Americans who lived in Iowa and North Dakota.

Minnesota –  Split Rock Lighthouse State Park

Split Rock Lighthouse State Park sits on Lake Superior’s northern shore. Providing breathtaking views of one of the most photographed lighthouses in the country and 14.5 miles of pet friendly trails, it’s a great place to stretch your legs or camp on the beach.

READ MORE ⇒ Camping With Dogs – A Beginner’s Guide

Wisconsin –  Trempealeau National Wildlife Refuge

Trempealeau National Wildlife Refuge is located in the Mississippi River flyway, the migration route of about 40% of all waterfowl and shorebirds. The refuge serves as a “bed and breakfast” for the birds as they travel through and is home to the magnificent bald eagle.

In addition to some spectacular bird spotting, there are miles of pet friendly trails to explore.

Iowa –  Effigy Mounds National Monument

Standing atop the bluffs overlooking the Mississippi River, it’s easy to see why American Indians chose to make this breathtaking place their home. Covering 2,500 acres along the western bank of the Mississippi River, Effigy Mounds National Monument now protects 206 prehistoric earthen mounds built by Indigenous People, 31 of which are in the shape of animals.

You and your dogs are welcome to explore all the trails. But remember to be respectful and never walk on (or allow your pet on) the mounds.

North Dakota –  Knife River Indian Villages National Historic Site

Interpretive plaques help you imagine what life was like at the Knife River Indian Villages. This is where Captains Lewis and Clark first met Sacagewea and her husband, Toussaint Charbonneau. Once a bustling community of nearly 400 people, this is now a quiet place to reflect and enjoy the scenery.

South Dakota –  Custer State Park

Custer State Park protects 71,000 acres of South Dakota’s most magnificent landscapes. It also provides habitats for a dazzling array of wildlife. Whether you prefer picturesque drives or multi-day hikes, wildlife viewing or kayaking, elegant dining or campfires under the stars, Custer has something to please traveler.

Nebraska –  Fort Robinson State Park

Fort Robinson State Park is a rare combination of stunning landscapes, fascinating history, a variety of recreational opportunities, and pet friendly accommodations. 

Spread over 22,000 acres, with rugged buttes as the backdrop, it’s a wonderful place to unwind and enjoy the expansive wild prairies during the day and the star-filled skies at night.

The Great Lakes

Three of the five stops on this section of our pet friendly American road trip are on the Great Lakes! Absorb the energy of downtown Chicago at Navy Pier. Then contrast it with the leisurely atmosphere of Mackinac Island. You’ll enjoy both ends of the spectrum!

West Virginia –  Monongahela National Forest

The Monongahela National Forest covers more than 900,000 acres, preserving a rugged and wild paradise unlike any other. With an extensive backwoods road system, oodles of campgrounds, and 825 miles of pet friendly trails, you and your pet will find plenty to explore!

Ohio – Holden Arboretum

Holden Arboretum is evidence of the beauty that results when humans and Mother Nature work together. Encompassing 3,600 acres, it’s one of the largest arboreta and botanical gardens in the country and a fabulous place to explore with your pet.

Wander the garden paths or hit the miles of trails through native forests with your furry travel buddy!

Illinois –  Chicago Lakefront Trail & Navy Pier

Chicago’s pet friendly Lakefront Trail runs for 18 miles along the spectacular shore of Lake Michigan. Connecting vibrant neighborhoods, expansive parks, popular beaches, and famous attractions like Navy Pier, Buckingham Fountain, and Soldier Field, it’s fun to choose a section and spend a day exploring it with your pet!

READ MORE ⇒ Tips for a Cross-Country Road Trip with Pets

Indiana –  Indiana Dunes National Park

Caribbean blue waters and miles of pet friendly beaches await you at Indiana Dunes National Park. But the beaches are just the beginning!

This dynamic landscape also features dunes, ponds, marshes, creeks, prairie, and forests for your exploration. Whether you decided to hang out on the shore or hike the trails, you’re sure to have a great time.

Michigan –  Mackinac Island

Hop aboard the pet friendly ferry for a trip to Mackinac Island. Automobiles aren’t allowed, but you and your pet won’t have any trouble getting around!

Main Street is just steps from the ferry docks, pets are welcome on the horse-drawn carriages rides, and bikes with pet trailers are available for rent. So all of Mackinac’s most popular attractions are within easy reach!

The Plains – South

Road tripping pets are going to adore this route through the southern plains. Romp at the incredible off-leash dog park at Shelby Farms, then stiff along the 444-mile Natchez Trace! Finally, spend an afternoon relaxing in the shadow of the Gateway Arch in St. Louis.

Louisiana –  State Capitol Gardens in Baton Rouge

Standing 34 stories tall, Louisiana’s capitol in Baton Rouge is the tallest state capitol building in the United States. It’s surrounded by 27 acres of pet friendly grounds and gardens that offer picturesque views from every angle.

Stroll the paved paths under massive live oaks and palm trees or plan a picnic with your pet!

Mississippi –  The Natchez Trace Parkway

The Natchez Trace Parkway stretches 444 miles, from Natchez, Mississippi to Nashville, Tennessee. It’s a blissfully quiet, billboard-free retreat from our fast-paced highways.

But a slower pace doesn’t mean you’ll be bored! There’s something to sniff around every bend with countless exhibits and 28 pet friendly trailheads along the route.

Tennessee –  Shelby Farms Park Off-Leash Area

Shelby Farms Park in Memphis is one of the country’s largest urban parks. With a massive off-leash dog area, 40 miles of pet friendly trails winding through 4,500 acres, a disc golf course, canoe, kayak, and paddle board rentals, and a lovely visitor center, you could easily spend an entire day here!

Kentucky –  Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historic Park

President Abraham Lincoln’s life is an inspiration, and visiting his simple birthplace fosters an even deeper appreciation of his accomplishments.

Pets are welcome to join you on the grounds of the historic park. And together you can explore the trails there and at the Lincoln Boyhood Home at Knob Creek, just ten miles away.

Missouri –  Gateway Arch National Park

Leashed pets are welcome to explore the extensive grounds at St. Louis’ Gateway Arch National Park. Enjoy the Riverfront Trail, embark on a one-hour scenic riverboat cruise, and be sure to ask now your pet can become a BARK Ranger during your visit.

READ MORE ⇒ 60 National Parks Where Your Dog Can Be A BARK Ranger

New England

You can see a lot without traveling far in New England! Enjoy Central Park in the heart of Manhattan, then explore the trails in Acadia National Park. Finally, take a splash in the pond at Dog Mountain. From beginning to end, this section of our pet friendly American road trip is a pet’s dream come true.

New York –  Central Park

There’s no place like New York! Central Park is the third most visited attraction IN THE WORLD – and it’s even better with your pet. Whether you choose to lounge on a bench, enjoy the conservatory gardens, or explore the wooded trails in the Ramble, it will be a day to remember.

Connecticut –  Mystic Seaport

Spread over 19 spectacular acres on the banks of the Mystic River, Mystic Seaport is the largest maritime museum in the United States. You and your pet can view magnificent old boats and learn what life was like for seaport dwellers in this part of New England in the 1800s.

Rhode Island –  Newport Cliff Walk

Newport is known as the City by the Sea. And a stroll along the pet friendly Cliff Walk proves that she more than lives up to her nickname!

Winding for 3.5 miles with the rocky shoreline on one side and the lush gardens of historic mansions on the other, the Cliff Walk Trail provides you and your pet with unforgettable views.

Massachusetts –  The Freedom Trail

Boston’s Freedom Trail connects 16 of our country’s most significant historic landmarks – locations that played a pivotal role in America’s rebellious beginning.

The pet friendly 2.5-mile path starts in Boston Common where you can pick up a map. Here pups will also find two off-leash areas for sniffing and socializing in America’s oldest public park. Then follow the red brick path through the city at your own pace, taking in each site as you go.

Maine –  Acadia National Park

As one of the countries most pet friendly national parks, you and your pet will find plenty to love in Acadia. There are more than 100 miles of trails to sniff, carriage roads to explore, and pets are even welcome on the free shuttles that run throughout the park and around the island!

READ MORE ⇒ America’s Best Dog Friendly National Parks

New Hampshire –  Mount Washington

Visiting Mount Washington can be tricky. More than 100 days a year the wind at the summit exceeds hurricane force, the peak is enveloped in clouds 60% of the time, and snow can fall year round. But if you’re lucky enough to be there on a pleasant day, you and your pet will never forget the pet friendly trails and stunning views.

Vermont –  Dog Mountain

At Dog Mountain, pets aren’t just welcome – they’re cherished! This 150-acre former dairy farm is always open to the public and dogs are welcome to shed their leashes while they run, play, and swim in the pond.

There are also hiking trails, peaceful retreats, and a pet friendly chapel and art gallery.

The Mid-Atlantic

The theme of this section of the trip is early American history with a lot fun thrown in! Learn about the first Europeans to arrive in the New World in Colonial Williamsburg. Then stroll through Washington, DC, where history is made every day. Next enjoy a day on the Jersey shore before heading to the Pocono Mountains for a scenic train ride!

Virginia –  Colonial Williamsburg

Colonial Williamsburg welcomes you and your pets to step back in time. View historic homes, watch demonstrations at the trades shops, enjoy the fife and drum corps, and get a bite to eat at one of the taverns or restaurants.

Washington, DC –  The National Mall

There are few places in the America more inspiring than our National Mall & Memorial Gardens. And because this national park sits in the middle of a living city, it’s more pet friendly than you might expect!

From the U.S. Capitol to the Lincoln Memorial, you and your pet can view dozens of iconic sights all within walking distance.

Maryland –  Cruise on Chesapeake Bay

Explore the Chesapeake Bay with your travel buddy aboard a pet friendly cruise! Arrange a tour from Annapolis, Baltimore, or St. Michaels. Or contact one of the countless privately-operated charter boats available in harbors up and down the bay, most of whom are happy to welcome your pets.

READ MORE ⇒ 5 Questions To Ask BEFORE Taking A Dog On A Boat

Delaware –  Walking Tour of Historic New Castle

Do you love strolling with your pet along tree-lined streets? Would you like to admire beautiful examples of colonial Dutch and Federal architecture? And what if you could learning a bit about the early history of our country at the same time?

It sounds like a walking tour of New Castle will be right up your alley! Be sure to check the local calendar for pet friendly events when planning your trip.

New Jersey –  The Jersey Shore at Wildwood Dog Beach

New Jersey has many popular beaches, but Wildwood’s beach stands out. It’s lovely, spacious, family-friendly, and free to use. And the best part is that your pets can come along!

Dogs on leashes are welcome from dawn to dusk, every day on the Wildwood dog beach between Glenwood and Maple Avenues. Just look for the gigantic fire hydrant and enjoy a day of sand and surf together.

Pennsylvania –  Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway

All aboard! The Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway welcomes pets on their vintage coaches. Powered by diesel engines and departing from the old railroad station in historic downtown Jim Thorpe, the narrated trips lasts about 70 minutes and follow 16-mile route along the Lehigh River as it winds through the gorge.

The Southeast

Beautiful gardens await your arrival on this pet friendly road trip through the Southeast. Wander the paths through Rock City, where on a clear day you can view seven states! Then admire the last large-scale romantic-style garden at Magnolia Plantation. Finally, spend a day exploring the formal gardens and wooded trails of the 8,000-acre Biltmore Estate.

Alabama –  Little River Canyon National Preserve

On a flat-top mountain in northeastern Alabama, Little River Canyon National Preserve protects 15,000+ rugged acres along the Little River.

Be prepared for stunning scenery and a taste of southern hospitality, because the preserve is incredibly pet friendly. Not only can your furry travel buddy join you on all the trails — he’s also welcome inside the visitor center, and the staff has dog treats!

Georgia –  Rock City Gardens

Visitors from around the world come to admire Rock City’s botanical and geological features. And your pet is welcome to join you on the trails. You can even have lunch together on the patio at Café 7, a seasonal restaurant with amazing views!

Florida –  Fort De Soto Dog Beach

Fort De Soto’s beaches are acclaimed for their white sand and clear blue waters. But the best part of this quarter-mile stretch of beach is that it’s dedicated to the dogs!

Pups can romp leash-free here and in the adjacent enclosed dog park. Then rent a kayak and paddle the 2.25-mile water trail, peddle the 7-mile bike trail, or hit the hiking trails to see more of the island.

South Carolina –  Magnolia Plantation & Gardens

Founded in 1676 by the Drayton family, Magnolia Plantation and Gardens is America’s last large-scale Romantic-style garden. You and your pup are welcome to enjoy the trails, grounds, gardens. Plan accordingly to see your favorite flowers in bloom!

North Carolina –  Biltmore Estate Gardens and Grounds

At the Biltmore Estate, pets cannot tour the historic home. However, you and your pet can stroll the lush garden paths, or hit the 23 miles of hiking trails that criss-cross the 8,000-acre estate.

When you’ve worked up an appetite, head over to Antler Hill Village and choose a table on the patio at one of the pet friendly restaurants!

READ MORE ⇒ Training Your Dog To Be A Great Traveler

How long will it take and what will it cost?

In total, our entire pet friendly American road trip is 15,000 miles and will take at least two months. That’s assuming you have great luck with the weather and don’t mind driving about 8 hours a day.

The cost of the trip depends on how you travel. And where you are comfortable staying is a factor that has a big impact. Car camping or tenting will be least expensive. And staying at pet friendly hotels will cost more. Luckily, pets aren’t picky about where you sleep – as long as you’re together.

READ MORE ⇒ Car Camping With Pets: Prep The Car, What to Pack, and More

Most of the attractions we’ve recommended are fairly inexpensive (free – $20), with a few exceptions. So figure around $500 per person for all the admission fees.

Gas will cost another $1,500 to $2,000.

Then there’s food, which can also vary a lot. To save money, plan to spend time shopping and preparing your own meals rather than eating out. If you can eat for $15 per day, that adds about $900 per person for a two-month trip.

In total, this trip could be done by one person for around $4,500. Bring a buddy to split the lodging and gas costs and the cost is even less for you both.

So, there you have it – our Ultimate Pet Friendly American Road trip! Now all that’s left to do is pack the car, crank up the tunes, and hit the road. Waggin’ trails to you!

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

Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links and is a member of Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, meaning when you make a purchase, I earn a small commission. Affiliate links cost you nothing to use, and help keep my content free. It’s a win-win for us both! For more info, see the Privacy Policy

I can totally guess your favorite dog breeds based on how you travel

Take this quiz to see which breeds match your style!

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!

🚗  What’s the best site to   rent cars?

To find cheap rental cars, I recommend  Discover Cars

I have been living and traveling with dogs for over 20 years. One of the great joys in my life is to have our dogs Denver, Sam and Thandi (RIP) travel with us to as many places as possible. It can be tricky sometimes to make it all work and to create a great experience, so my goal is to help others do the same

My wife Emily and I have crossed international borders and we have experienced three different continents with a dog along for the journey. By plane, car, boat, train, bus, you name it we've done it and our dogs have come with us. Most of our time has been spent in the United States. Our home is in the California bay area, but since we love to travel we have seen a lot of the US.

We spend a lot of time on road trips. On the road, we have easily traveled more than 100,000 miles with our dogs. From coast to coast and top to bottom, state to state, we have had countless adventures and look forward to helping others do the same!

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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

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!

How to Road Trip With Your Dog: 10 Tips + 10 Essentials

December 2, 2021 December 4, 2021 by Kristin Quinn

We love our dogs so, naturally, we want to take them everywhere with us!

But taking your dog on a long-haul road trip is sometimes easier said than done. In theory, it sounds pretty idyllic. Just you and your furry friend, cruisin’ the highway – windows down, wind in your hair/fur, tunes blaring and nothing but scenic views and unlimited adventures to look forward to.

But alas… the reality of it looks quite different.

Ain’t that always the way?

In a lot of ways, traveling with a dog is almost like traveling with a kid [don’t come for me, parents]. More stuff to pack, more frequent pee breaks, and sometimes, more whining. The good news is, there’s plenty of things you can do to make your road trip more enjoyable – for both you and your dog.

Check out my top essentials [for humans] on long-haul road trips!

As I was writing and researching for this post, I realized there are A TON of frequently asked questions about road trips with dogs. So, in addition to my 2 core sections – road trip gear / essentials and tips – I’ve also included a section at the beginning for FAQs.

Let’s get to it!

Affiliate link disclosure: this post contains affiliate links. anything you purchase using one of my links earns me a small monetary kickback at no extra cost to you. of course i only link to products that i believe to be useful and good quality. if you want more information on affiliate links,  click here..

PUPPY ROAD TRIP FAQs:

How often should you stop on long road trips with dogs.

Experts recommend you stop every 2 hours to let your dog stretch his legs and take a potty break. I know this seems way too frequent, but sitting still for that long is tough on your dog’s joints! It doesn’t need to be a particularly long stop, but this is kind of an unavoidable inconvenience when you’re on a road trip with your dog.

My advice? Take your dog for a quick walk every time you stop for gas or food and make good use of rest stops, too! Rest stops are right off the highway, easy to drive in and out of quickly, and usually have large grassy areas where you can walk and play with your pup.

CAN YOU USE BENADRYL AS A WAY TO CALM YOUR DOG IN THE CAR?

The short answer is no. Any medication that is not prescribed by your veterinarian is a no-go, but even if your vet has ok’d Benadryl to treat your pup’s allergies [which is common] you should not dose your dog with Benadryl for any other purposes unless you’ve consulted with a professional first. Dogs can die from overdoses of Benadryl and it is just not worth the risk.

MY PUP GETS ANXIETY IN THE CAR – WHAT CAN I GIVE MY DOG FOR STRESSFUL, LONG ROAD TRIPS?

If your dog has mild anxiety in the car, that’s completely normal, and there are a few different ways you can lessen the stress for your pup.

• Exercise! This is a big one. There is no better, more natural, or more safe method of de-stressing your dog than through exercise. Prior to your road trip, set aside 20 minutes to play fetch or some sort of higher-intensity exercise. This is our tried-and-true calming method with Tuna!
• Incentivize. Whatever your dog loves most [treats, toys, scratches] do those things, in excess, on your road trip! You want your dog to associate car rides with positivity.
• Work Up To It. Start your dog out on shorter trips or, depending on how severe the anxiety is, maybe even start out just sitting in the car for a minute or two. Easing into it is key for pups with travel anxiety!
• CBD Oil. Disclaimer – consult with your vet before giving CBD oil to your dog, always make sure you are dosing correctly and use CBD oil specific to pets [not humans! It’s not exactly interchangeable]. That being said, CBD oil has been pretty effective in treating Tuna’s anxiety but I did notice that the oil works better than the “CBD-infused” dog treats. I would recommend King Canine CBD since it is affordable, well reviewed and I have had nothing but good experiences using it.
• Thundershirt. This method isn’t for everyone – some dogs hate ’em, some dogs love ’em. But if your dog doesn’t mind wearing things like life jackets and costumes, a Thundershirt could be worth a try!
• A Piece of Your Clothing or Something From Home. As long as your dog doesn’t chew things he shouldn’t, something that smells like you [and your home] can be a super helpful calming tool on your road trip. If you have space for it in your car, bringing your dogs bed with you is another good option!

CAN MY DOG RIDE IN THE FRONT [PASSENGER] SEAT?

Short answer on this one: It is unfortunately not safe for your dog to ride in the front seat, even with a seatbelt . This is mostly because of airbags. If airbags were to deploy while your dog is sitting in the front seat, it would likely be a fatal impact.

MUST-HAVE GEAR + ESSENTIALS:

1. first aid kit [for dogs].

I use the Trail Dog First Aid Kit from Adventure Medical Kits . It’s small, lightweight and includes e verything you need for your adventure pup:

• Tweezer / Tick remover
• Gauze, bandages and wraps
• Antiseptic wipes
• Alcohol swabs
• Triple antibiotic ointment
• Saline wound + eye wash
• Antihistamine
• Hydrogen Peroxide [used to induce vomiting if your dog eats something poisonous]

Note: You might be wondering why there is no snake bite kit included [or at least, I was] in this first aid kit. Well, apparently snake bite kits are almost completely useless for both humans and dogs. Who knew!? Snake bite kits usually contain a suction device [to extract venom], a scalpel [to cut around the bite wound] and a constriction band [to slow the spread of venom]. None of these methods are effective and veterinarians advise strongly against all of them, as they can ultimately end up causing more damage to your dog. Your best bet is to keep the wound below heart level, keep your dog as calm as possible, call the nearest emergency vet to let them know you are coming in and will need anti-venom, and move as quickly and safely as possible.

2. collapsible bowl [and plenty of food + water].

I really like this collapsible bowl from Ruffwear ! It’s large, folds flat, and it’s also deep enough and stable enough [due to the square base] that I can actually give Tuna water while we’re driving. Super handy!

Which brings us to water: your dog will likely be drinking more than usual on your road trip [so pack more than you think you’ll need!]. Most dogs have at least slight car anxiety, or at the very least they get excited in the car. An excited dog means more panting, and more panting means more water is needed. Yet another reason that you’ll need to make more frequent pee stops.

As far as food goes, packing enough of it may not seem like a huge deal – after all, you can always find a grocery store if you run out. However you may not be able to find your usual brand of dog food, and the combination of travel stress and introducing new food could be a recipe for disaster! You want to keep things as consistent as possible for your dog, since there’s enough change happening already on your road trip.

You want to make the road trip experience as enjoyable as possible for your dog. What better way to do that than with treats!?

As I’ve discussed before, treats are a great way to incentivize being in the car and help your dog associate car rides with yummy goodness.

Maybe your dog won’t play with toys in the car [or maybe you don’t want him/her to] but you’ll need some toys for your road trip pit-stops and for when you [finally] arrive at your destination.

Tuna is a heaaavy chewer [I can’t leave him alone with regular dog toys for more than 30 seconds without them being destroyed]. Only 2 brands have withstood the wrath of Tuna’s scissorteeth – Kong and Ruffwear . And even with those brands, only the rubber toys will do. My recommendations for tough chewers are as follows:

• The Original Kong
• The Kong Squeezz Ball With Squeaker [Tuna loves this one!]
• The Ruffwear Huck-a-Cone [just don’t let them chew the rope!]
• The Ruffwear Gnawt-a-Rock Treat Dispenser Toy

5. SEAT COVER

This isn’t absolutely essential, but it can make your road trip WAY less stressful. A seat cover will allow you to go on real adventures with your dog without the worry of damaging your upholstery [and trust me, towels just don’t cut it].

If you’re looking for a recommendation, we absolutely LOVE our Ruffwear Dirtbag Seat Cover [ found here on their website , with free shipping!] . It’s definitely worth the extra money for a quality seat cover, especially if you have a big dog like I do. I’ve had a couple friends who opted for a cheaper cover and it couldn’t hold their dogs weight. The straps ended up breaking and it needed to be replaced. The Ruffwear cover is super durable. I have a 70 lb dog who uses this cover as a hammock [meaning he lays in down on the portion that’s hanging over the floor, unsupported] and it has held up great! It’s also waterproof, has a large zip pocket to store goodies in, and covers the ENTIRE seat [there are flaps that hang down over the sides, so every inch of your backseat is protected].

NOTE: It is also compatible with doggy seatbelts! [See #9]

6. FLEA + TICK SPRAY

This is a must-have for adventure dogs! I spray Tuna with it before every hike and every camping trip. I’m convinced that it works! The one time I forgot to reapply it [after Tuna took a swim in a nearby river] I found a nasty little tick in his fur. Yuck!

7. WET WIPES

Wet wipes are a must when traveling with dogs! Whether you’re cleaning up slobber, mud, or some strange unknown substance – you’re gonna be cleaning and you’re gonna want wet wipes!

8. POOP BAGS!

I get it – nobody wants to pick up poop. But it’s so important for more reasons than one! Dog poop can pollute our waterways, introduce foreign bacteria to new areas, and it’s just stinky/unsightly for other visitors. Make sure you bring a big stash of poop bags on your trip and always, always pick up after your pet!

9. DOGGY SEATBELT

I know it’s not the most comfortable thing for your pup to wear, but accidents do happen, and a loose dog during an accident is extremely dangerous. A doggy seatbelt is a hassle, but it can prevent a tragic loss. If you’re anything like me your dog is your baby and, while I feel bad putting something restrictive on him, I know I’d feel worse if something bad were ever to happen.

PRO TIP: Make sure that there’s enough slack in the leash that your dog can move around a little bit, but not so much that he’ll get tangled up.

10. DOG HARNESS + LEASH

A harness is a great alternative to dog collars – especially for road trips! Collars are not only more dangerous than harnesses, they’re also much less comfortable [especially if you’re hooking your dog up to a seatbelt]. Another bonus to using harnesses rather than collars: They are easier to grab + hook up to a leash in a hurry when you’re on-trail. I use the Flagline Harness from Ruffwear , but there are so many great harnesses to choose from!

If you’re looking for a recommendation on leashes, I can’t say enough good things about the Ruffwear Knot-a-Leash [and no, I am not sponsored by Ruffwear – just mildly obsessed with their products]. This leash has been a lifesaver for us. Tuna pulls harder than, I’m convinced, any other dog in existence and he has snapped multiple leashes. The Ruffwear Knot-a-Leash is made of thick, climbing-inspired rope and has a locking carabiner that attaches to your pup’s collar or harness – it’s probably the most durable leash on the market!

NOTE: If you’re planning on camping on your road trip, check out my camping essentials for dogs!

TIPS FOR A COMFY, SAFE + STRESS-FREE ROAD TRIP WITH YOUR DOG:

1. research your destination(s) before you leave.

Is your hotel pet friendly?

How about that hike you’re planning on going on?

Are you visiting a National Park? NOTE: Most of them don’t allow dogs on trails or near lakes/rivers 🙁

When you’re traveling with a dog, you have to do a little extra planning. We’ve come a long way as far as dog-friendliness, but many places still have rules against them – or at the very least, restrictions. Make sure all of your planned activities are dog friendly and that you’re aware of any relevant leash laws!

2. PREP YOUR DOCUMENTS + TAGS

Make sure your tags and chip information are up-to-date in case your dog somehow gets loose! You want your information readily available to whoever finds your dog so he/she can be safely returned to you.

Also, be sure to pack your dog’s medical documents in case there’s an emergency and you need to either board your dog or take him to a veterinarian while you’re away from home.

3. CREATE A COMFORTABLE SPACE FOR YOUR DOG [WITH SOME FAMILIAR BELONGINGS]

Create a designated space for your dog and keep his needs in mind. Some things to consider when choosing a space for your dog:

• Window access. Most dogs enjoy being able to look out the window, and it makes car-sickness less likely.
• Adequate space. Make sure there’s enough space that your dog can change positions and stretch his legs. I usually clear the entire backseat and most of the floor in front of the back seat.
• Familiar items/toys. As long as your dog doesn’t chew on clothes/blankets, it can be helpful to include some familiar things from home for him to snuggle-up with. That can be a shirt [that smells like you], a dog bed or blankets/toys that your dog uses at home. Things that smell like home can be soothing to your pup and reduce stress on long road trips.

4. DOUBLE DOWN ON WATER

Make sure you have more than enough water for both you and your dog. Hydrating is super important, especially on road trips. It’ll help prevent headaches and the dreaded “post-vacation sickness”, and it’ll also keep your pup comfortable and content. Keep in mind, dogs are just as at risk as we are for dehydration! Make sure your dog has access to water whenever he wants or needs it.

5. GIVE YOUR PUP PLENTY OF TREATS + REWARD GOOD BEHAVIOR

You want to make car rides a “happy place” for your dog, so make sure you incentivize road trips! Give your pup a treat every time he gets in the car on his own [or after you put him inside if he can’t, or won’t, get in by himself] and it doesn’t hurt to give him the odd treat throughout the trip, too!

6. TAKE FREQUENT POTTY BREAKS

Experts recommend every 2 hours, which sounds like a LOT, but it’s more than just for potty breaks – it’s to stretch their legs, too. Dogs aren’t used to sitting/laying down for hours on end. Even when they’re just lounging about at home, they’ll get up and move every once in a while. Even just a quick stop on the side of the road is better than nothing at all!

PRO TIP: Try taking advantage of rest stops since they are easier and faster to pull off to than gas station/restaurant stops and usually have large, grassy areas where you can walk your dog.

7. TAKE TIME TO PLAY!

If you can find a quiet place away from the road [BLM land is preferable] or, even better, a nearby dog park – take 5 minutes to play fetch or tug-of-war with your dog! Your dog needs to stretch his legs and likely has a ton of built-up energy to blow off. Sometimes, if I can’t find a place that allows for off-leash play, I’ll just go for a quick jog around the rest stop area. [Emphasis on “quick” since I’m super out-of-shape and also don’t want to be sweaty for the remainder of the car trip].

8. KEEP IT COOL + NEVER LEAVE YOUR DOG IN A HOT CAR!

What’s cool for you may not be cool for your dog [who is covered in at least one layer, if not two, of fur]. Pack a warm sweater so you can keep the car cool and comfortable for your pup without freezing yourself!

And on that note, take extra care not to leave your dog unattended in the car. If you’re traveling with a friend or family member it should be easy to keep an eye on your dog. At rest stops, have one person walk the dog while the other goes to the bathroom and then swap out! Two birds, one stone.

If you’re traveling alone, however, try to park in the shade [on hot days] and keep your bathroom breaks as short as possible. Temperatures as low as 70 degrees can become dangerously hot for dogs inside of a car. Lower temperatures can be dangerous too, as they put dogs at risk of hypothermia.

NOTE: If your car doesn’t have tinted windows, it might be worth purchasing UV shades ! They’re pretty inexpensive and they are super easy to put up and take down.

9. SCOUT OUT THE LOCAL DOG PARK

When you arrive at your destination, do a quick search and see if there’s a dog park near you! Dog parks are a great place for your dog to unwind and expel some pent-up energy after a long road trip.

10. DON’T LEAVE YOUR DOG BEHIND

Leaving your dog alone in your hotel room is not really an option while you’re on vacation. Not only do most hotels have a policy against this, it’s just not safe. Your dog is in an unfamiliar environment and a lot of things could go wrong. Even if your dog is not a chewer naturally, you don’t know how they’ll react in a stressful situation. You don’t want to risk having to pay damages or, worst case scenario, have your dog choke on something while you’re away.

But what if the hotel allows it and you leave your dog in a crate? This is a safer option, but I would still strongly advise against it. Your dog will be stressed out the entire time and, if you can’t bring your dog with you on your vacation activities, boarding is probably a better option for you. I know how expensive dog boarding can be, but it’s something that has to be factored in to your vacation budget if you want to do non-dog-friendly activities. We all love our dogs and want to bring them along for the trip, but sometimes boarding them is the best option – that way they get frequent play time, socialization with other dogs, and have someone monitoring them and making sure they stay safe, fed and hydrated.

Which brings me back to Tip #1: Research your destination ! If you’re set on taking your dog on a road trip, make sure all your activities are dog friendly. Your hotels, your hikes, your restaurants, etc. Don’t create a situation where your dog is left out and has to either sit in the car unattended or in a hotel room by himself. It’s not fair to your dog and it can be avoided with a little pre-planning.

Going on a road trip with your dog? Have any more questions/thoughts? Tuna and I are here for ya! Drop your Q’s in the comments or send me a message !

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Eternal Tomboy, Obsessive Dog Mom + Outdoor Enthusiast. She's a Canuck chick based in Idaho who's uncoordinated, addicted to tacos, and perpetually making dad jokes. She loves hot spring hunting, desert camping, night hikes, and using her paddle board as a floating daybed. She currently feels like she's writing a dating profile. She is not. She is married.

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27 Dog Road Trip Tips and Travel Hacks

If you’re like most people, you enjoy traveling with your dog. They provide a sense of adventure and excitement that can be hard to find elsewhere. Unfortunately, unlike taking your dog on a plane , road tripping with a dog takes a lot of planning and forethought.

In this post, we’re going to share 27 dog road trip tips and hacks that will make your trip easier and more enjoyable for both you and your dog. So, whether you’re just starting to plan your journey or you’re already on the road, read on for some helpful advice!

How do I take my dog on a road trip? Tips and travel hacks

Before setting out on a trip with your dog, you’ll need to collect all the important documents, make the necessary appointments, and get your dog accustomed to sitting in a car. And that’s just for starters.

Let’s have a look at some of the best road trip tips for dog owners. They will ensure both of you have a fun and memorable time on the road to your final destination.

ⓘ TIP: To keep your dog comfortable and safe, you can find a lot of excellent pet safety gear on Amazon.

Planning and preparation: Important documents you’ll need

No matter whether we’re going on an epic road trip or a weekend getaway, we all want a hassle-free trip. There are dozens of things to prepare before traveling , and that goes for a dog as well.

1. Be sure to carry all the valid documentation that proves you keep your pet healthy. Ask your veterinarian for copies of vaccine and health records, medication prescriptions, and healthcare certificates.

2. Before you book a hotel room, call and ask about their animal policy.

How to get your dog used to riding in a car

3. Some dogs love long car rides, while others can’t even handle short trips. If you want to travel long distance with your dog and need to get your pup used to car travel, try taking him for short rides around town first and gradually increasing the distance. Start with a few miles, take frequent breaks, and see how it goes.

4. If your dog tends to get carsick, give him a window seat. Dogs love being able to look outside and feel the wind on their face.

Dog road trip essentials

Different dogs have different requirements. You must make a list of all the important dog supplies, food items, and other essential items you may need on the trip. (A local pet store can help with that, or you can buy everything on Amazon .)

Here’s a checklist of road trip essentials for dogs:

5. Remember the toilet accessories ― disposable dog poop bags , towels, and dog diapers.

6. Pack a pet pram or dog sling ― you’ll need safety gear in case you decide to get out of your car and roam around.

7. Keep a leash and extra collar or harness handy ― for bathroom breaks.

8. Food and water gear is essential ― a travel water bowl and spill-proof food bowl will keep messes to a minimum.

9. Bring a few toys or treats that they don’t usually get.

10. Bring a familiar blanket in case your pet needs security or it gets cold.

Food and treats

11. Bring regular food and other treats that they are used to.

12. You can also surprise your travel buddy with a favorite treat as a reward for good behavior during the journey.

13. If you do not have the time or money to purchase exclusive doggie snacks and food items, don’t worry about that. There are plenty of human foods that dogs can eat . That way, both of you can share.

ⓘ PRO TIP: Beef jerky is a great snack to bring on a road trip. It has a lot of protein, is easy to transport, doesn’t spoil, and is completely natural. It’s also safe for your dog to eat. Old Trapper is a high-quality choice and is widely available.

Use a pet ramp

14. Dogs love to go for rides. Most will happily get into any vehicle going anywhere. But puppies, seniors, and pets who have health issues, pain in the joints, or injuries can benefit a lot from a pet ramp.

Pets are at the risk of falling off and injuring themselves while hopping into and out of a car. With a pet ramp installed, your travel buddy can easily get into and out of a vehicle without assistance.

Keep a first aid kit

15. Keeping a first-aid kit handy can protect you from the perils of a sick dog. Yes, there are first aid kits just for dogs ! Some of the important first aid kits essentials include:

• cotton balls for the application of medicines and cleaning up of wounds
• bandages and adhesive tapes for injuries
• a pill box of all the vital medicines, and
• antiseptic wipes.

16. Traveling in a car for long hours can make anyone motion sick , including your pup. Motion sickness is as common among animals as it is among humans. If he seems a little queasy, open the window for some fresh air, or sit him in front of the air conditioner vent.

Keep your pet entertained and calm

It is very common for dogs to get stressed and anxious while traveling from comfort to a new, unknown location.

17. Help Fido get familiar with the car’s interior before setting out. When your pup is comfortable with the peculiar smell of your vehicle, it is more likely to help keep your dog happy, relaxed, calm and composed throughout the ride.

18. Bring along some favorite toys . Kongs, tennis balls, and chew toys can all keep your best friend occupied for hours.

Finding dog-friendly destinations

Taking trips with your dog is a great way to see the country. And there are plenty of dog-friendly destinations to choose from.

19. Before setting out, check to see if the destination you’re planning to visit is pet friendly. Some parks, such as Lake Tahoe National Park in California and Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina and Tennessee, have strict regulations and specific areas are off-limits to pets. But most national parks welcome well-behaved dogs on their hiking trails and campgrounds.

20. If your dog isn’t accustomed to long hikes on trails, it’s worth taking him for a few training walks around your neighborhood before you set out.

21. It’s always a good idea to carry water for both you and your pet, so bring along his bowl and a few bottles of water. Don’t forget some snacks, too!

Save these dog road trip hacks for later!

Pin this to your favorite Pinterest travel board.

How to keep your dog safe on a road trip

22. First and foremost, it goes without saying that you should never leave a dog in a hot car. If you have to make a quick stop, get your dog out of the car and give him plenty of water.

23. Your dog needs to be able to pant and cool down, so don’t use a muzzle unless absolutely necessary. If you do use one, it should be for a very brief period of time.

24. To keep your furry friend safe, either (a) buckle him into a safety harness in the back seat or (b) keep him in a sturdy crate or carrier that won’t slide around.

25. If you want your dog to wear a safety harness on the road trip, make sure you have one in the right size before leaving home.

26. If you let your dog roam free in the car, consider installing a gate between the front and back seats. It will help keep him from being thrown around in case of an accident.

27. Look for rest stops with a dog park so you can take your pet off leash. Fido will appreciate frequent stops so he can stretch his legs, get some fresh air, and relieve himself.

ⓘ TIP: Love’s Travel Stops has begun adding dog parks to every one of its highway gas stations.

Pros and cons of road tripping with a dog

Did you ever notice when you blow in a dog’s face, it gets mad at you? but when you take it in a car, it sticks its head out the window!

There are both advantages and drawbacks to driving with a dog in a car . If you have a trip planned, keep a note of the following pros and cons to make the most out of your trip.

• Dogs are great company. They will keep you awake, entertained, and in good spirits through their positive demeanor and exuberance.
• You won’t have to worry about your pet being left alone. Instead of calling back every hour to check on him, you can have an exciting outing together.
• You will enjoy pleasant social situations and interactions with people you meet along the way because of your dog. Especially at local dog parks
• It will give you the opportunity to bond with your four-legged friend, understand his likes and dislikes, and build a strong connection with him.
• Some dogs can get nervous and eventually fall sick after traveling in a car for long hours at a stretch. If your dog isn’t used to traveling too often, it can be quite stressful.
• If you are off for an overnight trip, you will need additional luggage for the dog essentials. This will require extra car space.
• In some areas, it can be hard to find pet friendly accommodations.

FAQs about road-tripping with a dog

Are road trips bad for dogs.

The answer depends on a variety of factors, such as the age and health of the dog, the length and type of road trip, and the dog’s temperament. It’s important to pay attention to your dog’s behavior because some dogs love road trips and others can get carsick. If your furry friend seems uncomfortable, pull over and take a break.

How often should you stop on a road trip with a dog?

It’s best to take breaks every two hours when traveling with dogs. This will allow them to relieve themselves and get some exercise.

How long of a road trip can a dog handle?

Dogs can generally handle road trips of up to about 10 hours, but it depends on the dog’s age, size, and personality. Younger dogs or those who are more active will be able to handle longer trips, while older or more sedentary dogs might need shorter trips or potty breaks more often.

Where can I find a list of pet friendly hotels?

You can find a list of dog friendly hotels on BringFido.com and PetsWelcome.com . You can also call the hotel directly and ask if they allow pets.

Are dogs allowed in national parks?

Yes, dogs are allowed in national parks as long as they are on a leash. Pets are not allowed in certain areas of the park, such as in buildings or on trails. Regulations can vary, so be sure to check the park’s regulations before you go.

You don’t have to fret going down the road with your dog. By following all the tips we’ve mentioned, there is very little possibility of experiencing hiccups while roving around the world.

Stick to the hacks mentioned above, click plenty of pictures, and we’re sure you’ll both have a paw-some time!

Additional resources

• It’s wise to be aware of towing services costs prior to a road trip to be fully prepared
• 7 day Cyprus road trip itinerary
• How to prepare your vehicle for an epic road trip  

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Written by Linda

Linda is multilingual and has been to over 50 countries. Her insatiable love of travel, cuisine, and foreign languages inspired her to create As We Saw It, where she documents her trips, shares practical itineraries, and offers insider tips. She’s passionate about helping fellow travelers save time, money, and hassle, and loves to discover new places to explore.

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How to Plan Dog-Friendly Road Trips

A road trip is a great way to travel with dogs. Check out this guide for tips on dog-friendly road trips and some great places to visit!

In the not-so-distant past, traveling with pets in the United States was a bit of a nightmare. Over the past decades, America has gotten more and more pet-friendly. Many hotels, Airbnbs, airlines, train lines, and more have adopted pet-friendly policies while on-leash and off-leash dog parks have been popping up all over the country. Now you no longer have to leave your favorite furry friends at home when you step out for the weekend! However, you still need to do some careful planning to help ensure your dog-friendly road trip goes off without a hitch.

Roaming Around the Country With Your Favorite Canine Companions

Your furry friends are an important part of the family. So the next time you go exploring, don’t leave them behind! They can join in on all of our fun-filled scavenger hunts , which offer a great way to explore a city on your dog-friendly road trip. You’ll solve interesting trivia questions and complete challenges in order to rack up the points. With hundreds of scavenger hunts, art walks , and ghost hunts , we’re sure to have something perfect for you!

How to Put Together the Perfect Road Trip for You and Your Pooch

Below, you’ll find a guide to planning the perfect pet-friendly road trip as well as a long list of dog-friendly destinations across the country!

Research everything thoroughly.

When it comes to planning the ultimate dog-friendly road trip, you must research every aspect of it thoroughly. From finding dog-friendly restaurants, hotels, and beaches to figuring out which national parks allow pets (spoiler alert: it’s not as many as you may think), you should consider where you’ll stay, what you’ll do, and how you’ll travel.

Make a plan.

After you’ve done some initial research, start putting together a tentative plan. Keep track of all the dog-friendly spots you find. If it helps, you can even use Google Maps or old-school paper maps to pinpoint different places you can stay and play at throughout the road trip.

This list could include dog-friendly hotels and campgrounds, hiking trails where dogs can go both on- and off-leash, and places where you can put your pup in doggie daycare for a few hours or days if necessary. You may also want to put down any friends’ or relatives’ houses where you and your pooch would be welcome to stay.

Once you have all these things down, you can begin putting together a tentative itinerary. If you plan on covering a lot of distance in one day, make sure you include plenty of time for potty breaks for both you and your dog. If your pooch tends to get car sick, we recommend planning on leaving even more time to allow everyone to adjust to the new pace.

Safety warning: Never leave a dog in a car alone. Even if the weather doesn’t feel that hot outside, it can feel much hotter in a car. Keep this in mind when you’re planning your stops.

Do a practice run.

After you have an idea of how far you’ll be driving each day and roughly what type of activities you want to do, it’s time to do a practice run for a weekend. This will give you an idea of what else to plan for and what you need to bring with you. You may be tempted to bring all your dog’s favorite toys, blankets, etc., but this can actually end up backfiring as it means that their space can end up being very limited. This is particularly true if you plan on keeping your dog in a crate while you’re traveling. 

Doing a practice run will also give you an idea of how your dog will cope with life on the road. Some dogs are super-laid back and completely happy with chilling out in the backseat. Others are a bit more high-strung and show signs of anxiety and stress. Unfortunately, you never really know for sure until you take a road trip. Spending more time in the car than you normally would can make your dog nervous or can even give them motion sickness. 

Protect your precious cargo.

While you’re doing the practice run, check to make sure your pooch is safe and secure. This could mean anything from using a dog-friendly seat belt, hammock, crate, or doggy car seat. Whatever works best for you and your furry friend is fine as long as they won’t be flying around the back seat every time you brake or turn a corner. This includes securing a crate if you decide to go that route.

When you’re creating their safe space, double-check that they have enough room to lie down and turn around. A good rule of thumb is that their dedicated space is the same size as their normal dog bed. If you have the space, you may even want to bring the dog’s bed with you! This will likely help your pup feel like they’re at home since the bed will already be infused with their scent and yours.

Create a doggie checklist.

Hopefully, you’ll learn plenty from the practice run. You should also have an idea of exactly what you need, so create a doggie checklist, and keep it with your normal packing checklist. Include everything you can think of, including food, leashes, toys, blankets, harnesses, and treats. Don’t forget to put a bowl in your bag for water so that your furry friend doesn’t get dehydrated.

Expert tip: Use big plastic storage containers to transport dog food. Not only does a container provide easier access compared to pouring food out of a bag, but it will also help keep dog food fresh longer. It also helps you gauge how much food you have left, and you can enjoy a clean car longer. It’s a good idea to have an emergency food stash with you, too.

Make sure medical records are up to date.

Before you start any long trip, always check your dog’s medical records to ensure they’re up to date. Verify their vaccination records as well as any medications they may be on. This will be extremely useful if you have to take them in for an emergency vet appointment while you’re traveling.

Schedule a vet visit before leaving.

If you realize you don’t have your pup’s most recent medical records or that they may be overdue on vaccinations, schedule a vet visit before leaving. You can then leave with the peace of mind that your dog is as ready to hit the road as you are!

Expert tip: If you’re traveling internationally during your road trip (i.e., crossing the border into Canada or Mexico), this is particularly important. Many countries will demand to see proof of rabies vaccinations or other medical procedures and either won’t allow your pet in or will demand that they stay for a certain period of time in quarantine. It’s always better to be prepared than to show up at a border and not be able to enter a new country.

Start booking your accommodation.

As a human-only travel group, you may have liked to fly by the seat of your pants and book hotels as you went. However, this can get a lot more complicated when you’re traveling with a dog. Try to book your hotels well in advance. Double-check what the prices are for each hotel. Keep in mind that these can add up really quickly, so make sure that you’re budgeting for this. 

If you’re struggling to find affordable accommodation in places you want to visit, don’t forget to check Airbnb for options. They’ve come under fire recently for the insanely high cleaning fees that they charge guests. Luckily, not all Airbnb hosts charge this. You can still find some good deals and cool pet-friendly vacation rentals that are much more fun than your standard dog-friendly hotels. 

You may also want to check for locally owned mom-and-pop hotels or B&Bs using Google Maps. These also may be dog-friendly but simply don’t team up with some of the big accommodation websites like Booking.com for a variety of reasons. Read the guest reviews thoroughly, check out the accommodation’s website, and give them a call if you find something that looks good. Even if dog friendliness isn’t specified on their website, they still may be willing to accommodate pets under a certain size.

Get on the road (again).

After your practice run, Fido hopefully can’t wait to get on the road again! Taking all of the tips and tricks you learned during the practice run, it’s time to try again.

If the practice run didn’t go well, you may want to try another shorter weekend trip where you can incorporate everything you learned. This gives you the chance to address whatever issues came up last time. This will put your mind at ease when you start a longer road trip since you (kind of) know what to expect.

Pet-Friendly Road Trip Destinations

Now that we’ve gone through the different things you need to do to plan the ultimate dog-friendly road trip, it’s time to talk about some of the awesome destinations you can go to! We’ve broken it down by region to make it easier to find pet-friendly destinations close to you. This should also help you piece together an epic all-American road trip full of dog-friendly destinations!

Besides the destinations below, other great pet-friendly locations in the western United States include Moab, Utah, and the Hovenweep National Monument. Check out Colorado Springs, or on the East Coast, you can visit pet-friendly Alexandria, Virginia; Chicago, Illinois; and Minneapolis, Minnesota.

The West Coast

Bend, oregon.

With one of the highest dog populations in the world per capita, you can’t get much more dog-friendly than Bend! The city is home to more than 51 miles of hiking trails and 13 off-leash areas. While you’re there, you can go for a walk on the Deschutes River Trail or the Farewell Bend Park path. Otherwise, you can rent a canoe or kayak and explore the Deschutes River. This is an awesome spot for active travelers with an endless list of options for outdoor activities!

Portland, Oregon

Portland is known for its laid-back hippy vibe, so it’s probably no surprise it’s on this list! The city is full of parks, and nearby, you have the Tryon Creek State Natural Area, which boasts eight miles of hiking trails. Most of the city’s restaurants, bars, and coffee shops all welcome dogs. Plus, it has a great central location that makes it easy to go up into Washington, explore Mount Hood National Park, or venture over to some of the pet-friendly beaches on the Pacific Coast.

Carmel-by-the-Sea, California

With water bowls and dog treats on offer at many local businesses and a large array of pet-friendly accommodations, Carmel-by-the-Sea is one of the most dog-friendly spots in California. After exploring the town, you can walk along the Scenic Path and Carmel Beach for some incredible views and some fun in the sun! You may also want to check out the Mission Trails Park. The park encompasses more than 37 acres of the California Coast. It is a great way to get a close-up view of California’s vegetation, and dogs can go off-leash.

The American Southwest

Sedona, arizona.

With its breathtaking red rocks and miles of hiking trails, Sedona is a fantastic place for a dog-friendly vacation! The fun starts just outside of the city limits at Slide Rock State Park in the middle of the Oak Creek Canyon and the Coconino National Forest. The park features stunning sandstone bluffs, native flora and fauna, and the refreshing Oak Creek. 

From there, you can head into town for a pet-friendly tour to the Boynton Canyon or Bell Rock. To finish off a great day, you can go to one of Sedona’s many dog-friendly hiking trails for a sunset hike. Many of Sedona’s hotels and campgrounds welcome pets, so you can relax for a while before heading off to your next destination.

The Grand Canyon, Arizona

Stretching 27 miles long and 6,000 feet deep, the Grand Canyon certainly lives up to its name! Simply put, the canyon is mind-bogglingly beautiful, and it should be on everyone’s travel bucket list. Many of the surrounding accommodations are pet-friendly! 

Best of all, unlike many of the other national parks in the southwest, you are allowed to take pets to the Grand Canyon. However, keep in mind that they are not allowed on any of the trails below the canyon rim. The park’s best dog-friendly trail is the South Rim Trail, which offers sweeping views of the canyon. If the weather is too hot or you want to skip the hike, you can always drive along the 25-mile scenic Desert View Drive.

The surrounding Kaibab National Forest is also a great place to take your pup hiking, camping, or wildlife viewing. The forest is full of soaring peaks, idyllic prairies, and dramatic canyons along with a 7,000-foot elevation change that gives you access to tons of scenic viewpoints!

Las Vegas, Nevada

While this may come as a bit of a surprise, Las Vegas is a very dog-friendly city. Dogs are welcome on The Strip and in many restaurants. There are also more than 21 dog parks scattered around the city. If you want to burn off some energy, you can also hit the trails in Lake Mead National Recreational Area located along the Colorado River or even go kayaking!

The Midwest

Mackinac island, michigan.

Located in the northern stretches of Michigan, Mackinac Island offers a dog-friendly location on the Great Lakes. Dogs are welcome to ride on the Mackinac Island ferry and even go for free if they can sit in your lap. They are also allowed to enter the Mackinac Island State Historic Parks. 

There are plenty of pet-friendly hotels and restaurants in town. If you want to venture further afield, you can visit the dog-friendly beaches at the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore or the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. 

Indianapolis, Indiana

While many people skip Indy in favor of other nearby cities, Indianapolis is the perfect dog-friendly stopping point on a road trip across the Midwest. Dogs are welcome in many of the restaurants and breweries. Meanwhile, you can stretch your legs at one of the parks, including the White River State Park, Eagle Park, or Holliday Park. This is a great option for anyone traveling from New York or Philadelphia to Chicago who needs a place to spend a night or two. 

The East Coast

Bar harbor, maine, and acadia national park.

With a population of just 5,000 people, Bar Harbor is a charming small town full of boutique shops and farm-to-table restaurants. It is a lovely place to spend a few hours walking around, checking out the locally owned businesses and oohing and aahing at the picture-perfect homes. You can also join one of the dog-friendly nature cruises or take a long stroll along the Bar Harbor Shore Path. During your visit, make sure to do the Let’s Roam Bar Harbor Scavenger Hunt ! This is a dog-friendly way to see some of the town’s hidden gems as well as the most popular attractions.

As the gateway to Acadia National Park , Bar Harbor also offers a slew of outdoor activities. The park offers more than 100 miles of dog-friendly trails that take you along the dramatic glacier-sculptured coastline. There are also 45 miles of historic carriage roads for biking or walking and a 27-mile scenic loop road that is perfect for a leisurely drive. It is one of the few national parks that allow you to bring dogs in with you. Pets are welcome in most areas of the park and on the free shuttles that zoom around, taking visitors from one section of the park to another.

With plenty of wide-open spaces and dog-friendly trails, Vermont is a great destination for furry families. One of the best things about it? The state is so small that you don’t have to worry about driving vast distances between stops! It is also just a short drive from Boston and New York, which makes it ideal for a short road trip. Some of our favorite dog-friendly spots there include Brattleboro, the Quechee Gorge, the Green Mountain National Forest, and Burlington. Don’t miss Dog Mountain in St. Johnsburgy while you are there. Here, dogs are free to run, play, and swim, and there is even a chapel dedicated to our lovable canine companions. 

Asheville, North Carolina

Perched high up in the Blue Ridge Mountains and surrounded by hiking trails and water holes, the charming city of Asheville is perfect for people traveling with their pets. Not only is the surrounding nature great for active dogs, but the city itself is also incredibly inviting for man’s best friend. There are plenty of beer gardens in Asheville, where you can all relax together after a hard day on the trail. There is even a dog-friendly bar located right on the river. Lastly, don’t miss out on exploring Downtown Asheville !

Texas Hill Country, Texas

Thanks to its mild winters and warm springs, the Texas Hill Country is a great place to do a road trip when the northern parts of the country are buried in snow. The Texas Hill Country features a beautiful landscape of rolling green hills and adorable small towns where you can go hiking, indulge in some major retail therapy, or kick back with a glass of wine from one of the surrounding vineyards. Best of all, many of the places in the various towns are dog-friendly, which makes them ideal for a long weekend getaway or as an addition to a longer Texas road trip.

So, Ready to Roam?

We hope this guide to planning a pet-friendly road trip and America’s best dog-friendly destinations has inspired you to bring your favorite canine companion along for the ride next time! If you would like to read more articles on traveling with pets or about awesome pet-friendly destinations around the world, make sure to head over to the Let’s Roam Explorer blog . Here, you’ll find a library of resources written by our very own team of travel experts. 

Before you leave, don’t forget to download the Let’s Roam app . This is where you can access all of our fun-filled, pet-friendly scavenger hunts that will take you past not only the top attractions in a destination but also many of the hidden gems, as well!

Frequently Asked Questions

The US is full of great dog-friendly destinations. From Portland, Oregon , to Bar Harbor, Maine , and hundreds of places in between, you have a long list of options!

The most important thing you should do when planning a dog-friendly road trip is to research everything. Make sure that there are pet-friendly places to stay, eat, and visit along your intended route.

Road trips are a great way to travel with dogs ! Since you have your own transportation, you don’t need to worry about taking your dog on a plane or train, which makes getting around much easier!

When going on a road trip with your dog, make sure they’re comfortable. Bring their dog beds to remind them of home, stop frequently for breaks, and take them with you when you explore the city !

If you want to see some of America’s big cities with your furry friend, check out cities like Chicago , Las Vegas , Portland , and Indianapolis , which are all very dog-friendly road trip destinations .

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• Easy Ways to Plan a Road Trip with Your Dog

Are you planning a road trip with your dog soon? Do you need some simple tips to make the car ride a little better for everyone? If so, you’ll love these easy ways to plan a road trip with your dog.

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Table of Contents

1. plan a veterinarian visit before the road with your dog, 2. plan ahead for dog friendly road trip stops, 3. make sure your dog is comfortable on the road trip, 4. stay hydrated and fed while on the road trip with your dog, 5. bring a pet first aid kit while traveling with a dog, 6. pack necessary vet documents and personalized id tags on the road trip with your dog, 7. take frequent bathroom breaks on the road trip with your dog, 8. keep your dog properly restrained during the car road trip, 9. research pet-friendly accommodations beforehand road trips with dogs, 10. don’t forget to bring dog toys on the road trip.

Road tripping with your furry companion can be a fun and memorable experience for both you and your dog. 

As much as we love our pets, it’s important to plan and prepare before hitting the road to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip for everyone. 

From packing the right supplies to finding pet-friendly accommodations, there are many factors to consider when embarking on a road trip with your dog. 

As a pet owner and experienced traveler, I have compiled the best tips and tricks to make your journey with your dog as smooth and stress-free as possible. 

Whether you’re a seasoned road tripper or a first-timer, these tips will help you and your dog have the ultimate adventure on the open road. 

Plus, grab your free 15 page dog lovers travel planning journal below to help you plan your trip.

So, buckle up and get ready to hit the road with your furry co-pilot as we explore easy ways to plan a road trip with your dog.

The first thing when planning a safe road trip with your dog is scheduling a pre-trip vet visit. 

Prior to hitting the open road, it is important to take your dog to their veterinarian for a check-up. 

During this visit, the vet can assess your dog’s overall health, update vaccinations if necessary, and provide any preventive medications such as flea and tick control. 

Their vet can also conduct a physical examination to ensure your dog is fit for travel and address any specific concerns or considerations based on your destination or the length of the road trip. 

When embarking on a road trip with your dog, it is essential to plan ahead and ensure that you have pet-friendly stops along the way. 

Researching pet-friendly rest stop areas, dog parks, and dog friendly restaurants can make your journey more enjoyable for both you and your dog. 

Many websites and apps provide comprehensive listings of pet-friendly establishments, including hotels that allow dogs, parks with designated dog areas, and restaurants with outdoor seating where dogs are permitted. 

To ensure that your four-legged friend is comfortable during your road trip, there are a few key considerations to keep in mind. 

First, make sure that your dog has a well-fitted and secure harness with a seatbelt specifically designed for car travel. 

This will not only keep them safe in the event of sudden stops or turns but also prevent them from distracting you while driving. 

Additionally, provide your dog with a cozy and familiar blanket or car travel dog bed to create a sense of comfort and familiarity. 

It is also important to keep your car well-ventilated and at a comfortable temperature, ensuring that your dog does not get too hot or cold during your road trip. 

Regular stops for bathroom breaks and pet exercise are essential to keep your dog comfortable and happy throughout the road trip. 

Whether your journey is long or short, when road tripping with your dog, be sure to keep them properly hydrated and fed. 

Bring along an ample supply of fresh water in a spill-proof container, as well as a portable dog water bowl for easy access. 

Keep in mind that dogs may require more frequent water breaks, especially while traveling in warmer weather. 

As for dog meals, pack enough of their regular food in sealed containers to last the duration of the car trip. 

Stick to their normal feeding schedule as much as possible to maintain their eating routine.

Avoid feeding them unfamiliar or potentially harmful foods during the road trip, but their normal snacks and treats are welcome. 

One essential item to include in your road trip checklist for your dog is a well-stocked pet first aid kit . 

Pet accidents and dog injuries can happen at any time, and having a dog first aid can make all the difference in providing immediate care.  

Your pet first aid kit should include items such as gauze pads, adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, and scissors. 

Additionally, pack any necessary pet medications your dog may need, such as flea and tick prevention or dog allergy medication. 

Also, pack some car cleaning supplies in case your dog gets car sick or has an accident while traveling.

It is also recommended to have the contact information for a nearby veterinary clinic or emergency pet hospital readily available while road tripping. 

Another important step to take before embarking on a road trip with your dog is to pack the necessary vet documents and pet ID tags . 

This ensures that you have all the vital information about your furry companion readily available in case of any unforeseen circumstances. 

Make sure to include copies of your dog’s vaccination records, as well as any relevant medical history. 

In the event that your dog requires medical attention while on the road, these documents will be important for the attending veterinarian seeing them. 

Additionally, don’t forget to attach updated pet ID tags to your dog’s collar. 

These tags should include your contact information, as well as any other important details such as your dog’s name and any relevant medical conditions. 

You can also use a dog GPS collar tracker while traveling for added peace of mind.

During your road trip with your dog, it is essential to prioritize their physical needs, including frequent bathroom breaks. 

Just like humans, dogs require regular opportunities to relieve themselves and stretch their legs. 

By incorporating frequent stops into your road trip itinerary, you can ensure that your dog remains comfortable and avoids any discomfort or accidents during the journey. 

These breaks not only provide a chance for your dog to relieve themselves but also allow them to stretch, sniff around, and engage in some physical activity. 

Remember to choose safe and appropriate areas for these potty breaks, such as designated pet-friendly rest areas or pet-friendly parks, where your dog can explore and take care of their bathroom needs. 

When embarking on a road trip with your beloved canine companion, it is of utmost importance to prioritize their safety by keeping them properly restrained in the car. 

Unrestrained dogs can not only be a distraction to the driver but also pose a significant risk to themselves and others in the event of an accident or sudden stop or swerve.

I love my dog, Mirage’s, car harness and dog seat belt combo for both comfort and safety.

Be sure to invest in a sturdy and reliable dog harness, specifically designed for use in vehicles, that attaches to the seat belt system. 

This will prevent your dog from roaming freely around the car or being thrown forward in the event of a sudden stop or collision. 

Additionally, consider using a secure crate or a doggy car seat to provide an extra layer of protection and dog containment. 

It’s important to plan ahead and research pet-friendly accommodations before your road trip begins. 

Keep in mind, that not all hotels or accommodations are welcoming to pets, and you don’t want to be left scrambling at the last minute for a dog-friendly place to stay. 

By researching pet-friendly options beforehand, you can ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay for both you and your dog. 

Look for hotels, campgrounds, or vacation rentals that clearly state they are pet-friendly and have amenities such as designated pet areas, walking trails, or nearby dog parks. 

Additionally, check for any specific pet policies or restrictions, such as size limits or additional fees, to avoid any surprises upon arrival. 

To make your road trip with your dog even more enjoyable, don’t forget to bring along some car dog toys. 

Dogs can easily get bored or anxious during long car trips, and having their favorite toys can help keep them occupied and alleviate any restlessness. 

Monitor while playing and choose travel-appropriate dog toys, such as interactive dog puzzle toys, chew toys, or treat-dispensing toys that can provide mental stimulation and puppy car ride entertainment. 

Final thoughts

Road-tripping with your dog can be a fun and rewarding experience for both you and your best four-legged traveling friend. 

By following these tips, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable journey for both you and your pet. 

Remember to plan ahead, pack the necessary road trip dog supplies, and always prioritize your dog’s comfort and well-being. 

With these tips in mind, you and your pup can hit the open road and make unforgettable memories together. 

Safe travels!

Want more great basically dogs fun? Don’t miss a bark! Follow us on  Pinterest ,  Facebook , or  Instagram !

Are you planning a road trip with your pet soon? Which of these easy ways to plan a road trip with your dog are you adding to your travel plans? Let me know in the comments.

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I’d love to travel with my 3 dogs so this post is so helpful! I never thought about a first aid kit for them. This is such a great idea. I’ve pinned this post for later when I finally do get to travel with my furry friends.

Love the bulldog in pink shades! Car restraints are so important. I use a clip line, but my friend uses the back seat hammock. So many choices. Love your ideas and lists!

These are excellent things to do to help you and your pet have a wonderful trip. Thanks for sharing.

Thanks for the great tips! I am about to go on a road trip with my pupper in a few weeks.

Super duper cuuuuute!!! Yes! I had to travel 12 hours with my two big dogs a few months ago and I wish I had your handy list when I was doing so. Great tips. First aid kit is a def must!

Thanks for sharing these tips! Will definitely come in handy for my next trip with my dog.

Wow this is amazing! I will need to absolutely do some of this with my fur babies on our road trips 😊

Absolutely love these tips for a stress-free road trip with our furry friends! Planning a trip with our dogs can be so rewarding, but it’s crucial to ensure their comfort and safety along the way. Can’t wait to put these ideas into action and create unforgettable memories with my four-legged co-pilot! Thanks for sharing these invaluable insights!

What great tips for going on a road trip with your dog! Thanks for sharing!

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• How to Road Trip With You...

How to Road Trip With Your Dog

Going on a road trip with a dog is not as easy as it sounds. The road-tripping experience can be a fun adventure both for you and your dog, but you need to know and prepare for challenges you might experience along the way. Keep reading to learn more!

Important Things to Consider When Planning a Road Trip With Your Dog

There are things that your dog will need during the road trip. For instance, you will need to stop for a while whenever your dog needs to take a potty break or stretch his legs. You will also need to take care of your dog’s stress level, hunger, and medication during the long drive.

Here are some challenges you might experience when bringing your dog on a road trip:

• Regular exercising . When staying at home, your dog needs exercise every day. During a road trip, your dog will also need some exercise, so you will need to make a stop once in a while to play and stretch.
• Potty breaks . Potty breaks are important during your road trip, even more so if you are bringing your dog with you. Taking regular potty breaks will ease the stress level of your dog, so he can feel comfortable throughout the drive.
• Health problems . Your dog might have some health problems that you need to tend to from time to time. It’s important to pay even more attention to your dog’s health during your road trip, including bringing essential medications for your dog if necessary.
• Safety precautions . You need to pay special attention to your dog’s safety during the road trip. It’s best to put your dog in the back seat with a safety dog sling or hammock to keep your dog feeling comfortable during the trip. When possible, always use a seatbelt for your dog. Keep your dog in its seat when you need to take a quick break at the gas station. Never let your dog out of the car without a leash.

Checklist to Prepare Your Dog for a Road Trip

It’s important to prepare for your road trip ahead of time to ensure that there won’t be problems you need to deal with during the long drive. A fun road trip can be ruined for you and your dog if you haven’t made the appropriate preparations for your and your dog’s comfort and safety.

• Supplements . If your dog takes supplements (for joint support, anxiety, etc.) it’s important to bring them along to prevent stress and discomfort.
• Blankets . Your dog needs to feel safe and comfortable during the road trip, and bringing along the blankets your dog often uses at home will help your pet feel more comfortable. They can also keep your dog warm during the night.
• Exercise toys . You will need to stop and rest from time to time, and this is a great opportunity for you to exercise your dog. Thus, you should prepare some exercise toys for your dog so your pet can stay active during the road trip.
• Hammock or car seat . Installing a hammock or other safety device in the back seat can help your dog feel relaxed during the long trip ahead. By using a hammock in the car, you will also make it easier to clean the back seat after your trip.
• Pet care essentials . You will need to bring various pet care essentials to keep your dog comfortable during the trip. This will include food, cleaning kits, water, medicine, toys, etc. These are the tools you can use to keep your dog feeling comfortable during the long journey.

Important Tips for a Smooth Road Trip With Your Dog

Your road trip can become a very frustrating experience if you don’t do the necessary things to keep your dog feeling comfortable throughout the journey. Please note that dogs have distinct personalities. Some dogs might enjoy road tripping with you, and they might feel happy throughout the journey. However, some dogs might feel annoyed and anxious when their owner is taking them on a road trip. So, how can you ensure a smooth road trip experience?

• Monitor your dog’s stress level . Your dog can become anxious during the trip, which will lead to stress for you both. When your dog is stressed, it can cause many problems during the long drive. You need to monitor your dog’s stress level and keep your dog relaxed and comfortable during the trip.
• Take frequent breaks . You should have frequent breaks during your road trip, as it can help you refresh your mind from time to time. Having frequent breaks also means that you have plenty of time to play with your dog during the trip. It will also give your dog enough time to eat, drink, and relieve himself.
• Ask your vet for advice . You should ask your vet whether your dog is healthy enough for a road trip. If your dog has medical problems, it can add more stress to their journey. Make sure your vet can give them the all-clear before you plan your trip.
• Practice road-tripping ahead of time . You should practice taking your dog for some simple drives before the actual road trip. You can take your dog on some quick trips a few weeks before the actual road trip. This way you can learn what makes your dog feel comfortable during the journey.
• Use a route your dog will love . There are plenty of pet-friendly routes you can take during your road trip. Road tripping with your dog is best when you pick the route that your dog will love. By driving along pet-friendly routes, you can stop at pet-friendly places, which will make road tripping with your dog a fun experience.

Road Tripping with Your Dog: Frequently Asked Questions

• How long can a dog be in a car for a road trip? You should stop at least every few hours when you have your dog with you during a road trip. This strategy will keep your dog feeling comfortable during the trip, and you can also take some breaks during your long driving session.
• Are long road trips bad for dogs? Most dogs tolerate travel very well, but it depends on your dog’s condition. Long drives can be bad for your dog if he has certain medical conditions. It’s best to ask your vet for advice if you have concerns.
• How often should you stop on a road trip with a dog? You should take frequent breaks when traveling with your dog. Stop at pet-friendly rest areas throughout your trip. It’s also good for you to take a break every few hours as well.

Road tripping with your dog can be a challenge, but by following the tips in this guide, some of that stress just might be eliminated. The most important thing is that you keep your dog feeling relaxed and comfortable during the long journey. Have a wonderful road trip!

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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

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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

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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How to Road Trip with a Dog: Tips for Safety & Success!

WRITTEN BY:

November 4, 2019

K9 of Mine is reader-supported, which means we may earn a small commission through products purchased using links on this page. Here’s how it works .

Whether you’re taking a day trip to the beach, visiting the in-laws during the holidays, or heading out on a full-fledged vacation, you simply must bring the family dog with you!

Unless, that is, your soul can withstand some seriously sad puppy dog eyes when you return.

But traveling with your pooch is a bit more complicated than traveling sans four-footer .

We’ll help you dog-loving families prep for those long road-trip with our collection of tips and tricks below. Whether you’re embarking on a full-on van life adventure with your dog or just doing a cross-country trip to visit family, these tips will be sure to help you keep your furry family member safe!

Temperature Safety

It is important to “triage” your dog’s needs when heading out on the open road. You have to think about her safety first, before moving on to her comfort and enjoyment.

Accordingly, one of the first things you’ll need to consider is the car’s climate.

Winter Travel with Dogs

Unless your road trip involves rolling across a frozen tundra with the top down, most dogs will stay warm enough during the ride.

As long as the interior car temperatures are in the mid-40s , most dogs should remain comfortable . Big, furry pooches will remain comfortable in temperatures 10 degrees or so lower than this.

You’ll obviously want to fit your little sweetie with a canine sweater if she needs one for crisp fall mornings, but just use common sense and read your pup’s body language.

If she’s shivering or remains in a heat-conserving curly-cue for long periods of time, you may want to bump up the heat.   

However, you will want to use extra caution whenever you need to turn the car off and leave your pupper inside, such as while taking a dinner break. But even during these times, a warm blanket or two will usually suffice to keep your canine cozy for a short period of time.

Summer Travel with Dogs

It is incredibly important to keep the temperature in mind when traveling with your pooch during the summer .

This is not the time to take chances.

For the most part, your pooch will be fine when riding alongside you. As long as you’re comfortable and have the AC on, your canine will be chillin. The problems typically occur when you have to leave your pup alone in the car.

But there are even ways to keep your dog safe on those rare occasions in which you need to (briefly) leave your dog in the car.

Just check out our guide to safe summertime car travel with your dog , written by trainer, behavior consultant, and regular K9 of Mine contributor Kayla Fratt.

This article should be considered mandatory reading by all pet parents with an upcoming road trip , but here are a few of the most important points:

• Be sure to take extra precautions anytime the temperatures flirt with the 80-degree mark.
• High humidity levels can cause your pooch to overheat more quickly than she would during similar, but drier, conditions.
• Take your car’s color (including the interior) into consideration during summer travel. Small, dark-colored cars are the quickest to heat up (especially if they have dark interiors).
• Be sure that it is even legal to leave your car alone in a car in your state before doing so.

There are also a few products that may help keep your canine safe and comfortable in the car.

For example, a car windshield shade will help reflect the sun’s rays blasting your car. You can also get shades that will cover your car’s door windows . These are even helpful while you’re driving!

In fact, these types of shades are great whether you leave your dog in the car or not, as they’ll keep your car cooler whenever you leave it parked in the sun. Some especially dog-friendly cars have shades like these already built-in.

You can also use window gates to keep the car temperatures from climbing sky high. These gates allow you to roll down the window (partially), which will allow air to flow through the car.

However, our favorite must-have gadget for any road trip would have to be the Waggle Pet RV Temperature Monitor .

Waggle features a temperature monitoring device along with a companion app. The device is installed in your vehicle and tracks the temperature. If the temps get outside of the safety zone you set (whether due to heat or cold), you’ll get an alert notification on your phone via text or email! While it’s designed specifically with owners who are traveling via RV with a dog or cat, it works great for standard cars too!

This is a sponsored placement , in which an advertiser pays a fee to be featured in this article. Learn more

Waggle Pet TV Temperature Monitor

Temperature monitoring device that’ll alert you when vehicle temperatures reach unsafe levels.

Of course, you can just skip all this hoopla and avoid leaving your dog alone in the car during the summer . That’s usually the safest, most cost-effective option when doable.

Crash Safety

It isn’t pleasant to think about, but you must ensure your family is as protected as possible in the event of an accident during your road trip – and that includes your four-footer.

For the two-legged members of your family, this is pretty simple: Just make sure that everyone wears a seatbelt or rides in an age-appropriate car seat. But it can be a little trickier to keep our dogs safe while riding in the car .

Essentially, you have three options:

• Use a dog crate designed for car use . This is the best option, as it’ll keep your pup the safest. However, car crates can take up quite a bit of space and some are pretty pricey.
• Fit your dog with a harness intended for use in the car . A car harness won’t provide the same level of protection that a crate will, but it will help keep your dog from being flung around the interior of the car in the event of an accident (apologies for the horrific imagery).
• Clip your dog in with a canine seatbelt . Canine seatbelts are another option that work in a similar fashion to car harnesses, except that you can use them with your dog’s existing harness.

Note that the vast majority of dog car harnesses, crates, and seatbelts are not crash tested. While they may keep your dog secure for minor fender benders, most common canine car-securing equipment won’t protect your dog in a true collision.

In our research, we were able to find car crates and harnesses that were successful crash-tested (and we detail them in the articles linked to above). However, there are no dog seatbelts that have been crash-tested.

All three of these options provide another benefit too: They’ll prevent your dog from wandering around the cabin and distracting you while you’re driving. This, in truth, is probably one of the most important reasons to secure your dog, as doggie distractions can easily cause a crash.

Keep the Family Together

Aside from health problems of car accidents, becoming separated from your pooch on a road trip is likely the worst thing that can happen.

Trying to relocate a runaway Rover at home is difficult enough – doing so in an unfamiliar place is unthinkably daunting ( but not impossible ).

This means you’ll want to do everything you can to prevent your dog from running off and be sure that you’ve taken steps to maximize the chances of finding your pup if she does manage to escape. Among other things, this means you’ll want to:

• Keep your dog leashed at all times . The only exceptions to this rule are when you are indoors or in an enclosed area, such as a fenced dog park. If your dog is a Houdini-like hound, you should also invest in an escape-proof dog harness.
• Make sure your dog is wearing ID tags with your current contact information . ID tags are an incredibly inexpensive and low-tech strategy that may drastically improve your chances of a happy reunion.
• Have your vet install a microchip implant on your dog . Microchip implants are tiny electronic devices that contain encoded data about your dog, which can help vets, shelters, or anyone else with a code reader to find you following a separation.
• Fit your dog with a GPS tracking collar . Microchip implants are very helpful, but they’re passive devices. You’ll simply have to wait by the phone and hope that your dog turns up at a vet or shelter. On the other hand, a GPS collar will allow you to hit the streets and track down your pup via a smartphone app.

Medical Issues

You’ll need to consider any health issues your dog has when getting ready to travel – you don’t want to end up dealing with a sick sidekick during the middle of your trip.

In fact, even if your dog is healthy as a horse, it’s a good idea to visit your vet right before your trip . This will help reduce the chances of a surprise illness popping up at an extremely inopportune time. For that matter, be sure that you have your vet’s phone number saved in your phone .

It’s also important to make sure you bring along a pet first-aid kit , loaded with your pet’s regular medications.

This includes not only the things she needs to deal with specific ailments (such as corticosteroids prescribed for itchy skin), but also routine medications, such as flea or heartworm medications.

You can put together a first-aid kit for your pet or you can just pick up a premade version . We explain the things you’ll need to include in your first aid kit and run down a few of the best premade versions on the market in our dog first-aid kit article .

There’s one more thing you may want to do before hitting the road with your pooch: Go ahead and locate a pet emergency room or two on your planned route .

I know this may seem like overkill, but in the minutes following some type of emergency, you’ll be glad you’ve already identified a few places you can get your pet emergency medical attention (and saved them on your phone).

Bathroom Breaks

For the most part, it should be pretty easy to take care of your dog’s bathroom needs during a road trip. Puppies will need to poop and pee every couple of hours, but most adult dogs can easily go 6 to 8 hours between bathroom breaks (and many can “hold it” even longer).

So, you don’t have to worry about stopping very often.

In fact, if you’re traveling with kids, they’ll certainly have to “go” more often than your pooch will, so walk your pupper when you stop at rest stops or fast food places to let the kids use the facilities.

Just be sure to exercise courtesy and common sense . This means keeping your pooch leashed and cleaning up behind her when she poops.

Food and Water on the Open Road

Keeping your dog fed and hydrated on the road won’t cause any serious problems, but there are a few things you’ll want to think about before you pack the pooch in the car.

• You can bring your pup’s normal food and water dishes on the road if you like, but there are some great travel-friendly options available . Many portable dog dishes are made from silicone or other lightweight materials, and some collapse to make them easier to store.
• Make sure you give your dog a chance to drink water every two or three hours . Use water fountains to fill his bowl when they’re available, but always carry a water bottle specifically for your pooch so you don’t ever have to worry about water availability.
• Try to feed your dog around the same time as you normally would . It’s a good idea to pamper your pet’s digestive tract a bit while traveling, to help prevent stomach upset. Feeding her at normal times is a good first step.
• Purchase smaller-than-normal cans of food, if your pup can’t polish off a whole can . Canned foods must be refrigerated once opened. This isn’t a problem for dogs who eat entire cans, but you’ll have to throw out any unfinished portion when traveling on the road (unless you bring along a cooler). So, if you normally buy 13-ounce cans, consider picking up a bunch of 6-ounce versions for your road trip.
• Split your dog’s kibble into pre-measured containers . You can bring your dog’s bag of dog food and a measuring cup on the road, but it’ll be much easier to simply portion out your dog’s meals beforehand. Try to use re-usable containers instead of single-use plastic bags, for the planet’s sake.

When it comes to keeping all your dog’s travel goodies stored in one convenient spot, Meg Marrs and her pooch Remy are big fans of the K9 Cube from Mountainsmith !

The K9 Cube is a pretty nifty dog travel kit — the interior section offers two deep compartments for storing your dog’s food, toys, and other essentials. It comes will a waterproof lined storage bag that can safely hold your dog’s kibble and can easily be sealed to prevent mildew or bacteria from forming.

The cube also has two collapsable bowls to provide your pup with food and water during your hotel stays. The bowls can even be attached via Velcro to the bag’s outer flap to keep the bowls stationary.

With tons of bonus mesh and zippered pockets, it can contain all your dog’s road-trip necessities (even when your dog is totally spoiled and has way too many road squeaky toys).

While Mountainsmith’s K9 Travel Cube ain’t cheap, it’s pretty awesome to have — especially if you do a lot of road tripping with your pooch!

Dealing with Boredom

“Are we there yet?”

Dogs can’t talk, but they’d probably repeat this phrase more often than your 7-year-old does during road trips if they could.

The problem is, you can’t just hand your dog a digital screen to keep her busy until you reach your destination. So, you’ll have to adopt other strategies.

Ideally, your dog will sleep for as much of the trip as possible.

So, try to let her exercise a bunch before heading out on the trip. You may even want to try to keep her awake a little longer than normal the night before .

But if your trip is longer than three or four hours, your pooch will undoubtedly be awake for part of the journey .

Some pooches will be content to stare out the window, but most will grow bored as the road trip carries on and on . Just make sure you have a few of your floof’s favorite toys on hand to help keep her occupied.

A simple chew toy may suffice for some dogs, but interactive toys will usually keep your dog’s interest for longer .

Assuming you can contain the mess (or don’t mind it), long-lasting chews and other hard-to-eat-but-edible things (such as peanut butter stuffed inside a KONG Toy ) also deserve consideration.

Personally, whenever I need a little extra help keeping my pup busy, I pick up a brand-spanking new toy for her . The new-toy scent and unblemished surfaces usually drive her wild for a few hours, and keep her little brain humming.

Also, be sure to take a break every three to four hours to allow your dog to answer nature’s call and stretch her legs a bit.

Consider flying one of the most pet-friendly airlines with your doggo if you’re worried about boredom!

Car Sickness

Dogs can get car sick just like people can.

I actually learned this firsthand when I was 4 years old, riding home in the car with my very first puppy. The poor pupper barfed all over me, which made for quite a welcome to the world of pets.

Car sickness is most commonly an issue for puppies and young dogs, as adults tend to outgrow it as they become more accustomed to riding in vehicles.

Nevertheless, some dogs continue to get queasy when riding in the car, so you’ll want to take whatever steps you can to prevent it from becoming a problem during your trip.

There are several simple things you can do, such as keeping the car a little cooler than normal or setting your dog up with a booster seat (we detail several other strategies for preventing vehicular vomiting in our canine car sickness article ).

Try some of these strategies out before going on your trip. If they don’t work, your vet may be willing to prescribe medications that’ll help easy your dog’s motion sickness.

Keep in mind that many adult dogs experience car sickness more due to stress than to actual motion sickness. If your grown-up pooch is getting ill in the car, consider working on some strategies to reduce your dog’s car anxiety .

Canine-Accessible Accommodations

Ideally, you’ll be em barking (get it?) on a relatively short trip, you’ll likely arrive at your destination without having to stop overnight at a hotel.

But if your destination is hundreds of miles away, you’ll probably want to hole up in a hotel overnight to recuperate for the next day’s travel.

This isn’t usually difficult, but four-footers make hotel stays a bit more complicated .

For starters, you’ll need to find a hotel that accepts pets (as well as one that’ll accept your specific dog – some have size and breed restrictions). You’ll also want to investigate the fee-structures in place to avoid spending an arm and a leg for the right to sleep alongside your pupper.

In practice, you’ll often find it necessary to contact the specific hotel you intend to stay at to find out their policies . But, you can narrow things down and find out some of the basics by checking out our article on the best pet-friendly hotel chains .

There are plenty of options available. Just be sure to follow the rules and avoid the temptation to sneak your pup in under the radar. That’ll just lead to you getting kicked out in the middle of the night when hotel management discovers your incognito canine.

Alternatively, you can check out Take Paws — a site that advertises dog-friendly vacation homes .

If you’re looking for spots where you and your pup can chill out together and grab a bite, check out our full list of dog-friendly restaurant chains . Chances are you’ll find something pet-friendly somewhere on the road!

Check Out Your Destination Before Hitting the Road

Hopefully, you’re heading to a fun and fantastic destination. But whether you’re heading for the Big Apple or East Bumble, take a few minutes to check out the canine attractions in the area .

Many modern cities offer incredible dog-friendly amenities, ranging from off-leash parks to pet-friendly pubs and restaurants .

Some cities have canine daycare facilities that would be helpful when you must leave your pup for a while, and others have – this is no joke – dog lockers you can use to help keep your dog comfy, safe, and out of trouble while you’re shopping.

The point is, you’ll want to make the most of your trip and ensure your dog gets to take advantage of any special opportunities available.

It won’t take you long to do so, so spend 10 minutes Googling to get the low down . You can also check out our guide to the best dog-friendly vacation destinations as well as the 12 best dog-friendly cities if you’re heading to a mainstream metropolis.

Rover’s Road Trip Checklist

We’ve put together the checklist below to help during your next vehicular adventure with the dog.

We’d recommend saving or bookmarking this article on your phone as a handy reference, or even better, print out this list and slap it on the fridge.

• ID Tags with up-to-date contact info
• Food and water dishes
• Bottled water
• Car harness or crate
• Any necessary medications (including monthly meds, such as heartworm or flea medicine)
• Two to three favorite toys
• Dog-safe wet wipes (for messes)
• An old bath towel (for big messes)
• Any training tools (clickers, heel sticks, etc.) you plan on using during the trip
• Emergency contact info and resources

Don’t Forget to Keep Things Organized!

Chances are, you’re now sitting at your kitchen table with all of your dog’s necessities spread out in front of you. Just be sure that you keep things organized so that you can find tools and supplies when you need them .

The easiest way to do so is by picking up a premade dog travel bag. We love the Hilike Pet Travel Bag , as it comes with insulated food storage containers, silicone travel bowls, and a feeding mat , while still providing plenty storage space for some of your dog’s other gear.

But if you want to save some bucks, you can just use whatever travel bag or backpack you have stuffed in your closet .

The important thing is just that you keep all of your dog’s stuff together. This will make it easy to find things when you need them and help you avoid losing your pupper’s favorite toy or your backup leash when you need it.

Traveling with a big pup? Check out our tips for car travel with large dogs !

Don’t be overwhelmed by all of the things you’ll want to address and take care of before heading on a road trip with your pooch.

There are certainly lots of things to do and think about, but once you’ve done so, you can be reasonably sure that you’ll avoid most problems and be prepared for any that do occur. And that will help ensure you and your floof have a fantastic time.

Have you ever taken a road trip with your dog? How did it go? What kinds of things do you do that we didn’t mention? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!

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• Plan Your Trip

How To Take A Dog On A Road Trip

Published: December 3, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Chanda Andres

• Travel Tips

Introduction

Embarking on a road trip can be an exciting and memorable adventure. But what if you want to bring along your furry friend? Taking your dog on a road trip can add a whole new level of enjoyment to your journey, as you explore new places together and create lasting memories. However, it’s important to plan and prepare in advance to ensure a safe and comfortable trip for your dog. Traveling with a dog requires thoughtful consideration of their needs and well-being. From safety measures to travel essentials, feeding routines to accommodation arrangements, there are several factors to take into account to make the trip enjoyable for both you and your pet. In this comprehensive guide, we will provide you with valuable insights and practical tips on how to take a dog on a road trip. We’ll cover everything from planning and preparation to health and hygiene, as well as how to deal with travel anxiety and ensure your dog’s comfort throughout the journey. Whether it’s a weekend getaway or an extended cross-country excursion, this guide will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to embark on an unforgettable road trip with your furry companion. So buckle up, roll down the windows, and let’s hit the road with our four-legged friends!

Planning and Preparation

Before setting off on a road trip with your dog, it’s crucial to plan and prepare to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey. Here are some essential steps to consider: 1. Research Pet-Friendly Destinations: Before choosing your destination, research pet-friendly locations that offer activities and amenities suitable for dogs. Look for parks, hiking trails, and outdoor attractions that allow dogs. Additionally, check for pet-friendly accommodations along your route. 2. Visit the Vet: Schedule a visit to the veterinarian before your trip to ensure your dog is up to date on vaccinations and is in good health. This is also an excellent opportunity to discuss any concerns or specific needs related to your dog’s well-being during the trip. 3. Get Identification and Microchip: Make sure your dog has proper identification, including a collar with your contact information and a tag. In case your dog gets lost, having a microchip implanted can increase the chances of a safe return. 4. Plan Your Route: Map out your route in advance, considering the distance, driving time, and any necessary stops for rest and breaks. Keep in mind that dogs need regular exercise and bathroom breaks, so plan accordingly. 5. Pack Essentials for Your Dog: Prepare a travel kit for your dog, including food, water, bowls, medications, leashes, poop bags, toys, and a comfortable bed or blanket. Additionally, carry a first aid kit specifically designed for pets in case of any unexpected injuries or illness on the road. 6. Practice Traveling in the Car: If your dog is not accustomed to car rides, it’s essential to acclimate them gradually. Start with short trips around the neighborhood and gradually increase the duration. This will help your dog feel more comfortable and relaxed during the road trip. 7. Consider Travel Insurance: It’s wise to invest in travel insurance that covers your dog, especially for longer trips. This can provide assistance in case of emergencies or unexpected medical expenses. By taking the time to plan and prepare, you’ll set the foundation for a successful road trip with your furry friend. Planning ahead will ensure that you have all the necessary items and information to make the journey as enjoyable and stress-free as possible for both you and your dog.

Safety Measures for Your Dog

When embarking on a road trip with your four-legged companion, it’s crucial to prioritize their safety. Here are some important safety measures to consider: 1. Secure Your Dog: While driving, it’s essential to keep your dog securely restrained to prevent distractions and potential accidents. Use a pet seat belt, crate, or a specially designed car harness to secure your dog in the backseat or cargo area of your vehicle. Avoid allowing your dog to roam freely in the car, as this can be dangerous for both of you. 2. Never Leave Your Dog Unattended: It goes without saying, but never leave your dog unattended in a parked vehicle, especially during warm weather. Cars heat up quickly, even with the windows cracked, and can lead to heatstroke or other life-threatening conditions for your dog. 3. Keep Heads and Paws Inside: Dogs are curious creatures, and it’s common for them to stick their heads or paws out of windows while on a car ride. However, this is extremely risky. Keep all windows securely closed and consider using window shades or barriers to prevent your dog from sticking body parts out of the window. 4. Be Mindful When Opening Doors: Before opening car doors, make sure your dog is securely leashed or restrained. Dogs can become excited or startled and may dart out of the vehicle, putting themselves at risk of accidents or getting lost. 5. Have a Tag with Current Information: Ensure that your dog is wearing a tag with up-to-date contact information, including your cell phone number. In case your dog gets separated from you, a tag can greatly increase the chances of a swift reunion. 6. Maintain a Comfortable Temperature: Dogs are susceptible to extreme temperatures, so it’s important to maintain a comfortable climate inside your vehicle. In hot weather, use air conditioning or provide proper ventilation, and in colder weather, provide adequate warmth through blankets or pet-safe heating pads. 7. Carry Emergency Supplies: It’s wise to carry a basic emergency kit for your dog, including items such as a pet-specific first aid kit, extra food and water, a spare leash and collar, and any necessary medications. This will ensure that you are prepared for any unexpected situations that may arise during the trip. By prioritizing your dog’s safety throughout the journey, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that you’re taking the necessary precautions to keep your furry friend secure and protected. Remember, their well-being is your responsibility, so always prioritize safety above all else.

Traveling Essentials for Your Dog

When going on a road trip with your dog, it’s important to pack the essential items to ensure their comfort and well-being throughout the journey. Here are some traveling essentials for your furry companion: 1. Food and Water: Pack enough food and fresh water for the duration of your trip. Bring along your dog’s regular food and avoid making sudden changes to their diet, which can cause digestive issues. Don’t forget to pack food and water bowls as well. 2. Medications and Health Records: If your dog takes any medications or supplements, make sure to pack enough for the trip. Additionally, bring along a copy of your dog’s health records, including vaccination history and any relevant medical information. 3. Bedding and Comfort Items: To ensure your dog’s comfort during long drives, bring their bedding or a familiar blanket to help them feel secure and relaxed. Having familiar scents and textures can help reduce stress and anxiety. 4. Leashes and Collars: Pack an extra leash and collar as a backup in case one gets lost or damaged. Ensure that the collar has an ID tag with your updated contact information. 5. Waste Bags: Carry an ample supply of waste bags to clean up after your dog during rest stops. Properly disposing of waste is not only considerate but also helps keep the environment clean. 6. Toys and Chews: Bringing your dog’s favorite toys and chews can provide entertainment and mental stimulation during the trip. This helps prevent boredom and reduces the likelihood of them becoming anxious or restless. 7. Pet-Friendly Travel Gear: Depending on your dog’s needs, consider investing in pet-friendly travel gear such as a collapsible water bowl, travel-sized crate or carrier, and a car seat cover to protect your vehicle’s upholstery. 8. Grooming Supplies: Pack essential grooming supplies such as a brush or comb, nail clippers, and pet-friendly shampoo. Maintaining your dog’s hygiene during the trip will help keep them comfortable and fresh. 9. Extra Supplies: Carry extras of essential items such as a towel, blankets, and poop bags. Having backups ensures that you are prepared for unexpected situations or accidents. Remember to assess your dog’s specific needs and pack accordingly. It’s important to strike a balance between packing enough essentials without overburdening yourself with excessive items. By ensuring that your dog has the necessary supplies, you can provide them with a comfortable and enjoyable experience throughout the road trip.

Feeding and Exercise on the Road

Maintaining a consistent feeding and exercise routine is crucial for your dog’s well-being, even while on a road trip. Here are some tips to ensure your dog stays nourished and active during the journey: 1. Stick to a Feeding Schedule: Try to maintain your dog’s regular feeding schedule as much as possible. Stick to their usual mealtimes and portion sizes to promote digestive health and minimize any disruptions to their routine. 2. Portion and Pack Meals: To make feeding on the road easier, pre-portion your dog’s meals into individual servings. This way, you can easily grab and serve the right amount of food without the hassle of measuring while traveling. Consider using travel-friendly food storage containers or resealable bags. 3. Choose Travel-Friendly Food: Opt for dry kibble or freeze-dried meals for convenience during the trip. These types of food are easier to pack, store, and serve. Avoid switching your dog to new food brands abruptly, as it may upset their stomach. 4. Practice Responsible Feeding: When feeding your dog during rest stops, always choose designated pet-friendly areas. Clean up after your dog and dispose of waste responsibly. Respect the rules and regulations of the places you visit to ensure a positive experience for everyone. 5. Provide Ample Water: Staying hydrated is essential for dogs, especially during travel. Bring along an ample supply of fresh water and a spill-proof water bowl. Offer water to your dog during rest stops and make sure they have access to water at all times. 6. Regular Exercise Breaks: Dogs need regular exercise, even while on the road. Plan frequent stops to allow your dog to stretch their legs, take potty breaks, and enjoy some physical activity. Find pet-friendly parks, trails, or open spaces where your dog can safely explore and burn off energy. 7. Engage in Interactive Play: In addition to physical exercise, engaging in interactive play can help keep your dog mentally stimulated during the trip. Pack their favorite toys or engage in games like fetch or tug-of-war during rest breaks. 8. Be Mindful of Weather Conditions: Keep in mind the weather conditions and adjust your dog’s exercise routines accordingly. During hot weather, avoid strenuous activities during peak temperatures to prevent overheating. In cold weather, ensure your dog is adequately protected with a coat or sweater. Remember to always prioritize your dog’s well-being and consider their individual needs when it comes to feeding and exercise. By maintaining a consistent routine and providing appropriate nourishment and physical activity, you’ll ensure that your dog remains healthy and happy throughout the road trip.

Accommodations and Rest Stops

One of the key considerations when traveling with your dog is finding suitable accommodations and rest stops along your road trip route. Here are some tips to help you find dog-friendly accommodations and plan rest stops effectively: 1. Research Pet-Friendly Accommodations: Before hitting the road, research and book accommodations that welcome pets. Look for hotels, motels, campgrounds, or vacation rentals that specifically cater to travelers with dogs. Check for amenities such as pet-friendly rooms, designated pet areas, and nearby parks or walking trails. 2. Make Reservations in Advance: Pet-friendly accommodations often have limited availability, especially during peak travel seasons. To secure a spot for you and your dog, make reservations in advance to avoid any last-minute disappointments or the risk of struggling to find a suitable place to stay. 3. Call Ahead for Pet Policies: While researching accommodations, it’s essential to call ahead and confirm their pet policies. Inquire about any size or breed restrictions, additional fees or deposits, and any specific rules or regulations they may have in place regarding pets. 4. Plan Regular Rest Stops: Dogs need regular breaks, just like humans. Plan rest stops every few hours to allow your dog to stretch their legs, go to the bathroom, and have a drink of water. Look for rest areas, parks, or pet-friendly establishments along your route where your dog can safely move around and relieve themselves. 5. Pack a Rest Stop Kit: Keep a rest stop kit easily accessible in your car. Include items such as a leash, waste bags, water, travel bowls, and a towel or blanket for your dog to relax on. This will make rest stops more convenient and comfortable for both you and your furry companion. 6. Be Mindful of Unfamiliar Surroundings: When staying at a new location, take some time to familiarize your dog with the surroundings. Walk them around the designated pet areas and allow them to sniff and explore within boundaries. Keep them on a leash at all times to prevent them from wandering off or getting into potentially unsafe areas. 7. Respect Others’ Space: While traveling, it’s important to be considerate of others. Keep your dog’s behavior in check, especially in shared spaces or accommodations with other guests. Clean up after your dog promptly and ensure they are well-mannered and non-disruptive to others. By carefully planning your accommodations and rest stops, you’ll ensure that both you and your dog have a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Remember to always follow any rules or guidelines set by the accommodations and respect the space of fellow travelers.

Entertaining and Comforting Your Dog

Keeping your dog entertained and comfortable during a road trip is essential to ensure their overall well-being and minimize any potential anxiety or restlessness. Here are some tips to help entertain and provide comfort for your dog during the journey: 1. Bring Familiar Items: Pack your dog’s favorite toys, blankets, and bedding to provide them with a sense of familiarity and comfort. Having familiar scents and objects can help reduce stress and provide a sense of security, especially in unfamiliar surroundings. 2. Interactive Toys and Treats: Bring along interactive toys that can keep your dog engaged and mentally stimulated during the trip. Interactive puzzle toys or treat-dispensing toys can provide mental exercise and entertainment, helping to alleviate boredom during long stretches of driving. 3. Play Calming Music: Many studies have shown that certain types of music can have a calming effect on dogs. Consider playing soothing music designed specifically for dogs during the road trip. This can help create a relaxing environment and reduce anxiety for your furry friend. 4. Use Comforting Scents: Calming scents, such as lavender or chamomile, can help relax dogs. Consider using a calming spray or diffuser in the car or on their bedding to create a soothing atmosphere. However, ensure that the scent is pet-friendly and doesn’t overwhelm or irritate your dog. 5. Schedule Regular Breaks: Plan frequent rest stops where your dog can stretch their legs, explore, and have a chance to relieve themselves. This not only provides necessary physical exercise but also gives them a chance to experience new environments and stimulate their senses. 6. Provide Comfortable Resting Areas: Set up a comfortable resting area for your dog in the car. Use blankets, pillows, or a travel bed to create a cozy space where they can relax and sleep during the journey. Ensure that the temperature is comfortable and use window shades to protect them from direct sunlight. 7. Offer Positive Reinforcement: Positive reinforcement, such as praise, treats, and belly rubs, can go a long way in comforting and reassuring your dog during the trip. Reward them for good behavior, calmness, and adapting well to the new environment. 8. Take Breaks for Bonding Time: Use rest stops as an opportunity to spend quality time with your dog. Take short walks together, play fetch, or engage in a favorite activity. This bonding time not only provides physical exercise but strengthens the bond between you and your pet. Remember, each dog is unique, so pay attention to their individual preferences and adjust your entertainment and comforting strategies accordingly. By providing them with familiar items, mental stimulation, and a relaxing environment, you’ll ensure a more enjoyable and comforting road trip experience for your furry companion.

Dealing with Travel Anxiety

Many dogs experience travel anxiety due to the unfamiliarity and confinement of being in a car for a prolonged period. If your dog is prone to anxiety, it’s important to take steps to help them feel more comfortable during the road trip. Here are some strategies to help alleviate travel anxiety in your dog: 1. Gradual Desensitization: If your dog experiences severe anxiety when it comes to car rides, it can be helpful to desensitize them gradually. Start with short car trips around the neighborhood, gradually increasing the duration and distance. Pair the car rides with positive experiences such as treats, toys, and praise to form positive associations. 2. Create a Safe Space: Designate a specific area in the car as your dog’s safe space. This could be a crate, a specific seat with a doggy seatbelt, or a cushioned area in the cargo space. Make the space comfortable and familiar by adding their bed or blanket, toys, and even calming scents. 3. Calming Products: Consider using calming products designed specifically for dogs, such as pheromone sprays, anxiety wraps, or herbal supplements. These products can help promote a sense of calmness and reduce anxiety during the journey. However, consult with your veterinarian before using any calming products to ensure they are safe and appropriate for your dog. 4. Positive Reinforcement: Use positive reinforcement techniques to reward your dog for calm behavior. Offer treats, praise, and affection when they display calmness and relaxation in the car. By associating good behavior with positive rewards, you can help your dog feel more secure during the trip. 5. Play Calming Music: Playing soothing music designed for dogs can have a calming effect and help reduce anxiety during the journey. Look for specially curated playlists or calming soundtracks that are known to have a soothing impact on dogs. 6. Consult with a Professional: If your dog’s travel anxiety is severe or persists despite your efforts, consider consulting with a professional dog trainer or behaviorist. They can assess the underlying causes of your dog’s anxiety and provide you with specialized strategies to manage and alleviate their travel-related fears. 7. Avoid Overstimulation: Limit visual and auditory stimuli that may trigger anxiety in your dog. Keep the windows partially covered to reduce outside distractions. Play soft music or white noise to create a more calming environment inside the car. Remember to be patient and understanding with your dog as they navigate through their travel anxiety. With consistent training, positive reinforcement, and a calm environment, you can help your furry friend overcome their fears and make the road trip a more enjoyable experience for both of you.

Health and Hygiene on the Trip

Ensuring proper health and hygiene practices for your dog during a road trip is crucial to keep them in optimal condition. Here are some tips to help maintain your dog’s health and hygiene on the journey: 1. Pack a Pet First Aid Kit: Prepare a pet-specific first aid kit that includes essential items such as bandages, antiseptic solution, wound ointment, tweezers, and any necessary medications or prescriptions. This will help you address minor injuries or ailments that may occur during the trip. 2. Regularly Check for Ticks and Fleas: As you explore new environments with your dog, it’s important to regularly check for ticks and fleas. These parasites can cause discomfort, transmit diseases, and infest your vehicle or accommodation. Use preventative tick and flea treatments and perform thorough tick checks on your dog after outdoor activities. 3. Maintain Proper Hydration: Keep your dog well-hydrated throughout the trip. Offer fresh water regularly during rest stops, and ensure their water bowl is easily accessible. Dehydration can lead to various health issues, so make sure your dog always has access to clean water. 4. Secure Medications and Prescriptions: If your dog requires any medications or prescriptions, make sure to properly store and administer them during the journey. Keep medications in a cool and dry place, and ensure they are easily accessible in case of emergencies. 5. Watch for Motion Sickness: Just like humans, dogs can experience motion sickness during car rides. Monitor your dog for signs such as drooling, panting, restlessness, or vomiting. If motion sickness is a concern, consult your veterinarian for possible solutions or medications to alleviate the symptoms. 6. Practice Responsible Waste Disposal: Clean up after your dog responsibly during rest stops. Always carry waste bags and promptly dispose of any waste in designated trash bins. Keeping the environment clean is not only considerate but also helps maintain a healthy and safe environment for everyone. 7. Maintain Proper Grooming: Regular grooming is important to keep your dog clean and comfortable during the trip. Brush their coat to remove loose fur, prevent matting, and distribute natural oils. Keep their nails trimmed to avoid discomfort or injury. Consider scheduling a grooming appointment before the trip to have them looking and feeling their best. 8. Keep Contact Information Handy: Make sure to have your dog’s identification tags with your current contact information. Additionally, carry a recent photograph of your dog in case they get lost during the trip. Having their identification and your contact information readily available will help ensure their safe return if they wander off. By prioritizing your dog’s health and hygiene on the road trip, you can help them stay comfortable and mitigate any potential health issues. With proper care and attention, you’ll provide a safe and enjoyable travel experience for your furry companion.

Exploring New Places with Your Dog

One of the joys of taking a road trip with your dog is the opportunity to explore new places together. Here are some tips for making the most of your adventures with your furry friend: 1. Research Pet-Friendly Attractions: Before setting off, research pet-friendly attractions, parks, beaches, and hiking trails along your route. Look for places that allow dogs and provide a safe and enjoyable environment for them to explore. Check for any specific rules or regulations, such as leash requirements or designated pet areas. 2. Take Safe Walks and Hikes: When walking or hiking with your dog, make sure to choose trails that are suitable for dogs and match their fitness level. Begin with shorter walks and gradually increase the distance and difficulty. Keep your dog on a leash unless it’s specifically permitted to let them roam freely. 3. Follow Local Regulations: Respect the rules and regulations of the places you visit. Keep in mind that not all areas may be dog-friendly or may have specific rules for dogs. Practice responsible pet ownership by cleaning up after your dog, keeping them on a leash where required, and respecting the environment and other visitors. 4. Pack Essentials for Outdoor Adventures: Bring along essentials for outdoor adventures, such as collapsible water bowls, extra water, and snacks for your dog. Consider carrying a pet-specific first aid kit for any minor injuries or irritations that may occur during your explorations. 5. Allow for Sniffing and Exploration Time: Dogs experience the world through scent, so allow them time to sniff and explore their surroundings. Let them follow their natural instincts and investigate new scents and environments. This mental stimulation is important for their well-being and can make the adventure more enjoyable for them. 6. Provide Shade and Rest Stops: During outdoor activities, ensure that your dog has access to shade and take regular breaks to rest and hydrate. Watch for signs of fatigue or overheating and adjust the activity level accordingly. Keep in mind your dog’s breed, age, and overall fitness when planning outdoor activities. 7. Swim Safely: If you plan to take your dog swimming, make sure to choose safe and dog-friendly swimming areas. Some dogs are natural swimmers, while others may need assistance or a life jacket. Supervise your dog closely while they are in the water to ensure their safety. 8. Capture the Memories: Don’t forget to capture precious moments and memories with your dog during your adventures. Take photos of your dog enjoying new places, exploring nature, and experiencing new sights and sounds. These memories will be a cherished reminder of the special bond shared during the road trip. Exploring new places with your dog is an incredible experience that strengthens your bond and creates lasting memories. With proper planning and consideration for your dog’s needs, you can embark on exciting adventures together and make the most of your road trip.

Taking a road trip with your dog can be a rewarding and unforgettable experience. With proper planning, preparation, and care, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable journey for both you and your furry companion. From researching pet-friendly destinations to packing essential items, attending to your dog’s health and hygiene, and providing comfort and entertainment, every step contributes to a successful road trip. Remember to prioritize your dog’s safety by securing them in the car, never leaving them unattended, and being mindful of their behavior and needs. Take breaks for exercise, provide regular meals and water, and create a comfortable and familiar environment to reduce travel anxiety. By following these guidelines, you can create a positive and stress-free experience for your dog. Respect the rules and regulations of the places you visit, clean up after your dog, and be considerate of other travelers. Explore new places together, allowing your dog to sniff and enjoy the surroundings. Capture precious moments and create lasting memories of your adventures. As you embark on your road trip with your four-legged friend, remember that the journey is just as important as the destination. Cherish the time spent together, the sights seen, and the memories made. Road trips with dogs are a special opportunity to strengthen the bond you share and create lifelong memories full of joy and adventure. So, buckle up, hit the open road, and embark on an epic road trip with your dog by your side. From the thrill of new destinations to the comfort of familiar canine companionship, it’s a journey worth taking. Enjoy the adventure and all the wonderful moments that await you and your furry friend on the open road!

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5 Tips for a Successful Road Trip With Your Dog

O ur family loves to travel. Whether you are traveling out of necessity or for pleasure you may need to take along your pet. Pets of all kinds can enjoy traveling with you, but there are some things you need to consider. Use these tips to make your next road trip with your dog safe and fun for everyone.

Tips for a Successful Road Trip With Your Dog

Acclimate pets to vehicle travel.

Not all pets are going to be eager to spend time in the car. Some dogs and other smaller animals can become very stressed and agitated while traveling in a vehicle.

Instead of surprising your pet with a long journey out of the blue, consider taking a few short trips each week with your pet. They may slowly become more comfortable and confident while traveling. If they don’t, you’ll know ahead of time.

And, if your pet does not take well to traveling, you may consider asking your vet for ways to make them more calm and comfortable when traveling is necessary!

Safety for Everyone

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You wouldn’t jump in the car and take off without making sure your toddler was buckled into their car seat, and when traveling with pets you need to take similar precautions. Make sure that your pet is properly confined and strapped into the vehicle .

On short trips it may be tempting to let them run free in the car, but this can be dangerous for everyone. Unsecured pets can be severely injured in an accident, and they can also cause accidents by distracting the driver.

Another concern with smaller animals is that they may become trapped or injured while trying to move around while traveling. No matter how you travel, be sure that you have a safe and secure container suited for your pets size needs!

Potty Breaks

If you’re able to stop to let your pet out frequently to go to the bathroom that’s great! If not, make other arrangements. Make sure that you line their travel container with absorbent pads or other material should they soil it while traveling.

Another concern is that they have plenty of fresh water and food during long journeys. Try to keep them on the same schedule that they have at home to avoid any disruption internally.

Book Ahead of Time

If you’re taking a road trip with your dog that includes stays in hotels, motels, etc. make sure you book beforehand . You do not want to show up with a pet and have no options.

Some hotels will not allow pets of any kind even if they’re in a kennel. Consider calling ahead or booking online to avoid any late night issues or last-minute changes which can be costly and stressful.

The same goes for airline, bus, and train travel. You will most certainly have to make arrangements ahead of time, so plan early whenever possible.

Even when the situation warrants a “freak out” moment, try hard to remain calm. Your pet will feed off of your energy in any situation. If you are upset, chances are they will be too. Keep calm, and work through whatever issue may arise. This will truly make any trip much more manageable for both you and your pet.

Do you enjoy traveling with your pets ? How do you ensure a smooth trip? Leave me a comment below.

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