12 Best Travel Tips for a Journey with Your Dog

Do you have a trip with your dog on your agenda? Well, you're in luck, this article has 12 tried and true travel tips to help you become even more prepared. Answering any questions you might have about bringing a dog with you on a road trip. If you follow and apply these 12 tips to your trip you are definitely going to have the best time you could have. 

1. Know the regulations in your destination

The rules and regulations for pet ownership and treatment can vary depending on your destination. Make sure to read up on all of the specific rules you will need to follow. You don't want to accidentally break a law due to ignorance. 

2. Consider Camping if You Are Traveling with Your Dog

When planning a trip with your dog you will need to find places to stay, camping can be a great option. The reason for this is camping offers more freedom and space for your dog to enjoy, and you won't have the hassle of finding a dog-approved hotel or the costs associated with staying in one. Your dog will appreciate the open areas and the chance to stay close to you while exploring nature. 

3. Make a Place For Your Dog

It's important to make a place for your dog when traveling, a spot where they can sleep and rest during the trip. This may be a dog bed or simply a pile of pillows and blankets. Having a dedicated space helps your dog feel comfortable when in a new environment. Try bringing familiar items like your dog's favorite blanket or toys to provide additional comfort and reduce stress during the journey. 

4. Take enough food and Water

When packing for a long trip it's important to take 25% more than the anticipated amount of food your dog usually needs. Stress may cause extra eating for your dog like it does for humans. Its also a good idea to have a spare bottle of water specifically for your dog, and a water bowl for them to drink out of. 

5. Update Your dog tag 

If you don't already use a dog tag, it's important to start. A dog tag with your contact information is essential for ensuring your dog's safety. If your dog gets lost, anyone who finds it can easily reach you to return your beloved pet. Remember to update the tag with your new contact details whenever you move to a new place.

6. Keep Your Dogs Documents With You 

Most dogs need vaccination certificates to get into hotels or restaurants. So it's important to have a copy of them in your car or wallet. If you are afraid of losing this copy, you can use a scanner app to make a digital copy. Then you will always have it with you. A scanner app also makes it easy to update documents when needed. A scan tool is also nice for any other documents you might tend to forget at home, bills, receipts, or birth certificates. Either way, using a scanner app to have important documents for your dog is always worth it. 

7. Give rewards for good behavior.

Rewarding good behavior is an effective way to ensure your dog's behavior remains predictable during journeys. When your dog follows your commands, reward them with a treat. This positive reinforcement encourages desired behavior and strengthens your bond with your pet.

8. Don’t ignore their toilet needs

Even if you are in a hurry, don’t neglect your pet's needs. A few minutes-long bathroom break every 3 hours is all you need to make your dog much calmer and very grateful to you. 

9. Know what to do if your car gets dirty

Dogs are messy creatures sometimes. If your seat gets dirty because of your dog, don’t be angry about it. Simply accept the situation and forgive your pet. If you get mad at your pet, they will associate that with traveling they won't realize it's because of the mess. Try to keep a portable vacuum or at least some wipes with you in case of emergencies like these. 

10. Bring some toys

This is the easiest way to keep your dog busy. Choose small toys that enable mental stimulation. A ball or chew toy is always a good choice just make sure your puppy doesn't bother any other travelers should you be in a public space. 

11. Find a local dog park

If you’re traveling for a long time, breaks are must-haves for both of you. If needed you can always find a local dog park to rest and relax at before continuing your trip. 

12. Don’t forget about the photos

Finally, don't forget to take pictures. That way you can always look back on this memorable journey and laugh over some of the most engaging moments you had with your dog. 

Final Words

Traveling with a dog needs specific and accurate preparation. From scanning your documents to taking enough breaks. The simple tips listed in this article will help to make your journey more engaging and hassle-free.