How to Travel with Your Big Dog: Tips for Taking Fido on the Road with You

A Complete Guide to Traveling with Your Big Pup

Whether you’re hitting the road for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation, taking your large dog along can add some challenges. But with some planning and preparation, you can have paw-some travels together. In this article, I’ll go over everything you need to know to make traveling with a big buddy stress-free and enjoyable for both of you.

Getting Your Dog Ready

The first step is making sure your dog is equipped to travel. From my experience, it’s a good idea to do some test runs before a big trip. Take Rover on shorter car rides to get him used to being in the vehicle. Practice loading him into the car and getting comfortable. You’ll have an easier time on the actual journey if these aren’t totally new activities. It also gives you a chance to see how your dog behaves in transit.

Speaking of behavior, be sure to reinforce positive habits through training. Brush up on commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “down” so you have control if needed. Consider taking a dog-friendly public manners or obedience class too. A well-trained pup will be happier and less stressful for everyone.

Also check that your dog has current ID tags and microchipping. You’ll want to be prepared in case the unexpected happens and you get separated from your pet. Pack digital photos too in case you need to make lost dog posters. Trust me, having those details squared away brings peace of mind.

Choosing Accommodations

Since most hotels don’t allow large dogs, look into pet-friendly options like dog-friendly motels, RV parks, or campgrounds. Research rules for size limits too – some may have weight or breed restrictions. When booking, confirm details like pet fees and any deposit requirements. You’ll avoid surprises this way. I also recommend reserving rooms early, as pet-friendly places book up quickly in peak seasons.

If camping instead of staying in lodging, take a test run of your gear with Rover along. Make sure tents, tie-outs, etc work well for his size. Consider pet-friendly amenities like dog runs too. From my experience, setting up camp away from crowded areas helps keeps dogs and people calmer.

Organizing for the Road

With a larger canine compadre, you’ll need more supplies than for a tiny teacup terrier. Pack essentials like:

1. Leash, collar, and ID tags
2. Food, water bowls, and bottles of water
3. Favorite toys and chewies for entertainment
4. Grooming essentials like brushes and wipes
5. Poop bags and trash for clean-up
6. First aid kit with any needed medications

Also consider a sturdy dog crate or Kurgo-type travel crate, which provides a safe, comfortable, “den-like” space. This is handy for when you’re busy or want him secured, like in a hotel room. I always crate-train my dogs before traveling to ease stress and prevent damage to rental property.

Be mega-prepared with your giant gent and pack light, freeze-dried foods, extra bowls and toys. You’ll thank yourself if delays happen! Include doggie gear for different climates too if your trip spans areas.

Transporting Your Large canine Companion

Now onto getting Fido there in a peaceful manner. For most big breeds, an appropriately-sized crate that can buckle into your backseat is best. This keeps him safely restrained yet able to see you up front.

Other options include dog seat covers or harness systems that attach a seatbelt, but crating prevents distraction and potential injury if you need to brake hard. It also makes stops like fuel, food, or potty breaks a breeze since he’s contained before letting loose. From my experience, tired pups behave best, so consider exercising your dog before longer drives to relax him.

I always travel with doggie first aid, just in case. Things happen on road trips! Pack wet wipes for any messes too. Cleaning up thoroughly prevents “I had an accident” behaviors from developing. Music, talking, or a white noise app on your phone can soothe sensitive hound ears prone to motion sickness as well.

It’s also a good idea to habituate your dog to the car through positive reinforcement. Basically, start practicing short rides with happy stops and praise. Making the vehicle a fun place builds great associations and calm traveling companions. Hey, even I get a tad antsy on 12-hour treks!

Stops Along the Way

With a big baby Barkley in tow, you need tactical stops at dog-designated areas. Always walk him before long stretches and know routes to parks or off-leash trails near your route. Trucker Bob’s or rest areas are great for quick pit stops too as long as dogs are allowed.

I also bring poop bags, plenty of water, and small training treats for on-the-go bathroom breaks and behavior reinforcement. It kind of stinks, but disposing waste properly at stops prevents pollution. Speaking of stenches, bathing your hound periodically helps keep your vehicle from becoming a rolling kennel. Having fresh linens and Febreze on hand to neutralize odors sorts works wonders too!

Rest your pup properly when traveling long hauls as well. My Rhodesian Ridgeback tends to get wiggly after 5-6 hours, so motels with yards allow him an energy release. Crating at stops helps him relax and snooze versus overstimulation. Your whole party will feel more refreshed this way.

Preventing Travel Stress

It’s totally normal for canines to feel uneasy in new situations. Some signs of anxiety include panting, pacing, or trembling. To avoid stress:

• Familiarize your pup with travel gear before a trip
• Give calming supplements or treats formulated for anxious dogs if needed
• Play calming music or white noise in the vehicle
• Avoid excessive stimulation or changes during travel days

Having special toys, chews or blankets can help associate the car with positive things too. Reassure your pooch with gentle pets. It may kind of sound funny from here, but talking in a happy, relaxed voice provides serious comfort.

Overall, going at your pup’s pace and being aware of their tolerance level reduces worry. Patiently desensitize them through gradual exposures if certain triggers cause tension. Your furry friend will feel much safer and secure this way. A relaxed dog equals smooth sailin’ down the highway, amigos!

Enjoying Activities Together

Yay, you made it to your destination with man’s best pal! To really experience new places together, scope our dog-friendly options online. Many state and national parks allow leashed walking on trails now. You may even chance upon some off-leash hiking routes or parks too if local ordinances permit.

Finding dog-friendly breweries, wineries, and restaurants is a blast as well. A lot more places are accommodating well-behaved canine customers these days. Always call ahead to check rules of course. And if your guy gets wiggy in high-stimulus social scenes, it’s no problem – finding quiet nature spots works too. The key is just taking Rover along for the fun!

Leaving pooch at a pet-friendly hotel or boarding may work better if activities aren’t dog-inclusive. That way nobody’s unhappy and separation anxiety stays at bay. You can even explore fun day trips while Fido gets spoiled by hotel staff! Just be sure to include playtime and walks together too for quality bonding.

Staying Safe While on the Road

Lastly, a few precautions ensure safe adventures together. Monitor your dog closely in unfamiliar areas and watch for hazards. Be prepared for any type of extreme weather too. Having a first aid kit and contact info for 24/7 vets along your route offers reassurance in emergencies.

Also remember basic leash laws wherever you travel. Obey guidelines to avoid legal issues that could ruin your relaxation. And of course, always clean up after your furry friend courteously! Leaving places cleaner than found just furthers the opportunity for future pet-inclusive travels.

Essential Considerations for Traveling with Your Large Dog

Detail	Description
Seatbelt or Crate	Use a dog seatbelt or approved travel crate to keep your dog safe in the car. Crates provide more security than seatbelts alone.
Breaks	Plan to stop every 2-3 hours so your dog can walk, use the bathroom, eat and drink water.
Food and Water	Bring extra food, water and bowls in case of delays or changes in schedule.
Clean-up Supplies	Include paper towels, garbage bags, gloves and pet cleaner in case of accidents.
Pet Papers	Have proof of vaccines, microchip paperwork and licenses readily available.

FAQ

1. How do I transport my dog in the car?

   There are a few good options for taking your large dog in the car. Basically, you’ll want them to be really secure so they don’t go flying around if you need to brake hard. The safest bet is probably a dog crate that’s strapped down in the backseat or truck. Harnesses or seat belts clipped to their collar can work too, but harnesses might be best for big dogs. No matter what method you use, always keep them in the back area away from airbags. Oh, and bring along some treats and toys to keep Fido happy on the ride!

2. Is it okay to leave my dog in the car while running errands?

   Absolutely not! Leaving a dog unattended in a vehicle, even for a few minutes, can be risky. On a warm day, the inside temperature can rise really fast and put your pup in danger of overheating. Maybe it’s just me, but the memory of my happy dog panting with his tongue out in the hot car is kinda sad. Plus, there’s always a chance they could potentially get distressed and try to escape. Better to bring them with you or get a babysitter. Their safety should come before any minor inconvenience.

3. How do I prepare my dog for a road trip?

   Preparation is key for traveling with dogs, especially on longer trips. Kind of like how we’d prepare ourselves! First things first, make sure you’ve got everything you need like food, water, bowls, toys, bed, documents. Why not throw in some calming treats too? Basically, practice short training sessions in the car with positive reinforcement to get them used to the vehicle. Slowly extend the time until they’re chill for hours. Also, stop frequently for walks, play, and exercise so they don’t get overwhelmed. With some practice, even the biggest furballs can learn to love road trips!

4. How do I keep my dog entertained in the car?

   It’s always a good idea to bring some interactive toys to keep pup busy. Stuffing a Kong toy with peanut butter or treats is a classic. If your dog likes to chew, beef jerky or other long-lasting chewables work well. You could also try puzzle toys that dispense food as they manipulate it. A few favorite toys and maybe their bed can make the car feel more comfortable. On longer rides, audiobooks or calming music for dogs may help soothe frazzled nerves. But is just looking out the window enough entertainment for some dogs? Who knows!

   

5. What documents do I need when traveling with my dog?

   There are a few important papers you’ll want to bring for your pooch when hitting the road. First and foremost is proof of current vaccinations. Rabies vaccines are required almost everywhere. You’ll also need health certificates for taking pup across state or country lines. At least 5 days before you go, your vet can do an exam and provide the official paperwork. Don’t forget ID like a license tag and microchip number in case they get lost. Boarding facilities or vets may request additional records. It’s always safer to have extras or digital copies of everything important to your dog’s health. Better to be over-prepared than have something missing!

6. How do I find dog-friendly places to spend the night?

   When planning stops on a road trip, try to choose motels and hotels that explicitly welcome dogs. Many chains now allow pets, but you’ll want to double check their rules and any extra fees. Camping is often a really fun option for dogs too. State parks and private campgrounds commonly allow furry friends, though some have size limits or seasonal restrictions. You can search online databases and apps that list hundreds of dog-friendly places to eat and sleep wherever your journey leads. Wonder if any allow big dogs in the room? At the same time, read all policies clearly before booking to avoid surprises.

7. How tired will my dog get from traveling?

   The amount of exercise and mental stimulation a dog needs varies a lot by individual. Large and high-energy breeds especially may find extended periods in the car quite taxing, both physically and emotionally. Nevertheless, most well-adjusted dogs can handle normal road trips if properly prepared. You’ll want to stop regularly for potty breaks, activity, and fresh air. Look for signs of stress like panting, whining or hiding. With breaks, stimulating toys, and their favorite people nearby, even dogs that don’t love cars can usually learn to tolerate moderate travel. On the other hand, very long trips may require additional planning or an occasional rest day along the way.