Tips for Road Tripping with Your Dog

Road trips are one of the best ways to explore new places, and what could be better than sharing that adventure with your dog?! Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or a cross-country trek, taking your furry friend along can make the experience even more enjoyable. However, traveling with a dog requires a little extra planning to ensure you all stay safe, comfortable, and of course, happy.

Chris and I planned our entire elopement because we really wanted to have our pups with us. We knew that flying wouldn’t be a great idea, so we looked at a map and asked ourselves, where can we realistically drive to? That’s how we decided on Sedona, AZ. The drive from Michigan to Arizona is definitely long, but it was worth it. Don’t get me wrong, that trip was definitely a learning curve, but we learned a lot about how to road trip with dogs, and are here to share that with you.

 

Here are some essential tips that we have learned for bringing our dogs along on the adventure:

 

Prep Your Dog for the Journey

Before hitting the road, it’s important to make sure your dog is ready for the trip. If your dog isn’t used to long car rides, start with shorter trips to help them get used to the car.

Additionally, ensure your dog’s vaccinations are up-to-date and bring along any medications or special needs they may have. Don't forget their ID tag, and consider getting them microchipped as an extra safety measure in case they get lost.

 

Plan for Regular Pit Stops

Dogs need a chance to move around just like humans, and these breaks can help reduce anxiety and restlessness. Also factor in extra time for all of the breaks into your drive time. We found that stopping every 3 hours or so gave our dogs enough of a break to let a little energy out before hitting the road again

 

Pack Smart

Packing for a road trip with your dog requires more than just their favorite blanket. Here’s a quick checklist of essential items to keep easily accessible.

• Leash and collar/harness: Even if your dog is well-trained, always keep them on a leash when you stop, especially if you are stopping at gas stations near large free ways.
• Food and water: Pack enough food for the entire trip, plus some extra just in case. Keep a portable water bowl in the car for your breaks.
• Toys and treats: Bring along a few of your dog’s favorite toys and some treats to keep them happy and calm. Both our dogs have favorite toys, so we made sure to have them with on the trip to help me stay calm.
• First aid kit: Include any supplies for minor injuries or health issues.
• Poop bags: Always clean up after your dog during pit stops.

 

Secure Your Dog in the Car

Keeping our pups safe is always our top priority. We don’t like to let our dogs roam freely in the car. Plus, it can be distracting and dangerous for us all. We use dog beads that are made specifically for the car that attach to the seat, and clip to the dogs’ harnesses. One of our dogs is incredibly anxious, but we keep a blanket for her in her seat to keep her calm.

 

Stay Hydrated and Take Care of Their Needs

Long trips can make both humans and dogs dehydrated. Always have fresh water available for your dog and encourage them to drink during breaks. Keep in mind that the trip may throw off your dog’s routine and they may take a little getting used to the change of travel.

 

Prepare for Overnight Stays

If your road trip includes overnight stops, make sure your accommodations are pet-friendly. Many hotels and motels welcome pets, but be sure to check their policies regarding fees or restrictions. Bring along familiar bedding or a crate to help your dog feel comfortable in unfamiliar places.

Tip: If you’re staying at a hotel, let them know your dog is with you. Most hotels have provided treats for our pups at check in, which they loooove.

 

Monitor Your Dog’s Health and Comfort

During the journey, keep an eye on your dog’s behavior and health. If they seem stressed, restless, or sick, take frequent breaks and give them plenty of attention. Never leave your dog in the car alone, especially on hot days, as temperatures can rise quickly and cause heatstroke.

Also, avoid overexerting them on walks or hikes. Make sure to monitor the weather and adjust plans if it's too hot or cold for your dog to be comfortable. 

 

Enjoy the Trip!

Finally, remember to enjoy the road trip experience with your dog! Stop and take photos, let them explore new environments, and make memories.