Traveling with your dog

Traveling tips with your Rottweiler puppy to help avoid car sickness.


🧳🐾 Road Trip Ready: Traveling with Your Dog Without Losing Your Mind


Bringing your dog along on vacation can make your trip more fun, memorable, and full of tail wags — if you plan ahead. A little prep goes a long way in making sure everyone (including your pup) has a great time. So before you toss your dog’s leash in the back seat and hit the road, here are some travel tips that’ll keep things smooth, safe, and stress-free.


🩺 First Stop: The Vet

Before any big trip, schedule a check-up. You’ll want to make sure your pup is healthy enough for travel, up-to-date on vaccinations, and has any necessary records for boarding, flying, or hotel stays. Bring those shot records with you — especially if you’re flying, since most airlines require a health certificate issued within 10 days of travel.

Bonus tip: Program the number of a 24-hour vet clinic near your destination into your phone. It's better to have it and not need it than to be scrambling in an emergency.

🍗 Pack Like a Pro

You know how picky dogs can be about their routine. Sudden food or water changes? Cue the stomach upset. Avoid digestive drama by packing their regular food and treats, and bring bottled water if your dog has a sensitive stomach. Don’t forget:

  • Collapsible food/water bowls
  • Medications (if needed)
  • Poop bags (lots of them!)
  • A few favorite toys or chews
  • A cozy blanket or crate mat that smells like home

🚗 Road Tripping With Your Dog

Dogs + cars = adventure, right? Yes… with some boundaries.

  • Let your pup get used to the car before a long trip by taking short rides.
  • Avoid feeding a full meal before travel to prevent motion sickness.
  • Keep the car well-ventilated.
  • Use a crate or a secured dog seatbelt — not your lap!
  • Never let your dog ride in the back of an open truck.
  • Windows down for fresh air? Sure. Head sticking out? Not safe.

And remember: frequent breaks = happy pup. Plan potty and play stops every couple of hours, and clean up after them — let’s be the travelers people want to see again.

✈️ Flying with Fido

Flying with your dog takes more prep, but it’s doable. A few essentials:

  • Most airlines require your dog to be at least 8 weeks old, weaned, and have proof of vaccinations.
  • You'll need a health certificate from your vet dated within 10 days of travel.
  • Check your airline’s pet policy — rules vary by carrier.
  • Crate size, ventilation, labeling, and weight limits all matter.
  • Make a reservation for your dog when you book your flight — space is limited.

Also: consider the temperature at both ends of your journey. Airlines may not allow pets to fly in cargo if it’s too hot or cold.

🚂🐕 Can You Take a Dog on a Train, Bus, or Boat?

Quick rundown:

  • Amtrak allows dogs under 20 lbs with a $25 fee (short routes only).
  • Most buses (like Greyhound) don’t allow dogs, unless they’re service animals.
  • Cruises? Rare, but some luxury lines allow pets. Always call first.
  • International travel? Now that’s a whole other post — but yes, it’s possible with advance planning, paperwork, and possibly quarantine.

🏨 Dog-Friendly Lodging Etiquette

You found the perfect dog-friendly hotel. Now make sure your pup is a 5-star guest.

  • Keep barking to a minimum.
  • Never leave your dog alone in the room unless crated and calm.
  • Ask where it’s okay to walk your dog, and always clean up after them.
  • Bring a sheet or blanket to cover hotel bedding if your dog is allowed on furniture.
  • Puppy-proof the room (unplug cords, check under beds, move any tempting snacks).

One bad experience can make a hotel go dog-free — let’s not be that story.

🔑 Quick Tips for a Smooth Trip

✅ Teach potty versatility. Train your dog to go on different surfaces like mulch, gravel, or pavement. Not every rest stop has grass.
✅ Bring entertainment. A bored dog is a destructive dog. Puzzle toys, chews, and a squeaky or two can go a long way.
✅ Use ID. Microchip your dog and make sure their collar tag has your name and cell phone number. If you’re staying somewhere long-term, consider a temporary tag with that address, too.
✅ Stay chill. If you're calm, your dog will be, too. They’re sponges for your energy, especially in new places.

🐕 Should You Bring Your Dog at All?

Truth: not all dogs love to travel. Some are happier at home with a pet sitter or trusted friend. And that’s okay! What matters most is your dog’s comfort and safety — not squeezing them into your itinerary.

Final Bark

Traveling with your dog can be a blast — with the right planning. Whether you’re headed to the mountains, the beach, or Grandma’s house, a little thoughtfulness on the front end will help you both make the most of your getaway.

Because life’s better with a dog — especially when they’re part of the adventure. 🐾