How To Road Trip With Your Dog: A Complete Guide

Do dogs make good travel companions? If you're planning a cross-country road trip with your dog, check out our dog travel tips and essentials to ensure your pet's safety and comfort.

Whether you're going on vacation or traveling cross-country with your pet, road trips with your dog don't have to be stressful. While taking your dog in the car does come with some dangers and risks, there are precautions you can take to ensure the safety of you and your dog, making the trip more enjoyable.

Taking your dog on your next road trip will be easier and safer if you have the right gear. From car seats and seatbelts to the best dog treats for road trips, you'll find practical tips for traveling with your pet.

What to Know Before a Road Trip With Your Dog

First, check the regulations at your destination. Some states or national parks require proof of vaccinations. Others prohibit pets from entering certain areas. Be sure to bring a copy of your dog's health records, just in case.

Attach a clear ID tag to your dog's collar with your current phone number. A microchip is also a smart option. Before hitting the road, let your dog spend some time in the car to help them get used to the space. Start with short drives before moving on to longer ones.

Research for dog-friendly parks, hotels, or RV parks along your route. Knowing where your dog can walk, play, and sleep gives you peace of mind for both of you.

The Importance of Car Safety for Dogs

You've probably taken your dog for a car ride or two. Perhaps it was to the vet or a drive to the dog park. Whether your dog is well-behaved or jumpy and energetic, letting them roam freely in the car can be more dangerous than you think.

Of course, you want your dog to feel comfortable in the car, but driving with your dog without a seatbelt can be just as dangerous for you and your dog. According to a Kurgo survey:

"65% of dog owners admit to engaging in at least one potentially distracting activity while driving with their dog."

It could be as simple as giving their dog a pat on the head or giving them a treat. The most common distraction while driving with a pet is trying to prevent them from climbing into the front seat. These small distractions can quickly lead to dangerous situations.

Furthermore, if you're involved in a car accident, your dog could pose a serious safety risk to you and other passengers. If you're involved in an accident or have to brake suddenly, an unbelted dog could be flung into the car. According to Canadadrives.ca:

"In a high-speed collision, even the smallest dog can generate up to 500 pounds of projectile force. Large dogs like Huskies can become a 2,400-pound projectile!"

While it might seem perfectly harmless to have your dog in the front seat of your car, you never know when an accident or emergency braking might occur. For safety, it's best to provide your dog with the same protections you'd use in a moving vehicle.

Read on for more tips on dog safety in cars and some dog road trip best practices to make everyone more comfortable bringing their pooch on even the longest cross-country road trip.

Traveling with Pets: Tips

You may be excited to travel with your canine companion, but before you hit the road, you should take steps to ensure your dog is comfortable and safe on your road trip. Here are some tips for traveling with your dog.

√ Secure Your Dog in a Moving Vehicle

Before you hit the road, your first consideration should be the safest way to keep your dog in the car, and more importantly, the safest position within it. Dogs should never ride in the front seat. Airbags, like children, are extremely dangerous and potentially fatal to dogs. Secure your pet in the back seat for both you and your dog.

Properly securing your pet in a dog car seat, dog car harness, or even a dog travel crate can significantly increase everyone's safety and reduce the risk of distracted driving. Choose the car safety equipment that best suits your dog's size and behavior.

√ Roll Up the Windows

Your dog may just want to stick his head out the window and let his ears flutter in the wind, but rolling the window too low could cause him to jump out. Roll down the windows out of your dog's reach, or keep your dog inside the car where they can't reach the windows.

It's also best to activate the child locks. Your dog might accidentally use their paws to press the switch that rolls down the window. If this happens while you're driving, they might fall or jump out of the car window.

√ Keep them hydrated

Whether your dog is stressed or not, or whether the weather is hot or not, providing fresh, clean water in the car will help keep them hydrated and cool.

If you're traveling with friends or family, provide portable travel bowls and water bottles throughout the trip. However, if you're traveling alone, it's recommended to invest in a spill-proof dog bowl that your dog can easily access. Just make sure to refill it at every rest stop.

√ Provide shade

Have you ever gotten sunburned in your car? So can your dog. Your windshield provides some UV protection, but your other windows may not. No matter how hot you crank the air conditioning or how comfortable you feel in the car, the sun can still be directly on your dog.

This means your dog could be exposed to the sun for the entire drive. Window guards or sunshades can provide a cooler interior for your dog and prevent sunburn.

× Don't Smoke

Don't smoke in the car with your pet. Smoking in the car with your pet increases the amount of smoke they inhale. This includes cigarettes, e-cigarettes, and cigars. If you must smoke, stick to smoking outside the car when parked and away from your dog.

× Don't Play Loud Music

A dog's ears are much more sensitive than yours. You might like to drive with the volume turned up high, but this might be too loud for your dog. To avoid stressing your dog, turn the volume down. If your dog gets nervous in the car, try playing some soothing dog music.

× Don't Overcrowd Your Dog

Stow luggage in a separate area of the car from your dog. You don't want your dog to feel cramped or trapped in a packed car. Additionally, if your dog smells something it thinks is food, it might find its way into the luggage. Products like perfume, sunscreen, and makeup can also smell like tempting treats to curious dogs.

Dog Road Trip Checklist

Road trips with your dog are safer and more enjoyable if you pack well. If your trip is long, you may find it difficult to stock up on supplies, especially for your dog, so it's important to pack in advance.

Here's a quick checklist of dog road trip essentials to help you pack successfully:

1. Dog food

2. Drinking water

3. Dog bed or blanket

4. Dog car seat cover

5. Dog bowl

6. Cleaning supplies

7. Dog poop bags & Holders

8. Treats

9. Dog leash

10. Dog collar and ID tags

Dog food

Some dog foods are easier to carry than others, so no matter how long your trip, make sure you have a plan to keep your dog well-fed and healthy. Properly stored dog food or canned dog food generally lasts longer, but if you're used to feeding a raw diet, you may want to get your dog used to a similar freeze-dried diet, which is easier to customize.

Fresh Water

Fresh, clean water shouldn't be a problem on your trip, but it's a good idea to bring a few extra bottles of water for your dog, just in case.

Dog Bed or Blanket

If your dog is too large for a comfortable dog car seat, we recommend bringing a lightweight dog travel bed or a soft blanket for them to lie down in the car. It doesn't need to be bulky, just something they can lie down, relax, or even take a nap.

Dog Car Seat Covers

Dogs can be messy. They shed, drool, and leave marks in dirt and mud. Long trips mean multiple stops, providing plenty of opportunities for your dog to leave marks in the mud. Keep your car clean and undamaged with the best dog car seat covers and protectors, like the Molly Mutt Hammock Seat Cover.

Dog Bowls

There are many convenient bowls on the market, like the OKEYPETS Pet Bowl. Having a portable bowl means your dog can easily drink and feed. It folds up easily, making travel a breeze! They also keep water in the car if you prefer. Try a spill-proof bowl like the OKEYPETS Stainless Steel Dog Water Bowl.

Cleaning Supplies

Accidents happen, and we don't just mean car accidents. A nervous dog can have an accident in the car, get carsick and vomit, or even get wet or messy at a service station. Pet-safe cleaning supplies can help you keep both your car and your pet clean.

Dog Poop Bags & Holders

You need to stop for toilet breaks, and so does your dog. Make sure you have plenty of poop bags to clean up along the way.

Recommended Dog Poop Bags & Holders: https://www.okeypets.com/Dog-Waste-Bag

Treats

Long trips can be tough on dogs, so pack small, lightweight dog treats to reward and reinforce good behavior. Just be careful not to overfill them. A dog who is carsick or anxious in a car might vomit if they fill their stomach with treats.

Dog Leashes

Make sure you have a good leash (or two) so you can safely take your dog for walks and use the restroom whenever you stop. The last thing you want is your dog getting lost in an unfamiliar area or on a busy highway.

Recommended Dog Leashes: https://www.okeypets.com/Dog-Leash

Dog Collars and ID Tags

While a seatbelt is the best way to keep your dog in the car, you should always wear a collar so your dog can carry an ID tag. Special travel documents are also a good idea so that if your dog escapes, you can safely return it to you wherever you are. Also, bring government-issued identification, such as a driver's license and vaccination tags.

Recommended Dog Collars: https://www.okeypets.com/Dog-Collar

Recommended Pet ID Tags: https://www.okeypets.com/Pet-ID-Tag

If you plan to cross the border with your pet, be sure to understand all pet crossing regulations. Knowing what you can and cannot bring across the border can help avoid unnecessary hassles and ensure you and your pet have peace of mind when dealing with border patrol.

Where to Stop During a Dog Road Trip

Don't wait until your dog whines to stop. Plan your route and schedule breaks every two to three hours. Use apps to find dog parks, quiet trails, or fenced areas near gas stations.

Let your dog stretch, walk, drink water, and sniff around. For longer stops, bring a long leash or a wooden stake. Always check the road temperature; if your hands are too warm, their paws are too. Frequent stops aren't wasted time. They avoid confusion, relieve stress, and reduce the risk of motion sickness.

Make every moment of your trip count!

Road trips can create unforgettable memories, but only if everyone enjoys the experience. With proper preparation, your dog can be the perfect travel companion. From health checks to smart parking and reliable power, details make all the difference.

With the right gear, your dog can explore the world safely, and you can enjoy peace of mind. Start small, pack carefully, and travel at your dog's pace. A great journey is never rushed; it's built on the little things.

Dog Road Trip FAQs

Do dogs get carsick?

Yes, dogs can get carsick, especially those new to long drives. This condition improves with time and practice, but some dogs may need a gastrointestinal soothing agent, such as a calming dog food, or medication prescribed by a veterinarian if necessary.

How can I get my dog used to car trips?

Practicing short car rides can help your dog become comfortable. Start with short trips and make them as comfortable as possible. You can gradually add longer rides, highway driving, and even driving in heavy traffic areas.

How do I travel with my dog alone?

Traveling alone with a dog can be more challenging. From handling pit stops to keeping your dog calm on the road, it takes some practice and more planning than sharing responsibilities with a co-pilot. You may need to plan a route that includes easily accessible restrooms, a drive-through area for coffee, and safe areas for your dog to stretch and relieve himself.

How long can a dog take a road trip?

Limiting the amount of driving time each day on a road trip will greatly enhance your dog's experience. 5-7 hours is usually enough for most dogs, but experienced dogs can tolerate longer. Just make sure they have enough time to stop for toilet breaks, meals, play, and exercise.