Dog Vacation. Travel with Dog

Dog Vacation Destinations, Where and how to travel with a dog

Dog vacation with dog Zen in Colorado. Colorado road trip with dog

Travel with Sasha & Zen: Your Ultimate Guide to Dog-Friendly Adventures

Welcome to my dog-friendly travel blog, where I share road trip adventures and tips for traveling with dogs like my Border Collie, Zen. As a solo traveler and passionate dog owner, I know how rewarding—and sometimes challenging—it can be to bring your furry companion along for the journey.

Learn more about me and Zen’s story behind this blog.

I created this space to inspire and guide fellow pet parents in planning stress-free, fun-filled vacations with their dogs. Here, you’ll find dog-friendly destinations, practical advice, and insights to make traveling with your pup easier and more enjoyable.

While I focus on car travel as the best option for large dogs, I also share alternative transportation methods if you’re curious. Check out other travel options here.

Beyond travel, I share dog training tips and health advice because a well-behaved, healthy dog is the key to smooth travel. Everything I share comes from my personal experiences and desire to give Zen the best life possible. If you have any questions or want to share your travel tales, feel free to reach out via the contact form. I’d love to hear from you!

Zen and I have an unbreakable bond, and every piece of information here reflects my love for him, as well as my commitment to helping other pet parents make the most of their adventures together.

Why Travel with a Dog?

Here, you’ll find a wealth of information on traveling with your pet – from planning to the best ideas about destinations and activities in different states or areas.

Traveling with your dog is possible even if you are a solo traveler, and it can be one of your life’s most rewarding experiences. And my goal with this blog is to help you make the most of it.

Most of our blog is related to different destinations we visited, and we hope it will inspire you for your next trip. I am also sharing some information regarding dog training and health. I’ve traveled extensively with my dog and learned a lot along the way—both through my successes and mistakes. I’m excited to share what I’ve learned with you.

But my blog isn’t just about practical tips and advice. It’s also about celebrating our unique bond with our pets and the joy of exploring new places and experiences together. From hiking trails and beach getaways to cultural attractions and local cuisine, there’s no shortage of adventures with your pet by your side. You will find many dog-friendly locations and ideas with Zen’s pictures and videos, and we hope they will inspire you to your vacation together.

So, whether you’re a seasoned pet traveler or just starting to explore the idea of traveling with your furry friend, I invite you to join me on this journey. Let’s discover the world and all its wonders – one pawprint at a time.

Necessary Logistics Before Start Your Dog Vacation

Make a plan: Find Ideas for Different States

Ready to embark on a much-deserved dog vacation with your furry friend?

Before hitting the road, it’s essential to research your destination, accommodations, and activities to ensure they’re all dog-friendly. During car rides, plan for short stops every couple of hours for potty breaks and stretching your legs. This allows your dog to stretch, relieve themselves, expend excess energy, and stave off boredom.

dog road trip destinations

Click on the map above and explore destinations and road trips suitable for you and your dog, and tailor each itinerary to your needs. Whether you prefer shorter or longer trips, there’s something for everyone. While some states may not yet be included, we’re continually expanding our coverage.

Each destination offers exciting sights and opportunities for your dog to burn off energy accumulated during long car rides. Traveling always involves balancing different interests and priorities (unless you’re traveling alone), so I’ve included enjoyable activities for you and your furry companion in our itineraries.

Also, you can check our list of all National Parks, for more detailed information about dog friendliness.

I planned my trips with the help of BringFido but also found additional information that is included on my blog, along with video records of many destinations. Most of our destinations include planned road trip itineraries with recommended stops along the way.

Plan your car ride duration, including breaks, and ensure you’ve secured appropriate dog-friendly accommodations. Keep essential check-in information handy. Planning is crucial for solo travelers with dogs since you can’t afford to plan while driving.

Packing for Your Dog Road Trip

For those who prefer to pack light, gearing up for a vacation with your dog means preparing for both of you. To streamline your packing process, I’ve put together this handy checklist.

Download your PDF and editable DOC versions of DOG TRAVEL CHECKLIST, which you can customize to your specific needs.

Get your packing list and discover more handy tips about dog road trip essentials.

dog travel checklist

How to Prepare for Enjoyable Dog Car Rides

Preparing your dog for a road trip is essential to ensure a stress-free and enjoyable vacation for you and your furry friend. Here are some tips to help you get your dog ready for the road:

  • Get your dog used to car rides: Start by taking them on short car rides to get them used to being in the car. Then, gradually increase the duration and distance of the passages to help them become more comfortable. Make sure each trip is as enjoyable as possible and goes to some exciting new place. Use positive reinforcement techniques to reward your dog for calm and relaxed behavior during the trip. Offer praise, treats, and soothing words to create a positive association with car rides. Offer credit to your dog while driving and engage in encouraging cheerful conversation. My dog used to be very scared during his first car rides; he was barking all the ride. I was distracting him by putting small treats in front of him, and slowly, he stopped barking. Dogs will probably start connecting car rides with going to fun places and asking for more. And then you will have a real traveler, same as you are.
  • Practice good car etiquette: Always keep your dog securely restrained, whether in a crate or harness. Never let your dog ride in the front seat or stick their head out of the window, as this can be dangerous. I always have my dog in the back seat. However, it depends on the dog. Teach the dog to stay calm during rides from the beginning and reward calm behavior.

Teach Essential Manners

Help your dog learn essential manners to make every outing enjoyable with you. While commands like sit, stay, recall, and good behavior around people or other dogs aren’t mandatory for traveling with your dog, they can significantly enhance the experience. If your dog is struggling with any of these commands, remember that you can teach them anything, and both of you will be happier once you’ve mastered them. I faced a challenge with my dog being reactive to other dogs when he was a puppy, and I shared how we overcame it HERE.

Road Trip with Your Dog

  1. Creating a Comfortable Space: Place a familiar blanket or bed in a designated area in the car to ensure your dog has a cozy spot. This will help them feel secure and relaxed during the journey.
  2. Taking Regular Breaks: Dogs require frequent breaks on long trips. Plan for regular stops to allow your dog to stretch, relieve themselves, and have some water. Use these breaks as opportunities to praise and reward good behavior.
  3. Maintaining Hydration and Nutrition: To prevent car sickness, keep your dog hydrated by offering water regularly. Avoid feeding them a large meal right before the trip, but provide small, easily digestible treats during breaks.
  4. Never Leave Your Dog Alone: Never leave your dog unattended in a parked car, particularly in hot weather. Extreme temperatures can pose life-threatening risks to pets. While I avoid traveling during the hottest times, following this rule is always wise. As a solo traveler with a dog, restroom breaks can be challenging to navigate. However, I’ve found two solutions. Firstly, when stopping at a gas station, aim for the best shade or a covered area, quickly use the restroom, and refrain from lingering in the store; I usually prepare by purchasing food and drinks the evening before. Alternatively, plan your stops at pet-friendly stores like Lowe’s, where you can take your pup with you to the restroom.
  5. When arriving at a new accommodation, walk your dog to help it acclimate. Additionally, keep in mind that your dog may not attempt to mark anything inside as its territory. Once it’s accustomed to its new surroundings, it will likely settle in for a restful sleep.

Returning Home

As every vacation finishes, it is time to return home with your dog. Returning from a road trip, like leaving home, can be stressful for your dog.

  1. Rest: Allow your dog some downtime and rest after the trip. Traveling can be exhausting for them, so provide a quiet and comfortable space where they can relax and recover from the journey.
  2. Routine Stability: Reestablish your dog’s routine as soon as possible. Dogs thrive on consistency and will return to their usual feeding, exercise, and potty schedule, which will help them feel secure and settled.
  3. Attention and Affection: Spend quality time with your dog to reassure them of your love and care. Engage in regular activities, such as playing, grooming, or walking, to help them feel connected and loved.
  4. Monitor Behavior: Monitor your dog’s behavior during the reentry phase. Some dogs may experience temporary changes in behavior, such as restlessness, clinginess, or decreased appetite. If any concerning behaviors persist, consult with your veterinarian.

9 Responses

  1. Hello Sasha, I really enjoyed your blog, great information. My wife and I have two Australian Shepards and a Border Collie that go camping with use in the summer . Nothing better than the company of your dogs. I look forward to your future blogs this was a nice subject change, have a great week ahead!

    Reply

  2. Hello Sasha,
    I have no idea how many things are needed to carry your dog with you on a long journey, this is beneficial information for all of us who love dogs. I have two small one Shih Tzu and a Maltese. Thank you for sharing this valuable information. and I wish you all the best in your journey.

    Reply

    1. Thank you for your comment, @Joy. It’s so great that you are preparing food for your dog! Unfortunately, I don’t have any recipes at the moment because I haven’t had the time to prepare food for my dog. Did you get my Ultimate Food Guide? It doesn’t include recipes but offers advice on how to choose good food from what’s available on the market. Do you want to share your recipes here? I wish I had more time to create recipes!

      Reply

  4. I enjoyed reading all your ideas, all great information.cant wait to hear more from you.thank you for sharing..

    Reply

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