5 Tips for an Epic Road Trip With Your Dog

If you’ve already taken a road trip with your pup, you know there are so many things to consider. Although many people genuinely enjoy taking their dogs on the road, knowing what to bring is just the tip of the iceberg. To learn the best practices for traveling with your four-legged sidekick, jump into these five tips for an epic road trip with your dog.

Take Shorter Trips Beforehand

For puppies, their first experience in the car matters. It’s essential to make sure your puppy’s first few car rides are positive and fun! Before a long road trip, you should take them on shorter drives so they get familiar with riding along in the car.

Start with drives around town, to a park or the pet store. Once your dog seems comfortable with that, gradually increase your drive time to new cities and see how they do with spending more time in the car.

Use a Pet Barrier or Travel Crate

Many dogs love to be up close and personal with the driver. Unfortunately, this is unsafe and distracting. To keep your dog away from the front seats, you should get a pet barrier for larger dogs. A travel crate is safest for smaller pups.

However, it helps to ensure your dog is comfortable with the barrier or crate prior to the trip. Do this by using these for your shorter trips, so they have time to adjust. Otherwise, they may freak out during the long journey.

Bring Toys To Keep Them Occupied

Bringing toys and treats for your pup is crucial for an enjoyable road trip! Bones, treats, and other durable toys are great options to keep them occupied. A bored and antsy co-pilot is the last thing you want, so make sure you have your dog’s favorite items readily available to them during the trip.

Plan Out Stops for Them To Play

Planning out stops for playtime is one of the best tips for an epic road trip with your dog. Although they will also need plenty of potty breaks, playtime is vital for exercise and releasing some energy. Good areas to stop are:

• Dog parks
• National forests
• Pet-friendly, wide-open grassy spaces

Teach Them a Few Key Commands Prior

Road trips are so much easier for you if your dog is well-trained. For example, teach them to speed up their potty breaks by rewarding them with a treat and positive reinforcement when they go. The term “go potty” works well as a command for most dogs.

Another key command for your back pocket is “stay.” It ensures your dog doesn’t run off during the trip or when you stop for gas or bathroom breaks.

To prepare for your upcoming road trip with your pup, follow these tips and buy dog products online from DogGoods’ website!