Whether you are making a quick trip to the park or planning a vacation across the country the best companion is a furry friend ready for adventure! Adding a puppy to the mix does come with its challenges but with planning, patience, and flexibility your pup will be at road warrior status in no time!
Here’s what to expect and how to stay prepared when managing life on the go with a puppy.
Managing the Unexpected
The best way to prepare means being well-equipped at all times. When you’ve got a puppy, you may suddenly feel like a full-time pack mule. Leash? Check. Poop bags? Double check! Portable water bowl, treats, toys, travel crate, vaccination records? Check, check, check. Building a basic “go-bag” filled with these items as well as keeping extra towels and waste bags in your vehicle can make any trip a breeze.
Accidents, sudden barking, or overwhelming situations are all the more easy to navigate when you have the tools of training on hand. Being flexible and having a sense of humor can also help to ease any stress. Check with your vet to make sure your puppy has the necessary vaccinations or if your pup experiences motion sickness. Most of the time it’s nerves, but if they continue to struggle a veterinarian can prescribe medication to help.
Training While Traveling
Training opportunities are everywhere on an adventure! The benefits of exposing a young dog to a multitude of experiences will benefit their social development greatly. Meeting new people, visiting new places, and all the sounds and smells will help build confidence and adaptability with your guidance. Keep treats easily accessible for quick rewards especially if you are still working on potty training. Positivity, patience, and consistency go a long way when teaching your pup.
Puppies thrive on routine and while that may seem too challenging to maintain on longer trips, it’s not impossible. Focus on keeping feeding times and potty breaks as near to the same time as you can every day. It also helps to have a safe space that is all their own in your car. We recommend a crate with potty pads or towels until they are fully potty trained. Once they have the basics of training down, a crate with bedding or a seat with a harness is ideal. This provides comfort during the inevitable transitions.
Finding Pet-Friendly Stops
Before heading out, it’s helpful to research dog-friendly locations. There are many pet-welcoming hotels as well as Airbnb’s. Just make sure you understand their policies and follow their guidelines. Some only have limited availability or only allow one pet. You can also easily find pet-friendly restaurants, parks, and beaches along your route or at your destination. We recommend calling ahead to ensure information is up to date for a smoother experience and to avoid unexpected issues with access or changed policies.
Benefits of Traveling with Your Puppy
While life on the go with your newest furry friend can be unpredictable- maybe even a bit chaotic, it comes with amazing rewards. Dogs are the best companions, make the most of an adventure, and give us a wide range of memorable stories to tell. They encourage mindful breaks, time in the outdoors, and social interaction. Not many people can pass by a cute cuddly fluff ball and not start a conversation!
Deciding to bring your puppy along for the ride is well worth the effort and completely doable with a bit of foresight and flexibility. By preparing for the worst you’re bound to have the best adventure together! If you are still looking for your traveling companion check out our available litters. Each puppy is raised with love and care to prepare them for a lifetime of making memories with you.
