Traveling with your dog is always fun, we know! We love dogs. Dogs are awesome and they are great friends. However, they require a little more attention when traveling because cars technically are not designed to have dogs as passengers, and also dogs can’t talk and tell us if they need anything or are uncomfortable or something. So, here’s our handy guide to traveling with your doggo and making sure they are having a great time along the way!

First, if you have a sick dog, don’t make them travel with you. Take them to the vet, and then find a dogsitter or a place for them to stay while you are traveling.

Make sure your dog has plenty of water to drink while you’re on the road. In order to have the chance to drink, you’re going to have to stop reasonably frequently. The water you have on hand should either be distilled water or water from home (that your dog is used to drinking). Food is a no-no until you arrive, to minimize puking risk.

If you travel with your dog in a crate, make sure that the crate is large enough for your dog to stand up, sit down, turn around, and lie down in. Make sure there are soft blankets or towels and a favorite toy in the crate for their comfort.

If you don’t keep your dog in a crate, invest in a harness tie-down so that your dog can’t wander around and injure themselves.

Dogs love to stick their heads out the window, but this is a bad idea. Bugs, dust, debris, and other random junk can fly into their eyes and ears and cause injury. Keep the window open enough for them to get fresh air, but they shouldn’t have their heads out the window.

Stop often for potty breaks, water breaks, and exercise. Not only for your pupper, but for you too!