9 Tips for Taking Your Dog on a Long Car Ride

Taking a your dog on a long car ride to visit a new destination is definitely an awesome and an unforgettable experience.

Taking a road trip with my dogs is also one of my favorite ways to put some adventure in your lives when the weather is less than favorable.

But there are also times we just need to drive a long time just to run some errands or visit a friend.

If you’re planning to travel with your dog in a car long distance, make sure to review these tips before you go.

Considering these things before you hit the road with your furry friend will help you both have a safer, and more enjoyable, trip.

UPDATED: January 17, 2023

Tips for Long Car Rides With Dogs

Taking a long car ride with your dog is different than just running to the store.

It takes more planning, preparation, and care while on the road.

Make sure you remember these 9 things when traveling with dogs in a car long distance.

1. Motion Sickness

Just like humans, dogs can have tummy issues due to the motion of the car.

They can also get car sick from anxiety.

Before you leave on a long car ride, make sure your dog is comfortable with short- and medium-length trips first.

If your dog gets sick or seems to not enjoying him- or herself, here are some things you can do to help.

2. Feeding Your Dog

Feeding your dog on the road may take pre-planning.

It’s best to stick close to their normal feeding schedule.

Plan for where you will be at those times and be willing to make an extra stop if necessary.

Also, feeding smaller meals (maybe throw in a bonus meal during the day instead) can help if your dog is prone to car sickness.

And don’t forget the water! Keeping your dog properly hydrated is important.

3. Safety While Traveling

The safety of your dog during the car ride is important.

To help ensure this, restrain them with crash-tested products so they don’t distract you or jump out during a quick stop, keep the lock on the window so they can’t accidentally roll it down and fall, or jump out and be hyper aware of your surroundings to avoid accidents.

Definitely make sure your pet’s ID tag is easily readable and the information is up-to-date in case they do get away.

It’s also a good idea to pack a pet first aid kit in your car.

4. Pack The Important Items

Don’t forget these 10 must-have road trip items for your dog.

In addition to items to keep your dog safe and happy, don’t forget things like music you can sing along with (my dog likes when I sing to her) and a camera to capture fun moments together.

5. Keep Your Dog Entertained

If your dog isn’t sleeping, he might get bored.

A bored dog will find a way to entertain themselves, which may mean jumping around the car distracting you, barking, or digging around in the back to find food.

It’s a good idea to have some kind of food puzzle or treat toy to keep your dog busy if they get restless.

6. Make Regular Stops

Your dog will need regular breaks to go potty and stretch their legs.

When I’m driving long distances, I can get in a zone and forget to stop.

To help me remember, I like to play dog road trip games.

7. How Does Your Dog Do Around Strangers?

Part of the fun of taking your dog along on a road trip is having them by your side wherever you go.

But remember a lot of those places – especially the touristy ones – can be crowded and noisy.

If your dog tends to be nervous or afraid around strangers, it’s best to avoid those places all together or plan to visit during off-peak hours or seasons.

8. Are the Sights You Want to See Dog Friendly?

Always verify the place you want to see welcomes dogs before you buy tickets, pay entry fees, or go at all.

If you search Google for “*sight you want to see* and “dogs,” you will usually quickly find the information.

When it comes to parks and other natural spaces, the general rules regarding dogs are:

• No matter where you visit, dogs are required to be on a six-foot, or shorter, leash.

• No matter where you go, it’s required that you pick up your dog’s poop.

• No matter where you go, dogs (except for service animals) are not allowed inside buildings or museums.

• Dogs are not allowed in National Parks except for along designated roads, in parking lots, and in campsites (no trails but you can take a scenic drive with your pup).

• Dogs are allowed on all Forest Service Land.

This includes the Forest Service land that surrounds National Parks where, sometimes. you can find amazing dog friendly trails that lead up to the park boundary and allow you to “see inside”.

• In most states, dogs are allowed in State Parks, including on trails and beaches.

However, there are some exceptions. For example, dogs are not allowed on trails in many trails in California State Parks.

• Dogs are generally allowed on land managed by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

• Dogs are usually not allowed in areas designated as protected habits for birds, marine life, or other animals like nature “preserves”.

The rules vary for private parks and outdoor exhibits – always ask first if you aren’t sure dog are allowed.

9. Have, At A Minimum, A Loose Plan

I’m all for being spontaneous.

However, if you are travelling long-distance with your dog via car, it’s good to have an idea of how many hours you plan to drive in one day and where you might be stopping for the night.

You can research ahead of time and find some dog friendly restaurants, hotels, and trails where you might be stopping.

You may end up straying from your planned itinerary but having at least a few places in mind will help your trip be stress-free.

Final Thoughts

Traveling in a car with your dog long distance can be a fun experience for both of you or it could be one you don’t forget for all the wrong reasons.

To help ensure all of the memories are good, remember these nine things and plan ahead..

A little but of pre-planning can make the trip a lot more fun.

If you’re headed to Canada, be sure to check out my tips on crossing the US-Canadian border with your dog.

If you’re headed to Mexico, be sure to check out my tips on crossing the US-Mecixo border with your dog.