Quick answer: never let your dog ride loose. Secure them with a booster seat or a seat-belt tether clipped to a harness, stop every 2–3 hours for water and a short walk, and never leave your dog alone in a parked car.
1. Secure your dog in the car
An unsecured dog can distract the driver and get hurt during a sudden stop. Choose the setup that fits your dog:
- Small dogs: a booster car seat lifts them up to see out the window and keeps them in one spot. Ours holds dogs up to 25 lb and includes a safety tether.
- Medium and large dogs: a seat-belt leash clipped to a harness on the back seat.
- Anxious dogs: a familiar blanket or bed can make the space feel safer.
Important: always clip car tethers to a harness, never to a collar.
2. Keep your dog hydrated
Bring fresh water and offer it at every stop. A portable pet water bottle with a built-in drinking tray is the easiest way to give water without a mess, and a collapsible travel bowl works for meals.
3. Plan rest stops
- Stop every 2–3 hours for a short walk and a bathroom break.
- Keep your dog on a leash at rest areas, even if they're well trained.
- Feed a light meal a few hours before you leave to help prevent car sickness.
4. Never leave your dog in a parked car
A car can heat up quickly, even on a mild day with the windows cracked. If you need to stop somewhere your dog can't come in, take them with you or take turns.
Dog road trip packing checklist
- Harness, leash and ID tag with your phone number
- Car seat or seat-belt tether
- Water bottle and collapsible bowl
- Food, treats and any medications
- Waste bags and paper towels
- A familiar blanket, bed or toy
- A copy of vaccination records
Going camping? A waterproof inflatable dog bed rolls up small and keeps your dog off cold, damp ground.
FAQ
Where should my dog sit in the car?
The back seat is the safest place for dogs. If you use the front seat for a small dog, follow the car seat's instructions and never place a dog in front of an active airbag.
How do I help a dog that gets car sick?
Start with short, positive trips, keep the car cool and well ventilated, and avoid a big meal right before driving. If it continues, ask your veterinarian.
