Summer is travel season, and if you’re a dog lover, you can’t leave your baby behind! But traveling will be miserable for both of you if your dog is a shedder, a nervous traveler, or is too big for the space you have available. That’s why it’s important, if you know you’re a big traveler, to choose a breed that can go with you without too much distress.
We’ve assembled a list for you of dog breeds with a reputation for being good travelers. Keep in mind if you’re flying that you’ll want a breed that weighs no more than 20 pounds so it can fly in a pet carrier in the cabin with you; otherwise, it will have to fly below deck as cargo. Of course, don’t take our word for it; check with your airline for specific requirements. If you’re traveling overseas, have a look at the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service guidelines.
1. Basset Hound
Basset hounds are cuddly, wrinkly, adorable little babies. You need one in your life.
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This breed has a reputation for being affectionate and good with children, other dogs, and strangers—a wonderful quality when meeting a lot of people on a trip. It also doesn’t shed or drool much.
2. Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is alert and more than aware of how adorable it is.
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The Bichon Frise is a small dog in the toy group. They’re known to get playful and affectionate but, like many small dogs, can have a feisty streak. One disadvantage to traveling with them is that they do require at least an hour of exercise a day. But hey, you should probably have an hour of exercise a day too, right? Taking this little buddy along will prompt you to take some walks and burn off a few of those margarita calories.
3. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
If you want a gentle, friendly dog to sit by you when you travel, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is the canine for you.
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“Laid-back” is a good description of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. They’re gentle-natured and good with people and other animals. And if you like to meet people, well, this little wingman will help initiate plenty of conversations for you.
4. Cocker Spaniel
A cocker spaniel is definitely cute enough to melt hearts, if not snow.
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Cocker Spaniels are a highly trainable and intelligent dog breed, so you’ll be able to teach yours how to meet your expectations of good little travelers. They do have high separation anxiety and a tendency to bark. Just keep this in mind and make sure to provide your furball with plenty of together time with you and some toys to keep them occupied when you have to be away for brief periods.
5. English Bulldog
One of the most laid-back breeds by far is the English bulldog.
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English bulldogs were originally bred to fight bulls, but you wouldn’t know it from their temperament today. These are incredibly low-energy dogs. They can’t even muster up the will to chew on things. They’re very friendly, don’t bark much, and have low-maintenance coats. And seeing that adorable wrinkly mug will make every day a good day.
6. Maltese
The Maltese is a cuddly little handful of adorability.
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Maltese dogs are extremely small, and they don’t require very much exercise. They do have separation anxiety, though, and tend to be yappy. Keep this in mind if you want a dog that can be quiet in a kennel in a hotel room. They don’t shed much and have only a moderate energy level, so those are also travel plusses.
7. Toy Poodle
Toy poodles can be content to ride long distances, resting quietly.
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Poodles are extraordinarily smart and hypo-allergenic, and they come in convenient large and “travel” sizes. A toy poodle will take up very little space and may be content to stroll around with you in an oversized handbag. They’ll typically be observantly quiet on long car rides.
Dog Travel Tips
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Here are a few tips to help you and your buddy enjoy your travel experience together:
- Get up to date on vaccinations and take enough of your dog’s meds with you.
- If your dog frequently gets nervous or ill when traveling, talk to your vet about alternatives for safely sedating it.
- Have your vet scan your dog’s microchip to make sure it’s still working.
- If traveling abroad, take a copy of your pet’s medical records.
- Don’t pack all your dog’s food and treats away in luggage that might get lost. Keep some in your carry-on bag.
- Take dog poop bags with you and make frequent potty and exercise breaks.
- Make sure they get enough water. Traveling can dehydrate them.
- Plan accommodations in advance to make sure your pet will be welcome.
- Make sure the temperature is suitable not only for you but for the dog. Small dogs get cold (and catch cold) easily, while large furry ones can overheat.
