We’re chatting about traveling with large breed dogs today as part of a sponsored series with The Nutro™ Company and SocialStars #HonestToDog As always, all thoughts, opinions and experiences are that of RuralMom.
Everything I initially learned about traveling with large breed dogs, I initially learned from observing my cousin. There was a time she wouldn’t go anywhere without her Labrador, Max, who easily weighed in at 90-plus pounds! Unlike smaller breeds who travel light, Max was a formidable companion requiring as much space and luggage as an elementary school child.
Planning any trip or family outing with Max in tow required extra steps like ensuring that we stayed at dog-friendly hotels and campgrounds, had adequate time for exercise, and had enough space in the vehicle for Max (and all passengers) to be comfortable.
In addition to planning ahead and carving out space for all our traveling crew, there were five important tips I picked up that have saved (and our Great Pyrenees) from headaches or discomfort during trips. Whether you are headed off on a family adventure or simply a short trip to the vet, I hope these tips will help you have a smooth ride!
Safety First – Before driving with your large breed dog, develop a plan for dealing with distractions. It’s extremely helpful to train your dog to be a good passenger ahead of time. Introduce them to vehicle slowly, making sure they readily respond to your commands before hitting the road.
If the dog is kennel trained and your vehicle is big enough to accommodate a large crate, this may be the safest option for transport. Make sure the crate is suitably sized and preferably use a model that has been safety certified. If you have a smaller vehicle and a crate is not an option, a dog seat belt or harness may be a good alternatives.
It’s also a good idea to have someone in the car with you who is devoted to taking care of the dog during your road trip. Dogs can get very nervous in vehicles and even if they have responded well on a short trip, they may not do as well on a long trip. Having someone else available to help with calming the dog and keeping the dog from distracting your driving is invaluable for everyone involved, including other drivers on the road.
Comfort Next – To help alleviate your dog’s stress and ensure a comfortable ride, bring along plenty of cushions and blankets to help pad the journey. Crate crash pads can be used, too, to provide extra support and to help minimize impact from bumps along the road. Consider having a ramp or other form of easy access to help your pet enter and exit the car during stops.
Also bring a favorite chew toy. The familiarity will help comfort the dog and the toy will also help to provide a welcome distraction and entertainment for your large breed during travel.
Pack the Essentials – Make a list of all the things your dog may need on your trip. Even on a short trip you may find yourself in need of water, treats or waste bags. It’s best for your pet to be prepared and will save you from having to make unwanted stops or expensive purchases.
When you are making your list be sure to also include all medicines, food, natural dog food like NUTRO™ ROTATIONS™, and water vessels, towels, and tags. It’s a great idea to carry a copy of vaccination records and to bring along an extra collar and leash (you’ll be super glad you have them, if and when the need arises!)
Obey the Laws – Every state has different dog laws. Be sure you know your state’s laws and that you research other states before traveling through them with your furry companions. Be sure to not only check out laws pertaining to transporting a dog in your vehicle, but also find out about leash laws. If you can’t find the laws online, call the local Sheriff’s department in the location you will be traveling to or err on the side of caution and simply use a leash, pick up after your dog and crate the pet in your vehicle throughout all of your travels.
A little time to ensure your large breed’s comfort and safety will make all of your journeys less stressful and more enjoyable for everyone.
Do you have additional tips and tricks for traveling with large breed dogs to share? We’d love to hear them!
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Wow that is a BIG dog! We have medium size ones but these are still good tips. I didn’t think about bringing vet records, will put a copy in my console!
Traveling with a big dog requires just as much forethought as traveling with another kid. We no longer have a dog, but when we did he didn’t get to travel very much because I had my hands full with 3 small children. Thanks for sharing these tips.
Interesting post! We would love to get a large dog, but at this time, we are waiting to finish some home renovations that are currently taking up all our free time. Once that slows down, we want to get a nice, big dog! Thanks for the tips!
We have a large dog named Max, too. I can’t imagine traveling with him, but if we ever do, I’ll keep these great tips in mind.
I used to travel with my black lab and she would have a tendency to try and climb over the back of the driver seat I discovered that taking chew toys and small treats to keep her entertained in the backseat was best
I have a small dog (Dachshund/lab mix) but I also make sure to always pack the essentials for my little Loki! Whenever we travel for more than 30 minutes with him in the car, we make sure to pack his blanket, water and a toy <3
That is one big dog for sure! I think you have some great tips here for people looking to travel with their big furry friends.
Holy cow, that is one HUGE and of course, adorable, dog. Our dog is medium sized (a lab mix) and she loves to go on rides in the car with us. Her max is about an hour in the car, though.
I LOVE it when people travel with their pets instead of leaving them with a friend, or worse (to me) in a kennel. Dogs are part of the family! We have a 9lb Pomeranian, who goes on airplane rides with us all the time 🙂 He’s a lil’ frequent flyer lol.
That’s awesome, Nancy! We have yet to have our dogs accompany us on a flight, but perhaps someday!
that is a big dog to bring along whilst traveling! My in-laws have a small do g and bring her everywhere – she never (EVER) stops barking though and drives me bonkers! Your pooch looks to be very gentle!
It’s a real challenge to transport large dog. These tips can really help in planning and eventually transporting them from one place to another.
What a huge dog!!! I dont have any pets but I am sure it would be nice to travel with them!
Wow that’s a big dog! My dog weighs only about 10lb, so traveling with her is easy. I never thought about the difficulties of traveling with a larger dog.
I always liked the big dogs when I was a girl. I liked small dogs too though, lol. I was just a huge dog lover. 🙂
I have a little Shih Tzu who is only 14 pounds so not as much trouble, but still takes planning. I can’t imagine having a 90 pounder in my little VW wagon.
Fitting them into a VW Wagon would be a bit challenging, sure sure! lol You are so right, no matter what the size, it pays to plan!
I love big dogs. I had a giant black labrador. She lived to be 11 years old. I’d love to have another huge dog.
Good tips. I hope to have a big dog one day and since I love to travel, I know he’ll have to come along on occasion.