The Dog Lover‘s Guide to Picking the Perfect Travel Companion

As a lifelong dog lover and avid traveler, I‘ve been lucky enough to explore the world with a variety of wonderful canine companions by my side. From the sunny beaches of San Diego to the cobblestone streets of Prague, my adventures have been immeasurably enriched by sharing them with a dog.

In the past, traveling with pets was seen as cumbersome and impractical. But as more and more dog owners refuse to leave their furry family members behind, the travel industry is rapidly evolving to meet our needs. A recent TripAdvisor survey found that over half (53%) of pet owners plan to travel with their pets in the coming year, up from just 20% a decade ago.

The economic impact of this pet travel boom is huge. According to a report by the American Pet Products Association, pet owners spent $69.51 billion on their animals in 2018, with pet travel accounting for a sizable portion. Dog-friendly hotels, restaurants, parks, and attractions are springing up everywhere to capture their share of this growing market.

But to fully enjoy the benefits of traveling with a dog, you need to pick the right companion. As someone who has logged thousands of miles with canines of all shapes and sizes, I know firsthand that the ideal travel dog should be:

• Adaptable and confident in new environments
• Friendly and gentle with strangers
• Quiet and calm indoors
• Able to handle moderate exercise
• Easy to groom and maintain

While individual personality plays a role, some breeds consistently exhibit more of these globe-trotting traits than others. To help you find your perfect travel partner, I‘ve compiled a list of the best dog breeds for adventurous owners, based on wisdom gleaned from my own travel experiences and bolstered by guidance from veterinary and pet travel experts.

Top Dog Breeds for Jet-Setting

For maximum portability and convenience, you can‘t beat a small dog. These tiny companions are well-suited for air travel, as they can ride in the cabin with you tucked discreetly under the seat. Compact canines also tend to be lower-energy and adapt more quickly to new spaces.

Here are some of the best petite pooches for hitting the road:

I fondly recall traversing Italy by train with my jet black Toy Poodle, Sophie. She was a born adventurer, always eager to hop into her carrier for a new expedition. Thanks to her tiny size and quiet demeanor, Sophie was welcome almost everywhere, from the iconic museums of Florence to the cliffside restaurants of the Amalfi Coast. Her presence encouraged me to strike up conversations with locals and explore places I might have overlooked as a solo traveler.

Best Medium and Large Breeds for Outdoor Excursions

For more active travelers interested in hiking, camping, and other athletic pursuits, a bigger dog may be a better fit. Medium and large dogs have the stamina to keep up with you on long treks and the strength to handle more challenging terrain. Look for a breed with a sturdy build, weather-resistant coat, and a nose for adventure.

These larger dogs are up for accompanying you on any quest:

One of my most memorable trips was an RV excursion through the American Southwest with my intrepid Australian Shepherd mix, Bandit. This dog was born to be a nomad, always the first one to bound out of the camper each morning, ready for the day‘s activities. Together we hiked the hoodoos of Bryce Canyon, explored ancient Pueblo cliff dwellings at Mesa Verde, and marveled at the raw beauty of the Grand Canyon. Having Bandit along deepened my connection to the natural world in a profound way.

Making Every Trip a Tail-Wagging Good Time

Of course, traveling with a dog isn‘t all scenic selfies and heart-warming moments. It requires diligent planning, creative problem-solving, and a healthy dose of patience. But for dog lovers like you and me, the rewards of sharing new experiences with our loyal companions far outweigh the challenges.

Before setting off on your next excursion, remember to:

• Ensure your dog is healthy enough for travel. Schedule a vet exam to get required vaccinations and health certificates, especially for air travel or crossing borders. Consider pet insurance in case of emergencies.
• Prepare your pup for the journey. Work on skills like settling quietly in new environments, calmly meeting strangers, and eliminating on cue. The more you practice these behaviors at home, the easier they‘ll be on the road.
• Pack all the essentials. Bring your dog‘s usual food, bowls, leash, waste bags, grooming tools, medications, and a few favorite toys or comfort objects. Don‘t forget a canine first-aid kit tailored to your destination.
• Choose your accommodations wisely. Not all hotels allow pets, and even dog-friendly properties may have size limits or require a deposit. Call ahead to confirm policies and get recommendations for nearby dog parks, trails, groomers, and emergency vets.
• Be a considerate guest. Always clean up after your dog, keep them leashed in public areas, and try to minimize barking or other disruptive behaviors. The reputation you create reflects on dog owners everywhere.

Resources for Dog-Friendly Travel

Feeling inspired to plan your own canine expedition? Check out these helpful resources to get started:

• BringFido – A searchable directory of dog-friendly hotels, restaurants, attractions and more, plus user reviews and photos.
• Pet Travel – Offers pet policies for over 175 airlines, along with tips for flying with dogs internationally.
• Rover – A network of trusted local sitters and dog walkers in cities around the globe, in case you need to leave your pup for a few hours.
• DogTrekker – A comprehensive guide to traveling with your dog in California, a mecca for canine-friendly adventures.
• The Ultimate Pet Friendly Road Trip by Amy and Rod Burkert – Part memoir, part guidebook, this Amazon best-seller follows one couple‘s 15,000 mile journey across America with their two dogs.

As someone who has built a career around a passion for pets, I can attest that one of the greatest joys in life is experiencing the world through the eyes of a dog. They have a knack for finding magic in the mundane and a zest for new discoveries that can awaken the puppy-like wonder in all of us.

So what are you waiting for? There‘s a great big beautiful world out there, and it‘s even better by the side of a furry friend. With a little preparation and an adventurous spirit, you and your dog can blaze a trail full of unforgettable moments together. Just grab a leash and get going!