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It is hard to beat a road trip with your dog as a way to explore new areas, enjoy rewarding walks, and escape the stresses of daily life – it can also save the hassle and costs of arranging a dog sitter! Planning a road trip can be challenging when you have a larger breed, so this post will offer a few tips that will help. 

Prepare the Vehicle for a Canine Passenger

First, you need to prepare the vehicle to accommodate your larger dog. Keep in mind that there will be extra load, so you should inspect the tyres and get replacement car tyres if required. You should also consider installing a barrier to stop them from moving around too much- you could also use a pet seat belt or crate if you have space. You must also pack essentials for them to be comfortable during the trip, including:

• Water bowls
• Toys
• Snacks
• Blanket

Find Dog-Friendly Accommodation

You must also plan ahead when it comes to accommodation. Many hotels and Air BnBs will accept dogs, but you should check if there are any policies about larger dog breeds. Ideally, you want to find somewhere with amenities like dog beds and easy access to outdoor areas or proximity to areas where you can take the dog for a walk. 

Plan Your Route & Stops

You should always plan your route and stops ahead of time, but it is even more important when you have a dog. You need to schedule regular stops so that the dog can stretch, hydrate, and relieve themselves. There are some apps and websites you can use to identify dog-friendly stops, parks, and attractions along the way. 

Health & Safety Considerations

Health and safety are key considerations when you are traveling with a dog. This involves making sure that they have up-to-date vaccinations and travel insurance if leaving the country. You should also have a first-aid kit with items such as bandages, antiseptic, and medications. You should never leave the dog in the car too long, especially in extreme temperatures, so try to take them with you as much as possible. You should also make sure they have a collar with up-to-date ID tags.

Hopefully, the information in this post will be useful and help you plan a fun, comfortable, and safe trip for you and your canine companion. When you own a larger breed, there is a lot more to think about when planning a road trip, so preparation is key.