Which Dog Breeds Are Nervous Travelers: If you’ve ever had to take a long car ride with your dog, you know that it can be an anxious experience for both of you.
Some breeds are just naturally more anxious travelers than others, and understanding which ones tend to have this trait can help you plan ahead when traveling with your pup.
From small lap dogs to large guard dogs, here are some of the dog breeds that may need extra care and comfort while traveling.
The Stress Of Flying For Dogs (Which Dog Breeds Are Nervous Travelers)
Flying can be an especially stressful experience for dogs, as they are naturally sensitive to changes in their environment.
The combination of a noisy cabin, strange smells, and unfamiliar people can all add to their anxiety.
Dogs may also become agitated by turbulence or the pressure changes during takeoff and landing while on a plane.
Some breeds may find it difficult to stay calm during flight, no matter how much comfort and reassurance you offer.
Small Lap Dogs
Small lap dogs such as Chihuahuas, Toy Poodles, and Yorkshire Terriers can be especially nervous travelers due to their size and the unfamiliar environment.
These breeds tend to feel more vulnerable while traveling and may become easily overwhelmed by loud noises or unfamiliar people.
In order to help them stay calm during a car ride, they should be provided with a comfortable area in the car where they can relax without being disturbed.
It is also important to remember that even if your small dog isn’t showing signs of distress, it doesn’t mean they aren’t feeling anxious.
Being aware of your pet’s body language is key when traveling with this type of breed.
When flying with your lap dog, make sure that you have all the necessary items such as a crate or travel bag for them to use during the flight.
It is also important that they are able to move around freely inside the crate throughout the entire flight. If possible, try to book an aisle seat near your pet so that you can keep an eye on them during takeoff and landing.
Providing your lap dog with plenty of positive reinforcement before and after take-off may also help reduce their stress and anxiety while flying on a trip.
Medium Sized Breeds
Medium sized breeds such as Beagles, Labradors, and Golden Retrievers may have an easier time traveling than small lap dogs, but they can still be prone to anxiety.
These breeds are generally quite active and can become restless if confined for long periods of time. When traveling in the car with a medium sized breed, it’s important that you provide them with enough space to move around comfortably.
If possible, try to use a crate or travel bag that is large enough for them to stand up and turn around in.
In addition to having enough space to move around freely, it’s also important to give medium sized breeds plenty of breaks during long car rides.
Taking regular stops will allow your pup to stretch their legs and get some fresh air which can help reduce their stress levels.
It’s also important to make sure that they have access to water at all times during the trip so they don’t become dehydrated.
When flying with your medium sized breed make sure that you book a direct flight if possible as this will help reduce the amount of stress on your pup.
If you must take a connecting flight then be sure to allow ample time between flights for your pup to get out and stretch their legs.
Making sure that they have plenty of treats on hand for when they get nervous may also help keep them calm during takeoff and landing.
Large Guard Dogs
Large guard dogs such as German Shepherds, Rottweilers, and Dobermans are typically known for being protective and alert.
While traveling with a large guard dog, it is important to be aware of their strength and size.
These breeds may become agitated easily in unfamiliar or crowded environments, so it is important to provide them with space to move around freely.
When traveling in the car with a large breed dog, it’s best to use crates or travel bags that are large enough for them to move around comfortably.
When flying with your large guard dog, make sure you book direct flights if possible and allow ample time between flights for your pup to get out and stretch their legs.
Giving them plenty of exercise before the flight is also recommended as this will help keep them relaxed during takeoff and landing.
Offering treats throughout the flight may also help keep them calm as they associate the treats with positive reinforcement.
In addition, having an extra person accompany your pup during the flight can be beneficial as they can help comfort your pup if they become overwhelmed or anxious during takeoff or landing.
It is also important to remember that large breeds require more frequent potty breaks than smaller lap dogs due to their size and energy levels.
Therefore, it’s essential that you plan ahead by scheduling regular stops while traveling long distances in order to prevent accidents from occurring inside the car or plane.
Lastly, keeping some familiar items such as toys or blankets from home can help ease any anxiety your pup may feel while flying and will make their trip much more enjoyable!
Before You Get On The Plane
No matter what size or breed of dog you have, it’s important to plan ahead when traveling with your pup.
Providing them with enough space and frequent potty breaks is essential for their comfort and wellbeing while traveling.
Offering treats throughout the trip can also help keep them calm during takeoff and landing, as well as providing familiar items from home that may help ease any anxiety they feel.
With a little bit of planning and preparation, both you and your pup can enjoy a stress-free journey.