Best Dogs for Travel: Top 10 Amazing Travel Companions

Whether you love weekend road trips or big adventures far from home, traveling with your dog makes the journey special. Many dog owners don’t want to leave their pets behind. But choosing the right dog for travel is more than just picking a small one that fits in a carrier. It’s important to think about a dog’s personality and energy too. Some dogs love new places and travel easily, making your trips more fun and less stressful. If you want a furry friend who will be a great travel companion, this guide will help. Here, you’ll find the best dogs for travel — breeds that enjoy exploring and can keep up with your adventurous spirit. Let’s find your perfect travel buddy!

Table of Contents

• What Makes a Dog Great for Travel?
• Top 10 Best Dogs for Travel
• Tips for Traveling with Your Dog
• Dog Travel Gear and Essentials
• Conclusion
• FAQs

What Makes a Dog Great for Travel?

Not all dogs like to travel, but the best dogs for travel have some common traits. Size is important—small to medium dogs are easier to carry and fit better in travel crates. Temperament also matters a lot. Travel-friendly dogs are calm, friendly, and can adjust well to new places. It’s easier to travel with dogs that are healthy and don’t need a lot of grooming. Dogs with moderate energy levels who can relax in a crate or car make the best travel companions. These traits help make trips smoother and more enjoyable for both you and your dog.

Top 10 Best Dogs for Travel

Here are ten dog breeds that make excellent travel companions:

1. Chihuahua

Chihuahuas are great for people who want a small, easy-to-carry dog. Their tiny size means you can take them almost anywhere—on planes, in cars, or in small carriers. Even though they are small, they have big personalities. They love being close to their owners and stay alert, making them good travel buddies. Because they don’t need a lot of exercise, they can relax during long trips. You can easily hold a Chihuahua on your lap during flights or walks through busy airports. If you want a dog that is both portable and lively, a Chihuahua is a smart choice. Their small size means they fit well in cramped spaces and travel gear, helping your trips feel less stressful.

2. French Bulldog

French Bulldogs are calm and easy to handle while traveling. They are not very energetic, so they stay relaxed in cars, planes, and hotels. They love being with their people and adjust well to new places. Because they are small to medium in size, they fit comfortably in carriers and don’t take up much space. Frenchies don’t need much exercise, so they fit well with different travel plans. They rarely bark or make noise, which helps when you are in public or close quarters. If you want a laid-back dog that enjoys company and travels without fuss, the French Bulldog is a perfect match.

3. Poodle Mix

Poodle mixes, like Cockapoos or Labradoodles, are smart and calm, making them great travel dogs. They learn new habits quickly and adjust well to changes, which helps reduce travel stress. These breeds are also good for people with allergies because they shed less. Their medium size means they are easy to take along on trips without feeling too small or big. Poodle mixes like to be with their owners and get along well with other people. Their curly coats need some brushing, but they help keep your travel bags clean. For travelers who want a smart, friendly, and allergy-friendly dog, a Poodle mix is a great choice.

4. Staffordshire Bull Terrier

Staffordshire Bull Terriers are strong, loyal, and brave, making them great travel friends. They can handle new places well and don’t get scared easily. This breed loves being with their owners and stays calm when traveling. Though they are muscular, they are not too big and can fit well in most travel spaces. They have lots of energy but can settle down during trips if given regular exercise breaks. Staffordshire Bull Terriers are friendly with people and other dogs, so they make good company in public places. If you want a brave and loving dog to join your travels, this breed is an excellent pick.

5. Jack Russell Terrier

Jack Russell Terriers are small but full of energy. They love to explore and are perfect for active travelers. Their size makes it easy to carry them, but they also enjoy running and playing outside. Because they have a lot of energy, they need breaks for exercise when you travel. They adjust well to new places and are very curious. Jack Russells are smart and alert, so they stay involved in what’s happening around them. If you enjoy hiking, beach trips, or long walks during travel, a Jack Russell will keep up and be a fun companion.

4. Yorkshire Terrier

Yorkshire Terriers, or Yorkies, are small and brave dogs that travel well. Their compact size fits easily in carriers, making planes and cars simple to manage. Though tiny, they have strong personalities and handle new places confidently. Yorkies love staying close to their owners, which helps them feel safe while traveling. Their long, silky fur needs some grooming, but they don’t shed much, so your travel gear stays cleaner. They are alert and can be quiet watchdogs without being noisy. If you want a small dog with lots of courage and affection, Yorkies are a great choice.

5. Maltese

Maltese dogs are gentle and loving, making them perfect for travel with a little preparation. Their small size means they fit well into travel carriers and on laps. They enjoy being held and comforted, so bringing favorite toys or blankets helps them feel at home. While their fur needs regular grooming, it keeps them clean during trips. Maltese dogs are calm, which helps them stay relaxed on planes or in cars. They bond closely with their owners and like to be near them. If you want a sweet, quiet dog to travel with, a Maltese can be a wonderful friend.

6. Miniature Schnauzer

Miniature Schnauzers are strong and smart, good for many kinds of travel. Their size is just right—not too big but tough enough for outdoor walks and new places. They learn fast and adjust well to travel routines at hotels or airports. Their coat needs some brushing but doesn’t shed too much, helping keep your bags tidy. Miniature Schnauzers are friendly but protective, so they watch out for you in busy places. They have medium energy levels, so they suit active or relaxed travelers. If you want a loyal, adaptable dog for your trips, a Miniature Schnauzer is a solid choice.

7. Australian Kelpie

Australian Kelpies are very active and smart dogs. They love outdoor adventures like hiking or camping, making them great for travelers who enjoy nature. Their size is medium, so they travel well by car or plane. Their coat protects them from the weather, so they can handle different climates. Kelpies are eager to learn and adjust to new travel routines quickly. They need plenty of exercise to stay happy, so they suit active people who like to explore. If you want a lively, loyal dog to share your outdoor trips, the Australian Kelpie is a great partner.

8. Labrador Retriever

Labrador Retrievers are larger dogs but calm and friendly, good for families who travel by car. They love being around people and are gentle with kids and strangers. Labs handle long car rides well and are patient in hotels or new places. Their short coat is easy to care for and helps keep things clean. Labs enjoy walks and playtime, so daily exercise helps them stay happy on trips. They are very loyal and easy-going, making them great companions for family vacations. If you want a loving, steady dog who enjoys road trips, a Lab is an excellent choice.

These breeds balance size, personality, and adaptability to keep you both happy on the go.

Tips for Traveling with Your Dog

Traveling with your dog can be a wonderful experience, but it takes some planning to keep things smooth and stress-free. Here are some simple, helpful tips to make your trip enjoyable for both you and your furry friend.

Pack the Essentials
Before you leave, be sure to pack all the basics your dog will need. This includes enough food and water for the journey, a leash, and any medications your pet requires. Don’t forget bowls for feeding and drinking, plus some waste bags to clean up after your dog on the road. Bringing familiar toys or blankets can comfort your dog in new places and help them feel at home.

Visit the Vet
A quick check-up with your veterinarian before traveling is important. Make sure your dog is healthy and all vaccinations are up-to-date. Your vet can give you specific advice for your destination and may recommend certain medications or treatments to reduce travel anxiety or motion sickness.

Practice Crate Training
If you plan to use a crate during travel, start training your dog well in advance. The crate should feel like a safe, cozy space — a place where your dog is happy and relaxed. Use treats and toys to encourage your dog to spend time in the crate. Short practice trips will help them get used to being inside for longer stretches.

Take Breaks on Long Car Rides
During long drives, stop regularly to let your dog stretch, get some fresh air, and take bathroom breaks. Exercise helps reduce restlessness and keeps your dog comfortable. Remember to secure your dog safely during the drive using a harness, crate, or pet seatbelt to keep both of you safe.

Prepare for Air Travel
If flying, check airline pet policies carefully before booking. Each airline has its own rules about crate sizes, fees, and where your dog will travel — in the cabin or cargo hold. Help your dog get ready by doing short practice flights or trips in their travel carrier, so the experience feels less scary. On travel day, keep your dog calm and comfortable with familiar items and plenty of reassurance.

By planning ahead and following these tips, traveling with your dog can be a fun and rewarding adventure. Your furry friend will appreciate your care, and you’ll both enjoy many happy journeys together.

Dog Travel Gear and Essentials

Having the right gear makes all the difference. Consider investing in:

• Quality travel carriers that meet airline regulations
• Harness and leash for secure control
• Portable water and food bowls to stay hydrated and fed
• Travel beds or blankets for comfort
• First aid kit just in case

These essentials keep your dog safe and comfortable no matter where you go.

Conclusion

Traveling with dogs opens up a world of adventure and companionship. By choosing the best dogs for travel and preparing carefully, you can ensure every trip is filled with fun and happy memories. Think about your lifestyle and your dog’s personality when choosing a travel buddy. Now, pack your bags and get ready to explore new places together!

Safe travels and happy tails!

FAQs