Most of us love to travel. Whether it’s for adventure, learning about the world, or simply escaping your normal life, there’s always a reason to travel. However, what happens when you’re a dog owner? Do you take your pets with you, or leave them with a dog sitter at home?
Regardless of their shape or size, dogs also love to travel too, mainly for the purpose of an adventure. And they can actually make an awesome companion on your travels as well, regardless of the mode of transportation. And these dogs aren’t only limited to the smallest breeds either.
Here are 10 dog breeds that make for the perfect travel companion.
First, a word about air travel
Different airlines have their own set of rules and regulations when it comes to pet travel. However, most airlines allow you to travel with your dog in the cabin, as long as your pet is safe inside a pet carrier, and that the pet carrier is able to be stowed underneath the seat in front. Additionally, the dog would have to weigh less than 20 pounds. If your dog weights over 20 pounds, then it would have to fly in the cargo compartment.
However, as mentioned before, each airline has their own sets of rules. So always make sure you call ahead and check with the airline to confirm the travelling requirements.
Travelling on the road
You should always ensure that your dog is restrained properly. This can be achieved by keeping your dog inside a crate or a pet carrier. Alternatively, you can also use seatbelt attachments that are designed for pets. You can reduce your dog’s car sickness by having him/her travel on a near empty stomach. But always make sure they have access to water. For more tips and tricks on preparing your dog for a road trip, read here.
Now here are 10 dog breeds that make for the perfect travel companion.
1. Bichon Frise
You have probably come across people travelling with Bichon Frises on your own travels. This breed is one of the most popular for travel-lovers due to their small size, and thus their ability to travel in small spaces. Additionally, Bichon Frises have a mellow temperament, which makes them a great companion on long trips.
2. Maltese
If you fly frequently and are thinking about taking your dog with you, then the Maltese might be the one for you. A Maltese usually only grows to around 7 to 12 inches tall, and weighs between 4 to 8 pounds, making them the ideal companion on a plane. Furthermore, their sweet-natured and calm personality makes them tolerant to confined spaces.
3. Yorkshire Terrier.
Yorkshire Terriers are among the smallest types of terriers, which makes them easy to travel with in confined spaces. Their social nature also makes them an ideal breed to travel with, as they are more than happy to travel together with their owners.
4. Australian Terrier
The second terrier type breed on our list, Australian Terriers are probably the most perfect dog companion for flyers. Not only are they small, their obedient personality allows them to be left alone longer than their other terrier counterparts.
5. Border Terrier
The last terrier breed on this list, the Border Terrier is a British breed that is suited for travel. Their small size allows them to travel in confined spaces. However, unlike the Australian Terrier, Border Terriers should not be left alone for extended periods of time. If they get bored, they can become destructive and a nuisance.
6. Portugese Water Dog
Portugese Water Dogs are some of the easiest dogs to train due to their obedient nature and pleasing personality. They would probably get used to travelling in confined spaces quicker than you would get used to travelling with a pet. Additionally, as they dont shed hair, you wouldn’t have to worry about getting dog hairs all over your car.
Bigger breeds
Although these breeds probably won’t be able to travel with you in the cabin of a plane (they can still travel in the cargo hold), they make for great companions on road trips. Although you probably want to plan a few rest stops in order for them to stretch their legs.
7. Clumber Spaniel
You might not think that these medium sized dogs are a good travel companion due to their size. However, their soft mane and easy going personality makes them a great cuddly companion for children.
8. Golden Retriever
The Golden Retriever is probably the most popular dog breed in the world, and it’s not hard to see why. They are obedient, friendly, and easy going. These characteristics are also why they are a good companion to have on the road.
9. Labrador Retriever
The second retriever breed on this list, the Labrador Retriever is more active than their Golden counterparts. Which means that they will be more than eager to get in the car for an adventure. Not only are these medium sized dogs gentle and smart, they are also obedient and easy to train, making them ideal for road trips.
10. Great Dane
Last but not least, is the Great Dane. They are also called the gentle giants, and it’s not hard to see why. Their loving and gentle temperament makes them the ideal companion for road trips. The biggest issue you’ll have when travelling with Great Danes is whether or not they’ll be able to fit in the car.
Do you want to learn a more effective way of training your dog? Read here!