NATURE FIRST · EVERYDAY LIFE
Travelling with a Dog: Safe and Relaxed
Whether a weekend trip or a holiday, with the right restraint and a little preparation the journey becomes stress-free for dog and owner alike.
Dogs must not move around freely in the car, they have to be secured, for their protection and yours. On top of that come a few simple things that make every journey more pleasant: regular breaks, water and a small travel first-aid kit. Set off well prepared and you travel more relaxed.
Especially important in summer: never leave your dog in a parked car, more on this in our article Dogs in Summer. This article does not replace veterinary advice.
At a glance
- Always secure in the car: crate or safety harness
- Regular breaks with water and a run
- Small travel first-aid kit and papers along
- Never leave alone in a parked car
Safely on the road: what matters
| Area | What to watch | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Securing in the car | The dog must be secured, moving around freely is dangerous and not allowed. | Crate to match the size or a tested safety harness with a belt. |
| Breaks | Long journeys without a break are tiring. | Stop every few hours, offer water and a short walk. |
| Provisions | Hunger and thirst on the way. | Bring water and a travel bowl, take the usual food along. |
| Travel first-aid kit | Minor ailments happen on the road. | Tick tweezers, dressing material, the usual medication, a vet contact. |
| Travel abroad | Different countries, different entry rules. | EU pet passport, vaccinations and regulations clarified with the vet in good time. |
Important: heat and rules abroad
Never let your dog wait in a parked car, even on mild days it quickly becomes dangerously hot inside. If you are planning a trip abroad, clarify entry requirements, compulsory vaccinations and the necessary papers with your veterinarian in good time.
Packing list for the trip
Forget nothing
- Crate or tested safety harness with a belt
- Water, travel bowl and the usual food
- Lead and harness, ideally with a spare
- Blanket or familiar resting place to retreat to
- Poo bags, a towel for dirty paws
- Travel first-aid kit, vaccination record and a vet contact
Frequently asked questions
How do I secure my dog correctly in the car?
With a suitable crate or a tested safety harness fastened to the belt. Moving around freely is dangerous and not allowed.
How often should I take a break on long journeys?
About every few hours. Offer water and let the dog move and relieve itself briefly.
What belongs in the travel first-aid kit?
Tick tweezers, dressing material, the usual medication and the contact for a vet. It is best to agree the contents with your practice.
What should I bear in mind when travelling abroad?
An EU pet passport, valid vaccinations and the entry requirements of the destination country. Clarify this with the vet in good time.
More knowledge about dogs
From healthy feeding to a safe environment, here you will find clear, easy guides.