Top Tips for Settling Your Dog When Taking Them With You on Holiday

Taking your dog with you on holiday is one of the most rewarding ways to travel. From beach strolls to countryside adventures, bringing your furry companion along makes the experience more meaningful — but it does come with a few extra responsibilities. Dogs thrive on routine and familiarity, so new sights, smells, and environments can sometimes be overwhelming.

To help you and your four-legged friend enjoy a smooth and stress-free trip, we’ve rounded up our top tips for settling your dog when taking them with you on holiday.

If your dog isn’t used to long journeys, it’s important to build up their confidence before the holiday. Travel — whether by car, train, or plane — can be daunting if it’s unfamiliar.

Top tips:

• Practice Runs: Start with short trips around your local area. Gradually extend the journey length to help your dog become more comfortable.
  
  

• Crate Confidence: If using a crate, begin crate training well in advance. Make it a cosy, positive place with treats and toys.
  
  

• Positive Associations: Bring along a favourite toy or chew to provide comfort and distraction.
  
  

• Motion Sickness Prevention: Avoid feeding a big meal just before travel and speak to your vet if your dog shows signs of nausea or anxiety in transit.
  
  

• Ventilation and Comfort: Ensure your dog has fresh air, shade, and space to stretch, especially on long drives.

Pro tip: Plan for breaks every 2-3 hours on road trips so your dog can stretch, hydrate, and go to the toilet.

Packing for your dog is just as important as packing for yourself. Beyond food and leads, familiar items can help reduce stress and give them a sense of home.

Top tips:

• Food & Treats: Stick with their regular diet to prevent digestive upsets. Bring extra in case of delays or limited availability.
  
  

• Medication: Include flea and worming treatments, calming supplements (if needed), and any ongoing prescriptions.
  
  

• Comfort Items: Familiar scents matter! Bring their favourite blanket, toy, or even an old T-shirt with your scent to help soothe them.
  
  

• Sleep Setup: Whether it's their usual bed or a travel-friendly alternative, consistency helps your dog settle at night.
  
  

• ID Tags & Paperwork: Ensure your dog’s microchip info is up to date and pack vaccination records, especially if crossing borders or staying in regulated accommodations.

Dogs feel safest when they know what to expect. While your own schedule might be more flexible on holiday, maintaining elements of your dog’s daily routine can help keep them grounded.

Top tips:

• Meal Times: Feed at the same times each day to maintain stability.
  
  

• Walk Schedule: Morning and evening walks at similar times to home life will help them feel reassured.
  
  

• Playtime & Training: Incorporate your usual games and commands — familiar interaction helps build confidence.
  
  

• Sleep Cues: Keeping bedtime and wind-down rituals consistent can help them relax in a new environment.

Even small elements of routine go a long way in creating a sense of normality.

The first few hours in a new place can be confusing for your dog. Helping them feel secure in the holiday home will make a huge difference.

Top tips:

• Let Them Sniff: Give them time to explore the area calmly and on lead first, especially indoors.
  
  

• Safe Zone: Set up a dedicated area where they can relax, away from loud noises or foot traffic. Include their bed, toys, and water bowl.
  
  

• Puppy-Proofing: Check for hazards such as open balconies, unsecured bins, or toxic plants.
  
  

• Comfort & Calm: Use calming supplements, enrichment toys, or a filled Kong to help them relax while you unpack or settle in.

If you're staying in shared accommodation or a busy location, try to choose the quietest room in the house for your dog’s space.

One of the joys of holidaying with your dog is experiencing new adventures together — but it takes a bit of planning to make sure they're welcome and safe.

Top tips:

• Local Research: Check ahead for dog-friendly beaches, walking trails, cafés, pubs, and attractions. A quick call or website check can save disappointment.
  
  

• Weather Warnings: Avoid the midday heat, especially in summer. Early morning or evening walks are ideal.
  
  

• Pack for Day Trips: Bring water, a collapsible bowl, waste bags, treats, and a cooling mat or jacket in warm weather.
  
  

• Backup Plan: Have an option for rest days too — a bored or overtired dog is more likely to become unsettled.

If you’re visiting busier towns or cities, plan quiet breaks in parks or green spaces to give your dog a chance to decompress.

Even with the best preparation, things can go off-script. Planning ahead will help you manage any curveballs with confidence.

Top tips:

• Vet Details: Note down the location and contact number of the nearest vet at your destination.
  
  

• Emergency Kit: Include tweezers, antiseptic wipes, and bandages in case of minor injuries.
  
  

• Local Rules: Be aware of local dog laws — lead requirements, beach access hours, or leash-free zones can vary.
  
  

• Lost Pet Plan: Ensure your dog is wearing an ID tag and consider a GPS tracker. A recent photo can also help if they go missing.

Peace of mind is priceless when you’re far from home.

It’s easy to overlook how sensitive dogs can be to change. Even the most confident pup might feel uncertain in a new place.

Top tips:

• Read Their Cues: Watch for signs of stress such as pacing, panting, whining, or hiding.
  
  

• Offer Comfort: Stay close by, speak softly, and give gentle reassurance.
  
  

• Positive Reinforcement: Reward calm behaviour with treats or affection — it helps build their confidence.
  
  

• Slow & Steady: Let your dog explore new places at their own pace. Avoid crowded or noisy environments until they feel more at ease.

Remember, your calm presence is the most comforting thing you can bring on holiday.

Bringing your dog on holiday is a wonderful way to strengthen your bond and share new experiences together — but it also comes with a bit of responsibility. A change in surroundings, routine, and even climate can be unsettling for your dog, so it’s important to plan ahead and be mindful of their needs throughout the trip.

By following these top tips for settling your dog when taking them with you on holiday, you’re laying the groundwork for a positive and enjoyable experience for everyone involved. From packing the right gear to maintaining a consistent routine and offering plenty of reassurance, small efforts can make a big difference in helping your dog feel secure and relaxed.

Don’t forget — holidays are meant to be fun! Try not to stress too much if things don’t go perfectly. Dogs are incredibly intuitive and often mirror your mood, so staying calm and flexible will help them feel more at ease. Whether you’re exploring new hiking trails, relaxing by the sea, or enjoying dog-friendly cafes together, these shared moments will create lasting memories.

And if your dog needs a little extra support — whether it’s for travel anxiety, adjusting to new environments, or relaxing after a busy day — there are gentle, natural solutions that can help. Our calming range is specially designed to support your dog’s wellbeing, so you both can make the most of your holiday adventures.

Here’s to wagging tails, peaceful naps, and plenty of tail-wagging fun on your next getaway!

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