Global Petiquette 101: Do’s and Don’ts When Traveling with Your Dog
As more people discover the joys of pet ownership, it’s natural for them to want to bring their furry companions along on adventures of every kind.
Traveling with dogs, in particular, has become a popular trend, and many destinations have evolved in turn to accommodate this shift.
From pet-friendly airlines to hotels that roll out the red carpet for four-legged guests, the travel industry is increasingly catering to the needs of pet owners.
It’s now entirely possible to take your pup on a weekend getaway or a cross-country road trip, and you have more options for places to go than ever.
However, with the privilege of bringing your dog on the road comes the responsibility of ensuring that your pet’s behavior meets the standards of good “etiquette.”
This isn’t just about following rules—it’s ultimately about guaranteeing the safety and comfort of both your dog and others around you. Poor petiquette can lead to stressful situations for everyone involved, including your pet, other travelers, and even simple passersby.
On the flip side, a well-behaved dog and responsible pet owner both have the best chances of making any trip a pleasant experience for all.
Let’s walk through some practical travel do’s and don’ts that are applicable no matter where your adventures take you and your pup:
DO Plan Ahead
When it comes to traveling with a pet in tow, spontaneity is rarely your friend. You’ll need to plan meticulously if you want your journey to be smooth and stress-free.
Start by researching pet-friendly destinations, accommodations, and transportation options well in advance.
Not all hotels, airlines, or even public spaces are welcoming to pets, so take time to figure out where your dog will be allowed and what restrictions might apply.
You should also make sure that all your dog’s necessary travel documents, such as vaccination records, are up to date.
Check the specific requirements of your destination, especially if you’re traveling internationally.
DO Keep Your Dog Leashed in Public Areas
You might like the idea of letting your dog roam freely to enjoy the sights and smells of a new place, but doing so can quickly lead to accidents and other complications.
Many places legally require pet owners to leash their dogs in public spaces, and it’s also just a common courtesy to keep your dog secure by your side at all times.
It’s a simple but effective way to ensure that your dog stays safe and that those around you feel at ease.
If your dog has a tendency to try to slip their leash, invest in no-slip collars like PrideBites custom Martingale collars for added security.
DO Pick Up after Your Dog
Nothing sours a beautiful walk faster than stepping in something unpleasant.
It’s your responsibility as a pet owner to clean up after your pet, no matter where you are. Always carry waste bags with you and dispose of them properly.
Leaving waste behind is harmful to the environment and also reflects poorly on all pet owners.
Take this small but significant step, and you’ll be doing your part to create cleaner public spaces and maintain a positive image for the entire pet-owning community.
DO Secure Your Dog While in Transit
Whether you’re driving across town or flying across the country, your dog should be properly secured.
In a car, this means using a seat belt harness, pet carrier, or a travel crate designed for safety.
These items protect your dog in case of sudden stops or accidents and also prevent your dog from becoming a distraction while you’re driving.
If you’re flying, familiarize yourself with the airline’s pet policies and double-check that your dog’s travel crate is comfortable and meets all necessary regulations.
DON’T Leave Your Dog Unattended
It doesn’t matter if it’s in a car, a hotel room, or a public place—leaving your dog alone in unfamiliar surroundings is a recipe for disaster.
Unattended dogs can quickly become anxious, which in turn can lead to destructive behavior or even escape attempts.
In addition to being irresponsible, it’s also genuinely dangerous to leave a dog in a car, especially in warm weather when the risk of heatstroke is high.
If you need to leave your dog for a short period for any reason, entrust them to one of your travel companions or find a pet-friendly location where your dog can stay safely with supervision.
DON’T Let Your Dog Approach Others without Permission
Your dog might be friendly, but not everyone is at ease around animals. Don’t allow your dog to approach strangers without consent, as this can be uncomfortable or even dangerous.
Some people may have allergies, fears, or simply prefer to keep their distance from pets.
Moreover, other dogs may not be as sociable, which could result in a negative interaction. Always ask for permission before letting your dog greet someone, and respect their wishes if they prefer not to interact.
DON’T Ignore Signs of Stress
Travel can be overwhelming for dogs, especially in unfamiliar environments with new sights, sounds, and smells. Watch your dog closely for signs of stress, such as excessive panting, whining, restlessness, or refusal to eat.
If you ignore these signs, your dog may develop more severe anxiety, disruptive behavior, or health issues.
Take immediate action to comfort your dog if they seem stressed. That might mean offering a break, finding a quieter area, or even adjusting your travel plans.
DON’T Overlook Training
A well-trained dog is a joy to travel with, while an untrained one can turn any trip into a stressful experience.
Basic obedience training, such as responding to commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “come,” can be your best friend when you’re on the move. These commands help you maintain control over your dog in new and potentially distracting environments.
Teach your dog good manners, like not jumping on people or barking excessively, and they’ll be a welcome guest wherever you go.
It can be incredibly rewarding to travel with your dog, but don’t get so caught up in your excitement that you forget to be mindful of your pet’s behavior and the impact it has on others.
Good manners will make travel enjoyable for everyone and pave the way for more pet-friendly adventures in the future.
