How I Keep My Dog Safe and Happy on the Road: Real Tips from Our Adventures

By a dog mom who’s always got a leash in one hand and a travel mug in the other

There’s nothing quite like the feeling of rolling down the windows, a good playlist humming through the speakers, and your dog’s head sticking out into the wind—ears flapping, tongue out, full joy mode activated. My pup, Willow, is my ultimate road trip partner. From Arizona’s red rocks to the piney woods of East Texas, we’ve covered thousands of miles together. But as dreamy as those road trips are, I’ve learned that keeping her safe and comfortable in the car takes a little planning—and a lot of love.

Here’s what I’ve learned over the years about traveling with my dog that keeps our adventures stress-free (and tail-wag approved):

🐶 1. Choose the Right Restraint — Safety First!

I used to let Willow hop freely around the backseat... until one hard brake changed my mind forever. Now, she rides either in her travel crate or buckled in with a dog seat belt harness—depending on the length of the trip.

• For longer road trips, I use a well-ventilated travel crate that's just big enough for her to turn around and lie down comfortably. It’s placed in the back seat or secured in the cargo area of my SUV.

• On shorter drives or when space is tight, I use a seat belt harness that clips into the car’s existing buckle system. It keeps her secure without limiting her comfort.

Bottom line? A restrained dog = a safer dog. And peace of mind for me.

Travel Safe with Harnesses & Seat Belts

After one too many wobbly turns, I upgraded Willow to a secure harness and seat belt combo. Now she stays buckled in, comfy, and safe—whether we’re on city streets or winding mountain roads.

➡️ Check out our Reflective Harness & Leash Set – it’s adjustable, breathable, and has a handle for extra control at rest stops.

💦 2. Hydration on the Go

Dehydration can sneak up quickly, especially in warmer states like Arizona or Texas. I keep a collapsible travel bowl and a leak-proof water bottle in the car at all times. Willow knows the drill—every rest stop or scenic view is a hydration break.

Bonus tip: If we’re driving through hotter regions, I also toss in a small cooling towel for her to lie on during stops. Game changer.

Stay Hydrated with Easy Travel Bottles

I never leave home without our portable water bottle with strap. It’s lightweight, leak-proof, and easy to carry on hikes or road breaks. Willow knows when she sees it, it’s time for a sip!

➡️ Grab your dog-friendly water bottle from our shop – perfect for road trips, walks, and park play!

 

🍗 3. Don’t Forget the Snacks (for both of us!)

I keep a small snack bag packed just for Willow. It includes:

Her favorite grain-free treats
A small container of kibble
A chew toy or two to keep her busy when we’re stuck in traffic

Not only does this keep her from getting hangry (yes, that’s a thing), but it also helps distract her during stressful moments like city driving or loud truck stops. And for me? I’ve learned to pack healthy snacks I can eat one-handed—because holding the leash and a breakfast burrito never ends well.

Pack the Snacks

Willow’s go-bag always includes her favorite snacks and a chew toy. I store them in a small pouch with a collapsible travel bowl, which takes up almost no space but saves the day every time.

 

🛏️ 4. Comfort is Key

Willow has her own plush car seat cover that acts like a travel bed in the back seat. It keeps her comfy, keeps the car clean, and adds a familiar scent that helps her relax. I also bring along her favorite blanket or a t-shirt I’ve worn—something with my scent, especially for overnight drives or hotel stays.

Make the Back Seat a Cozy Den

Long drives are easier when your pup has a spot of their own. I use our pet car seat cover to protect my seats and give Willow a comfy space to sprawl out and snooze.

➡️ Our durable, waterproof car seat covers are made for pet messes and long naps. Bonus: machine washable!

🐾 5. Plan for Paw Breaks

I map out pet-friendly rest stops or parks ahead of time using apps like BringFido. Every 2–3 hours, we take a break to stretch, potty, and sniff (mostly her doing the sniffing). This helps reduce restlessness and gives her something to look forward to during the ride.  If I’m near a town with a dog park or trail, even better. Nothing tires her out for a nap like a 20-minute run or hike.

Stretch Those Paws Often

Plan ahead for rest stops with grassy areas or local parks. Apps like BringFido help, but so does keeping your leash and harness easy to grab when nature calls or your pup needs a sniff break.

❤️ Bonus Tip: Familiar Comforts Go a Long Way

Willow always has her favorite blanket or a shirt that smells like me. It helps her feel safe no matter how new the place is.

❤️ Final Thoughts: Dogs Deserve Good Travel Days Too

Willow may not know where we’re going, but she trusts that every road trip ends with something amazing—whether it’s a hike through the woods, a visit to Grandma’s, or a sunset on the beach.

Keeping her safe, hydrated, and comfortable in the car isn’t just about logistics—it’s about honoring that trust. Our dogs don’t ask for much. A comfy seat, a few treats, a drink of water, and our love… it’s all they need to feel safe and happy by our side.

So whether you're heading across the state or across the country, take a little time to prep for your pup. Trust me—the joy of seeing your dog’s nose out the window, soaking in the scents of a new place, is so worth it.

Where to Find the Gear We Use

All the gear I mentioned—harnesses, seat belts, water bottles, and seat covers—are available at the Pet Plus Online Shop. It’s where I stock up for all our adventures. Everything is pet-tested and road trip approved, designed with comfort, safety, and convenience in mind.

So before you hit the road, check out our handpicked collection of dog travel essentials. Because when your pup’s happy, the journey is even better. 🐶💨

Safe travels & wagging tails,
From me and Willow
#PetPlusAdventures #DogTravelGear #OnTheRoadWithDogs