8 Genius Tips to Make Traveling with Your Dog in the Car WAY More Enjoyable (for Both of You)

Let’s be real: there’s nothing better than hitting the open road with your best four-legged friend riding shotgun. Windows down, ears flapping in the wind, paws on the dash (or in the doggy seatbelt)—traveling with your dog is a vibe.

But between the hair, the howling, the pit stops, and let’s be honest, the smelly dog farts, things can go south real quick if you're not prepared.

Whether you're planning a cross-country adventure or just zipping over to grandma’s house, these 8 tips will totally level up your dog car travel game. Buckle up—your tail-wagging road warrior is about to become the best travel buddy ever.

1. Create a Cozy, Secure Space for Your Pup

First things first—dog comfort = less chaos. Dogs feel more relaxed when they have a designated space that feels like a mini home on wheels.

• Use a doggy car seat or crate that’s well-ventilated and secure.

• Line it with their favorite blanket or toy that smells like home.

• Bonus points if it’s near the A/C vent but not blasting them in the face.

Pro tip: Dogs with good digestion tend to settle better. A relaxed dog = less stress for everyone.

2. Pack a Dog Travel Bag (Yes, Like a Diaper Bag for Dogs)

You're not just bringing your dog—you’re bringing their needs, quirks, and bathroom schedule. Stock up on the essentials:

• Collapsible water bowl + plenty of water

• Poop bags (never forget the poop bags)

• Favorite chew toy or treat puzzle

• Leash, harness, and ID tags

• Doggy wet wipes (just trust us)

If your dog has digestive issues or gets an upset tummy in the car, pack some of their usual food and consider skipping that mystery “chicken jerky” at the gas station. A stable belly = fewer emergency stops and way less... aromatic situations.

3. Fight the Funk with Paw-Pourri

Now for the not-so-glamorous part: the gas. You love your pup with your whole heart—but that backseat blast of doom? Not so much.

If you’ve ever caught yourself yelling, “WHY DO MY DOG’S FARTS SMELL SO BAD?!” mid-drive, it’s time to bring in a natural fix to smelly dog gas.

🐾 Enter: Paw-Pourri—your secret weapon for healthy dog digestion and stink-free travel.

• It’s an all-natural chew that neutralizes dog fart odor before it escapes.

• Works for up to 12 hours, even for repeat offenders.

• Backed by science, dog parents, and your nose.

No more cracking the windows in winter or blaming the dog in front of strangers. Just chill rides and clean air.

👉 Grab a bag and stash it in your glovebox. Thank us later.

4. Stop for Sniffs (and Stretch Breaks)

Your dog needs to move around and do their business—just like you. Regular pit stops:

• Help with digestion (see how this all ties together?)

• Keep them from getting restless or anxious

• Give you both a breather and a chance to hydrate

Shoot for a stop every 2–3 hours, even on shorter trips. Let them sniff, explore, and reset. Bonus points if you find a dog-friendly park or hiking trail on the route.

5. Make Their Playlist, Too

Okay, hear us out: dogs love soothing sounds. Studies show that classical music or soft acoustic playlists can reduce canine stress in cars.

Set up a travel playlist with:

🎶 Chill dog tunes
🎶 Your road trip bangers
🎶 Nature sounds (especially good for anxious pups)

Even better—pair music time with a calming treat, especially if they tend to pant or pace while driving.

6. Keep the Snacks Light (and Digestive-Friendly)

Heavy meals before travel? Recipe for a tummy disaster. Instead:

• Feed your dog a light meal at least an hour before the trip.

• Avoid greasy treats or table scraps (sorry, pup).

• Opt for dog treats that promote digestion, like pumpkin-based chews or low-fat jerky.

Healthy digestion = less gas, less whining, and zero puke cleanup in your backseat. Trust us—nobody wants that.

7. Use Sunshades and Cooling Pads for Warm Days

Your car might be comfy for you, but dogs can overheat fast—especially if they’re stuck in the backseat with no airflow.

• Pop up a window shade to block direct sun.

• Keep a cooling pad in their seat/crate.

• Never leave your dog in the car alone, even for a “quick stop.” Not even with the windows cracked. Not even for iced coffee.

Your pup’s comfort is the key to a smooth ride. Happy dog = happy you.

8. Practice Short Trips First

If your dog is new to long drives, start small. Like, drive-around-the-block small.

Ease them into longer distances by:

• Taking them on errands

• Driving to dog parks or pet stores

• Rewarding them after each trip

This builds positive car associations and helps avoid car sickness, anxiety, or unwanted accidents.

Remember, even the most seasoned road dogs once started with a nervous little lap around the neighborhood.

Final Bark

Road-tripping with your dog can be the best—but only if you plan for both of your needs. With the right gear, pit stops, playlists, and a pouch of Paw-Pourri in tow, you’ll be cruising in comfort and stink-free bliss.

Healthy dog digestion? Check.
No smelly dog gas? Double check.
Happy travel memories? Guaranteed.

Got your own dog travel hacks? Drop them in the comments—we’d love to feature your story in a future “Sniff Happens” blog post!

P.S. Want more natural solutions for smelly dog farts, better digestion, and happier pups? Check out our other posts:
👉 "Why Does My Dog Have Smelly Gas? Causes & Solutions"
👉 "The 8 Best Foods for Dog Digestion"
👉 "How to Get Rid of Dog Gas Odor Naturally"

Because traveling with your dog shouldn’t stink. Literally. 💨🐶