A new study published in 20231 found that people who have dogs are a valuable group for the travel industry.
According to the study, spending on pet-related services during travel, like dog-friendly hotels, is expected to grow to over 50 billion dollars worldwide by 2030. This means that more and more dog owners want to include their beloved pets in their vacation plans.
Whatever your travel situation may be, choosing the right dog breed for travel is crucial. We’ll explore the characteristics that make a dog well-suited for life on the go and reveal the top breeds that fit the bill.
What Makes a Dog Breed Travel-Friendly?
When it comes to selecting a dog breed for travel, there are several key factors to consider.
Firstly, size matters. Smaller breeds are often easier to accommodate during air travel and in cars, as they can comfortably fit in pet carriers and crates. Butthis doesn’t mean that larger breeds are completely out of the question. With proper training and preparation, many dogs of various sizes can adapt to life on the road.
Temperament is another crucial aspect. The ideal travel companion should be friendly, adaptable, and calm in new environments. Dogs that are easily stressed or prone to anxiety may find travel challenging.
And lastly, if you plan on boating or spending time near water, a breed that is comfortable around water and has a natural affinity for swimming is a plus.
1. Chihuahua: The Tiny Globetrotter
Don’t let their small size fool you – Chihuahuas are big on personality and adventure! Their compact stature allows them to easily curl up in a cozy carrier or on your lap during long road trips.
But Chihuahuas aren’t just limited to car travel. They are also well-suited for air travel, as this small breed can comfortably fit under the seat in an airline-approved carrier. Plus, their lively and adaptable nature means they can quickly adjust to new surroundings, making them the perfect companion for globetrotters.
2. Golden Retriever: The Friendly Adventurer
Golden Retrievers are known for their friendly, outgoing personalities, and it turns out they make excellent travel buddies too! Their calm and obedient nature means they can handle long road trips with ease.
They also make fantastic boating companions due to their love for water and strong swimming abilities. Whether you’re setting sail on a yacht or exploring a lake, a Golden Retriever will be right by your side, ready for any adventure.
3. Bichon Frise: The Charming Jetsetter
If you’re looking for a small, genial dog that can handle the challenges of traveling in confined spaces, look no further than the Bichon Frise. These fluffy, white dogs have the perfect size and temperament for coping with the rigors of travel.
Bichon Frises are known for their cheerful and adaptable nature, which means they can easily adjust to new environments and situations. They are also hypoallergenic, which is a plus for travelers with allergies.
4. Yorkshire Terrier: The Portable Adventurer
Yorkshire Terriers, lovingly referred to as Yorkies, are among the most petite of the terrier breeds, making them the perfect companion for globetrotters who desire a pint-sized pal. These feisty little canines are brimming with energy and charisma, yet their compact size enables them to comfortably nestle in carriers during air travel or curl up on your lap during long car rides
Yorkies are also known for their intelligence and trainability, which means they can easily learn travel etiquette and adapt to new routines on the road.
5. Maltese: The Gentle Voyager
One of the biggest advantages of the Maltese is their hypoallergenic coat, which is a blessing for travelers with allergies. Maltese are also highly adaptable, quickly adjusting to new environments and experiences, which is a crucial trait for a travel companion.
Despite their small stature, Maltese have bold personalities and are very people-oriented. They thrive on human interaction and love being the center of attention. With proper socialization and training from a young age, Maltese grow up to be well-rounded, confident travel buddies.
Your Perfect Travel Companion is Out There
While the breeds highlighted in this article tend to make excellent travel companions, it’s important to remember that every dog is an individual with their own unique personality and needs. With proper training, socialization, and preparation, almost any breed can adapt to life on the road.
The key is finding a dog breed whose temperament, size, and energy level align with your travel lifestyle. A high-energy breed like a Border Collie may not be the best fit for someone who prefers relaxing beach vacations, while a larger breed like a Great Dane could be challenging for frequent air travel.
Ultimately, the most important factor is your commitment to providing a safe, comfortable, and enriching environment for your furry friend, no matter where your adventures take you.
Sources
- https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/13567667231202798
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.