Holiday Travel with Dogs: How to Be a Great Guest and Keep Your Pup Happy

Traveling with your dog for the holidays can be a joy — as long as you’re prepared. From navigating new environments to ensuring your furry friend behaves around other guests, a little planning goes a long way. Whether you’re visiting family members with kids, pets, or dog-free preferences, these tips will help you both enjoy the season stress-free. Plus, we’ll share essential gear, like Luwello’s coupler dog leash, and ideas for keeping your dog entertained while you sip eggnog.

Step 1: Prepare Your Dog for Holiday Visits

The best way to ensure your dog is a good guest is to start training before you arrive at Grandma’s house. Focus on these key behaviors:

• Basic Commands: Brush up on sit, stay, leave it, and off. These commands will be invaluable if your dog gets too curious about the holiday dinner table or other guests’ personal space.
• Crate Training: If your host has a no-dog-on-furniture rule, a crate can be your lifesaver. Practice having your pup relax in their crate for short periods at home.
• Socialization: If your dog isn’t used to being around kids or other animals, expose them to these scenarios in controlled settings ahead of time. Reward calm behavior with treats.

Step 2: Pack for Success

Make a packing list that covers all your dog’s needs, including:

• Food and Water: Bring their regular food and a collapsible water bowl.
• Comfort Items: Pack their bed or blanket to help them feel at home.
• Toys and Chews: Keep your pup busy with a Himalayan chew or a snuffle mat. These are excellent for mental stimulation when things get hectic.
• Leash Essentials: Don’t forget Luwello’s new coupler leash, which makes walking two dogs a breeze — or ensures your solo pup stays close in busy areas.

Step 3: Be a Considerate Guest

Your host will appreciate your efforts to keep things smooth. Here’s how:

• Ask Ahead: Check if your host is okay with dogs and whether they have kids or pets. Respect their boundaries and be prepared to make alternate arrangements if needed.
• Control Introductions: Introduce your dog to new people and animals slowly. Keep them on a leash initially to prevent overexcited greetings.
• Clean Up: Bring waste bags and cleaning supplies to handle any accidents promptly.

Step 4: Plan for Downtime

Holidays can be overwhelming for dogs, so provide plenty of opportunities for rest and relaxation. Set up a quiet spot for your pup, away from the action. Puzzle toys and treats like Himalayan chews are great for keeping them occupied while you enjoy family time.

Step 5: Know When to Leave Your Dog at Home

If your dog isn’t ready for the holiday hustle, it’s okay to make other arrangements. Consider a trusted pet sitter or boarding facility where your pup can stay comfortable and safe. This is especially important if your host isn’t dog-friendly.

Step 6: Enjoy the Journey

Traveling with your dog is an opportunity to strengthen your bond and create lasting memories. With the right preparation, you can make the holidays enjoyable for everyone — furry friends included. Don’t forget to use the holiday road trip as a training opportunity with gear like Luwello’s escape-free harness, which keeps your dog secure during pit stops.

Shop Luwello’s Dog Essentials:

• Coupler Dog Leash for Long Walks
• Escape-Free Harness
• Himalayan Chews for Busy Dogs

Happy holidays from all of us at Luwello! Make this season stress-free and full of wagging tails.