Moving Long Distance With Dogs – Tips for a Smooth Journey

September 3, 2025

Moving a long distance with dogs can be challenging but good planning makes the journey easier for both you and your pets. The main thing is to understand what your dog needs and make sure they stay comfortable and cared for during the entire move.

A big part of moving long distance with dogs is making sure you have pet-friendly places to stay along the way. Look for hotels that accept pets and book them ahead of time to keep the trip stress-free. Also, putting your dog in a crate or keeping them in a separate room while packing helps lower their stress and keeps them safe.

Another important part of moving with dogs is learning the pet laws in your new area. Rules about vaccines, leashes and licenses can be different depending on the city. Knowing these ahead of time helps you follow the rules and avoid any problems when you arrive at your new home.

Preparing for the Move

Vet Check-Up and Vaccination Records

Before starting a long-distance move with your dog, it’s best to take them to the vet for a check-up. Make sure your dog is up to date on all vaccines and gets any needed tests, like a heartworm test. Also, ask your vet for copies of the vaccination records and certificates, since you may need them while traveling or when you reach your new home.

Microchip and ID Tag

Making sure your dog has proper identification is very important when moving long distance. If your dog doesn’t already have a microchip, think about getting one before the move. A microchip gives your pet a permanent ID and makes it easier to find them if they get lost during the trip.

Along with a microchip, make sure your dog’s collar has an updated ID tag. The tag should have your current contact details, like your phone number and address. This way, if your dog gets lost during the move, it will be easier for someone to return them to you.

Car Travel Essentials

Getting ready for car travel is an important part of moving with dogs. Here are a few essentials to keep in mind while planning your trip:

A Comfortable Crate or Carrier: Choose a crate that’s big enough for your dog to stand, turn around and lie down easily. Make sure it’s secured in the car to prevent injuries.
Rest Stops and Breaks: Plan regular stops so your dog can stretch, go to the bathroom and have some water.
Food and Water: Pack enough food and water for the whole trip, along with portable bowls to make feeding easier.
Medications and First-Aid Kit: If your dog needs medicine, make sure you bring enough to last the whole trip. It’s also a good idea to carry a pet first-aid kit in case of emergencies.
Leash and Waste Bags: Don’t forget to pack a leash and plenty of waste bags. Your dog will need bathroom breaks during stops and a walk to stretch their legs once you arrive.

By planning for these important parts of moving with your dog, you can make the move smoother and less stressful for both you and your pet.

Selecting the Right Carrier or Crate

Size and Breed Considerations

When moving long distance with dogs, picking the right carrier or crate is very important for their comfort and safety. Start by looking at your dog’s size and breed. Measure your dog from the top of the head to the floor while standing and from the nose to the base of the tail. Then, add about 4 inches to each measurement to find the right crate size.

For small dogs and cats, soft-sided carriers are a good choice. They’re easy to carry and can even fit under an airplane seat if needed. Some brands are airline-approved and made just for smaller pets. Medium and large dogs, however, usually need a sturdier, hard-sided crate to keep them safe and comfortable during the trip.

It’s also important to think about your dog’s breed when choosing a carrier. Snub-nosed breeds, like bulldogs, may need a bigger crate to make sure they have enough airflow.

Properly Securing the Carrier

Once you’ve picked the right carrier or crate for your pet, it’s very important to secure it properly while traveling. For bigger dogs, a dog seat belt made for pets can help spread pressure across their chest and back instead of the neck. This adds safety, especially in case of an accident or a sudden stop during the trip.

Along with securing the carrier in your vehicle, make sure your pet has enough airflow and access to water. Traveling long distance can be stressful for both you and your dog, so being well-prepared helps keep the move safe and comfortable.

In conclusion, when moving long distance with dogs, picking the right carrier or crate and securing it properly are very important for a smooth trip. Think about your pet’s size, breed and needs when choosing a carrier, and take all the necessary steps to keep them safe and comfortable along the way.

Ensuring Your Dog’s Comfort During the Move

Comfort and Stress-Reducing Measures

To help your dog stay calm during the move, try to stick to their normal routine. Keep up with regular walks, feeding times and bathroom breaks or playtime. Familiar routines make them feel more at ease during the process. When you arrive at your new home, unpack your dog’s comfort items first, like their bowls, bed, favorite toys or treats. Having these familiar things around will give them a sense of comfort and security in the new place.

Car Sickness Prevention

If your dog gets car sick during long trips, take steps to help prevent it. Here are some tips:

Get your dog used to car rides by starting with short trips and slowly making them longer.
Keep your dog in the back seat with a safe and comfortable setup, like a seatbelt harness or crate.
Don’t feed your dog right before the trip—give them a light meal a few hours earlier instead.
Talk to your vet about medicines or supplements that could help with car sickness.

Creating a Safe and Comfortable Environment

Making sure your dog feels safe and comfortable during the move is very important for their well-being. Here are some ways to help:

In the car, give your dog enough space to stretch out and make sure there’s good airflow.
Take regular breaks so your dog can walk, play and go to the bathroom.
Keep your dog close and watch them carefully during breaks to prevent accidents or escapes.
If you’re staying overnight, pick pet-friendly places that meet your dog’s needs.
Once you arrive at your new home, slowly introduce your dog to the new space and set up a safe, comfortable spot where they can relax.

By focusing on your dog’s comfort and well-being during the move, you can lower their stress and help make the long-distance move a more positive experience for them.

Managing Stops and Breaks

Potty Breaks and Exercise

When moving long distance with dogs, make sure to plan regular stops for bathroom breaks and exercise. Let your dog relieve themselves and stretch their legs each time you stop. Always keep them on a leash during these breaks to ensure their safety. Giving your dog time to exercise will also help them stay calm and prevent restlessness during the trip.

Access to Fresh Water and Food

Make sure your dog has fresh water and food during long trips. Carry a portable water bowl and bottled water so they always have something clean to drink. Offer water at every potty and exercise break. Keep their regular food with you and try to stick to their usual feeding schedule as much as possible.

When planning your route, look for pet-friendly rest stops and places to stay. This will make the trip more comfortable and less stressful for both you and your dog. Remember, good preparation is the key to a smooth long-distance move and making sure your dog has everything they need will make the process easier for both of you.

Pet-Friendly Accommodation and Overnight Stays

Researching and Booking Pet-Friendly Hotels

When moving long distance with your dog, it’s very important to find pet-friendly places to stay overnight. There are many resources to help you locate hotels, motels and other stays that accept pets. Websites like BringFido and PetsWelcome are helpful for finding and booking these pet-friendly options.

Here are some tips for finding pet-friendly places to stay:

Check Hotel Policies: Always read the hotel’s pet policy before booking. Some may limit the size or number of pets allowed.
Read Customer Reviews: Look for feedback from other pet owners to see how truly pet-friendly the hotel is.
Consider Amenities: Choose hotels that offer extras for pets, like dog parks, walking areas or waste disposal stations.

Preparing for Overnight Stays

After booking a pet-friendly place, make sure both you and your dog are ready for a comfortable night. Here are some important things to keep in mind:

Pack a Pet Travel Kit: Include your dog’s food, water, medicine, leash, waste bags and a favorite toy or blanket to help them feel comfortable in a new place.
Bring Documentation: Carry your dog’s vaccination records and any required travel papers, since some hotels or states may ask for proof.
Plan for Bathroom Breaks: Map out your trip with regular stops so both you and your dog can stretch, use the bathroom and get some fresh air.

By carefully choosing pet-friendly hotels and preparing well for overnight stays, you can make your long-distance move with your dog smooth and comfortable.

Air Travel with Dogs

Airlines and Pet Policies

If you’re moving long distance by plane with your dog, it’s important to check airline pet policies first. Most airlines only allow a small number of dogs on each flight, usually between 2 and 6 depending on the aircraft. Call the airline ahead of time to confirm there’s space for your dog before booking. Also, remember that each airline has its own rules about weight limits and crate sizes for pets traveling in the cabin or cargo.

Some well-known airlines for pet travel are:

American Airlines: Pets are allowed in both the cabin and cargo but there are limits based on breed and weight.
Delta Airlines: Delta offers a special pet travel program called Delta Cargo and also allows small pets in the cabin, depending on size and weight.
United Airlines: United has a PetSafe program that gives options for transporting pets in the cabin or in cargo.

Cargo or Passenger Cabin Options

When choosing whether your dog should travel in the cabin or cargo, think about factors like their size, age and comfort. Airlines usually have weight and size limits for pets which decide if your dog can stay in the cabin or needs to go in cargo.

In-cabin travel:

Usually allowed for small dogs, often up to 20 lbs, depending on the airline’s rules.
Needs an airline-approved carrier that fits under the seat.
The dog must stay inside the carrier for the whole flight.
Can be less stressful than cargo since the pet stays close to the owner.

Cargo travel:

Required for bigger dogs or those that don’t meet the size or weight limits for in-cabin travel.
Dogs must be placed in strong, airline-approved crates that provide good ventilation, the right size and comfort.
For nervous dogs, your vet may suggest safe sedatives (always consult your vet first).
The cargo area has fewer noises and distractions than the cabin but it can be harder for dogs that are sensitive to temperature changes or struggle with separation anxiety.

Besides these options, you can also look into pet transport services like Airpets International or Citizen Shipper. These companies specialize in moving pets and can offer services such as ground transport, exercise, grooming and even custom crates to make the trip easier for your dog.

Post-Move Adjustments

Helping Your Dog Settle In

After a long-distance move, help your dog get used to their new home. Start by setting up a special spot for them with their bed, food, water and favorite toys. Familiar things will give them comfort and help them feel secure.

In the first few days after moving, try to stick to your dog’s normal schedule for meals, sleep and exercise. Keeping a routine will lower their stress and help them feel more comfortable. Also, take your dog on walks around the new neighborhood, slowly going farther each time so they can get familiar with the area.

Addressing Separation Anxiety

After a move, your dog might feel more anxious and insecure in the new home. To help with this, slowly increase the amount of time you spend away so they can get used to being alone without stress.

Start by leaving your dog alone for short periods, about 10–15 minutes, in their safe space.
As they get more comfortable in the new home, slowly increase the time they spend alone.
Keep practicing but also make sure to give them lots of love and rewards when you come back.
Watch their behavior to be sure they’re not too stressed or showing signs of destructive habits.

You can also look for dog-friendly places and activities in your new city to make the move easier for your pet. Meeting other dogs and pet owners will give your dog mental stimulation and help both of you feel part of the new community.

Remember, patience and consistency are very important during the adjustment period. With time and care, your dog will get used to the new home and feel comfortable in their new life.

Alternative Pet Moving Options

Pet Boarding and Temporary Foster Care

If you can’t keep your pet with you during the move or want to move them in stages, there are options like boarding facilities or temporary foster care. Pet boarding facilities can provide a safe and comfortable place for your pet while you handle the move. These facilities usually offer:

Climate-controlled spaces
Clean and well-kept facilities
Staff on-site to watch over and care for pets

Another option is temporary foster care which can give your pet a more personal touch. Some local shelters or rescue groups may provide short-term foster care for a fee or donation. In this case, your pet stays with a caring family until you’re ready to bring them into your new home.

In conclusion, looking into alternative pet moving options can make the process easier to handle while also giving your pet a safe and comfortable transition.