Whether you’re flying across the country or driving to a nearby destination, preparing your dog for travel this holiday season can make the experience smoother and more enjoyable for everyone. Here are five essential tips to ensure your dog is ready for the journey:

1. Crate Train Your Dog
Crate training is key to safe and stress-free travel. Get your dog comfortable with spending time in a crate by gradually introducing it at home. Make the crate a positive place with treats, toys, and blankets. Start by leaving the door open and allowing your dog to explore. Over time, close the door for short periods to help them feel comfortable being confined during travel.

Why is crate training important? 

• Comfort in New Environments: A crate serves as a familiar “home base” for your dog.
• Flexibility for Unexpected Situations: You never know when you might need to use a crate, such as unexpected vet visits or visiting a home  with another dog your dog doesn’t get along with.
• Easier Pet Management: A crate can help create boundaries during busy holiday gatherings, preventing your dog from getting overwhelmed or sneaking food from the table.

2. Practice Car Rides and Travel Scenarios
If you’re traveling by car, it’s important to get your dog used to longer rides. Start with short car trips around the neighborhood and gradually increase the duration. This helps reduce any travel-related anxiety and builds a sense of routine for your dog. Also, practice any travel scenarios, such as getting in and out of the car or staying in the vehicle for longer periods.

3. Desensitize to Different Environments
Dogs can be sensitive to new environments, so desensitizing them to different settings before the big trip is helpful. Take your dog to new places such as parks, pet-friendly stores, or even a friend’s house. Bringing your dog to crowded settings similar to an airport environment (we like Home Depot) as a way to familiarize them with loud, noisy environments. 

4. Get Your Dog Used to Travel Gear
Familiarize your dog with any travel gear you’ll be using, such as a harness, travel bag, or seatbelt. Practice using these items in your home and on short trips. If your dog will be flying, consider getting them used to airport security procedures or how to settle in an airline-approved carrier. 

5. Calm Your Dog’s Anxiety
If your dog experiences travel anxiety, try calming techniques such as using anxiety-reducing toys, playing soothing music, or offering calming chews. For longer trips, consult your vet about possible medications or other solutions to keep your dog relaxed during the journey. The best thing you can do for your dog is to make them as comfortable as possible with newness and holiday craziness, so make sure to be extra attentive to their behaviors and needs. If you’re curious to learn more about how to understand your dog’s body language, check out our previous blog post: https://www.americancanineacademy.com/understanding-dog-body-language-what-your-dog-is-really-telling-you/ 

Check out these dog-friendly events around Denver this holiday season:

Santa Paws at Copper Kettle Brewing Company
This event will be held from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM on December 7, 2024 at Copper Kettle Brewing Company in Denver. 

Photos with Buddy the Elf at Three Dog Bakery
Mark your calendars for Photos with Buddy the Elf at Three Dog Bakery! This event will be held from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM on November 30, 2024 at Three Dog Bakery in Denver.

Jingle Bell Run
Ready to run? Sign up for the Jingle Bell Run! This dog-friendly event will start at 9:00 AM on December 8, 2024 at Washington Park in Denver.

Happy Howl-idays from all of us at American Canine Academy!