First tip: Get a bigger car.
Convincing two adolescent dogs that weigh as much as me to calmly sit in the back of a car for 9+ hours is…a big ask. Pun intended.
When we just had Henry we could get away with him in the backseat and our gear in the back of our mid-size SUV. Once we added Arlo, it became clear we needed a roof rack. Since Steve is…picky…about car accessories, he went to town finding the best option. He settled on a suction cup Inno Rack which hasn’t let us down in hundreds of miles.
With the cargo box suctioned to the top of the Macan and the human trappings out of the way, the dogs had full reign of the entire back with the seats folded down. Sometimes they begrudgingly share with a few bags.
While most dogs aren’t exactly happy to sit in the car for hours, I can at least make sure they’re comfortable.
WHAT TO BRING
- Water containers: I notice the boys tend to act up the most in the car when they are thirsty so I always keep 2 options on hand. The Highway AutoDogMug is perfect for in transit hydration and one of the best purchases we’ve made. I also stow a Tupperware away so they can fuel up for when we stop for a walk. Collapsible bowls are great but are generally too small for my boys but I still keep a few of these stashed around the car just in case.
- Food bowls: I bring their Outward Hound slow feeder bowls from home. With all the extra excitement, I don’t want them rushing through their meals and getting an upset stomach.
- Food & Water: Seems basic but I’ve definitely miscalculated how much food is needed and had to try to find a place to get the same brand / protein – it’s ended up with some less than ideal poos. I always keep a gallon or two of water in the car so we aren’t stuck buying pricey gas station water.
- Chews: I always pack more (odor free) bully sticks or Northwest Naturals raw bones than I think I’ll need. I don’t give it to them in the car because Arlo still has a bit of fear that Henry will steal his (he’s not wrong). It is a great mental stimulation option when you’re stopped for a break or meal and they still can’t run around to get their energy out.
- First Aid: Bring any monthly or quarterly medications you might need. I had the fun experience of being about a month late on Henry’s flea and tick meds when he got into a nest of ticks! I am now the proud owner of a Tick Stick that will be on all trips going forward. Henry has arthritis so I always triple check we have supplements and pain medication for him to enjoy the hikes.
WHERE TO STAY
I always keep a list of chain hotels that are giant breed friendly. While I prefer to book in advance, sometimes you aren’t sure how long you’ll be driving each day. Hotels can vary from location to location, but in my experience both La Quinta and Motel 6 rarely have a weight limit or fee.
If neither of these are on your map, BringFido is a great resource. If you also have giants, always double check the “large dog allowed” classification often includes hotels that have 70-80 pound weight limits.
JULES & THE DROOLERS 