Five top tips for canine friendly caravanning
Travelling in a car isn't natural for dogs, so it's important to prep your pooch for a holiday to ensure that any anxiety (signified by dribbling in a car, for example) is soothed and the dog is relaxed about taking a trip.
Caravan magazine has teamed up with the aptly-named Comfort Insurance and pet expert and pet behaviour counsellor Kris Glover of Pets in Practise to give you the five top tips for canine caravan holidays.
How to keep your pet comfortable on long journeys
1. Firstly, it is essential the dog has an opportunity to go to the toilet prior to the journey. A good long walk will not only provide lots of opportunities for this but will also tire the dog out which means they are more likely to sleep in the vehicle.
2. Secondly, dogs like comfort. So moving their bed from the house into the vehicle will allow them to feel as comfy as possible, and therefore as relaxed as possible.
3. Thirdly, a dog is much more likely to settle if they are prevented from seeing exciting things outside (e.g. a dog walking past). So try to situate the dog’s bed in a location where your dog can’t see out of any windows. Please note there will be some dogs who are more settled if they can see outside, so if your dog ticks that box, please position their bed so they can see through the window.
4. Fourthly, give them something to do. A food toy or a long lasting chew will give them a focus during the journey, which will help them to remain settled. Use a working refrigerator if one is available in the motorhome, caravan or campervan to store stuffed food toys, allowing your pet to be provided with plenty during a long journey. Chewing provides a good exercise workout for dogs and also releases endorphins from a dog's brain which are known as the “feel good” chemicals.
5. Finally, and most importantly make sure the dog has access to water (anti-spill water bowls are ideal for vehicle travel) if the inside temperature of the motorhome or vehicle is overly warm. Also, make sure the dog has an opportunity every two to three hours for a leg stretch and toilet break.
Also read: Caravan reviews Subscribe to Caravan magazine New and used caravans for sale
Sign up to the e-newsletter for free
Or simply tell us what you think!
Recent Updates
Caravan WiFi: everything you need to know
Caravan holidays are the ultimate way of getting away from it all, although we sometimes need a link to the outside world ...
Caravan insurance: all you need to know
Navigating the world of caravan insurance can feel like a daunting task. Fear not, as this comprehensive ...
Buying a caravan: what you need to know
Let us guide you through some of the complicated things to think about when first looking at buying a ...
Caravan awnings: a buyers' guide
Caravan awnings are a fantastic addition to any caravan as they are one of the simplest, quickest and most ...
Caravan electrics: avoid tripping out
All caravan owners have overloaded their mains supply at some time. Here’s how to master caravan electrics ...
Caravan heating systems: a quick guide to caravanning warmth
When winter is here, you’ll be glad of a decent caravan heating system if you’re out touring. Here’s how the ...
Caravan damp: a complete guide
There's little more guaranteed to strike fear into the heart of a caravan owner than the word 'damp'. But if ...
Caravan jockey wheels: the definitive guide
A well-functioning caravan jockey wheel can make all the difference to manoeuvring away from the towcar, ...
Caravan cooking recipes
Caravan cookery inspirational ideas. No need to stress out in the kitchen with these quick and easy ...
Caravan bike racks: a complete guide
Exploring the beautiful surroundings while on a caravan trip is undeniably one of the greatest joys of the ...
Other Articles
A guide to solar power in your caravan
Not that many years ago, mains electrical hook-up on campsites was considered a bit of a luxury, and, for some people maybe, almost cheating. You ...
The ultimate guide to caravan layouts
Choosing the right layout or floorplan of your caravan is an all-important part of the buying process – find ...
A guide to seasonal caravan pitches
Our in-depth guide to finding and securing seasonal caravan pitches on your favourite campsite ...
Caravan weights and payloads: a quick guide
The terminology of caravan weight – MIRO, MTPLM, noseweight, kerbweight, payload, weight plate upgrade – is ...
The ultimate guide to caravan motor movers
Caravan motor movers: everything you need to know about remote control caravan manoeuvring ...
Caravan cleaning: All you need to know
Whether you’re taking the caravan out for the first time or it’s just in need of a spruce up, our guide will ...
18 essential items for camping with your dog
Camping is for the whole family – including our four-legged members. Here's what you'll need to keep your dog ...
14 welly boots for camping trips
It might be April but that won’t stop the rain in the UK, so a pair of comfortable welly boots is still ...
Gear to get active this April
Give your wardrobe a spring refresh with this selection of outdoor clothing and activewear ...
Wisper electric bike review
We put the Wisper 806 Folding Electric Bike and Tailwind Trail to the test ...