These breeds are known for being well-suited to travel, either due to their compact size, calm temperament, or adaptability to different environments. For a smooth trip, bring familiar items like their favorite toys or a blanket, and plan for regular breaks to keep your furry friend comfortable and happy! Here’s a list of 20 dog breeds known for being travel-friendly, chosen for their adaptability, temperament, and size. Many of these breeds are smaller or medium-sized, making them easier to transport, while others are just naturally calm or love exploring. Here’s a breakdown with details and travel tips for each:
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Why they’re great: Known for their gentle temperament, they adapt well to new environments and love people.
Travel Tip: Bring a comfy carrier, as they love feeling cozy while traveling.
Amy Lane Photography / Getty Images
French Bulldog
Why they’re great: Small and low-energy, French Bulldogs are usually happy as long as they’re with their owner.
Travel Tip: Be mindful of their breathing in warm weather, as they’re prone to overheating.
britannica
Chihuahua
Why they’re great: Small and light, Chihuahuas are easy to transport and bond closely with their owner.
Travel Tip: Carry them in a secure bag or carrier, as they can get nervous in crowded places.
Mary Swift | Getty Images
Miniature Schnauzer
Why they’re great: Friendly and compact, they are social and usually get along well with other dogs and people.
Travel Tip: Bring chew toys or treats to keep them entertained on long journeys.
Mark Nicol / Getty Images
Pomeranian
Why they’re great: They’re small, curious, and adaptable, enjoying new places as long as they’re secure.
Travel Tip: Pack a travel brush; their coat requires regular grooming.
SubertT, Shutterstock
Dachshund
Why they’re great: Small and curious, they love exploring and are generally low-maintenance for travel.
Travel Tip: Use a harness for walks; Dachshunds can have sensitive backs.
Ian Ross | Getty Images
Yorkshire Terrier
Why they’re great: They’re small, affectionate, and easily fit in carriers or under airplane seats.
Travel Tip: Yorkies are prone to chilliness, so pack a sweater for cooler climates.
Artush / Getty Images
Maltese
Why they’re great: Calm and friendly, Maltese dogs are known for being great with people and small enough to carry easily.
Travel Tip: Grooming wipes are a good idea for keeping their coat clean on the go.
Laures / Getty Images
Bichon Frise
Why they’re great: Social and hypoallergenic, they’re perfect for hotels or visiting friends.
Travel Tip: Bichons love being active, so plan for regular potty breaks.
britannica
Shih Tzu
Why they’re great: Known for their calm temperament, they’re usually content as long as they’re with their humans.
Travel Tip: Make sure to groom them regularly, especially their eyes, which can tear up easily.
Joel Hawkins | Getty Images
Jack Russell Terrier
Why they’re great: Energetic and compact, they love exploring and adapt well to new places.
Travel Tip: Give them plenty of exercise breaks; they’re energetic and need to burn off energy.
Robert D. Barnes / Moment / Getty Images
Pug
Why they’re great: Friendly and low-energy, Pugs enjoy relaxing with their owners, making them ideal for flights and car rides.
Travel Tip: Bring water and a cooling pad, as Pugs are prone to overheating.
Frank Gaglione | Getty Images
Boston Terrier
Why they’re great: Friendly and adaptable, they are good for both car and plane travel.
Travel Tip: Their short coat makes them ideal for warmer climates, so bring a sweater if it’s cold.
britannica
Papillon
Why they’re great: Light and agile, they are comfortable in carriers and are friendly with new people.
Travel Tip: Papillons are intelligent and love mental stimulation, so bring some toys.
FaST_9 / Getty Images
Italian Greyhound
Why they’re great: Small and low-maintenance, they are gentle and easygoing travelers.
Travel Tip: Italian Greyhounds get cold easily, so bring a blanket or jacket.
violet-blue / Getty Images
Corgi
Why they’re great: Corgis are sturdy, adaptable, and love being around people.
Travel Tip: They can get overheated, so pack water and be mindful of rest stops in warm climates.
britannica
Lhasa Apso
Why they’re great: Calm and observant, they are content in smaller spaces like cars or planes.
Travel Tip: Brush their coat regularly on the trip to prevent matting.
britannica
West Highland White Terrier (Westie)
Why they’re great: Sturdy and friendly, Westies are small but active and love new environments.
Travel Tip: Westies enjoy exploring, so bring a leash for walking breaks.
Raindog Photography / Getty Images
Havanese
Why they’re great: Known for their friendly, playful nature, they are adaptable and enjoy meeting new people.
Travel Tip: Pack treats or toys to keep them busy on longer trips.
@Hans Surfer | Getty Images
Toy Poodle
Why they’re great: Hypoallergenic and highly trainable, Toy Poodles are easy to manage and friendly.
Travel Tip: Bring a few toys, as Poodles are smart and enjoy engaging activities.
