Traveling with your Shih Tzu can be a very trying time, especially if you have a dog that is not used to being more than 30 feet from you. Before you travel, there are a few easy tips that you can use to make your travel experience go smoothly. Not only will these tips make the trip better for you, but it can relieve the anxiety and stress that your Shih Tzu also feels while traveling.

1. Bring ID Tags

Nothing will ruin a trip faster than losing your dog while in an unfamiliar place. Make sure that your dog is always wearing his or her identification categories that include your phone number.

2. Bring Your Shih Tzu's Papers

If you have to make an emergency trip to the vet, it's a good idead to have all paperwork for your Shih Tzu with you. Bring any registration papers, health records, and immunization documents with you in case of emergency.

3. Have Plenty of Food and Water Available

Shih Tzus are prone to overheating, so make sure to bring bottled water and a dog dish for when you are on the road. You can also put food in zippered plastic baggies for use while traveling. Make sure that you bring enough food for your entire trip, as you may not be able to find your pup's specific brand while in a new place.

4. Keeping It Familiar

Shih Tzus are a breed that are comfortable with what they know. If you bring items and toys it is familiar with, it is more likely to adapt to its surroundings and relax.

5. Stop Frequently

Just as it is important for you to stretch your legs as a human, it is important to make sure your Shih Tzu uses the bathroom often, gets fresh air, and is able to walk and stretch his or her legs, especially if your pet is traveling in a crate or travel carrier.

6. Bring Possible Medication

There is always the option of using sedatives or other medications to help your dog relax and be at ease while on the road. This should always be a last resort, and you should discuss possible medications and side effects with your vet.

7. Make Sure They're Secure

Although many people would prefer their dogs hanging out of the window, Shih Tzus are not a breed known for that and securing them in the backseat, just as if they were a kid, is the best way to travel with them while in a car. You can more easily do this with a travel carrier or crate.

8. Keep the Temperature Normal

Keep the temperature at a level that is similar to what your dog is used to. Make sure that your dog doesn't overheat while traveling, but also make sure that the temperature isn't too cold. You want to make your dog as comfortable as possible while traveling.

9. Make it a Habit

One thing that helps is traveling in a car with your dog more often, even if it’s around the block. The more your pet gets used to it, the better traveling will be.

10. Shop with your Dog

Take your dog around with you when you go shopping to see what they may like and how they interact in public. The sooner you can get rid of bad habits, the easier it will be to travel and go on new adventures with your Shih Tzu.

10 Tips To Make Traveling With Shih Tzu Easier

9. Make it a Habit

10. Shop with your Dog