Have you ever wondered why dogs are much better at orienting themselves than humans? Our smart best friends sense the Earth's magnetic field and find their way from A to B much easier.
But that's not the only reason why it's worth taking your dog with you on your next vacation.
Here you can find out what types of vacation are suitable for a common journey are suitable, which means of transport you can choose between and what you should have with you.
Where should it go?
Whether you like hiking in the mountains, admiring the sunset at the sea or exploring foreign cities, there are also many options when vacationing with your dog.
Bathing fun for humans and animals
Should it be a beach holiday by the sea? Then look for places with dog beaches. So your cuddly friend can dig extensively in the sand and then splash around in the sea and cool off.
Sip a cocktail while your old lady or dog senior relaxes in the shade. If your companion is a playful young dog, he or she will quickly get bored. A long walk on the beach is easy to organize and will give your four-legged friend a lot of joy. Pack toys, such as a frisbee. Your dog will have a blast chasing it down a long sandy beach.
You don't have to travel far for this, because you will find many dog-friendly regions on the North and Baltic Seas in Germany. If you are drawn to other countries, the Netherlands and Denmark offer beautiful beach holidays for you and your four-legged friend. In the south, Croatia lures with its wild rocky beaches. Here you can let off steam undisturbed, especially in the off-season. The nice thing about this holiday destination is that your furry companion is also welcome in most restaurants.
Adventures in the mountains
Do you and your cuddly friend prefer to be active? Then off to the mountains! With breathtaking views, fresh mountain air and charming alpine huts the Swiss or the Austrian Alpsn an enchanting vacation spot.
Breathtaking view: Enjoy it together with your faithful friend.
On the mountain hikes, not only are you guaranteed to work up a sweat, but your dog will also get his money's worth. There is something new to sniff out behind every stick, stone and tree. Afterwards, refresh yourself in one of the rustic alpine huts. "Schiwasser" - the favorite drink of the Tyroleans - can be enjoyed not only on a skiing holiday, but also after a hike in summer. The taste of raspberry and lemon will definitely drive you up into the mountains again.
Exploring foreign cities with the dog
If you climbed down from the mountains again, the journey continue in the city. During a city holiday there are not only many new impressions for you, but also for your dog. While you are impressed by culture and architecture, new places and smells amaze your four-legged friend's senses. Just don't forget yours hip bag Hanover, so that your little friend does not have to do without his treats while sightseeing.
It is advisable to clarify in advance how dog-friendly the area is on a city break. In Italy, for example, dogs are often not allowed in restaurants. Unlike vacations in nature, this could be a problem in the city, since you can't simply switch to long walks in the countryside or on the beach. So choose cities where dogs are welcome so that both of you can journey can enjoy.
Which means of transport are suitable for the journey with the four-legged friend?
Do you already know where the adventure is going to take you, but not yet how to get there?
Traveling on four wheels: road trip with the dog
The most practical way is of course by car. Here your dog is in a familiar environment and feels safest. You can also take as many breaks as you want. You can also do day trips or even a completely impromptu tour as you wish.
This little four-legged friend obviously enjoys the car ride.
With the car you are mobile, only dependent on yourself and can always spontaneously follow your nose. But get your dog used to it before the journey to driving so that he doesn't get sick easily. Don't forget to buckle up: For a safe journey you should also think of a dog harness or a transport box.
Dogs on public transport
An alternative to the car is to travel by train. Spontaneity and flexibility are missing here. You can't schedule breaks, you can journey but make it more pleasant by not planning routes that are too long and Pack water, treats and toys.
It might also be worth booking an entire compartment for you and your dog. That's how it will be journey A bit more expensive, but less stressful and easier. If you want to travel in a sleeping compartment in Germany and Austria, this must even be booked for you alone.
The bus offers a similar, often cheaper, option. Here, however, you do not have the opportunity to stretch your legs in the aisle. It may also be easier for your dog to become nauseous. A small advantage is that the bus is smaller and clearer for your four-legged friend.
Accommodations for two legs and four paws
Once you have arrived, you need a suitable place to stay. Here, too, there are many possibilities that will give your dog space to let off steam - and also offer you relaxation.
Enjoy nature in the holiday home or at the campsite
Holiday homes are particularly suitable for nature lovers. Dogs are often welcome here in Germany, Denmark and the Netherlands. After a long round of Frisbee on the dog beach and splashing around in the sea, you can relax in your cozy house and then start the next day fit. If your companion is particularly energetic, consider a vacation home with a fenced yard so they can't go exploring without you.
If you are particularly enthusiastic about nature, there are also campsites. Here you can still look at the stars under the open sky at night and enjoy breakfast outside in the morning at sunrise.
Pitch the tent and be enchanted by the sunset.
Explore cities with Airbnb and Couchsurfing
If you're traveling around the city, you'll find many accommodations on Airbnb that allow pets. This alternative saves you from the tedious search for dog-friendly hotels and often even offers a cheaper alternative.
Those who are particularly adventurous can also try couch surfing. Here you will find free accommodations where you can set a filter for “pets allowed” like with Airbnb. If you even have two furry companions with you, your hosts will definitely be happy about their little visitors. It is exciting that you get to know people from the area. With a bit of luck, you will get private tours and insider tips from real insiders. And who knows, maybe you will make one or the other travel friend.
What goes in the dog travel bag?
The destination is set and the accommodation is booked? Then all you have to do is pack properly and off you go. Check if dog food is available at your destination, and if not, bring enough with you. Otherwise you will suffer from the sad dog looks. If you are one of our dog walking bags with separate treats compartment you have with you, the treats are always well stowed away and always ready to hand.
A small travel pharmacy for your four-legged friend should not be missing either. Pack tweezers for unwanted ticks and disinfectant spray. A remedy for indigestion can protect you from unpleasant situations and other medicines such as traction ointment, wound spray or paw balm should also travel with you. A spare leash and collar, as well as the necessary travel documents, such as the EU pet ID card, also belong in your luggage.
Off on vacation
Make your furry friend happy and take him on vacation with you.
Ready to go, packed and haven't forgotten anything? Then grab your dog and plunge into the holiday adventure. Perhaps your fluffy companion can save you from getting lost with his magnetism.
Cover photo by Trần Long. More pictures by Jamie Street, Ignacio Amenábar, Jimmy Conover and Helena Lopes.
About the editors
Hatice Kücükhüseyin is a content expert at inara writes. Words are her favorite tool. With them she brings color and life into every text. When she's not writing, she watches French cinema.
