Travelling with Dogs: The Complete UK Guide to Dog Travel
Travelling with Dogs: The Complete UK Guide to Dog Travel
By the Manor House Dogs team
Travelling with dogs safely means planning ahead: restraining your dog properly in the car, checking transport and accommodation rules, keeping your dog's ID and vaccinations up to date, and packing everything your dog needs. Whether you are heading out on a day trip, a UK staycation or a holiday abroad, a little preparation makes the journey safer and less stressful for everyone. This guide covers car, train and air travel, travelling abroad, dog-friendly holidays, what to pack, and when it is better to use a professional dog transport service.
Getting Your Dog Ready for Travel
Before any trip, check the basics:
Vet check: make sure your dog is fit to travel, and ask your vet about travel sickness if needed
Vaccinations and parasite treatments: keep these up to date, as many boarding kennels and travel providers require proof
Microchip and ID: your dog must be microchipped in the UK, with up-to-date contact details on the database, and should wear a collar with an ID tag showing your name and address
Practice runs: short, positive trips build confidence, especially for puppies and nervous dogs
Good early socialisation helps dogs cope with new places and experiences. Read our guide to dog behaviour and socialisation for tips on building confidence, and our guide to dog health and wellbeing for general health preparation.
Travelling by Car with Your Dog
Car travel is the most common way to travel with a dog, and safety matters for both of you. Under the Highway Code, dogs should be suitably restrained so they cannot distract you while driving or injure you or themselves if you stop quickly.
Good options include:
A secure, well-ventilated crate that fits your dog and is fastened in the car
A crash-tested car harness that clips into the seatbelt, such as a suitable dog harness
A dog guard in the boot of an estate or SUV, used with a secure space for your dog
Other car tips:
Never leave a dog alone in a parked car. Cars can heat up dangerously fast, even on mild days.
Take regular breaks for water, toilet stops and gentle exercise, roughly every couple of hours on longer journeys.
Avoid feeding a large meal just before travelling, as it can cause sickness.
Keep the car cool and ventilated, and use sunshades on hot days.
Always keep your dog on a dog lead when getting in and out of the car, particularly at service stations and car parks.
Dealing with travel sickness
Drooling, whining, licking lips, vomiting and restlessness can be signs of travel sickness. Short, calm journeys, fresh air and a settled routine often help, but speak to your vet if the problem continues, as treatments are available.
Travelling by Train, Bus and Ferry
Rules differ between operators, so always check before you travel. Many UK train companies allow well-behaved dogs to travel with you, often with limits on the number of dogs per passenger, and may require dogs to be kept on a lead or in a carrier. Bus, coach and ferry policies vary widely, and some ferry services require dogs to stay in the car or in designated kennels or cabins.
Flying with Dogs
Flying with a dog from the UK is more limited than many owners expect. Most airlines only allow assistance dogs in the cabin, and others carry pets in the hold or as cargo with strict conditions, or not at all. Check the airline's pet policy well in advance, consider the stress and risks for your dog, and speak to your vet before deciding.
Travelling Abroad with Your Dog
Travel rules for dogs have changed in recent years, and they vary by country, so always check the latest official guidance on GOV.UK well before you plan a trip. Requirements commonly include:
A microchip
A valid rabies vaccination
An animal health certificate for the trip, issued by an official vet
Tapeworm treatment for travel to certain countries
Use of approved routes and carriers
Because requirements can change and mistakes can mean being refused entry, start planning several weeks ahead. If this sounds like a lot, a specialist international dog transport service can manage the paperwork and journey for you.
Dog-Friendly Holidays and Days Out in the UK
Staycations are often easier and less stressful than travelling abroad. When choosing accommodation:
Check the pet policy, including any limits on dog numbers, size, breed, or being left alone
Ask about extra charges, enclosed gardens and nearby walking routes
Bring your dog's own bed and blanket to help them settle
Check beaches, parks and nature reserves for seasonal dog restrictions or lead rules
Keep dogs on a lead around livestock and ground-nesting birds
Don't forget exercise and enrichment on holiday. Our guide to dog exercise and enrichment has plenty of ideas, and a secure dog field near your destination can give your dog safe off-lead time.
Dog Travel Packing List
Pack everything your dog needs, as well as a little extra:
Food and treats for the whole trip, plus extra in case of delays (see our guide to dog nutrition and feeding and our recommended dog food)
Water, a travel bowl and a water bottle
A well-fitted collar with ID tag, a spare lead, and a secure harness
Poo bags and cleaning supplies
Bed, blanket and favourite toys
Medication and vaccination or vet paperwork
A dog first aid kit and your vet's contact details
A towel and a brush
Browse more luxury dog products for travel-friendly accessories.
Leaving Your Dog at Home Instead
Some dogs are happier staying home, especially older dogs, anxious dogs or dogs that find travel stressful. A trusted, licensed dog sitter or boarding provider can give your dog consistent care while you are away. Introduce them in advance and share your dog's routine, feeding and medication details.
For senior dogs in particular, familiar surroundings can be much less stressful. See our senior dog care guide for more.
When to Use a Professional Dog Transport Service
If you cannot travel with your dog yourself, such as when moving house, collecting a puppy, attending a show or relocating abroad, a professional pet courier can help. Look for a licensed and insured provider with experience, a suitable vehicle and clear communication. Our directory lists trusted dog transport services across the UK, and our guide on how much dog transportation costs in the UK explains what affects the price.
Learn More: Pet Travel and Care Courses
If you're interested in working with dogs and animals, explore our directory of pet transport qualifications and dog first aid courses.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I travel safely with a dog in the car?
Restrain your dog in a secure crate, crash-tested harness or boot guard so they cannot distract you or be injured in a sudden stop. Take regular breaks and never leave your dog alone in a parked car.
Can I take my dog on a train in the UK?
Many UK train operators allow well-behaved dogs, but rules differ, including limits on numbers and lead requirements. Check with your operator before you travel.
Can dogs fly from the UK?
Most airlines only allow assistance dogs in the cabin, and other policies vary. Check your airline well in advance and speak to your vet.
What do I need to take my dog abroad?
Requirements usually include a microchip, rabies vaccination and an animal health certificate, and some countries require additional treatments. Always check the latest rules on GOV.UK before travelling.
How can I stop my dog being travel sick?
Try short, calm journeys, fresh air and avoiding large meals before travel. If sickness continues, ask your vet about treatments.
Is it better to leave my dog at home or take them on holiday?
It depends on your dog. Some dogs enjoy trips, while others do better with a trusted sitter or boarding provider in familiar surroundings.
Find Trusted Dog Services Near You
Whether you are travelling together or leaving your dog in safe hands, Manor House Dogs makes it easy to find vetted professionals, from dog transport services and dog sitters to dog walkers, groomers and trainers.
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