If your dog doesn’t routinely ride in the car, don’t jump right into a long expedition. Instead, the ASPCA recommends taking a series of short drives first, gradually increasing the amount of time while monitoring for any problems. 

Your pup will require a crate for traveling by car. As anyone who has ever attempted to drive with a dog clawing to get over to your lap, letting pets roam free is dangerous. “It’s important to keep your animals in crates that are secured in your vehicle,” says Dr. Carly Fox, a staff veterinarian at NYC’s Animal Medical Center. “Pets, just like people, can become projectiles in accidents.” 

If you plan to travel long distance by car, be sure to factor in rest stops and bathroom breaks for your dog every four to six hours. Will you need to make an overnight stop along the way? Book well in advance to make sure you can get a room at dog-friendly accommodation.