We all love to travel and let’s be real, traveling WITH your dog makes everything so much better. However, when you have a reactive dog, things can get a little tricker. Continue to read this post and learn some questions I ask that have helped me navigate traveling with Buzz.
(1) Will my dog enjoy the trip?
If the trip is flexible and you get to make decisions on places to go and you are able to ensure it’s good times for both you and your dog, bring him/her. If your dog is dog/people reactive like Buzz is and the trip is all about museums/restaurants/travel destinations that don’t allow dogs, it’s probably not a good idea to bring your dog!
(2) Am I willing to sacrifice some things for the bigger joy of having a companion?
Let’s be real… not a lot of restaurants are dog friendly & even if they are with a patio, chances are it’s full of triggers for your dog and you won’t be able to enjoy a meal without worrying. However, personal experience, it is JUST AS FUN ordering to go and eat in the car with your dog!!!
(3) Do I understand my dog’s needs/triggers that I need to watch out for? Is my dog ready?
This one is a hard one. It took me years to understand Buzz’s triggers. He needs HIS SPACE. Every dog needs some level of obedience to go to public places but especially reactive dogs. Making sure you can control your dog & make him feel safe will be key factors for a successful trip!
(4) Does the cabin/hotel meet your dog’s needs?
If your dog is people reactive – booking a cabin that is either the only one on the property or far away from others will be your best choice
If your dog is dog reactive – booking a hotel/cabin that doesn’t allow too many dogs with a leash requirement or book an only cabin on a property will be your best choice
If your dog is both people and dog reactive – DON’T WORRY! You can book an only cabin on property OR book at a hotel/cabin that has limited spots for dogs and ask to be far away from entrance/stairs
(5) What are the set-ups that will make your dog feel more comfortable? Is it sleeping in bed with you? Is it his crate with a cover on? Is your dog sensitive to noise? (If yes, bring a white-noise machine! )
Depending on the answer to your question, you’ll want to make sure the hotel/cabin you are choosing from allow that. There are places that allow dogs on furniture and some don’t.
(6) What are the things that can tire my dog out if we end up being in hotel/cabin for long periods of time or he is still not tired by end of day?
Enrichment toys, treats and chews are all great options!
Hotel/Cabin Recommendation
Here are a couple places I’ve stayed at and felt comfortable & safe with a reactive dog! I will go more into details in the next post but here is the list!
Ely Log Cabin, Ely, MN – cute two bed, one pull out couch cabin located on 40 acre lot tucked in the woods. Allow up to 2 dogs.
Grey Duck Cabin, Finland, MN – cabin located on a 40 acre lot minutes away from George Crosby Manitou State Park
Mountain Inn, Lutsen, MN – hotel located in Lutsen ski mountains with pet-friendly room and air-conditioning!
Breezy Point Cabins, Two Harbors, MN – individual villas overlooking Lake Superior and pet-friendly!
Island View Resort, Two Harbors, MN – individual cabins on a private land a few block away from Lake Superior (we stayed at #9)
Glamping AirBnB, Two Harbors, MN – glamping experience in the woods
La Quinta by Wyndham, Duluth, MN – pet friendly hotel with big lobby!
Enjoy!