Bringing home a new doodle puppy during the holidays is magical – but it can get complicated fast if travel is on the calendar. Whether you’re visiting family, hosting guests, or considering a getaway, it’s important to plan ahead for your puppy’s needs.
Here are key tips to help you navigate holiday travel while keeping your Goldendoodle or Labradoodle safe, happy, and supported.
Should You Travel With a New Puppy?
The first few weeks at home are critical for bonding, routine, and training. If possible, it’s best to delay travel and give your puppy a few weeks to settle in.
However, if travel is unavoidable, your puppy can still thrive with proper preparation. The key is planning for safety, rest, and flexibility.
What to Pack for Your Puppy
Whether you’re traveling by car or staying overnight with family, here are essentials to bring:
- Travel crate or soft-sided carrier
- Familiar bedding and a few toys
- Food, treats, and collapsible bowls
- Puppy pads, waste bags, and cleaning supplies
- Vaccination records and vet contact info
- Leash, harness, and ID tags
Make sure your puppy is safely secured in the vehicle and not roaming free. Car seatbelts or travel crates are the safest option for long drives.
Set Realistic Expectations
Puppies are babies – and holiday travel can be overstimulating. Plan for extra potty breaks, quiet time, and slow introductions to new people and pets.
Your puppy might not sleep through the night or follow perfect routines while away. That’s okay. Keep things simple and focus on bonding, comfort, and gentle consistency.
Boarding or Staying Home
If traveling isn’t ideal, consider:
- Having a trusted friend or sitter stay in your home
- Booking a reputable pet sitter experienced with puppies
- Using a professional trainer who offers board-and-train services
We often work with families to time placements around travel, or extend training until you’re ready to bring your puppy home. Learn more about our Puppy Training Program and extended options.
Stay Safe and Minimize Stress
If you’re flying, note that most airlines require advance reservations for in-cabin pets and age minimums (usually 8 weeks). Avoid peak travel hours and long layovers, and check the airline’s pet policies in advance.
For car trips, keep travel windows short and give your puppy time to stretch, potty, and unwind at each stop.
Puppies should never be left in cars unattended, especially in cold or unpredictable weather.
Enjoy the Moments
The holidays are a beautiful time to welcome a new furry family member. With a little preparation and a flexible mindset, travel can be safe and rewarding.
If you’re unsure what’s best for your pup, reach out to our team. We’re here to help families make confident, puppy-first choices every step of the way.
For more tips on traveling with pets, check out American Veterinary Medical Association’s Travel Guide.
Wishing you safe travels, cozy snuggles, and a joyful first season with your doodle.
