Once you travel with your little pups, there is no going back. Traveling with micro dog breeds can be so much fun if you make sure all the preparations are on point. This begins with proper training, teaching your dog to stay in crates or other enclosed spaces and to remain calm rather than anxious.
Since buses, trains, or planes are full of people, a small dog might react with barking or feel a bit terrified. Yet if you train them with short trips first, they can gradually learn how to be patient until they reach the destination their owners choose.
The American Kennel Club advises dog owners to keep a crate and harness to ensure their small dogs sit in a safe spot, not near a window or area where their fragile small bodies might get hurt. Taking a vet’s advice is also helpful.
PetMD suggests that before flying, always check the airline’s pet policies. Get your dog’s health certificate from a veterinarian, and don’t forget to make a reservation for your pet. The same goes for buses and trains; check their policies beforehand.
Small dog breeds not used to traveling long distances can experience motion sickness, but vet-recommended medicine can help.
If you are unsure about your dog’s personality or temperament during a ride, you can also consider sedatives as prescribed by a professional. With training and positive reinforcement, dogs can become well-adjusted travelers.
Key Takeaways
A micro dog can make your travel more enjoyable with their playful and lively nature.
Before taking your pup on a trip, there are a few important things to consider; ignoring them can ruin your travel experience.
Owning a small dog comes with responsibility, yet when you care for them properly, you will always be eager to take your pup on every adventure.
Popular Micro Dog Breeds For Travelers
1. Chihuahua
Whether you are flying or traveling by car, the Chihuahua can easily accompany you, thanks to its small size and fuss-free attitude. This micro dog can be transported anywhere, whether you are visiting friends, enjoying a stroll, or moving between apartments. Your Chi fits right in.
Despite its size, this little pup has a big personality and never shies away from calling out anything or anyone it dislikes. Since Chihuahuas are very attached to their owners, Omlet suggests that they can be taught proper training and socialization with positive reinforcement.
Just remember to check if hotels allow small dogs, as rules vary. While most Chihuahuas can stay calm and asleep during travel, some can experience anxiety. That’s not a big issue; your vet can suggest safe medicines.
Always arrange easy-to-transport carriers where they can fit comfortably, whether in a car, train, or plane. Before heading to crowded places, train your Chihuahua not to bark at strangers or unfamiliar people.
2. Toy Poodle
The Toy Poodle is another travel-friendly choice from the list of most popular dog breeds. Their company is a source of calm, never stress, because they are naturally gentle, playful, and therapy dogs. They do not mind other pets, kids, or new friends around them.
These pups would rather enjoy the outing. If you are planning to fly or travel by train or bus, rest assured, a well-trained Toy Poodle is completely safe to go anywhere.
A pet backpack, basket, or crate will work depending on the situation. On planes, pets can stay under the seat or in the cabin. Whether you are taking your dog to a restaurant, visiting another city, or heading on a vacation, feel free to bring them along.
This adorable furry friend is not only a great companion but will likely become everyone’s favorite travel partner, who will make fans long for its charm.
3. Havanese
Havanese are extremely eager to please and constantly seek their owner’s affection and approval. They love being around people, playing with children, and interacting with other pets. A Havanese is a joyful furry friend that causes no stress during travel.
This small dog fits easily into a carrier so you can fly or travel without them almost everywhere. They are naturally not fussy or yappy, which makes them a great companion if you want to enjoy a meal or coffee at a restaurant during your trip.
Unlike some small breeds, Havanese are not habitual barkers and remain quiet. Their natural empathy and intelligence make them adaptable to new surroundings.
It is important, however, that the carrier you use for your Havanese or any other breed fits properly. It should allow enough room for them to turn around or stand comfortably. While calm and easygoing, they might still feel unsettled if placed in a cramped or uncomfortable spot.
4. Maltese
The Maltese is one of the most popular dog breeds among small pups. It is a beautiful, gentle dog that happily travels with its family because it thrives on company and affection, like the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.
Train your Maltese to remain inside a carrier, and once it gets used to it, long trips by train or plane, even hours at a time, are manageable.
This small dog will usually settle quietly in the carrier and can spend much of its journey sleeping in couch-like spaces if they are exhausted. Still, it’s wise to check in on them to prevent anxiety.
Maltese dogs can bark when they are ignored or bored, but it can be managed with play sessions and mental stimulation before you begin a journey with them. If left uncontrolled, this barking habit can limit trips to restaurants, though outings in other public spaces are safe.
The Maltese dog shines outdoors; it loves walks and fun activities, as explained by WebMD. Like the Toy Poodle, this affectionate breed has natural intelligence, which allows it to learn travel etiquette through positive reinforcement.
5. Yorkshire Terrier
The Yorkshire Terrier is protective, affectionate, and highly intelligent. Yes, they are barkers, but with proper training, you can help suppress their barking habit and defensive attitude toward strangers. Once trained, Yorkies are easygoing and can join you on all your adventures.
They may not immediately warm up to new friends in unfamiliar surroundings because of their naturally suspicious nature, like a French Bulldog. This becomes less of a problem as they get used to traveling. Yorkies are upbeat, active, and full of energy; it’s best to let them burn off some excitement before flight.
That way, they will settle down, fall asleep easily, and make your air travel smooth and comfortable. Offering treats while they are inside their carrier also keeps them content.
It’s a good idea to check on your Yorkie during a flight if they are in a carrier, as their strong bond with humans makes them feel more secure when they sense your presence.
6. Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is yet another wonderful travel companion. with its placid temperament. This little dog is playful, affectionate, and always ready to snuggle in your lap. Shih Tzus are great family dogs who blend well with kids and even new friends you meet along the way.
Imagine strolling through a station or airport with this cheerful pup, you are sure to be stopped by admirers charmed by its adorable presence. Shih Tzus are safe to travel with on planes, buses, or cars, provided you make the proper arrangements for the carrier.
It is never safe to carry a dog loosely during travel, especially one of such a small size. Although they may bark at times, this habit is easily controlled because they are gentle, eager to please, and rarely ignore their owner’s commands.
Planning to travel with your dog? Use our dog harness size calculator below to find the perfect fit:
Traveling with a Shih Tzu is nothing less than delightful, as they are always eager to make everyone happy.
7. Pomeranian
Pomeranians are vocal, lively, and deeply attached to their owners. They love the outdoors, are extremely energetic, and remain alert and bond even in new situations.
Traveling with a Pom is easy if you have trained them properly to stay in a carrier. However, since they have a stubborn streak like a Boston Terrier and may not tolerate long rides at first, it’s best to prepare them gradually.
Start with short trips in the car so they become used to enclosed spaces. Their boldness and alertness make them prone to barking, and while training can moderate this behavior, it’s better to avoid taking them to places where silence is required.
Pomeranians are intelligent, curious, and quick learners. Obedience training and mental stimulation are essential for hassle-free travel. Checking on your Pom and offering treats during travel helps them stay calm and secure, and that also ensures a comfortable journey for both of you.
Conclusion
Having small breeds is such a delight. These pups are playful companions you can take everywhere. While you do need to make some proper arrangements for their travel, once you become aware of their requirements and train your dog well, your journey will be smooth.
Your small furry friend might be prone to separation anxiety if you leave them alone, but once your pup gets used to traveling, you will never want to go on a trip without them because dogs love being with their humans.
Whether a Chihuahua, a Maltese, or a Toy Poodle, your micro dog can become your favorite travel partner and might even help you with strangers and new friends during your trip, making your trips truly memorable.
