Traveling with your dog sounds like a dream, but some breeds just aren’t made for life on the go. Breeds with high anxiety, motion sickness, or a deep dislike for change—like Bulldogs or Chihuahuas—can make road trips a nightmare. Others, like large working dogs, might struggle with cramped spaces or long confinement. Even the most lovable pups can become restless or reactive in unfamiliar environments. It’s not just about size—it’s about temperament, adaptability, and comfort. Knowing which breeds don’t mesh well with travel can help you plan better adventures. Because a peaceful trip means a happy pup and a happy human!
Bulldogs: The Overheating Couch Potatoes
Bulldogs are adorable with their squishy faces and sturdy bodies, but when it comes to travel, they’re simply not cut out for the journey. Their short noses (a condition called brachycephaly) make breathing difficult, especially in warm or stuffy environments like cars, planes, or crowded buses. Even a short ride can leave a bulldog huffing, puffing, and downright miserable. If you’ve ever tried to cool down a sweaty bulldog in a car, you know the struggle is real.
On top of that, bulldogs are notorious for their love of lounging. They’d rather nap on the couch than explore a new destination. Long walks, stairs, or any kind of exertion can be a challenge for them. Traveling with a bulldog can quickly turn from exciting to exhausting — for both you and your dog. If you want to avoid panicked panting and pitiful puppy-dog eyes, let your bulldog enjoy a staycation instead.
Chow Chows: The Stubborn Homebodies
Chow Chows are as independent as they are fluffy. These majestic dogs can be aloof and wary of strangers, making them extra sensitive to new environments and unfamiliar faces. If you’re hoping your Chow will adapt quickly to a hotel room or a bustling airport, think again. They often struggle with change and can become anxious or even aggressive when their routine is disrupted.
Even in the car, a Chow Chow’s stubborn streak shines through. They may refuse to get in or out, or simply sulk for the entire trip. Their thick double coats also make them prone to overheating, which can be dangerous during summer travels. You might find your Chow more content cuddled up at home, guarding the living room rather than navigating the chaos of travel.
Afghan Hounds: The Sensitive Supermodels
Afghan Hounds are breathtakingly beautiful, but beneath that glamorous exterior lies a sensitive soul. They’re creatures of habit, and they don’t handle stress well. The constant change of scenery, strange noises, and unfamiliar people that come with travel can send an Afghan Hound into a nervous tailspin. You may find them cowering in the corner or pacing anxiously, wishing for the comfort of home.
Their long, flowing coats are also a major hassle on the road. Tangles, dirt, and debris are inevitable, turning a simple trip into a grooming nightmare. Unless you’re ready to carry a suitcase full of brushes and detanglers, it’s best to let this supermodel stay behind. The Afghan Hound’s delicate nature and high-maintenance fur make them one of the least travel-friendly breeds around.
Great Danes: The Gentle Giants Too Big to Travel
Great Danes are known for their loving, gentle personalities — but their sheer size makes travel a massive challenge. These towering dogs barely fit in most cars, let alone hotel rooms or airplane cabins. Even if you have an SUV, your Dane might have to fold themselves into a pretzel just to fit in the back seat.
Beyond logistics, Great Danes have sensitive digestive systems that can be easily upset by travel stress or changes in routine. They’re also prone to joint issues, which can be aggravated by cramped spaces or long periods of inactivity. If you don’t want your road trip to turn into a game of canine Tetris, it’s wiser to let your Great Dane lounge in spacious comfort at home.
Shar Peis: The Worriers with Wrinkles
Shar Peis may look like living teddy bears, but they’re actually quite reserved and often suspicious of new situations. Their cautious nature means they don’t adapt well to the constant novelty of travel. Loud noises, bustling crowds, and unfamiliar smells can turn a Shar Pei into a bundle of nerves.
Additionally, all those adorable wrinkles require extra care. A little dirt or moisture caught between the folds can quickly lead to skin infections, especially when you’re on the road without your usual grooming supplies. If your Shar Pei gets stressed, their immune system can take a hit, making them even more vulnerable. Traveling is simply too much for these sensitive, wrinkle-covered worrywarts.
Pekingese: The Royalty Who Refuse to Rough It
Pekingese dogs carry themselves like royalty, and they expect to be treated as such. These small, proud pups love the comforts of home — plush beds, quiet corners, and predictable routines. Take them out of their element, and you’ll quickly see their displeasure. They’re known for being stubborn and can easily become stressed or even snappy when forced into unfamiliar environments.
Their long coats attract dirt and debris, and their compact snouts make breathing difficult in stuffy cars or hot climates. Add to that their tendency to dislike strangers and other animals, and you’ve got a recipe for disaster. Pekingese would much rather reign over their own castle than brave the wild unknown with you.
Saint Bernards: The Drooling, Overheating Heavyweights
Saint Bernards are gentle giants with massive hearts — and equally massive bodies. Traveling with a Saint Bernard is like hauling around a small bear. They take up an incredible amount of space and can easily overwhelm even the largest vehicles. Their heavy coats make them prone to overheating, especially in summer or in warm climates.
Another issue: drool. Saint Bernards are notorious for their slobber, and a long car ride can turn your upholstery into a sticky mess. They also tire quickly and need lots of rest, making them ill-suited to long hikes or sightseeing excursions. If you’re looking for a travel buddy who’s low-maintenance and compact, the Saint Bernard is definitely not it.
Shih Tzus: The Delicate Little Divas
Shih Tzus are sweet, affectionate lap dogs who thrive on routine and familiar surroundings. Traveling disrupts their sense of security, often making them anxious or even physically ill. Their tiny bodies are sensitive to temperature changes, and they can become overheated or chilled much faster than larger dogs.
Their long, silky coats are beautiful but require constant grooming, which is tough on the road. Shih Tzus are also prone to motion sickness and can get upset tummies from even short car rides. If you’re hoping for a cheerful companion on your travels, you might find your Shih Tzu more comfortable curled up at home, surrounded by familiar sights and smells.
Dachshunds: The Stubborn Burrowers
Dachshunds are feisty and full of character, but their long backs and short legs make them a risky choice for travel. They’re prone to back problems, which can be aggravated by jumping in and out of cars or being jostled on bumpy rides. Even a short trip can leave your Dachshund uncomfortable or in pain.
These little dogs are also notorious for their stubbornness. If they don’t want to go somewhere, good luck convincing them otherwise. Their loud, persistent barking can make them unwelcome guests in hotels or campsites. Dachshunds may be adventurous in spirit, but their bodies and personalities aren’t made for the travel lifestyle.
Border Collies: The Workaholics Who Loathe Downtime
Border Collies are brilliant, energetic, and always ready for action — but that’s exactly why they struggle with travel. Being cooped up in a car or confined to a hotel room is pure torture for these workaholics. Without constant stimulation and exercise, they quickly become bored, anxious, and even destructive.
They thrive on routine and purpose, and the unpredictable nature of travel can make them feel lost. If you’re not able to provide hours of activity and mental challenges on the road, your Border Collie may become a whirlwind of nervous energy. For these clever canines, there’s simply no substitute for the stability and structure of home.
While every dog is lovable in their own way, not all are cut out for the chaos of travel. Some breeds just prefer the comfort of home and a consistent routine over noisy airports and bumpy car rides. Understanding your pup’s temperament can save both of you a lot of stress on the road. So before packing those bags, consider whether your furry friend is better off with a cozy pet sitter or by your side.
