All the love, none of the mess
We love them. They make our lives better. We care for them when they’re sick. They become an integral part of our families. We’re talking about dogs! It’s so easy to bring your pet along with you in an RV, but what do you do if you decide to get a puppy for a companion while you’re on the road? Are they difficult to train while you’re in an RV? Like with all things in an RV, you have to plan for a puppy. It has to be cared for, fed, loved, and trained. Make sure you know what you’re getting into, and it will go a lot easier.
Eyes open and route planned
You may want to skip the highways when you have a new puppy. When puppies need to use the bathroom, they need to use the bathroom. They don’t know yet to alert you, so they’re just going to go. Urine will damage an RV faster than you think if you’re not on top of the mess, so be sure to know what to look for when your puppy needs to go to the bathroom, and be prepared to pull over quickly. Keep a collar on your puppy at all times – and maybe even a leash so you can snatch it up and run outside when nature start calls your little lovable ball of fur. Since it’s impossible to pull over that quickly on a highway, and puppies can’t wait for the next pit stop, avoid them until your puppy is trained.
The word on kennels
Kennels are good options for naps and potty training. Make sure the kennel can fit in your RV long term, as the puppy will start associating it with comfort and safety and will likely spend time there when it’s not locked in. Make sure the kennel is big enough that the puppy can stand comfortably and turn around. It’s also a good idea to get a dog bed that isn’t easy to pull up for the kennel. Dogs are less likely to mess where they sleep, so if the puppy can’t move the bed, it will likely hold it until you can pull over and let it go outside. Just don’t leave it locked away too long or all the time.
Puppy proofing
Puppy proofing an RV is very similar to babyproofing it. Puppies explore with their eyes, nose, and mouth. If something can be chewed, the puppy is going to explore that option – much to your dismay. Make sure cupboards are secured, shoes are put up, doors are closed, and anything you don’t want toted off is removed from sight. If you catch your puppy chewing something it shouldn’t be, get its attention and give it a toy that’s meant for teeth rather than your valuables.
All that energy with very little space
Puppies need exercise or their energy will exhaust you. There are so many ways you can exercise with your puppy. Take it out for a walk or a hike, play fetch, or wrestle. Your puppy is going to have tons of energy to burn off, and playing with it will keep it from getting into things it shouldn’t when you’re back on the road.
Breed research
Know the breed you’re getting. Every breed comes with its own personality and idiosyncrasies. Make sure you get a dog that matches your personality and how you like to spend your time. If you’re an active person, there are dogs that will love to constantly be on the go with you. If you’re more relaxed and enjoy time at home, there are dogs that will be more than happy to curl up with you on a rainy day. Get the breed you can handle – not the one you love watching videos of on social media.
There are so many things to know about taking your dog on the road with you. We write a lot of blogs about how to incorporate your furry friend into your adventures. Here’s one that gives you a rundown on what to know and what to expect when your doggy comes along for the ride.
