Traveling With a Shih Tzu: Tips for Stress-Free Adventures

Traveling with a Shih Tzu can be wonderfully fun when you prepare for their needs and understand their personality. These small dogs are affectionate, sensitive, and deeply bonded to their families, so they travel best when the experience is predictable and safe. At Champaign Shih Tzu, where every puppy comes from genetically tested AKC adults and grows up inside a real family home, we help new owners learn how to make travel simple, calm, and enjoyable for their dog.

Why Shih Tzus Can Be Good Travel Companions

Shih Tzus adore being near their people. Whether you are heading on a weekend road trip or flying across the country, traveling with a Shih Tzu works well when you build comfort through preparation. They do not love chaos, but they handle new environments well when the transition is gentle.

Small size advantage

Their size makes them easier to travel with, especially when using an airline-approved carrier or bringing them into pet-friendly hotels.

People-oriented temperament

Shih Tzus are happiest when they are near you. Even unfamiliar environments feel safer when they know you are close by.

Preparing for Your Trip

The calmest journeys start long before the actual travel day. Getting your dog ready the right way prevents surprises and builds confidence.

Practice trips

Begin with short drives around the neighborhood. Let them explore their travel carrier inside the house first, then in the car. A dog that views the carrier as a safe den will travel more easily.

Health check and paperwork

Before traveling with a Shih Tzu, ensure vaccinations are up to date and, if required, request a health certificate. Airlines and some hotels need documentation.

Choose the right carrier

Pick a well-ventilated, soft-sided carrier for flights or a secure crate for car travel. At Champaign Shih Tzu, we condition puppies early to enjoy cozy spaces, so most of them accept carriers quickly.

Pack the essentials

• Food

• Collapsible bowls

• Water

• Leash and harness

• Favorite toy

• Potty bags

• Grooming wipes

• A small blanket that smells like home

  
  

Bringing familiar items helps your puppy relax when everything else is new.

Tips for Stress-Free Road Trips

Traveling with a Shih Tzu in the car can actually be enjoyable because they love observing the world from a safe, cozy spot.

Secure seating

Use a crash-tested harness, booster seat, or secured crate. Never let your dog ride loose or sit on your lap while driving.

Bathroom and stretch breaks

Stop every two or three hours to let them stretch and relieve themselves. Tiny bladders do not last long.

Temperature control

Shih Tzus overheat easily. Keep the car cool, avoid leaving them alone, and watch for signs of panting or distress.

Keep things calm

Some dogs get anxious in cars. Playing soft music or offering a chew toy can help them settle.

Flying With a Shih Tzu

Flying requires more preparation, but traveling with a Shih Tzu by air is possible with the right steps.

Book early

Airlines limit the number of in-cabin pets. Book your dog’s spot as soon as possible.

Carrier training

Your dog needs to feel safe inside the carrier, especially for longer flights. Practice at home by letting them nap inside it and offering treats.

Airport routine

Arrive early so you’re not rushing. Find a pet relief area before boarding. Keep the environment calm so your dog does not pick up on stress.

Flight comfort

Place a soft blanket inside the carrier and, if allowed, attach a small water dispenser. During the flight, reassure quietly but avoid opening the carrier unless permitted.

Hotel and Airbnb Stays

Most Shih Tzus adapt well to hotels because they like being close to you, but you should still set expectations for them.

Create a familiar setup

Place their blanket, food, and travel carrier in one corner to create a temporary home base.

Stick to routines

Even when traveling with a Shih Tzu, keep the potty schedule and feeding times the same as at home.

Respect noise sensitivity

Shih Tzus may react to hallway sounds. Turning on the TV at a low volume or using a white-noise app helps prevent barking.

Grooming and Comfort While Traveling

Shih Tzus are a low-shedding breed with a coat that requires regular attention, especially when they are active.

Eye and face care

Carry gentle wipes to clean tear stains and keep the face fresh. Dust and wind can irritate their eyes while traveling.

Coat maintenance

Brush your dog daily to prevent tangles. Travel stress or new climates can cause their coat to dry out or become frizzy.

Hydration

Shih Tzus require consistent hydration, especially in warm climates or on long travel days. Offer small, frequent drinks to prevent stomach upset.

Expert Breeder Tips From Champaign Shih Tzu

Our experience raising family-friendly puppies gives us insight into what makes travel smooth.

Socialization matters

A well-socialized Shih Tzu adapts to new environments better. Because our puppies are raised in a busy family home with children and everyday noise, they naturally adapt quicker during travel.

Confidence building

Short positive experiences build a dog’s trust. Practice elevators, new floors, new sounds, and short carrier time at home to help your puppy feel confident on the road.

Keep emotional comfort high

These puppies thrive on your reassurance. Calm energy from you leads to calm behavior from them.

Final Thoughts

Traveling with a Shih Tzu is simple when you plan ahead and understand how these sensitive little dogs think. Keep routines steady, offer comfort, and make the experience predictable. With the right approach, adventures become enjoyable for both of you, and your puppy learns to love exploring the world by your side.

FAQ

How do I prepare my Shih Tzu for travel? Start with practice trips, introduce the carrier slowly, and pack familiar items that create comfort.

Can Shih Tzus fly in the cabin on airplanes?  Yes, most Shih Tzus qualify for in-cabin travel as long as they fit comfortably in an airline-approved carrier.

How do I keep my Shih Tzu calm during travel?  Use gentle routines, offer reassurance, and create a familiar environment with toys, blankets, and scheduled breaks.

Is car travel safe for Shih Tzus? 

Yes, as long as they ride in a secure crate, booster seat, or crash-tested harness with proper temperature control.

Do Shih Tzus adapt well to hotels? 

Most do, especially when you set up a consistent sleeping area and maintain their normal schedule.