December 16, 2021
Any advice for transporting our new puppy home from the breeder? It will be a 3 to 4 hour drive.
Full Question:
Hi Cindy, we will be bringing an 8-week old Boxer puppy into our family (pet dog) in about a month. We’ve started ordering supplies-crates, toys, equipment-but have a question about the actual trip, which will be a 3-4-hour drive. My understanding is that the safest transport would be in an airline-style crate (which we will have) but it’s a full size-we just plan on putting a large box or something to prevent it from being a pee station until the puppy is bigger. What’s your advice for the trip itself? I’m thinking we’ll need to stop every hour to let the puppy do his business, and possibly more frequently if he gets car sick. Is there anything special you do if you’re transporting a new puppy over such a long-distance? Thanks in advance-we are loving the things we’re learning on your site. 
Cindy's Answer:
Three to four hours shouldn't be too bad, about a year ago I drove 16 hours to pick up my current competition prospect puppy. I used a small airline crate and had a friend with me in case the puppy got fussy. I stopped when the pup got restless, which may have only been every 2-3 hours or so. They're all different and it's pretty normal for them to do a bit of yelling/whining at first.
Many folks have the passenger hold the puppy during the trip home, I use a crate but often the pup is more comfy if they are on someone's lap. It's not as safe, of course, so you have to decide what makes the most sense. If you do use a crate maybe you can borrow a small one for the trip? Puppies usually feel more secure in a small, cozy space as opposed to a big crate. You may also want to cover the crate with a light sheet or towel as that can help with carsickness if it's triggered by the visuals of being in a moving car. Hopefully, the breeder will take the puppies on some car rides between now and when you pick him up.
Many folks have the passenger hold the puppy during the trip home, I use a crate but often the pup is more comfy if they are on someone's lap. It's not as safe, of course, so you have to decide what makes the most sense. If you do use a crate maybe you can borrow a small one for the trip? Puppies usually feel more secure in a small, cozy space as opposed to a big crate. You may also want to cover the crate with a light sheet or towel as that can help with carsickness if it's triggered by the visuals of being in a moving car. Hopefully, the breeder will take the puppies on some car rides between now and when you pick him up.
User Response:
Thanks so much! I think everyone would prefer to do a combo of holding puppy and letting him sleep in the crate if he’ll do it. Appreciate your taking the time to respond.
Cindy's Answer:
I think you'll do great. I'm glad you are taking the time to research all of this in advance, congrats on your new addition to the family. Let me know how it goes.
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