Traveling With Your Shih Tzu: Car, Plane & Hotel Survival Guide

Shih Tzus are portable and strongly attached to their humans, which makes them ideal travel companions if you plan properly. If you don’t, you get overheating, stress, and logistical headaches that ruin the trip for everyone.

Car Travel Basics

• Harness + seatbelt or secured crate only. No loose dogs on laps, especially not in the front seat.
• Temperature control: Shih Tzus overheat fast. Never leave them in a parked car, even “just for a minute.”
• Practice runs: Short drives before a long road trip to prevent car sickness and panic.

Flying With a Shih Tzu

Flying with brachycephalic breeds carries extra risk, especially in cargo. Cabin travel is safer but not stress-free.

• Confirm airline rules and carrier size limits well in advance.
• Get a vet check and discuss whether your dog is a good candidate for flying at all.
• Avoid sedatives unless your vet strongly recommends them—many are risky for short-nosed dogs.

Choosing Dog-Friendly Accommodation

Don’t assume “pet-friendly” means “small-dog-friendly-without-hidden-fees.” Check:

• Weight limits and breed restrictions.
• Pet fees per night or per stay.
• Rules about leaving the dog unattended in the room.

Travel Health Checklist

• Vaccination records and any required certificates.
• Medications, including eye drops or allergy meds if your Shih Tzu needs them.
• Local vet and emergency clinic info at your destination.

You can use MyPetAtlas to look up vets and emergency clinics along your route or near your hotel, so you’re not Googling frantically from a parking lot at midnight.

Managing Stress on the Road

Bring familiar items: bed, blanket, favorite toys. Keep meals consistent and avoid major diet changes while traveling. Build in extra time for toilet breaks and short walks so your Shih Tzu isn’t stuck in a crate or carrier for hours without relief.

Is Your Shih Tzu Even a Travel Dog?

Not every dog enjoys travel, and that’s okay. If your Shih Tzu is anxious, noise-sensitive, or has serious health issues, they may be better off with a reliable sitter or boarding option. Check the temperament and health sections in the MyPetAtlas Shih Tzu article and talk with your vet honestly about what your dog can realistically handle.