Australia offers incredible opportunities for adventures with your four-legged companion, from coastal road trips to mountain escapes and outback explorations. Bernedoodles, with their adaptable nature and love of being with their families, can make wonderful travel companions. However, successful travel requires preparation, planning, and consideration of your dog's comfort and safety.
This guide covers everything you need to know about travelling with your Bernedoodle across Australia, whether you're planning a weekend getaway or an extended holiday.
Preparing Your Bernedoodle for Travel
Building Travel Tolerance
If your Bernedoodle isn't accustomed to car travel, start with short trips to build positive associations before embarking on longer journeys. Begin with brief drives to enjoyable destinations – a favourite park or a friend's house – and gradually increase duration.
Signs of travel anxiety include:
- Excessive drooling or panting
- Whining or barking
- Trembling
- Reluctance to get in the car
- Vomiting (beyond initial motion sickness)
If your Bernedoodle shows persistent anxiety, consult your vet about management strategies, which may include anti-anxiety medication for travel.
Motion Sickness
Many puppies experience motion sickness that they outgrow as their inner ear develops. For dogs prone to car sickness:
- Avoid feeding for 2-3 hours before travel
- Ensure good ventilation in the vehicle
- Take frequent breaks
- Keep them facing forward if possible
- Ask your vet about motion sickness medication for longer trips
💡 Pro Tip
Bring a familiar blanket or bed from home when travelling. The familiar scent helps your Bernedoodle feel secure in new environments and makes settling in accommodation easier.
Car Travel Safety
Safe restraint during car travel is essential for your Bernedoodle's safety and is a legal requirement in most Australian states. Unrestrained dogs are a distraction to drivers and risk serious injury in accidents or sudden stops.
Restraint Options
- Car harness – Attaches to the seatbelt system, allowing your dog to sit or lie on the seat while secured
- Crate or carrier – Must be secured in the vehicle; excellent for dogs who feel secure in enclosed spaces
- Car barrier – Keeps dogs in the back section of wagons or SUVs; should be combined with a secured bed or mat
- Boot liner with restraint – For vehicles with boot space, a liner combined with a short lead attachment works well
Whatever method you choose, ensure your Bernedoodle cannot move into the driver's space or exit the vehicle when doors open.
⚠️ Never Leave Your Dog in a Parked Car
Even on mild days, temperatures inside parked cars can rise to dangerous levels within minutes. In Australia's climate, heatstroke can occur rapidly and be fatal. If you must stop where dogs aren't permitted, one person should stay with the dog in an air-conditioned vehicle.
Travel Essentials Checklist
Pack these items for any trip with your Bernedoodle:
- Food and treats – Bring enough of their regular food plus extra; don't rely on finding their brand during travel
- Water – Carry fresh water and a travel bowl; some dogs are sensitive to water changes
- Medications – Any regular medications plus first aid supplies
- Lead and collar with ID tags – Ensure tags have your mobile number
- Vaccination records – Some accommodation and facilities require proof
- Bedding – Familiar bedding helps dogs settle
- Waste bags – Be a responsible pet owner everywhere you go
- Grooming supplies – Brush and basic grooming items
- Toys – Favourite toys for comfort and entertainment
- Towels – For wet dogs, muddy paws, or car seat protection
- Crate or bed – For sleeping and secure transport
Planning Your Route
Regular Breaks
Plan stops every 2-3 hours for toilet breaks, water, and leg stretching. Research dog-friendly rest stops along your route – many highway rest areas have designated dog areas, though these should be used with leads.
Finding Dog-Friendly Stops
Australia has increasing numbers of dog-friendly cafés, restaurants with outdoor areas, and parks. Apps and websites can help locate these along your route. Remember that some beaches and national parks have restrictions on dogs – check ahead to avoid disappointment.
Weather Considerations
Plan travel times around Australia's heat. During summer, travel during cooler morning or evening hours when possible. Ensure adequate air conditioning in the vehicle, and remember that Bernedoodles, especially those with dark coats, can overheat quickly.
Accommodation Options
Dog-Friendly Hotels and Motels
Many Australian hotels and motels accept dogs, though policies vary widely. Some charge pet fees, some restrict dogs to certain rooms, and some have size or breed limitations. Always confirm pet policies when booking, and be specific about your Bernedoodle's size – a Standard Bernedoodle is a large dog that not all "pet-friendly" establishments can accommodate.
Holiday Rentals
Platforms like Airbnb and Stayz have filters for pet-friendly properties. Holiday houses often offer more space and fenced yards – ideal for Bernedoodles. Read policies carefully, as some properties have pet deposits or restrictions.
Caravan Parks and Camping
Many Australian caravan parks and campgrounds welcome dogs, though national park campgrounds often don't. Cabin accommodation may or may not allow pets – always check. Camping can be wonderful for Bernedoodles who enjoy outdoor adventures.
📝 Accommodation Etiquette
Help maintain access for future travelling dogs by being a responsible guest: don't leave your dog unattended if they might bark, clean up thoroughly, bring covers for furniture, and leave the space in excellent condition.
Activities During Your Trip
Beaches
Many Australian beaches welcome dogs, but rules vary by council and often by time of day or season. Off-lead beaches are wonderful for Bernedoodles who love water, but ensure your dog has reliable recall before letting them off-lead. Rinse salt water from your dog's coat after beach visits to prevent skin irritation.
Bushwalking
Australia offers fantastic walking trails, but dogs aren't permitted in national parks in most states. State forests, regional parks, and council reserves often allow dogs on-lead. Always carry water for your dog – more than you think you'll need – and check tracks for hazards like snakes.
Dog Parks
Visiting local off-lead dog parks can be a highlight for social Bernedoodles. Search ahead for parks along your route. Remember that unfamiliar dogs in unfamiliar environments require careful supervision.
Special Considerations for Bernedoodles
Heat Management
Bernedoodles, particularly those with thick coats, are prone to overheating in Australia's climate. Travel with cooling equipment such as cooling mats, always have water available, and plan activities during cooler parts of the day. For comprehensive heat safety advice, see our summer safety guide.
Coat Maintenance
Travel doesn't mean grooming can be neglected. Pack appropriate brushes and maintain your regular brushing schedule – adventures often mean more opportunity for debris and tangles in your Bernedoodle's coat. Swimming, in particular, requires thorough rinsing and drying to prevent matting and skin issues.
Separation Anxiety
Bernedoodles can be prone to separation anxiety, which may intensify in unfamiliar environments. Avoid leaving your dog alone in accommodation for extended periods, especially at first. If you must go somewhere dogs aren't permitted, look for doggy daycare options in the area.
Interstate Travel
When crossing state borders, be aware that some regulations may differ. While there are no quarantine requirements for pet dogs within Australia, ensure your dog's registration, vaccinations, and microchip details are current. Carry documentation, especially vaccination records.
🔑 Key Takeaway
With proper preparation, travelling with your Bernedoodle can be one of the most rewarding aspects of ownership. Start with shorter trips to build confidence, always prioritise safety and comfort, and enjoy exploring Australia together. Your Bernedoodle will appreciate nothing more than adventures at your side.