Driving Upcountry With a Shiba Inu: What I Learned

Gucci is a three-year-old Shiba Inu with opinions about everything, including the car. Last month we drove from Bangkok to Hua Hin for a long weekend, roughly three hours with Bangkok traffic. I was nervous. She hates confined spaces.

What helped: we put her in a secured crate in the back seat, which kept her calm and off the front seats. We stopped every ninety minutes for a short walk and fresh water. Before leaving I fed her a lighter meal so her stomach was not too full on the road. Some dogs get car sick, so ask a vet before long trips if you're unsure.

The traffic on the way down was slow, but Gucci slept most of the way. On the highway she stood up at the window, glaring at trucks like they were enemies. By the time we reached the beach, she sniffed the sea air and ran in circles for ten minutes.

Would I do it again? Yes, with the crate and the planned breaks. Long trips work better with a dog who has a routine.