How to Interpret Your Dog’s Behavior Changes When You Travel

When you’re going on vacation or getting out of town, your dog can notice every little change. If they can’t join you on your adventure, then their behavior can change even in the slightest form. From packing bags to long goodbyes, these cues can shape their feelings long before you step out the door. Understanding your dog’s behaviors before departure, while you’re away, and when you return can help you better understand their emotional world.

Understanding Pre‑Departure Behaviors

Many dogs pick up subtle signs that their person is planning to leave, including things like grabbing keys, putting on a coat, or packing a bag. For dogs, these are known as pre‑departure cues. Over time, a dog may begin to feel anxious long before you actually leave.

If your dog is not used to you leaving for extended periods of time, a great strategy is to gently ease into departures by desensitizing them to cues and giving them safe, positive alone‑time experiences first. This helps them build trust in your return, without becoming overly sensitized to the cues themselves.

Some of the signs your dog is anxious before you travel include:

• Restless pacing or following you anxiously
• Drooling, yawning, or shaking when departure cues begin
• Clinging to your legs or moving with you from room to room

How to respond to these cues:

• Practice very short absences—leave for just a minute, then return calmly
• Create positive associations with your departure routine (e.g., treat dispensing, favorite toy before slipping out). Stick to a calming, consistent routine.
• Build comfort with short separations to gradually reduce anxiety.

Behaviors While You’re Away

If your dog is staying at your home when you’re away, their behavior can change. Whether you have a camera to watch their behavior or your dog sitter notes their behavior, these changes include:

• Less confidence and energy
• Apathy, avoidance, or quiet pacing
• Excessive barking or vocalizing if anxious

What helps your dog stay happy and calm while you’re away is plenty of socialization, mental stimulation, and exercise. A daily routine can provide predictability and comfort. The best way to ensure they are receiving their needs and maintaining a routine is with boarding your dog so they can receive care from trusted, loving professionals.

RELATED: K9 Resorts Boarding for Dogs: First Time Prep Guide

Return‑From‑Vacation Behaviors

When you come back, your dog’s behavior might include:

• Zoomies, hyper‑excitability, or overly intense greeting
• Nervous relief—panting, drooling, pacing
• An initial overreaction that says: “You're back—but now what?”

Ease your return by letting them adjust without overwhelming excitement. Offer calm praise, maybe a quiet toy or a familiar blanket, letting them settle in gradually.

Tips for Traveling Dog Parents

Before you leave:

• Be mindful of pre‑departure cues—minimize their intensity if they spark anxiety
• Build in short practice separations with positive reinforcement

While you’re away:

• Ensure they have outlets for energy and attention—mental games, toys, structured care
• Stick to a routine—feeding, play, and rest at predictable times

Offering board-and-daycare services, like those at K9 Resorts Luxury Pet Hotel, can be a great way to provide both routine and enrichment when dog parents are away, especially if they're worried about mental stimulation and emotional needs.

After arriving home:

• Greet gently, give them space if they seem overwhelmed
• Reinforce calm exploration of home—offer favorite toys or a comfy spot with your scent.

How Traveling Affects Dog Parents

According to a recent survey of 2,000 dog owners by Talker Research, about 40% of dog owners experience constant worry while they are away on vacation, which can affect their whole trip. For 42% of dog owners, their favorite part of the trip is coming home to their dog. That moment, seeing their tail wag and happiness on your return. It is priceless.

However, ensuring that your dog is cared for while you’re away can significantly improve your vacation or getaway.

Compassionate Care for When You’re Away

If you’re noticing anxious or unsettled dog behavior when you travel, you're not alone. It can be difficult for both you and your dog. Luckily, you can enjoy your trip knowing that your dog is cared for at K9 Resorts Luxury Pet Hotel. At K9 Resorts Luxury Pet Hotel, we take pride in giving your dog the best stay, giving them the same love, attention, and care they receive at home. To learn more about boarding at K9 Resorts Luxury Pet Hotel, give us a call at (973) 846-9416 or by touring your local resort.