The Best and Worst Dogs for Digital Nomads
Are you thinking about getting a dog to travel with? It’s a big decision not to be taken lightly.
After three years (and counting) of full-time travel with my 11-pound Yorkiepoo, Shelby, I can tell you that having a dog with me has made all the difference in my happiness.
Traveling with a dog isn’t easy, and it definitely isn’t cheap. Airline fees, vet bills, and extra cleaning fees in Airbnbs and hotels all add up.
But having a loyal companion by your side makes every bit of it worth it.
That said, not every dog is cut out for a life on the road. Some breeds thrive in new environments, while others would rather stay put.
If you’re thinking about traveling with a dog, choosing the right breed is crucial. Let’s break down the best and worst dogs for digital nomads.
Best Dogs for Digital Nomads (Under 16 Pounds)
I’m going to focus on small dogs that can travel in the cabin with you. Of course, you can transport dogs in cargo, but that comes with entirely new problems.
Really, if you’re going to travel a lot with your dog, you should opt for a small breed.
These are some of the best breeds based on input from thousands of other travelers and my own experiences:
- Yorkiepoo (6-14 lbs): Hypoallergenic, highly intelligent, and easy to train. (More on this below!)
- Chihuahua (2-6 lbs): Ultra-portable, low maintenance, and adaptable to new environments.
- Toy Poodle (6-10 lbs): Smart, trainable, and minimal shedding – a great choice for allergy-prone travelers.
- Miniature Dachshund (8-11 lbs): Loyal, affectionate, and compact enough to fit in any small space.
- Shih Tzu (9-16 lbs): Low-energy and easygoing, they handle travel well without needing tons of exercise.
- Havanese (7-13 lbs): Social, friendly, and adaptable to different climates.
- Bichon Frise (12-18 lbs): Playful and hypoallergenic, they thrive in social environments.
- Maltese (7-9 lbs): Small, friendly, and affectionate – a great travel companion.
- Pomeranian (3-7 lbs): Tiny and full of personality, they’re easy to carry and adjust well to travel.
- Toy Poodle Mix (6-16 lbs): When you combine a poodle with other small breeds, you end up with a hypoallergenic, non-shedding dog. Plus, they’re usually pretty darned cute and smart!
These breeds tend to be small enough for airline carry-on requirements, adaptable to new places, and not overly vocal (with proper training).
Worst Dogs for Digital Nomads (Under 16 Pounds)
Not every small dog is a great travel companion. Here are some breeds that struggle with life on the go:
- French Bulldog (16-28 lbs): Brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds have trouble breathing and don’t do well in extreme temperatures or on planes.
- Pug (14-18 lbs): Similar to French Bulldogs, they overheat easily and struggle with air travel.
- Boston Terrier (12-25 lbs): Social and affectionate, but their breathing issues make travel challenging.
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniel (13-18 lbs): Prone to separation anxiety, making it hard if you need to work in cafes or coworking spaces.
- Miniature Schnauzer (11-20 lbs): High-energy and known for barking – not ideal for shared accommodations.
While these breeds make fantastic pets in a stable home, they’re not the best fit for the frequent changes and demands of the digital nomad lifestyle.
Why I Chose a Yorkiepoo for the Nomad Life
When I became a digital nomad, I knew I wanted a dog that could travel easily, adapt to new environments, and not shed all over my Airbnb.
Enter Shelby, my Yorkiepoo. She’s been my best friend across three years and multiple countries.
What makes Yorkiepoos (a mix of Yorkshire Terrier and Poodle) such great travel dogs?
- Small size: At just 11 pounds, she fits under airline seats and is easy to carry.
- Hypoallergenic coat: No shedding means no fur-covered luggage.
- Smart and trainable: She picked up travel routines fast – from sleeping in different beds to adjusting to time zones.
- Low maintenance: She doesn’t need hours of exercise, which makes long workdays in cafes easier.
She’s also social but not overly clingy, meaning she can handle alone time when needed. If you’re looking for a travel-friendly breed, a Yorkiepoo (or any Poodle mix) is a solid choice.
Key Considerations When Choosing a Travel Dog
Beyond breed, here are the main things to think about when bringing a dog into your nomadic lifestyle:
1. Size Matters
Since most airlines have a limit of 20 pounds for the dog and carrier, dogs under 16 pounds can fly in-cabin on most airlines, avoiding the stress of cargo travel. Anything bigger can be a logistical challenge.
2. Temperament & Adaptability
Your dog should be able to handle airports, new places, and different people without stress. Breeds prone to anxiety might struggle.
3. Exercise Needs
If you work long hours in cafes or coworking spaces, a high-energy dog might not be the best fit. Look for breeds that are happy with short walks and indoor play.
4. Grooming Requirements
Dogs that need frequent professional grooming can be expensive and hard to maintain on the road. Opt for breeds with manageable coats.
However, I’ve found that in Mexico, grooming is very affordable. I pay around $15 for Shelby to be groomed.
5. Health Issues
Flat-faced breeds (Pugs, Frenchies) have breathing problems that make air travel risky. In fact, most airlines won’t allow these breeds at all. Some dogs are prone to anxiety, which can be made worse by frequent moves.
6. Barking Levels
A yappy dog can make life difficult in Airbnbs, hotels, and coworking spaces. Consider a quieter breed to keep neighbors happy.
Travel Tips for Small Dogs
If you’re hitting the road with your pup, here’s what I’ve learned after three years of full-time travel:
- Pack smart: A collapsible water bowl, travel carrier, and a comfy mat make a big difference. I absolutely love this PetAmi Pet Carrier which is a backpack that lies down to go under airplane seats. It’s the largest size allowed and is perfect for Shelby.
- Use pet-friendly apps: BringFido and Booking.com‘s pet filter help find dog-friendly places.
- Plan for vet visits: Research local vets in each country before you arrive.
- Keep ID updated: I keep Shelby’s microchip info current and always carry her vaccination records.
- Know the pet entry rules: Some countries require a pet passport and months of prep time for vaccines.
- Know the rules for bringing your dog back to the United States. They’ve been changing lately. I’ve been keeping my article on the CDC’s rules updated so be sure to refer to it frequently.
Wrap-Up: Best and Worst Dogs for Digital Nomads
The best digital nomad dog isn’t just about size. You also need to consider personality, adaptability, and lifestyle fit. Some dogs love change, while others thrive on routine.
If you’re considering bringing a pup into your nomadic life, take the time to research breeds, spend time with different dogs, and maybe even foster first.
For me, having Shelby on this journey has made nomad life even more rewarding. If you choose the right travel companion, your digital nomad journey can be more enjoyable, rewarding, and full of unforgettable experiences.
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