🐶 What You Need for Your Puppy’s Car Ride Home

Bringing Home Your Mini Aussie – Part 1

Published by Mini Aussie Collective

There’s nothing like the excitement of bringing home your new Mini Aussie puppy! But before the snuggles begin, there’s one important first adventure to prepare for: the car ride home.

Whether you're driving five minutes or an hour, making this first ride safe and comfortable helps set the tone for your pup’s transition into their new life.

🚗 Must-Haves for the Car Ride

1️⃣ A Secure Crate or Carrier Your puppy should travel in a secured crate that’s well-ventilated and just big enough to lie down, turn around, and sit up. This prevents sudden movement during stops or turns and helps ease anxiety.

Pro Tip: Line the crate with a soft towel or blanket that smells like their mom or littermates, if possible.

Safe, snug, and ready to roll! A comfy crate makes your pup’s first ride a cozy adventure.

2️⃣ Potty Protection Supplies Accidents happen—especially when nerves and motion are involved.

✅ Puppy pads

✅ Paper towels or baby wipes

✅ A plastic bag or small trash bag to toss anything messy

Potty protection, packed and ready. Because even the cutest travelers have little accidents.

3️⃣ A Water Bottle + Travel Bowl Have fresh water available in case the drive is long or your pup gets overheated. Offer small sips during breaks rather than letting them gulp.

Stay hydrated, little explorer! A travel water set keeps your pup refreshed on the go.

4️⃣ A Comfort Toy or Chew A plush toy or teething-safe chew can provide comfort and distraction. Avoid anything too messy or easily swallowed.

Puppy With "Lovey" Plush Comfort Toy For Comfort With Littermates Scent

5️⃣ Calm Company If possible, bring someone along to sit near the crate and help soothe the puppy with a calm voice. This first ride is not the time for loud music, fast food wrappers, or multitasking.

A familiar friend for the road. Soft toys bring comfort and calm to first-time travelers.

🧠 What to Expect: Puppy in Transit

They may cry or whine. Totally normal—they’re experiencing a lot of new things.They may get car sick. It happens, especially on an empty stomach.They may fall asleep. Also normal! Puppies sleep… a lot.

✅ MAC-Approved Tips for Success

🐾 Let your puppy go potty right before getting in the car.

🐾 Avoid feeding a full meal before the drive—small treats are fine.

🐾 Keep the crate out of direct sun and ensure airflow (especially if using the back seat).

🐾 Keep the ride short and sweet, if possible.

🐾 Avoid unnecessary stops—head straight home!

🏡 Once You Arrive...

Get your puppy inside first. Then offer water, take them to their potty area, and let them explore their new space calmly.

👉 Up Next:

How to Crate Train Your Mini Aussie Puppy → Starting crate training early creates routine, safety, and a happier pup. Read our full step-by-step guide!