Car travel can be stressful for dogs, especially puppies, senior dogs, or those prone to motion sickness. Nausea, drooling, vomiting, and anxiety can make trips unpleasant and even dangerous.
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Gradual Acclimatisation – Introduce your dog to the car slowly. Start with short sessions where the engine is off, then progress to brief drives. Reward calm behaviour to create a positive association and reduce anxiety over time.
Limit Food Intake – Avoid feeding your dog large meals 2–3 hours before travel. Small snacks are acceptable, but a full stomach increases the risk of nausea and vomiting during the journey.
Provide Secure Seating – Use a dog seat belt, crate, or travel harness to restrict movement safely. A secure space reduces stress, prevents sudden jostling, and helps your dog feel stable while the car is moving.
Maintain Ventilation – Keep windows slightly open or use air conditioning to provide fresh air. Good airflow reduces nausea and keeps your dog comfortable, especially during longer trips or in warm weather.
Use Calming Aids – For anxious dogs, consider vet-approved pheromone sprays, calming collars, or natural supplements. Introduce these gradually before travel to help reduce stress and motion-induced nausea.
Offer Hydration – Provide small amounts of water before and during stops on longer journeys. Avoid forcing water while the car is moving, as this may worsen nausea or choking risks.
Take Regular Breaks – On journeys longer than an hour, stop every 1–2 hours. Allow your dog to stretch, relieve themselves, and get fresh air. Frequent breaks reduce discomfort, lower anxiety, and prevent motion-related sickness from building over time.
Engage With Distraction – Gentle petting, a familiar toy, or soft music can help your dog focus away from the movement of the car. Avoid sudden gestures, loud voices, or aggressive play that may increase stress or worsen nausea.
Monitor Symptoms – Watch carefully for drooling, whining, pacing, or vomiting. Early recognition allows you to slow down, stop for a break, or use absorbent mats. Intervene promptly to prevent escalation, keeping your dog safe and preventing messes that could heighten anxiety.
Seek Veterinary Advice – Persistent car sickness despite these measures warrants a vet consultation. Prescription anti-nausea medications, motion sickness tablets, or targeted behavioural guidance can make travel manageable, especially for sensitive dogs or those with chronic motion issues.
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Summary of this article
Minimise car sickness by gradually acclimatising your dog to vehicles, ensuring they have appropriate seating or restraints, limiting food before travel, offering hydration, and using calming aids.
From the experts – Introduce dogs gradually to car travel, limit pre-trip food, provide secure seating, maintain airflow, offer hydration, and take regular breaks. Use gentle distractions, observe for nausea, and seek veterinary support when needed. Max can advise on car sickness if you have any more questions. You should always talk to your vet if you have any concerns.
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