Tips for Preventing Car Sickness in Dogs

Above photo courtesy of Extreme Chinese Crested

Dogs are like humans when it comes to car sickness; it is related to the sense of balance. Car sickness is more often seen in puppies, however, like humans, some dogs never outgrow car sickness. 

Here are a few tips to help you deal with your dog's car sickness:

• your goal is to make the car ride more comfortable
• take control of what your dog sees as he rides in the car; put him in the middle seat to avoid watching all things speed by him in a big blur while sitting near a side window; sitting in the middle seat will adjust his view to straight ahead
• you can use a solid-sided crate to limit your dog's field of vision
• roll the windows down a few inches to circulate fresh air
• keep the car cool and well ventilated
• withhold food for 12 hours before the car trip, but continue giving fresh water
• bring something that smells like home such as a beloved blanket or toy, even one of your shoes or old t-shirts 
• buy one special toy that is kept in the car to help your dog associate the car with something fun and happy

Other tips to help condition your dog to a car ride might include:

• start putting dog in the car with  you a few minutes each day; don't turn on the car or drive away, just sit quietly while giving dog praise and petting gently
• after a few days of just sitting still in the car, start the car and let it run for a few minutes to help the dog learn the new sound; bring a toy and play with dog during this activity
• progress slowly
• drive up and down the driveway or road then stop and exit; slowly increase the travel time until you take a short trip somewhere your dog likes to go such as a favorite park; if dog gets sick take a step or two back and start the process again 
• if your dog vomits or shows anxiety, keep calm and try again tomorrow

If none of the above works, your vet can recommend medication for nausea or anti-anxiety maybe even a sedative. Some natural herbs and plants such as lavender, ginger, and valerian may help to calm your dog's stomach, but be sure you ask your vet before giving your dog any medications or herbal home remedies.