Quick answer: Dogs can struggle in the car because of motion sickness, anxiety, or both, and the two often feed each other. Short, positive practice trips, a secure and comfortable spot, fresh air, a light meal a few hours before setting off and regular breaks all help. If your dog is regularly sick or very distressed, speak to your vet, who can advise on travel sickness medication and behaviour support.
Car sickness or travel anxiety?
Motion sickness is especially common in puppies and young dogs, whose balance systems are still developing, and many grow out of it. Signs include yawning, drooling, lip licking, restlessness and vomiting.
Travel anxiety is fear or stress about the car itself. It often develops after a dog has felt sick in the car, or if car journeys usually end somewhere they don't like, such as the vet. Signs include panting, whining, trembling, refusing to get in and trying to hide.
Many dogs have a bit of both, so it helps to tackle the sickness and the worry together.
Practical steps for calmer journeys
1. Start small
Let your dog explore the parked car with the engine off and reward calm behaviour with praise or a treat. Next, try sitting in the car with the engine running, then a very short drive around the block. Build up slowly, and keep sessions short and upbeat.
2. Make the destination fun
If every trip ends at the vet or groomer, the car becomes a warning sign. Mix in drives to a favourite walk or park.
3. Set them up comfortably and safely
A well-ventilated crate, a dog car harness attached to a seatbelt, or a dog guard in the boot keeps them secure, which UK Highway Code guidance expects. Many dogs feel calmer when they can't slide around. A familiar blanket can help too.
4. Think about food and fresh air
Travelling on a full stomach can make sickness more likely, so many owners give a light meal a few hours before a journey instead of just before. Crack a window open slightly for fresh air, keep the car cool, and drive smoothly, especially around bends.
5. Take regular breaks
On longer journeys, stop every couple of hours for a short walk, a toilet break and a drink of water. Never leave your dog alone in a parked car, even on a mild day, as cars heat up quickly.
6. Stay calm yourself
Dogs pick up on our mood. A relaxed voice and a predictable routine help more than lots of fuss.
When to speak to your vet
- Your dog is sick on most journeys
- They become very distressed, such as panting heavily, shaking or trying to escape
- Travel problems start suddenly in an older dog
- You have a long journey or holiday coming up and want to plan ahead
Your vet can check for anything underlying, prescribe travel sickness medication if it's appropriate, and recommend a qualified behaviourist for ongoing anxiety.
Frequently asked questions
Will my puppy grow out of car sickness?
Many puppies do as they mature. Keeping early trips short and positive helps stop sickness turning into a lasting fear of the car.
Is it better for my dog to face forward?
Some dogs cope better when they can see out of the front or have a stable view. Others prefer a covered crate. Try what keeps your dog most settled, while keeping them safely restrained.
Should I feed my dog before a car journey?
A light meal a few hours before travelling is usually better than a big meal just before. Always have water available on longer trips.
Can calming treats help with car anxiety?
Some owners use calming treats as part of their routine for journeys alongside gradual training. They won't stop motion sickness, so if your dog is being sick, speak to your vet.
Part of a calmer routine
Our Calming Treats are soft chews made to support calm, relaxed behaviour through life's bigger moments, from car journeys to fireworks, in Chicken, Duck or Beef. They're a complementary feed for adult dogs and not a substitute for veterinary or behavioural advice. Bonfire Night coming up? Read our fireworks guide.