Do dogs get car sick? Why and how to prevent it

Video: Dog 101 Management Tips Topic 12 - Reduce Or Eliminate Car Sickness In Dogs

Many people are surprised to find out that yes – dogs to in fact get car sick, just like some people do!

Why Do Dogs Get Car Sick?

Dogs most often deal with motion sickness when they are puppies or young dogs. They can experience motion sickness due to the fact that their ear structures (and therefore, their equilibrium) is still developing. In fact, this is the same reason why human children often experience motion sickness.

In many cases, dog carsickness will lessen as a dog ages, and dogs often grow out of it completely.

However, in some cases even adult dogs will suffer from car sickness. With adult dogs, car sickness is usually more the result of stress and anxiety rather than actual motion. In these situations, the most important thing you can do for your dog is to make the travel experience fun and positive.

Strategies for Reducing Car Travel Stress

When anxiety and stress are potentially causing your dog to get car sick, re-introduce them to the car slowly and turn the car riding experience into something positive with these strategies.

• Take It Slow. Take your time getting your dog accustomed to car travel. At first, simply bring your dog into the car (without the motor running), and give plenty of praise and treats. Slowly upgrade to longer periods, then with the motor on, and finally very short 5-10 minute rides.

• Create Positive Car Experiences. Take your dog to fun spots like the park, where you can play and create a positive car ride connection.

• Use Toys and Treats. Use treats to reward and distract your dog in the car. You may also want to provide your dog with a favorite toy to keep them occupied and happy while in the vehicle.

Symptoms of Dog Car Sickness

Some signs that your dog could be car sick include:

• Vomiting
• Excessive drooling
• Excessive yawning
• Immobility (not moving)
• Excessive lip licking
• Continuos whining

Other Treatments For Dog Car Sickness

Some other ways you can treat dog car sickness include:

• No food before car trips. Avoid giving your dog food prior to your car ride. This can help prevent your dog from being sick.

• Roll windows down. Rolling your car windows partially down can improve ventilation and make your dog more comfortable.

• Use a dog booster seat. For small dogs, you may want to consider using a dog booster seat which will allow your dog a better view of the scenery outside, providing a sense of balance.

• Consider a dog seat belt. Another solution is to purchase a dog seat belt attached to a harness which can keep your dog facing forward. This is often helpful for humans as well as dogs!

• Keep the car cool. Keeping your car at cooler temperatures can also help prevent canine car sickness.

• Try natural remedies. Some dog car sickness natural remedies include ginger or peppermint, which both have a history of easing upset stomachs.

Dog Car Sickness Drugs

In some extreme cases (and on very long trips) it may be necessary to give your carsick dog Dramamine (Dimenhydrinate). This works on dogs just as it does on humans, but will certainly make your dog drowsy and tired.

Before considering any drugs, always consult your vet. It’s also worth a vet visit if your dog continues to show signs of carsickness, as there’s always the potential for other medical issues to be at play.

Do you have any tips for dealing with doggie car sickness? Share your suggestions in the comments!

Video: why do we get car sickness? how to prevent them?

Reviews & Comments