Can My Dog Get Carsick?

If you’ve ever noticed your dog looking uneasy, drooling excessively, or even vomiting during car rides, you might be wondering if dogs can get carsick. The answer is yes – just like humans, dogs can experience motion sickness. It’s a common issue, especially for puppies and younger dogs, but the good news is there are effective strategies to manage and reduce the symptoms. 

In this article, we’ll explore why dogs get carsick, the signs to watch for, and some practical ways to make car trips more comfortable for your pet.

Why Do Dogs Get Carsick?

Motion sickness in dogs occurs when the inner ear, which helps with balance, becomes overstimulated during movement. This is especially common in puppies because their inner ear is still developing. Many dogs outgrow motion sickness as they mature, but for some, it can persist into adulthood.

In addition to physical causes, anxiety or fear of car rides can also contribute to motion sickness. If your dog associates car trips with stressful events, such as vet visits, this can trigger nervousness and increase the likelihood of getting carsick.

How to Help Your Dog Avoid Car Sickness

While motion sickness can make car rides uncomfortable for your dog, there are several strategies you can try to reduce their symptoms and make the experience more enjoyable. Here are some tips to help your dog feel better during car trips:

1. Gradually Get Your Dog Used to the Car

If your dog is anxious about car rides, it’s important to ease them into it. Start by simply letting your dog sit in the car without driving anywhere. You can give them treats, toys, or praise to help them associate the car with positive experiences. Over time, take short, slow trips around the block, and gradually increase the length of the rides as your dog becomes more comfortable.

2. Keep the Car Cool and Well-Ventilated

Dogs are more prone to motion sickness when they are too warm or in a poorly ventilated space. Keep the car at a comfortable temperature and make sure there’s plenty of fresh air circulating. You can crack a window slightly or use your car’s air conditioning to keep your dog cool during the ride.

However, avoid letting your dog stick their head out of the window, as this can lead to injuries from debris or sudden stops.

3. Use a Dog-Safe Restraint

A dog moving around freely in the car can lead to increased motion sickness due to their body constantly adjusting to the movement. Keeping your dog safely restrained in a seat belt, harness, or crate can help minimize the feeling of motion and provide them with more stability.

Restraints not only help reduce car sickness but also keep your dog safer in the event of sudden stops or accidents.

4. Limit Food Before the Ride

Feeding your dog a large meal right before a car ride can increase the chances of vomiting if they get carsick. Try to avoid feeding them for about 3 to 4 hours before the trip. If it’s a longer journey, you can offer small amounts of water during breaks but avoid giving them too much food on the road.

5. Try Calming Techniques

If your dog’s car sickness is anxiety-related, calming techniques can make a big difference. Playing soft, soothing music or using a calming pheromone spray can help reduce their stress. Bringing along your dog’s favorite blanket or toy can also make them feel more at ease in the car.

6. Consider Motion Sickness Medications

For dogs that experience severe car sickness, your veterinarian may recommend medications to help reduce symptoms. There are several options available, including over-the-counter remedies like ginger (in small, vet-approved doses) and prescription medications designed to prevent motion sickness in dogs.

Always consult your vet before giving your dog any medications to ensure they are safe and appropriate for your pet’s specific needs.

Will My Dog Outgrow Car Sickness?

Many dogs, especially puppies, do outgrow motion sickness as their inner ear develops and they become more accustomed to car travel. However, if your dog continues to struggle with car sickness into adulthood, it may be something they will deal with long-term. In these cases, using the strategies mentioned above can help manage the symptoms and make car trips more comfortable for your dog.

The Best Products for Dogs with Car Sickness

At Owleys, we offer a variety of products designed to make car travel more comfortable and safe for your dog, especially if they experience motion sickness:

• The Travel Buddy Dog Seat Cover provides your dog with a secure and comfortable space while protecting your car’s interior from accidents caused by carsickness.
• The Clipper Dog Car Safety Belt helps keep your dog restrained, reducing motion and minimizing the risk of carsickness.
• The Seashell Dog Carrier is a stylish and comfortable carrier that helps secure your small dog while keeping them calm during the ride. It’s perfect for minimizing anxiety and providing your dog with a cozy space for the journey.

With the right products and preparation, you can help prevent your dog from feeling carsick and ensure more enjoyable, stress-free car rides for both of you!