How To Help Your Pup if They Have Car Anxiety

Does your pup whine when you grab the car keys? Do they move about nervously in the backseat? Do they resist getting in the car? They might have car anxiety, which is very common among dogs. You should never force your companion to go on car trips if they’re not comfortable, but you can gently encourage a more positive experience. Eventually, you might help your furry friend overcome their fears and enjoy road trips with you. Read on to learn how to help your pup if they have car anxiety.

Start With Positive Reinforcement

Start easing your pet’s fears by introducing the car as a happy, rewarding place. For example, bring your dog to the car without actually driving anywhere and give them their favorite treat or toy while they sit inside calmly. Praise them with lots of love and encouragement as they get more relaxed. Gradually increase the time they spend in the car before heading out for short, positive trips. Always celebrate their progress with treats and affection—it helps create a positive association with being in the car.

Take Them Fun Places

If your dog associates car rides with stressful events like vet visits or grooming appointments, it’s no wonder they’re hesitant to hop in! For a while, go to only fun places with your dog. Drive to parks, hiking trails, and playdates. When they realize that car rides can lead to fun and joyful experiences, they’ll start looking forward to them. Keep the trips short, though, so your pup builds trust and stays eager for the ride.

Pamper Them With Toys and Treats

Distracting your pup is a great way to ease their anxiety. Equip the car with their favorite toys or introduce them to special homemade treats they only get during rides. If they stay focused on something they love, they’ll be less worried about the motion or noise. Providing those extra comforts also creates a sense of familiarity, helping your dog feel at ease over time.

Make the Car as Comfy and Secure as Possible

Comfort and safety are key to calming your dog’s nerves during a ride. Ensure they have a secure and stable spot in the car, whether it’s a crash-tested harness, a dog car seat, or a travel crate. The latter is a popular option, and though there are pros and cons to crate training you should be aware of, it can be a positive thing for most dogs. When they’re in the car, being secure inside a crate can help them feel much more comfortable, especially if you upgrade it with a cozy blanket and some toys.

Pay attention to the temperature, too—nobody enjoys a sweltering or freezing car! A quiet environment also helps, so play soft, calming music or stick to silence if that soothes your pup better.

Consider the Possibility of Motion Sickness

It’s possible that your dog doesn’t like the car because it makes them sick, not because they’re anxious. If your pup drools excessively, vomits, or appears lethargic during rides, this might be the issue. Talk to your vet to rule out motion sickness or get recommendations for remedies. Options like anti-nausea medication or natural supplements can make a huge difference for pups who genuinely feel unwell in the car.

If your pup has car anxiety, you can help. Every dog is different, so don’t get discouraged if it takes some experimenting to find what works best. Eventually, though, you will likely be able to foster a love and excitement for car rides in your dog. Best of luck!