How to Cure Car Sickness in Your Dog

It's very common for puppies and young dogs to get car sick from the motion, stress, and excitement. They may appear lethargic, whine, drool, cry, and ultimately vomit all over the back seat.1 Fortunately, most dogs grow out of this as they get used to riding in the car. Here are some ways and tips you can relieve a puppy's upset tummy in the meantime or make their riding experience more comfortable.

Before You Begin

In order to ease your puppy's nausea, it's best to understand what may be causing it. Rest assured, though, that it's completely natural in young puppies and even some older dogs.

It’s really not surprising that some puppies don't like car rides. Any first experience can mean a ton of stress, fear, or excitement. Just like humans, dogs can throw up from these things. Rides are often associated with rude thermometers and needle pricks at the vet. This can leave your scared puppy dreading anything to do with a car, even if it means vacation travel to the boarding kennel or fun car rides around town.

Another reason puppies get car sick is due to true motion sickness. Movement causes the fluid in the ear to move around which helps your dog orient to the world around it. Too much movement can cause dizziness and motion sickness.2 This can occur in dogs of any age.

The good news is that you can help train dogs to get used to car rides. Until that time, you can ease the upset feelings and settle the puppy's tummy with a little preparation.

Relieve Stress

Puppies associate sick feelings with what they anticipate will happen at the end of the ride. To change the dog's mindset, turn the car into a puppy palace of toys and treats the dog only gets near or while inside the car. In a very gradual way, teach your dog that the car offers lots of benefits. Treats and good-dog praise and admiration can go a long way. Anxiety wraps and dog appeasing pheromones can be purchased in pet stores and can help decrease feelings of anxiety.

Time Meals