How to Cure Car Sickness in Your Dog

If the puppy has nothing in its tummy to vomit, it will be less likely to feel sick. Be sure to feed the dog several hours before you hit the road. Offer water, though, because that can help settle an iffy tummy.

Viewing Pleasures

The motion of a moving car without a view of the road can upset puppy tummies. Very tiny pups may not be able to see out the window, but when the dog is larger and able to window gaze, it has a way to get oriented with the moving world.

Ensure that the puppy is safely restrained in a safe puppy carrier or other restraint in the back seat. Loose dogs in the car run the risk of injury or death if an airbag deploys. Also, a puppy barrier or dog crate keeps your young dog out of your lap, safeguards you from becoming a distracted driver, and also limits how much of a mess the puppy can make inside your car.

Fresh Air

Crack open the window for some fresh air for your puppy’s sniffing pleasure. All those fresh smells carried on the wind will distract the dog from any queasy tummy action. A narrow opening lets it sniff without risking eye injury from flying objects.

Also, you will want to stop and let the puppy stroll around for potty breaks during long car rides. Most dogs love to experience new places with their sense of smell. A potty or sniff break can help your puppy associate the car with fun new places and things to explore

How to Prevent Your Puppy From Getting Car Sick

If those suggestions do not work and your dog hasn't grown out of motion sickness, there are some remedies that you can try.

The same drug people take to fight motion sickness works in dogs, too. Dramamine is considered safe for most healthy adult dogs.2 Be sure to check with your vet on the proper puppy dose, though, and to make sure it won't interfere with any of your dog's medical conditions or other medications.

Ginger is a natural nausea remedy that you can try offering your dog.3 Ginger capsules are easy to find at health food stores and many drug stores. Puppies under 16 pounds can safely take 250 milligrams or less of ginger, while puppies over 16 pounds can usually handle up to 500 milligrams of ginger.

Additionally, you can offer your pup several types of dog-friendly gingersnap cookies. Eating cookies in the car can be a great positive association for the young dog, too. Be aware that the cookies can stain light fur if the pup munches and drools. Place a dog seat cover on the car seat to protect it from pieces of food, drool, and pet hair.