How to Get Your Puppy Used to Car Trips

If being in a car is natural for us humans, it can feel very strange for a puppy. The noise, the motion and the tight space are often very disturbing for them at first. But the earlier they start travelling by car, the easier it will be for them! Here are our top tips to help your puppy get used to car trips.

How to get your puppy used to being in a car

It is recommended to start taking your puppy on car trips as soon as you bring them home, because the sooner they get used to it, the more comfortable they will be during the many car journeys they will go on.

Start slow

To begin with, just have your puppy sitting in your car. Let them explore the inside, smell the seat and get comfy before you turn the engine on. Give them time to get used to the noise before driving. 

Short trips first

If your puppy seems stressed, don't go any further than that and repeat the same exercise a few times before moving onto this stage. But if they are comfortable, take them on a short and slow trip around your neighborhood.

Make sure to praise them and reward them for behaving in the car. If all goes well, you can then take your pup for longer, more frequent rides. 

How to keep your puppy safe during car rides

It is very important to keep your puppy safe, not only for their own protection but also for your and the other passengers' safety.

Keep your puppy contained

If your puppy is sitting in the foot well or boot, a crate or dog barrier will keep them safe. If this isn't a viable option and your pup is on the car seat, make them wear a harness which you can attach onto the car safety belt. 

No head out the window

It might be super cute but it's a very common cause of eye irritation. There's also a tiny risk that your pup could get out of their harness and try to jump out.

You can of course open the window slightly to get some fresh air or use a window guard when it's really warm. Talking about hot weather, NEVER leave your dog in your car when it's warm. It can be absolutely fatal.

Take breaks

If you’re driving long distances, make sure to stop every couple of hours so that your pooch can shake their legs and drink some water.

How to deal with car anxiety

Does your puppy get really stressed and agitated when they get in the car? Car anxiety is common, but it can be managed with the right tools. One effective solution for puppies (once they are past the weaning stage) is using natural calming drops. Our Stress Relief fast-acting, non-drowsy formula can ease your puppy's nerves, making travel more comfortable for them.

You can also put their favourite toys or a rug they like to lie on in the car to make it feel more "homely". 

Is car sickness normal?

It is very common in puppies, however it is not very pleasant for them and for you. To reduce the chances of this happening, try to feed them two to three hours before you set off, so they aren’t riding with a full stomach. If car sickness becomes a recurring problem, talk to your vet about possible solutions.

Lastly, remember that getting your pup used to car rides is a process. The first few car trips might not be enjoyable but they will soon become a distant memory!