Picture this: You’re getting ready for road trip – specifically to the Vets. The car’s packed, you are ready to go but your dog is pacing, panting and seems to be having none of it.
For many dog owners this is a common scenario. Dog car anxiety is a real thing, turning what should be an easy ride into quite possibly an already stressful experience for both you and your pup.
Why Does My Dog Have Car Ride Anxiety?
Adult dogs may have anxiety which can stem from a negative association with the car. Your dog may associate car rides with something unpleasant, or they may have had motion sickness which left them feeling queasy and anxious about car journeys again. Many dogs, especially rescues, may also develop generalised anxiety where any new situation, including a moving vehicle or even just a car parked, triggers stress.
Just like humans, dogs experience anxiety at different levels. Some dogs may just be a little nervous, others may be severely anxious. When we first brought Dizzy, our rescue dog home – he was extremely nervous. Read more about his story here:
Common Signs of General Anxiety!
Looks out for behaviour like excessive panting, drooling, whining or even vomiting during car rides.
You Dog Is Your Mirror – And Vice Versa
Car related anxiety doesn’t just affect your dog—it affects you too. It’s hard to see your dog stressed and it makes car trips way more stressful than they need to be.
Whether you’re popping to the shop, vets or going on a long trip an anxious dog can be a distraction and increase the risk of a car accident.
Beyond that, if your dog associates the car with stress they may not want to go anywhere, even to places they love like the dog park. This can limit their experiences and by extension their overall happiness.
Mobile Vet Services – Panic to Peace
If your dog suffers greatly during car rides to the Vet, using a mobile Vet service such as Doorstep Vet brings the care your pet needs directly to your home. This only helps reduce your dog’s anxiety but also makes routine vet visits much easier.
Doorstep Vet’s services are fabulous and a totally modern approach to Veterinary Care. They are great as they remain affordable and bring many services to your door. These can be a game-changer for anxious dogs, as it eliminates the need for travel and the stress that comes with it.
Unfortunately Doorstep Vet are only based in Newcastle Upon Tyne. However, there are many examples of mobile vets around the country if you are not local to these guys!
How to Help Your Dog Overcome Car Anxiety
If a mobile vet service is not possible for you – or you would like to be able to get to other destinations with your dog, it can be achievable to create positive association and lower travel anxiety while riding in the car. The Trick? Patience! And lots of it.
Every dog is different so the approach to reducing car anxiety needs to be tailored to your dog’s individual needs. Here are some steps you can take to help your dog journey a positive one.
Create Positive Associations with the Car
To help your dog associate the car with positive experiences start by making the car a fun and rewarding place.
Begin by letting your dog sit in the car with the engine off. Bring along their favourite toy or a high value treat, something they only get when they’re in the car. If you want to have a go at making your own homemade dog toy, check out our blog below!
Gradually increase the time they spend on car journeys, always keeping the experience positive. If your dog starts to feel stressed take a break and try again later.
Short Positive Car Trips
Once your dog is comfortable sitting in the parked car start introducing short trips around the block. Keep these trips short and sweet and end them at a place your dog loves, like the dog parks.
This helps your dog associate a ride in the car with good things not something to fear towards the car.
Keep the Car Cool and Comfortable
The temperature inside the car plays a big part in how your dog feels. Make sure the car is cool and well ventilated. Crack a window to let fresh air in or use the air con to keep the dog’s level of temperature perfect.
A comfortable environment can help reduce anxiety and keep your dog calm and less anxious in the car.
Calming Supplements or Medication
For some dogs calming supplements or prescription medication might be necessary especially if they have severe car anxiety.
Calming sprays or supplements can help take the edge off and make car rides less stressful. If your dog’s anxiety is severe consult your Vet before using about anti-anxiety medication.
Behaviour Modification and Counter Conditioning
Behaviour modification and counter conditioning are powerful tools to help your dog overcome travel anxiety. The goal is to change your dog’s emotional response to car travel from negative to positive.
For example if your dog becomes anxious as soon as the car starts you can work on desensitising them by gradually getting them used to the sound of the engine without moving the car.
Over time your dog will start to associate the car starting with something positive not a trigger for anxiety.
Make Your Dog Feel Physically Secure and Limit Car Sickness
Sometimes a dog’s car anxiety comes from feeling insecure while the car is moving. Make sure your dog is safely secured in the back seat, either in a crate or with a dog seat belt. We have a great blog about the best crates for in the car if interested!
This not only keeps your dog safe but also helps them feel more stable during the ride which can reduce anxiety. We have done a superb blog on crates for car journeys!
Try Calming Music or White Noise
Some dogs find calming music or white noise soothing during car trips. Soft rock, classical music or even specially designed dog relaxation music can help calm your dog during the journey. Try different sounds to see what works for your dog.
Gradually Increase the Trip Duration
As your dog becomes more comfortable with short trips gradually increase the trip duration. Remember to take breaks especially during longer trips to let your dog stretch their legs and relieve themselves. Keep an eye on their anxiety levels and if they start to get stressed cut the trip short or take a longer break before continuing.
Still Have Questions? You’ve made it to the FAQs!
Will my dog ever get over his car anxiety?
The good news is most dogs can overcome their car anxiety with time, patience and consistent positive reinforcement. Every dog is different so progress will be slow but with the right approach your dog can become more comfortable with car rides.
Is a Mobile Vet Service right for me?
Absolutely yes! If your dog suffers from car sickness or you are unable to take your pet to a conventional Vet, a Mobile Service is brilliant. Doorstep Vet offers longer consultation times for extra peace of mind which really allows your Vet visit to be as stress free as possible!
How do I stop my dog from being scared of the car?
To help your dog stop being scared of the car start by creating positive associations. Use treats, praise and short positive trips to build their confidence. Gradually increase the trip duration and complexity as they become more comfortable.
How can I calm my dog’s car anxiety?
Calming your dog’s car anxiety involves behaviour modification, creating positive associations and possibly calming supplements or medication. Make sure your dog feels physically secure and consider gradually increasing the trip duration to build their tolerance.
How do I stop my dog from hyperventilating in the car?
If your dog is hyperventilating in the car take a break and let them calm down before continuing. Use calming techniques such as playing soft music, keeping the car cool and offering reassurance. If hyperventilation continues consult your vet for further advice.
The End Part
Dog car anxiety can be tough but with time and persistence you can help your dog feel more comfortable during car rides. Remember to go slow, create positive associations with the car and use calming aids if needed.
Every dog is different so tailor your approach to your dog’s needs. Whether it’s a short trip to the shop or a long trip making the car a positive experience for your dog will make travel more enjoyable for you and your dog. With time your dog may even learn to love the car and turn anxious journeys into fun adventures.
Good Luck!
