There’s nothing quite like hitting the road with your furry co-pilot, windows down, ears flapping in the breeze. Whether it’s a quick trip to the pet shop or a cross-country adventure, travelling with your dog can be one of life’s greatest joys. But, as any seasoned dog keeper knows, there are important things to consider to make the journey safe, comfortable, and enjoyable for everyone.
Vicky Carne, The Dog Coach shares her tips on how to turn your dog into the perfect road trip companion, as well as offering identibase readers 50% off her puppy and dog training courses with code ‘IDENT50’.
Your Pup’s First Experiences in the Car
Think back to the first time your dog rode in a car. Was it a happy, tail-wagging moment, or did it involve trembling and anxious whining? A dog’s early experiences with car travel can shape their entire perception of it.
For many pups, their first ride is when they leave their mother and littermates – already a stressful transition. And then there’s the dreaded vet trip, which often follows soon after. If the only association they have with the car is separation and scary appointments, it’s no wonder some dogs develop anxiety about travel.
But here’s the good news – you can rewrite that story.
Helping Your Dog Love the Car
Like us, dogs learn by association. If the car has only ever meant ‘scary’ things, we need to start stacking the deck in favour of positive experiences. The key is to take it gradually.
Begin by simply sitting in your parked car with your puppy or anxious older dog. No driving, no pressure – just a little hangout session with treats, praise, and belly rubs. When they seem relaxed, which may, depending on the level of their anxiety, take a few sessions, turn on the engine but stay put. Gradually, progress to short drives – maybe just around the block or to a favourite park. The goal is to create a link in their mind: car = good things.
Make sure car trips mostly end at fun destinations – the park or other places you know they’ll enjoy.
Consistency is key. Over time, your dog will start to see the car as a gateway to adventure rather than something to fear.
Click here to see Vicky’s top tips for travel with your dog.
Safety First – Keeping Your Dog Secure
It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of a road trip, but safety should always come first. A loose dog roaming around the car isn’t just a distraction, it can be dangerous. In the event of a sudden stop, an unrestrained dog can seriously injure themselves or other people in the car.
So, what are the best options for keeping your pup secure?
For small dogs, a well-ventilated carrier that’s strapped in with a seatbelt can provide comfort and security. Larger dogs might do well with a sturdy harness that clips into the car’s seatbelt system. Another option is a barrier that separates the backseat from the cargo area, keeping bigger dogs contained without feeling confined.
The trick is to find what works best for your dog’s size, temperament, and travel style. Some dogs feel safer in a cosy crate, while others prefer the freedom of a harness. Experiment and see what makes your pup feel most at ease.
The Silent Killer – Parked Cars on Hot Days
We’ve all been there – you’re running errands, and you think, “I’ll just pop into the shop for a second”. But in hot weather, even a few minutes in a parked car can be deadly for a dog.
If the temperature outside is 21°C (70°F), the temperature inside a car can soar past 37°C (100°F) in just 20 minutes. And cracking the windows? It makes almost no difference. Dogs don’t sweat like we do, which makes them especially vulnerable to heatstroke.
Stopping the Door Dash: Teach Your Dog to Wait
Picture this – you pull into the car park, open the door, and before you can blink, your dog launches themselves out of the car like a furry torpedo. Sound familiar?
Teaching your dog to wait before exiting the car is a simple yet vital safety measure. Start at home with the car door closed. Ask them to “wait” before you open it, rewarding their patience with treats. Once they get the hang of it, practise in different locations. Before long, they’ll understand that they only exit the car when given a cue to do so.
This small habit can prevent accidents, especially in busy areas where an overexcited dog could dash into traffic.
Tackling Motion Sickness in Dogs
Some dogs settle into car rides like seasoned travellers. Others pant, whine, pace or vomit – or all the above! If your dog struggles with motion sickness, there are ways to help. Positioning can make a big difference. Dogs tend to feel less queasy when they face forward, and opening a window slightly for fresh air can also help, as can keeping the car cool. In some cases, your vet may recommend anti-nausea medication. Just like small children, although some puppies may experience motion sickness, they often outgrow it as they mature.
Road Trip Ready – Keeping Dogs Happy on Long Drives
Planning a longer journey? Road trips with dogs require a bit more preparation, but they can be incredibly rewarding.
Make sure to schedule regular breaks – at least every three to four hours – somewhere your dog can stretch, sniff, and shake off the monotony of the road. Bring plenty of fresh water, a travel bowl, and maybe a few favourite toys to keep them entertained.
The Bottom Line – Travelling with Your Dog Should Be Fun!
At the end of the day, car rides aren’t just about getting from point A to point B – they’re about shared experiences and adventures. With a little preparation, a dash of patience, and a commitment to safety, travelling with your dog can be one of life’s greatest joys.
So, buckle up, pack the treats, and enjoy the ride – your dog will thank you for it. For more tips and help with training your puppy or older dog, visit The Dog Coach and use code ‘IDENT50’ to get 50% off training courses.