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Travelling with your dog should be a joy, not a journey filled with stress and cleaning supplies. Whether it’s a trip to the vet, a long-distance adventure, or a quick drive to the countryside, motion sickness can make car travel miserable for dogs and their owners alike. But don’t worry — we’re here to help. At Oscar & Hooch, we’re all about happy, tail-wagging adventures, and that includes helping your pup feel at ease on the road. Here’s our practical guide on how to deal with car sick dogs — including remedies, tips for long drives, and ways to ease their anxiety.
Car sickness is most common in puppies and young dogs. This is because their inner ears, which help with balance, haven’t fully developed. However, even older dogs can suffer, especially if they’ve had a negative experience in the car or are prone to anxiety.
Common symptoms of Car Sick Dogs include:
If this sounds familiar, your dog may be one of many who struggle with travel. But there are plenty of ways to help.
Feeding your dog a few hours before a car ride can help reduce the chance of nausea. Avoid giving food right before you leave — a light, empty stomach handles motion better.
Crack open the window a little. Fresh air can help balance the air pressure and reduce nauseating smells. It also helps reduce the sense of movement that contributes to car sickness in dogs.
Some owners swear by ginger — you could try a ginger biscuit or specially formulated ginger treats (in moderation). Dog-safe calming sprays, chamomile, or CBD treats (from reputable UK sources) may also help with anxiety-induced sickness. Always check with your vet before trying any new supplements.
If your dog has severe motion sickness, ask your vet about anti-nausea medications or travel-sickness tablets for dogs. These are especially useful for long car journeys or holiday travel.
If you can, stop every 30–60 minutes so your dog can stretch, have a toilet break, and reset. Use safe areas and always keep your dog on a lead.
Movement can make sickness worse. Use a crate or a car harness to help your dog feel more stable and secure. Familiar blankets or toys can provide extra comfort.
Get your dog used to the car by taking them on short, positive journeys — even if it’s just a drive around the block followed by a treat. Build up to longer distances slowly.
Often, car sickness is tied to anxiety. Whether it’s the sound of the engine or the fear of where they’re going (like the vet!), helping your dog associate car rides with good things is key.
Try These Techniques:
If your dog’s car sickness persists despite trying the above tips, consult your vet. Persistent vomiting or extreme anxiety might point to an underlying condition or may need medical intervention. Always best to play it safe.
A car-sick pup doesn’t mean adventures are off the cards. With some patience and planning, you can help your dog travel more comfortably — and enjoy the journey together.
Explore our range of travel-friendly dog accessories at Oscar & Hooch — machine washable, durable, and made with UK love:
🛒 https://www.oscarandhooch.com
Happy travels from all of us at Oscar & Hooch!