8 Tips To Help Your Pup Stay Calm On The Road
Does your dog get anxious, restless, or carsick during car rides? You’re not alone — many pups find the car to be a confusing or stressful place. But the good news? There are lots of simple ways you can help your dog feel calmer and more secure on the road.
If your dog struggles with car anxiety, this blog is for you. 🐾 We’re sharing 8 easy tips that can turn stressful rides into smooth, safe, and happy adventures. Whether you’re heading to the park or planning a long road trip, these tips will help your pup ride like a pro.
Let’s hit the road — together!
Here are 8 tips to help your pup stay calm during car rides:
1. Start Small
If your dog isn’t used to riding in the car, don’t jump straight into a two-hour road trip. Instead, help them build positive associations with the car by starting small.
Begin with very short drives — even just around the block — and pair the experience with treats and praise. Gradually increase the length of your trips over time, so your pup learns that car rides can be a safe and even fun experience.
🐾 Consistency and patience go a long way!
2. Use a Crate or Harness
One of the easiest ways to help your pup feel secure during car rides is by using a crate or a seatbelt harness made specifically for dogs.
A crate provides a cozy, enclosed space that can feel like a safe den. If your dog prefers to sit in the seat, a dog seatbelt harness keeps them secure and prevents them from sliding around — which can be stressful (and unsafe).
Bonus: a properly restrained dog is also safer for everyone else in the car.
Tip: Always make sure the crate or harness is the right size and properly fitted for your pup.
3. Bring Their Favorite Toy
Familiar items can provide major comfort on the road. Pack your dog’s favorite toy, blanket, or even a T-shirt that smells like you. The familiar scent and texture can help your dog relax and feel more at home in an unfamiliar environment.
Chew toys can also help keep your pup occupied and mentally engaged during longer drives — a win-win!
🐾 Pro tip: Reserve a special toy just for car rides to build excitement and positive feelings about traveling.
4. No Full Tummies
Car sickness is a common reason dogs dislike car rides. One easy way to prevent this? Avoid feeding your dog right before your trip.
Plan to feed your pup a meal at least 3–4 hours before hitting the road. A full tummy combined with motion can lead to nausea and vomiting — which is stressful for your pup (and messy for you!).
Instead, bring a small amount of water and a few light treats to offer during longer trips, keeping hydration and comfort in mind.
5. Play Some Tunes
Believe it or not, music can have a calming effect on dogs! Soft, soothing sounds — such as classical music, acoustic guitar, or playlists made specifically for dogs — can help ease anxiety during car rides.
Music can also help mask unfamiliar or sudden noises that might startle your pup, such as traffic sounds or honking horns.
🐾 Experiment to find what works best — some pups love calm music, others respond well to white noise or nature sounds.
6. Get the Zoomies Out
An energized pup may struggle to settle down in the car. That’s why it’s helpful to let your dog burn off some energy before hitting the road.
Take your pup for a brisk walk, play a game of fetch, or have a fun training session to release excess excitement. A tired dog is much more likely to relax during the ride.
Plus — pottying beforehand is always a good idea to avoid mid-ride accidents!
7. Crack a Window
A little fresh air can work wonders. Cracking the window slightly improves ventilation and allows your dog to take in new scents — which can be soothing.
It can also help reduce motion sickness by balancing the air pressure inside the car and giving your pup a gentle breeze to enjoy.
Important: Always keep the window opening small enough that your pup can’t stick their head out or attempt to jump — safety first!
8. Stay Calm!
Dogs are incredibly tuned in to our emotions. If you’re anxious or frustrated during the drive, your dog may pick up on that energy and feel stressed as well.
The best thing you can do? Stay calm, confident, and positive. Speak to your pup in a relaxed tone, offer plenty of encouragement, and be patient as they adjust to car travel.
🐾 Remember — you’re their source of security. If you stay cool, your pup will be more likely to do the same.
Final Thoughts
Helping your dog feel comfortable in the car doesn’t happen overnight — but with time, patience, and the right prep, you can make every trip a positive experience.
Whether you’re cruising to the park or planning an epic road trip, these tips will help your pup feel more secure and relaxed along the way.
Happy travels and safe rides! 🐾
P.S. Got a dog who gets anxious in the car? We’d love to hear what’s worked for you! Drop a comment below — and don’t forget to check out the Good Boy Billie shop for fun Dog Mom & Dad hats, stickers, and gear to bring along for your next adventure.