Helping Your Nervous Pup Become Comfortable with Car Rides

Helping your nervous pup become comfortable with car rides is a common challenge for many pet owners. Here are some steps and tips to ease your dog’s anxiety about car travel:

1. Start with Baby Steps:

• Begin by introducing your pup to the car while it’s stationary. Let your dog explore the car at their own pace. Use treats and positive reinforcement to create positive associations with the car.

2. Gradual Exposure:

• Once your pup is comfortable near the stationary car, start with very short trips. Initially, drive around the block or just down the driveway. Gradually increase the duration of these trips over several days or weeks.

3. Create a Comfortable Space:

• Make the car as inviting as possible. Use a comfy blanket or dog bed and familiar toys. Some dogs feel more secure in a travel crate, so consider using one if your pup is crate trained.

4. Positive Associations:

• Associate car rides with positive experiences. Give your dog treats, toys, or praise while they are in the car, and immediately when you return home, to reinforce the idea that car rides are fun.

5. Take Short Breaks:

• During longer drives, make frequent stops to let your pup stretch their legs and relieve themselves. These breaks can reduce anxiety associated with car travel.

6. Calm and Relaxing Music:

• Some dogs find classical music or calming playlists soothing during car rides. Experiment with different types of music to see what works for your pup.

7. Avoid Feeding Before Travel:

• Feeding your dog right before a car ride may lead to motion sickness. It’s better to feed them a few hours before travel to reduce the chances of nausea.

8. Desensitization and Counterconditioning:

• If your pup’s anxiety is severe, consider working with a professional dog trainer who specializes in desensitization and counterconditioning techniques. These methods can help gradually change your dog’s emotional response to car rides.

9. Natural Medications or Supplements:

• Lavender Oil: Lavender essential oil is known for its calming properties. You can use a few drops of diluted lavender oil (mixed with a carrier oil like coconut oil) on a bandana or cloth and place it near your dog in the car. Alternatively, you can use a lavender-infused dog collar or spray designed for calming. We have an alternative essential oil to Lavender called Anti-Anxiety Aromatherapy Blend or Washbar Stay Calm Lavender Spritzer
• CBD or Hemp Oil: Some pet owners have reported success using CBD or hemp oil products to reduce anxiety in dogs. These products may help calm your pup’s nerves during car rides. Consult your veterinarian for guidance on dosage and product selection.
• Calming Herbs: Herbs like chamomile, valerian root, and passionflower have calming properties and can be used to make homemade teas or tinctures for your dog. Be sure to consult with a holistic veterinarian for proper dosing and administration.
• Rescue Remedy: Bach Rescue Remedy is a natural remedy that can help reduce stress and anxiety in pets. You can add a few drops to your dog’s water or apply it to their gums before a car ride. We have a number of remedies to help you such as Petticare Travel Remedy and BioPet | Relax | Herbal & Homeopathic Remedy, Biopet | Courage | Herbal & Homeopathic Remedy and Biopet | Travel | Herbal & Homeopathy Remedy We also stock some staff approved Complete Calm | 300g | Chewable Multivitamin for big dogs and Complete Calm | Small Dog | 75g | Multivitamins. We also have one for cats!

Remember that patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement are key when helping your pup overcome car anxiety. Every dog is unique, so it may take some time to find the approach that works best for your furry friend.