How to Train a Dog to Be Calm in the Car

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

For many dogs, cars mean the vet or nothing at all. With patient training, most can learn to ride calmly, which makes travel safer and more fun for everyone.

Safety first

Never let your dog roam loose in the car, ride in the driver's lap or travel in an open truck bed. In a sudden stop, an unrestrained dog can be injured or injure others. Choose:

• A secure, well-ventilated crate fixed in the vehicle
• A crash-tested harness attached to the seat belt system
• A barrier or dog guard, in some vehicles

Never leave a dog alone in a parked car. Heat builds quickly. See dog heatstroke.

Step 1: Make the car a nice place

With the engine off, open the door and toss treats in. Let your dog explore. Feed a meal in or near the car. Do this for several days.

Step 2: Add the restraint

Introduce the crate or harness at home first. Then place it in the car, and reward calm sitting or lying. Close the door, and reward again.

Step 3: Start the engine

Sit in the car with the engine on for a minute, rewarding calm. Then switch off. Repeat until your dog stays relaxed.

Step 4: Go for short trips

Drive to the end of the road and back, then to a nearby park or a fun destination. Gradually increase the distance. End each trip with a reward.

Step 5: Vary the trips

Go to different places, not only the vet. Visit parks, friends and trails. This builds positive associations.

Car sickness

Signs include drooling, lip licking, whining, and vomiting. Tips:

• Take short trips, and build up.
• Avoid feeding right before the journey.
• Keep the car cool and ventilated.
• Face your dog forward if safe.
• Ask your vet about medication if it continues.

Car sickness is common in puppies, and many grow out of it.

Anxiety and fear

Signs include panting, shaking, hiding and refusing to enter. Go slower, use higher-value treats and keep sessions short. Calming aids may help, but ask your vet first. See how to teach a dog to settle.

Barking and whining

If your dog barks from excitement, reward quiet moments. Give a chew, and keep your voice calm. Do not scold. Teach settle in the car. See how to teach a dog to speak and be quiet.

Pack a travel kit

• Water and a bowl
• Leash and spare collar
• Waste bags
• Towels
• Treats and a chew
• Vet records, if traveling far

Common mistakes

• Only driving to the vet. Mix in fun trips.
• Long trips too soon. Build gradually.
• Feeding a big meal beforehand. It can worsen nausea.
• Letting the dog loose. Always restrain.

Troubleshooting

• Your dog refuses to get in. Use treats and go slower. Consider a ramp for large or older dogs.
• Your dog is sick every time. See your vet.
• Your dog is frantic. Reduce time, and ask for help.
• Your dog barks at passers-by. Cover windows or reward calm.

Preparing for longer journeys

Before a long trip, build up gradually with trips of increasing length. Plan stops every couple of hours for a toilet break, water and a stretch, always on a leash in a safe place. Carry a familiar blanket or toy, which can reduce stress.

Keep the car temperature comfortable, use sunshades on windows and consider a cooling mat in warm weather. Never leave your dog alone in the vehicle. If your dog gets anxious despite training, talk to your vet about options, since some dogs benefit from medication or calming support during travel. Keep your own driving smooth, with gentle braking and cornering, and your dog will find the ride easier too.

The takeaway

Make the car a safe, happy place, restrain your dog properly and build up slowly. Calm travel is a skill worth teaching.