Does your puppy get nauseous or vomit during car rides? If so, you’re not alone—many young dogs experience car sickness more frequently than adults. This is because their inner ear structures, which are responsible for balance and equilibrium, are still developing. Motion can feel overwhelming for them, leading to discomfort.
Some puppies naturally outgrow car sickness, but for others, stress plays a role. If they associate car rides with feeling unwell, this issue can persist into adulthood. To prevent that from happening, here are some effective puppy training strategies to help your furry friend enjoy the ride.
Avoid Feeding Before Travel
A full stomach can make motion sickness worse. To minimize the risk, try not to feed your puppy for at least one to two hours before a car ride. This helps reduce nausea and keeps your pup more comfortable.
Encourage Forward-Facing Travel
Looking out of the side windows can create disorienting visual cues, increasing motion sickness. A pet seat belt or a well-ventilated travel crate can help keep your pup facing forward, reducing their discomfort.
Improve Ventilation
Cracking the car windows a couple of inches helps regulate air pressure and improve airflow. Fresh air can make a huge difference in reducing nausea and preventing that queasy feeling.
Start with Short Rides
Gradually building tolerance is key. Begin with quick trips around the block, then slowly extend the distance over time. If possible, make the ride end in a fun experience—like a trip to the dog park—so your pup learns to associate the car with positive outcomes.
Create a Positive Association with the Car
Introduce a special toy that only stays in the car. This makes travel more exciting for your pup, helping to reduce stress and increase positive associations with car rides.
Use Treats Sparingly
Giving small treats in the car can reinforce good behavior and make the ride more enjoyable. However, be mindful not to overdo it, as too many treats might worsen nausea instead of preventing it.
When to Seek Professional Help
If your puppy continues to struggle with car sickness despite your best efforts, professional dog training may help. At Innovative K9 Academy, we specialize in puppy training in Utah, offering programs designed to ease anxiety and improve travel behavior through positive reinforcement techniques.
Our experienced trainers provide board and train programs in Utah, along with personalized in-home sessions, ensuring your pup gets the best start. We’ve helped countless dogs in Salt Lake City and beyond become confident, happy travelers—and we’d love to help yours, too!
Contact us today to learn more about our dog training programs in Salt Lake City!