We've all been there - eagerly anticipating a road trip with our four-legged companion, only to discover it's looking queasy and visibly unsettled. Yes, we're referring to the common occurrence of motion sickness in dogs, which can quickly transform an enjoyable outing into a messy ordeal.

Approximately 15% of dogs experience true motion sickness. True motion sickness occurs when the dog vomits exclusively during motion, or car rides. The vomiting typically ceases once the car comes to a stop.

It is important for pet parents to understand why dog car sickness occurs, how to treat and how to prevent it. This will make traveling more enjoyable for both humans and furry passengers!

🎯 Essential Insights for Pet Owners

  • Motion sickness in dogs is often caused by a disturbance in the vestibular system in the inner ear, and it's more commonly observed in puppies and young dogs.
  • Various treatment options, ranging from prescription medications to over-the-counter solutions and natural remedies, are available to manage motion sickness in dogs.
  • Behavioral modification techniques, such as gradual exposure to car rides and positive reinforcement, are key strategies for preventing motion sickness in dogs.

What Causes Dog Car Sickness?

Motion sickness is a condition that occurs when there is a disturbance of the vestibular system in the inner ear, typically caused by repeated motion like traveling in a car, plane, or boat.

Motion sickness in dogs is commonly attributed to a sensory discrepancy between the eyes, ears, and brain, resulting in feelings of nausea and, consequently, vomiting. This discrepancy occurs when the eyes perceive no movement while the inner ear detects motion, sending conflicting signals to the brain.

While the exact cause is not fully understood, it is more commonly reported in puppies and young dogs, with many eventually outgrowing it. However, for some, motion sickness becomes a lifelong issue.

The vestibular system is always involved in motion sickness, regardless of its cause.

Furthermore on car sickness in puppies: Puppies are especially prone to car sickness because their vestibular system and inner ear structures are still developing. The good news? Many puppies outgrow car sickness as they age.

Is There a Behavioral Component to Motion Sickness?

Motion sickness can cause behavior problems in dogs. When dogs vomit every time they are in a car, it can lead to fear and anxiety. Some dogs may even start vomiting before the car is even in motion due to anticipating nausea. This learned response can persist even after the motion sickness is resolved.

Additionally, some dogs may be fearful of cars for various reasons such as noise, traffic, or associating car trips with stressful places like the veterinary hospital or groomer. To prevent these issues, it's important to desensitize puppies to car rides.

If an older dog is fearful, it can be challenging to determine if the vomiting is due to motion sickness or fear. In such cases, a behavior evaluation may be necessary to identify the underlying cause of the vomiting.

Signs That Suggest Your Dog Is Suffering From Motion Sickness

The key signs of motion sickness in dogs include:

Treatment for Motion Sickness in Dogs

Fortunately, there are some treatment options you can try to help your dog during travel. Some work better than others and not all dogs will respond to the same treatment, so trial and error may be required.

Before administering any medication or home remedies, consult your veterinarian for the best course of treatment for your dog.

Some common treatments/solutions include:

Maropitant (Cerenia®): This is a prescription medication that is approved for use in dogs with motion sickness. Maropitant functions by inhibiting the activity of substance P, which is primarily concentrated in the vomiting center of the brain. This mechanism effectively alleviates vomiting and promotes patient comfort.

Anti-anxiety/sedation medication: These medications can be used to reduce fear, stress, and anxiety associated with car rides. Common examples would be trazodone and/or gabapentin. Always consult your vet first before administering any medication.

Dimenhydrinate (Dramamine/Gravol®)/Diphenhydramine (Benadryl®): These over-the-counter medications can be used for motion sickness in certain cases. Although they are readily available, please check with your veterinarian before starting them as there are contraindications to their use in some dogs.

Natural products: There are some herbal supplements that can be used to help reduce vomiting associated with motion sickness. Examples include ginger root powder, peppermint oil, and certain Chinese herbs available as tinctures or capsules. Consult your veterinarian first before trying any natural remedies as safety and efficacy studies have not been performed.

Adaptil®: Adaptil is an over-the-counter product that is great for helping dogs cope with fear and stress associated with car travel. It comes in many forms such as a diffuser, collar, or spray, and can be used to help your pup relax while traveling.

Zylkene®: Zylkene is another over-the-counter product that can help your pup feel calmer on car rides. It is designed as a calming agent and can be beneficial in some dogs with travel anxiety.

dog content in car

Prevention Strategies for Dog Car Sickness

Behavioral modification is at the forefront of preventing motion sickness in dogs. Training and counter-conditioning techniques can help them gradually become accustomed to car travel and alleviate symptoms.

Gradual Exposure to Car Rides (Desensitization)

One of the most effective ways to prevent car sickness in your dog is through gradual exposure. Start by simply placing your dog in the car without moving. Over time, take short trips around the block, gradually increasing the duration of the rides. This helps your dog get used to the motion and environment of the car.

Positive reinforcement

Positive reinforcement is a technique that rewards good behavior with a high-value reward. When you're training your dog to get used to the car, reward them with treats, praise, and affection whenever they show progress or remain calm during car rides. By doing so, you can help them associate positive experiences with car travel.

Empty Stomach

It's advisable to withhold food for up to 8-12 hours before a car ride. An empty stomach can help reduce nausea and vomiting in dogs susceptible to motion.

Use of Carriers or Safety Harnesses

A carrier or safety harness can provide a secure and familiar environment for your dog, reducing anxiety and the risk of car sickness. Make sure your dog is accustomed to the carrier or harness before the trip.

Keep the Car Cool and Quiet

A calm environment can help reduce your dog's anxiety and, consequently, the chances of car sickness. Improving ventilation and keeping the car cool can help your dog relax.

Motion sickness is a common problem in dogs, but it can be treated and managed with patience and the right treatments. Prevention strategies such as desensitization, positive reinforcement, withholding food before car rides, use of carriers/safety harnesses, and maintaining a cool environment are key to reducing symptoms. If your dog does have motion sickness, consult your veterinarian for the best course of action. With the proper care and recommendations, your pup can have a comfortable and enjoyable car ride!