How can I make my dog enjoy car rides?

Would you like your dog to enjoy car rides? Between motion sickness, stress, fear, and even French legislation, it’s not easy to know how to go about it.

We explain how to break the negative association of "car = bad time" for your dog, what to do if they are sick or stressed, as well as what the French law says.

Go directly to the section that interests you based on your situation.

1. My dog gets sick in the car: Simple tips

Here are the various symptoms of a dog sick in the car:

• Excessive drooling
  
• Frequent lip licking.
  
• Repeated yawning
  
• Restlessness or inability to settle down
  
• Whining
  
• Vomiting
  
• Unusual fatigue after the trip

Avoid large meals before departure (at least 3 to 4 hours before the trip) and provide them with a splash-proof water bowl or get a stainless steel dog water bottle so they can hydrate properly.

Keep the car cool using moderate air conditioning or slightly open windows, provided they are secured using a dog seat belt.

Limit their movement using appropriate equipment and smooth driving. This tip is often overlooked, but it is nonetheless very effective.

If your dog still shows signs of stress, apply the method aimed at breaking the negative association, explained later in this article.

2. My dog is stressed in the car, what should I do?

Get your dog used to the car from a very young age. Have them get on board using the command "get in" or simply by guiding them. Repeat this exercise until they do it naturally.

Burn off their excess energy and have them relieve themselves before the trip; they will be much calmer. A nice off-leash walk and a good play session with their owner will greatly reduce their stress.

Leave their favorite enrichment toy during the trip; licking or chewing is a natural calmer for your dog.

Use a natural solution as a supplement, such as Adaptil spray, to promote relaxation.

If your dog still shows signs of stress at this stage, it is time to work on the negative association.

3. Teach them to love the car: The negative association

If your dog vomits in the car or if your dog is stressed in the car, you should not force them to take trips (unless it's an emergency). First, for their well-being, but also to avoid the negative feedback loop:

Car → nausea or stress → bad experience → car = unpleasant → nausea or stress → etc.

You could make them hate the car for life because of this loop.

Conversely, the more positive experiences your dog accumulates without vomiting or stress, the more they will regain confidence. Every small victory is worth taking.

Start by having your dog get into the car while it is parked, without starting the engine. Reward them with treats, then let them get out.

Repeat this exercise until they get in willingly.

In a second step, start the engine without driving, then reward them again.

Once this second stage is mastered, take very short trips of just a few minutes before taking them to a place they particularly enjoy: park, forest, walk, or meeting other dogs.

Little by little, you will be able to increase the duration of your trips.

This method allows you to gradually replace the negative association with a positive association.

Do not hesitate to go back to previous steps if symptoms return.

4. What does the law say about dogs in cars?

Law on dogs in cars:

Contrary to popular belief, there is no specific law regarding the transport of dogs in cars. However, Article R412-6 of the Highway Code stipulates:

"Every driver must constantly be in a state and position to conveniently and without delay carry out all maneuvers incumbent upon them."

You must therefore ensure that your dog cannot hinder you while driving.

Dog forbidden in car:

This is a misconception; your dog is allowed to ride in the car provided that Article R412-6 is respected.

Dog in car fine:

If your dog is in a position where they can hinder you while driving (for example, if they move around freely, get into the front, can reach the pedals, or block your view), the most common risk is:

• 2nd class contravention: €35 fixed fine, based on Article R412-6 of the Highway Code.

Depending on the circumstances, law enforcement may consider the situation more serious:

• €135 fine (4th class) if the dog is treated as an unrestrained passenger or if they represent a particular safety hazard.
  
• This fine can be reduced to €90 or increased up to €375.

It is strongly recommended to secure your dog using a harness and a dog seat belt even if it is not explicitly mandatory.

There is no point deduction planned for a violation of Article R412-6 concerning a dog hindering driving.

5. How to travel with a dog in the car: essential accessories

For your dog’s safety and comfort, we strongly recommend equipping yourself with car accessories for dogs adapted to their size and needs.

Your dog will be much happier, and your car seats will be too 😅.

Where to put your dog in the car?

If you have a small dog, you can place them in the front with the help of a dog car seat suited for them.

For a large dog, prefer the back seat or your vehicle's trunk, provided they have a comfortable and secure space.

Dog car cover

Find in our collection our rigid base dog car covers or in hammock versions, as well as our trunk protectors specifically designed for trips with your companion.

For even more comfort, do not hesitate to add a dog blanket.

Separation net:

If your setup does not already include a separation net, it is recommended to add one to prevent your dog from accessing the front of the vehicle and disturbing your driving.

How to secure your dog in the car:

The safest solution is to use a dog harness combined with a dog seat belt. This can be attached either to the vehicle's belt buckle or to the headrest, depending on the model chosen.

Dog car ramp:

A foldable dog access ramp will make getting in and out of the vehicle easier, especially for elderly dogs or dogs suffering from joint problems.

Discover our collection of dog car accessories, and find the equipment perfectly adapted to your needs.

How to remove dog hair from a car?

Removing dog hair stuck to car fabric is not an easy task, unless you are well-equipped with a pet hair scraper.

6. Conclusion

Whether your dog gets sick, is stressed, or is simply not used to the car, it is entirely possible to teach them to experience trips serenely. The key is to move progressively, respect their pace, and increase positive experiences.

With a little patience, adapted equipment, and a good dose of rewards, your companion will eventually associate the car with pleasant moments rather than a source of discomfort or anxiety.

Do not forget that every dog is different: some will need a few days to get used to it, while others will require several weeks of work. The important thing is to remain consistent and never force them when they show signs of distress.

By applying these tips, you will put every chance on your side to turn car trips into true shared moments of pleasure.

Thank you for reading!