How to Keep Your Dog Safe in the Car

We've all seen a happy hound sticking their head out the car window, ears and tongue flopping in the wind. What an adorable sight!

Unfortunately, though, unrestrained riding is not the safest situation—for you, for your pup, or for other drivers on the road.

Here's how to be smart while driving with your furry friend. We cover:

• The risks of distracted driving
• Why you should restrain your dog on the road
• Safe ways to secure your dog in the car
• Common questions about traveling with dogs
• Some of our favorite places to adventure with our canine companions

1) Distracted driving is the top safety risk while traveling with your dog

The National Institute of Health cites driving with pets as a major risk factor for car accidents. According to a Progressive survey, a significant proportion of drivers engage in unsafe behaviors when they have dogs in the vehicle.

When you're behind the wheel, your canine companion—and all your fellow drivers on the road—need you to pay attention!

Here are the biggest ways dogs cause distracted driving.

Reduced attention

Having a dog in the car can be distracting. Our pets might move around, bark, or seek our affection. This can divert focus away from the road and increase the risk of accidents.

Impaired visibility

A dog in the car can obstruct your view by blocking your rearview mirror, sitting on your lap, or moving in a way that hinders your line of sight.

Sudden movements

Dogs can make sudden movements or react to external stimuli like other vehicles or pedestrians. These unexpected actions can startle you, resulting in erratic driving behavior.

Stress and anxiety

Dogs can become anxious, or agitated during car rides. This behavior can further distract you—and the stress can also affect your pet's well-being.

Reduced reaction time

Distracted driving can impair your reaction time. This makes it difficult to respond quickly to changes in traffic or road conditions.

2) Why you should restrain your dog while in the car

Here's why restraining your dog in the car—with one of a number of pet travel products like safety harnesses or hard-sided crates—is important.

Minimize driver distractions

Unrestrained dogs can be a significant distraction to the driver. They may move around the vehicle, jump onto your lap, or seek attention, diverting your focus away from the road and other critical driving tasks.

Reduce the risk of accidents

Distracted driving can lead to accidents, as your reaction time and ability to respond to changing traffic conditions may be compromised. Restraining your dog helps you maintain better control of the vehicle.

Prevent injury

In the event of a sudden stop, collision, or even a minor accident, an unrestrained dog can become a dangerous projectile. This not only endangers your pet—it can also cause injury to you and other passengers.

Protect your pet

A restrained dog is less likely to escape or be injured during a car accident. It also prevents your pet from jumping out of an open window or door when the car is in motion.

Comply with local safety laws

In some places, it is a legal requirement to restrain pets while in a moving vehicle. Failing to do so can result in fines and penalties.

Avoid startling behavior

Dogs can react to external stimuli, such as other vehicles, pedestrians, or animals, in a way that startles the driver. This sudden behavior can lead to unsafe driving conditions.

3) Safe ways to secure your dog while driving

Restraint is essential to keep your dog safe in the car, and there are several safe ways to do so. The method you choose depends on your dog's size, temperament, and your personal preferences.

Here are some safe pet products to restrain your dog in the car.

Dog seat belt or harness

A dog seat belt or harness is specifically designed to secure your dog in the car. These devices attach to your car's seat belt system, and some have adjustable straps to allow your dog to sit or lie down comfortably. Ensure that you choose a high-quality product that is appropriate for your dog's size and weight.

Dog crate or pet carrier

A sturdy dog crate or carrier can be an excellent option, especially for smaller dogs. Make sure the crate is appropriately sized for your dog and secured in the car to prevent it from shifting during a sudden stop or collision.

Pet barrier

If you have a larger vehicle like an SUV or a station wagon, you can install a pet barrier to keep your dog in a specific area of the car, such as the cargo area. This pet safety product prevents your dog from moving into the passenger area and distracting the driver.

Back seat hammock

A back seat hammock is a type of seat cover that extends over the back seat and the rear of the front seats. It creates a barrier that can help keep your dog in the back seat and protect your car's upholstery.

You should never let your dog ride in the passenger seat for crash safety reasons—the airbags carry significant risk of injury to smaller animals. Truck beds are a no go, too.

Crash-tested products

Look for products that have undergone crash tests and are certified for safety. Manufacturers have designed these restraints to withstand the forces involved in a car accident and provide the highest level of protection for your dog—and pet safety experts recommend them as the best option.

What type of restraint is right for your dog?

Regardless of the method you choose, it's essential to ensure that your dog is comfortable and properly secured. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for installation and use of any restraint system, and make adjustments as needed to ensure a secure fit.

You should also get your dog used to their restraint system gradually—this is called counter conditioning or acclimation training—to reduce anxiety and make car trips a positive experience.

Remember that the specific choice of restraint may depend on your dog's size, behavior, and individual needs. The most important thing is to prioritize safety standards for both you and your pet when traveling in a car.

4) Other common questions about traveling with dogs

What if your dog gets motion sick in the car?

Motion sickness in dogs can be uncomfortable for both your pet and you as their owner. If your dog gets motion sick in the car, there are several steps you can take to help alleviate their symptoms and make car rides a more pleasant experience:

Consult your veterinarian

If your dog experiences severe or persistent motion sickness, it's a good idea to consult your veterinarian. They can rule out any underlying health issues and recommend appropriate treatments or medications.

Gradual acclimation

Start by taking short car trips to help your dog become accustomed to the motion and reduce anxiety associated with car travel. Gradually increase the duration of these trips as your dog becomes more comfortable.

Travel on an empty stomach

Avoid feeding your dog right before a car trip. Some dogs are less likely to experience motion sickness if their stomach is empty.

Proper ventilation

Ensure the car is well-ventilated, as fresh air can help reduce motion sickness symptoms. Crack a window or use the car's air conditioning system.

Car seat position

Keep your dog in a position where they can see out of the car window. This can help reduce motion sickness because they can better orient themselves with the movement of the car.

Secure your dog

Use a secure and comfortable restraint system to keep your dog in one place in the car. This can help reduce motion-induced stress and discomfort.

Take shorter trips

If your dog continues to experience motion sickness, consider shorter trips at first, gradually extending the duration as they become more comfortable.

Minimize distractions

Reduce external stimuli inside the car that may contribute to motion sickness. Keep the interior of the car calm and minimize sudden stops or sharp turns.

Desensitization

You can work on desensitizing your dog to the car by simply sitting in it with them when it's parked without the engine running. Offer treats and praise to create positive associations with the car.

Anti-nausea medications

In severe cases, your veterinarian may prescribe or recommend over-the-counter anti-nausea medications that are safe for dogs. Always follow your vet's guidance when using medications.

Natural remedies

Some natural remedies like ginger or peppermint may help alleviate motion sickness symptoms in dogs. Consult your veterinarian before using any natural remedies to ensure they are safe for your specific pet.

Remember that every dog is unique, and what works for one pet parent may not work for another. It may take time and patience to find the right combination of strategies to help your dog overcome motion sickness. The goal is to make car rides as stress-free and comfortable as possible for your pet.

What if your dog is reactive out of the car windows?

Does your dog become agitated or anxious when they see other dogs, people, or objects while in a moving vehicle? We've got you covered.

Restrain your dog for safety

Ensure your dog is safely restrained while in the car. Use a seatbelt harness or a crate to prevent them from jumping around or potentially interfering with your driving.

Reduce stimuli via environmental management

In the short term, you can also reduce your dog's exposure to triggers by using window shades or covering the windows (or securing them in a crate they can't see out of). This can help reduce their anxiety during car rides.

Provide distractions

Give your dog something to do during car rides, like interactive toys or puzzles, to keep their mind engaged and minimize their focus on external stimuli. This is a form of management like reducing their physical view.

Seek professional dog reactivity help

Consider consulting a professional dog trainer or behaviorist who specializes in reactivity. They can provide you with personalized guidance and training techniques to address your dog's specific issues.

Be patient and consistent when working on car ride reactivity with your dog. Every dog is different, and progress may take time. The key is to create positive associations with car rides and gradually desensitize and counter condition your dog to the triggers that cause their reactivity.

What if your dog just doesn't seem to like the car?

If your dog simply doesn't like the car and exhibits signs of fear or discomfort during car rides, you can take steps to help them become more comfortable and make car travel a less stressful experience. Here are some strategies to start with.

Make the car a positive place

Make the car a comfortable and enjoyable environment for your dog. Use their favorite blanket, toys, and treats to create a pleasant association with the car. Let your dog explore the car when it's stationary and reward them for calm behavior.

Take short trips

Initially, keep car rides short and pleasant. Gradually increase the length of trips as your dog becomes more comfortable. Avoid long or stressful journeys until your dog is at ease in the car.

Familiarize your dog with car sounds

Start the engine without driving and let your dog get used to the sound and vibrations of the car.

Consult a professional

If your dog's fear or anxiety about car rides is severe and doesn't improve with these techniques, consult a professional dog trainer or veterinary behaviorist for specialized guidance.

5) Where should you adventure with your pup?

Now that your pup is safe and secure in your vehicle... where should your first stop be? We've got a few ideas you'll both love.

Go on a walk in a new environment

If your pup is confident and curious, this can be a great way to add intrigue to their daily life. Take a drive to a different park, trail, or urban environment than you usually walk in—and let your dog take in all the new smells!

Consider getting a pup cup

Drive-thru treats are the reason many dogs love being in the car so much. Stopping for coffee or another meal on the go? Bring your dog along and get them a little something, too.

Rent a private dog park

Sniffspot is a network of private dog parks across the United States (and growing in other countries!) where you can play with your dog off leash without having to worry about encountering any other people, pets, or dangerous situations.

Learn more about Sniffspots in your area here!

Professional that reviewed this article

There is so much misinformation out there. We want to make sure we only provide the highest quality information to our community.

This is the trainer or veterinarian that reviewed this article:

Amanda Tommer, RVT