For some dogs, the car means adventure. For others it means barking, whining, panting, drooling or trying to climb into the front seat, sometimes before the engine has even started. Car anxiety can come from motion sickness, a bad experience (such as trips that always end at the vet), or simply never having learned that the car is a safe place. Whatever started it, a slow, step-by-step approach usually helps. If your dog barks in the car because they are excited rather than worried, see our guide to stopping barking in the car.
Quick answer: Check with your vet about motion sickness first. Then rebuild your dog’s feelings about the car in small steps: treats near the parked car, then sitting inside with the engine off, then engine on, then very short trips to somewhere fun. Keep your dog secure in a crate or with a crash-tested harness, cover the windows if passing traffic sets them off, and never punish the barking.
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Why dogs get anxious in the car
- Motion sickness. Drooling, lip-licking, yawning and vomiting are common signs, especially in young dogs.
- Bad associations. If the car usually means the vet or the groomer, your dog may dread it.
- Feeling unsafe. Sliding around on a seat, or not being able to see what’s happening, can be stressful.
- Too much to look at. Passing dogs, people and traffic can trigger barking, much like barrier frustration at a window.
Step 1: talk to your vet
If your dog drools, vomits or looks queasy, ask your vet about motion sickness. Treating it can make training far easier. We’re not vets, so please don’t give any medication without their advice.
Step 2: rebuild the car, one small step at a time
Move on to the next step only when your dog is relaxed at the current one. That might take a few days or a few weeks.
- Near the parked car. Feed treats or play near the car with the doors closed, then walk away.
- Doors open. Scatter treats in the boot or on the seat and let your dog choose to hop in and out.
- Sitting inside, engine off. Give a chew or a stuffed toy for a minute or two, then let your dog out.
- Engine on. Start the engine, give treats, switch it off. Repeat until it’s boring.
- Tiny trips. Drive to the end of the road and back, then gradually go further, ideally to somewhere your dog loves, like a favourite walk.
If your dog barks, whines or starts drooling, go back a step and make it easier. Short, successful sessions build confidence faster than long, stressful ones.
Make journeys calmer
- Keep your dog secure. A well-ventilated crate or a crash-tested car harness stops sliding around and keeps everyone safe.
- Reduce the view. A covered crate or window shades help dogs who bark at passing traffic.
- Keep it cool and calm. Fresh air, a quiet radio and a steady driving style all help.
- Light meal only. A small meal a few hours before travel may help dogs prone to sickness; ask your vet.
- Something to chew. A long-lasting chew can help some dogs settle on longer trips.
Frequently asked questions
Why does my dog bark and whine in the car?
Common reasons are motion sickness, fear linked to past trips, excitement, or reacting to things passing outside. Working out which applies helps you choose the right approach.
Can car anxiety in dogs be cured?
Many dogs improve a lot with gradual training and, where needed, help from the vet for motion sickness. Progress is usually slow and steady.
Should I put my anxious dog in a crate in the car?
A secure, well-ventilated crate is one of the safest ways for dogs to travel, and covering it can help a dog who reacts to the view. Get your dog used to the crate at home first.
Is it OK to comfort my dog in the car?
Yes. Calm reassurance won’t make the fear worse. Focus on safety first, and pull over if your dog is very distressed.
Ready to start? Download the free 3-Day Quiet-Down Checklist.
For short daily practice sessions, the free Quiet Dog Toolkit has a training timer, and the printable Barking Log helps you track progress.