Driving with your dog should be fun, not frustrating. A well-prepared trip keeps both of you safe and comfortable. Whether it's a quick run to the store or a cross-country adventure, making smart choices keeps tails wagging and prevents unnecessary stress.
Some dogs love car rides while others get anxious the moment the engine starts. Either way, car seat covers are a great way to keep your car’s upholstery clean.
Understanding what makes the experience enjoyable — or unbearable — helps prevent whining, drooling, and destructive behavior. Paying attention to their comfort, security, and needs transforms every drive into a positive experience.
Ignoring safety measures puts your dog at risk. Unrestrained pets turn into dangerous projectiles during sudden stops. Overheated cars threaten their health within minutes. Road trips without planned breaks lead to discomfort and stress. Avoiding these mistakes makes every drive better for both of you.
So, let’s take a look at 19 tips that will help keep you safe while driving with your dog.
1 – Secure your dog before starting the drive
A loose dog inside a moving vehicle is dangerous. Sudden stops or sharp turns could send your dog flying, leading to injuries and a major distraction. A secured dog means a safer drive.
Use a well-fitted harness that attaches to the seatbelt or place your dog inside a sturdy, well-ventilated crate. A car seat protector adds another layer of security, keeping them from sliding around while protecting your seats from scratches, fur, and dirt.
2 – Never let your dog ride in the front seat
Airbags save lives but pose a serious threat to dogs in cars. If a crash occurs, an inflating airbag could cause serious injury. The safest place for a dog is in the back seat or a secured crate in the cargo area. Keeping them away from the front seat prevents distractions and ensures they remain secure if something unexpected happens.
3 – Keep windows rolled up or slightly cracked
Many dogs love sticking their heads out of car windows, but this exposes them to flying debris, dust, and potential injury. A small crack allows fresh air while keeping them safe. Fully open windows could also lead to an excited dog jumping out. Avoid that risk by making sure your dog stays secured with the window adjusted for safety.
4 – Invest in a quality car seat protector
Dogs shed, track in dirt, and sometimes get car sick. A car seat protector prevents seats from becoming a mess. Choose one that’s waterproof and easy to clean. Some protectors even offer extra padding for comfort. This simple addition keeps the car interior in better shape while making cleanup easier.
5 – Bring plenty of water and a portable bowl
Dogs get thirsty, especially in warm weather. Always keep fresh water available to prevent dehydration. A collapsible or no-spill travel bowl makes it easier to keep them hydrated. Never assume a dog can wait until the destination to drink. Keeping water on hand prevents overheating and discomfort.
6 – Take breaks on longer trips
Sitting in the same position for too long leads to stiffness and restlessness. Dogs in cars need regular breaks to stretch, relieve themselves, and burn off some energy. Plan stops every couple of hours, especially for high-energy breeds. A quick walk helps prevent boredom and discomfort, making the rest of the drive easier.
7 – Never leave your dog in a parked car
Temperatures inside a parked car rise quickly, even with windows cracked. Heatstroke happens fast and can be fatal. Cold weather also presents risks. If stopping somewhere that doesn’t allow dogs, leave them at home. No errand is worth the risk of harming a pet.
8 – Pack essential travel gear
Driving with your dog requires more than tossing them in the car. Bring a leash, waste bags, a towel, and a favorite toy. If the drive lasts several hours, pack a small portion of food to maintain their routine. Familiar items help reduce anxiety and make them feel more at ease.
9 – Use a pet barrier for larger dogs
Big dogs tend to move around more. A pet barrier keeps them from climbing into the front seat. Whether a mesh divider or a solid barrier, this prevents distractions while keeping them in a designated area. It also reduces the risk of injury during sudden stops.
10 – Make sure your dog wears ID tags
Even with precautions, unexpected situations happen. A sudden noise or unfamiliar stop might make a dog bolt. An ID tag with current contact information increases the chance of a quick reunion. Microchipping provides extra security in case the collar comes off.
11 – Keep car rides positive
Not all dogs love car rides at first. Some associate it with stress, especially if their only experience involves vet visits. Start with short, fun trips to places they enjoy, like a park. Offer treats and praise to build positive associations. The more enjoyable the ride, the easier it becomes for both of you.
12 – Avoid feeding your dog right before the drive
Some dogs experience motion sickness, and a full stomach makes it worse. Feed them at least a couple of hours before hitting the road. If a meal close to departure is unavoidable, keep it light. Pay attention to signs of nausea, such as excessive drooling or restlessness.
13 – Use sunshades for hot days
Cars heat up fast, even with air conditioning. A sunshade blocks direct sunlight and keeps the interior cooler. Dogs with thick fur or short snouts are especially prone to overheating. Keeping the car at a comfortable temperature prevents stress and keeps them happy.
14 – Play calming music
Loud noises and unfamiliar surroundings make some dogs anxious. Soft, calming music helps reduce stress and keeps them relaxed. Classical music or low-volume audiobooks work well. Avoid loud, jarring sounds that might make them uneasy.
15 – Reward good behavior
Reinforce calm and polite behavior with treats and praise. If a dog sits quietly instead of whining or moving around, acknowledge it with positive reinforcement. Over time, this makes car rides more pleasant and prevents bad habits.
16 – Keep paws off power windows
Dogs in cars sometimes step on buttons without realizing it. If a paw lands on the window switch, it could open unexpectedly, causing a risk of falling out or getting caught. Lock power windows to prevent accidents.
17 – Watch for signs of stress
Panting, whining, drooling, and excessive licking could mean a dog feels uncomfortable. Pay attention to body language and adjust as needed. Some dogs get anxious in cars, but reassurance, breaks, and familiar comforts help. If the issue persists, consult a vet about possible solutions.
18 – Drive carefully and avoid sudden stops
Sharp turns and abrupt braking make dogs feel uneasy. Sudden movements increase anxiety and might cause injury. Drive smoothly, take turns gently, and maintain a steady speed. A predictable ride keeps them more comfortable.
19 – Let them sniff and explore after the ride
Once the car ride ends, allow time for sniffing and exploring. This provides relief and enjoyment, making future trips something they look forward to. A few minutes of freedom to stretch and take in new scents helps them settle after a long ride.
Every trip with your dog should feel like an adventure. Taking the time to prepare, secure them properly, and meet their needs keeps tails wagging and prevents stress. A happy dog makes every drive more enjoyable, whether it’s a quick errand or a weekend getaway.
Small efforts lead to big rewards. Watching your dog stay calm, content, and safe in the car makes all the planning worth it. Creating a positive experience strengthens the bond between you and your four-legged passenger.
A little preparation turns any drive into a great experience. Focus on safety, comfort, and enjoyment. Every mile becomes another opportunity to share quality time with your best friend.
Keep your pets comfortable and secure with Plush Paws
Plush Paws designs top-quality travel carriers and accessories to keep pet travel smooth and stress-free. Built for durability, these carriers provide a safe, cozy space for large breeds, whether you're hitting the road or taking to the skies.
Reinforced frames, breathable panels, and washable liners ensure maximum comfort while safeguarding your vehicle’s interior.
Choose Plush Paws for travel gear that prioritizes your pet’s well-being. Discover our carriers today and enjoy every trip with confidence, knowing your furry friend stays safe and relaxed.