Dog Car Sickness: Causes and Signs of Motion Sickness in Dogs

Does your dog turn into a green-tinged mess every time you hit the road? If yes, then your dog may be experiencing travel or motion sickness! Yes, dogs can experience motion sickness, and for many pet owners it’s stressful and messy to deal with. While it most often happens during car rides, motion sickness can also occur on planes, boats, or any type of travel.

Beyond the inconvenience, it can leave your dog feeling anxious, nauseous, and reluctant to travel altogether! 

Luckily, there are ways to tell if your pooch is feeling unwell and what you can do to help them have a smoother journey. In this guide, you’ll learn the key causes, common symptoms, and proven relief tips to help both puppies and adult dogs travel more comfortably and confidently. (Handy tips to make car trips a breeze for both of you!)

 

What is Dog Motion Sickness?

Dog motion sickness is a common problem that happens when a dog’s inner balance is thrown off during travel, leading to nausea, drooling, dizziness, or vomiting.

Puppies are especially prone to it because their inner ear (vestibular) systems are still developing, but adult dogs can also be affected. It’s important to distinguish between true motion sickness and travel anxiety, as the two conditions may look similar but require different approaches to keep your dog comfortable on the road.

What Causes Motion Sickness in Dogs

Motion sickness in dogs occurs when the brain receives mixed signals from the inner ear, eyes, and other senses during movement. This sensory conflict disrupts balance, leading to nausea and discomfort.

Puppies are especially vulnerable because their inner ear structures are still developing, but stress, unfamiliar environments, or lack of travel experience can also make dogs more prone to motion sickness.

1. Inner Ear and Balance Problems

The inner ear, also known as the vestibular system, is responsible for balance and spatial awareness. When it struggles to keep up with movement, dogs can feel disoriented and nauseous.

Just like people who get seasick, this imbalance is one of the most common triggers of motion sickness in dogs. Due to the structures of the pup's inner ear not being fully developed yet, it is most often seen in puppies.

2. Visual Tiggers and Sensory Mismatch

Motion sickness often strikes when a dog’s eyes and inner ear send conflicting signals to the brain. For instance, if your dog is staring at the inside of the car while their body senses forward movement, the mismatch can trigger nausea and dizziness.

Much like people who feel sick when reading in a moving vehicle, dogs can quickly become carsick when their visual cues don’t align with what their body is experiencing.

3. Stress, Anxiety, and Fear of Travelling

Emotional stress can make motion sickness much worse for dogs. If a dog already associates car rides with fear, the anxiety can create a cycle where nervousness triggers physical sickness — and repeated sickness reinforces the fear.

Common signs of travel anxiety include:

• Shaking or trembling during the ride
  
• Whining, barking, or other vocalisations of distress
  
• Excessive panting or drooling

When emotional triggers combine with physical causes like inner ear imbalance, travel becomes even more challenging for dogs. Recognising these cues early is the first step to helping your pet feel calmer and safer on the road.

4. Lack of Early Travel Experience

 

Puppies that aren’t gradually introduced to travel are more likely to feel unsettled or nauseous on the road. Their developing balance systems, combined with the unfamiliarity of car rides, make them especially prone to motion sickness. Without early, positive exposure, this sensitivity can persist into adulthood, turning a car-sick puppy into a travel-averse dog.

5. Breed or Genetic Sensitivity

Certain dog breeds are naturally more prone to motion sickness because of their genetic makeup or physical traits. Smaller dogs, especially toy breeds, may be more sensitive to balance disruptions, making them vulnerable to nausea.

Popular working breeds in Australia, such as Kelpies, Border Collies, and Cattle Dogs, are less likely to suffer from dizziness but can display heightened stress-related behaviours during travel due to their active, high-energy nature. Larger breeds may not get as dizzy, yet they can still show signs of anxiety or discomfort.

Understanding your dog’s breed tendencies can help you anticipate problems and manage symptoms before they escalate.

 

Signs of Motion Sickness in Dogs

 

Motion sickness in dogs shows up through both physical symptoms and behavioural changes. These signs range from subtle stress cues to clear indicators of nausea or illness, all pointing to your dog’s discomfort during travel.

Here are the most common symptoms to watch for in your dog.

1. Restlessness and Pacing

One of the earliest signs of motion sickness is restlessness. A dog may pace, shift positions constantly, or whine as they try to get comfortable. This agitation often starts before nausea sets in, making it an important early warning for owners to recognise.

2. Excessive Drooling or Panting

Excessive drooling is a common early sign of motion sickness in dogs. If your dog begins salivating excessively or panting hard without heat or exercise, it’s often a signal of nausea. These symptoms usually appear before vomiting, making them an important early warning for owners to notice.

3. Lip Licking, Yawning, or Swallowing

Subtle behaviours like lip licking, yawning, or frequent swallowing are often the first signs of car sickness in dogs.

Watch for:

• Lip licking when no food is present
  
• Repeated yawning without signs of tiredness
  
• Frequent swallowing, which can signal nausea is building up

Recognising these cues early gives you the chance to intervene before motion sickness progresses to vomiting or severe distress.

4. Lethargy or Lying Low While Travelling

Not all dogs show motion sickness through restlessness; some do the opposite. A lethargic dog may slump in their seat, keep their head low, or avoid looking out the window as a way to manage nausea. Although easy to miss, this subdued behaviour is an important symptom owners should pay attention to.

5. Vomiting, Diarrhoea, or Nausea

The clearest sign of motion sickness is vomiting during travel. Nausea usually comes first, with telltale signs like drooling, lip licking, or restlessness, while dog diarrhoea is less common but can also occur. If you’ve ever wondered, “Why does my dog throw up in the car?”, it’s typically caused by disrupted balance and conflicting sensory signals. Spotting early signs of nausea gives you the chance to act before vomiting begins.

 

How to Prevent Motion Sickness in Dogs

The best way to manage motion sickness is to prevent it before it starts. With the right preparation and a few simple adjustments, you can greatly reduce your dog’s discomfort and even help them build positive associations with travel. Over time, many dogs can learn to enjoy car rides instead of fearing them.

Gradual Desensitisation with Shorter Trips

One of the most effective ways to prevent motion sickness, especially in puppies, is gradual exposure. By introducing travel in small, positive steps, you can build your dog’s tolerance and reduce anxiety over time.

Step-by-step approach:

• Start by letting your dog sit in the car with the engine off.
  
• Progress to turning on the engine without moving.
  
• Take very short drives around the block and reward calm behaviour.
  
• Gradually extend the length of trips while keeping the experience positive.

Consistency is key: a series of small, rewarding experiences helps your dog associate car rides with comfort rather than nausea.

Positioning Your Dog with a Clear Outside View

Allowing your dog to see the horizon can reduce the sensory mismatch that causes nausea. A stable spot near a window helps them orient their balance, easing feelings of disorientation. Using a secure harness or a well-fitted dog car seat keeps them safe while also improving comfort for dogs prone to motion sickness.

Feeding Guidelines Before Travel

What and when you feed your dog before a trip can make a big difference in preventing motion sickness. A heavy meal can increase nausea, while a light snack and water can help your dog feel more comfortable.

Travel-friendly feeding tips:

• Offer a small, light meal 3-4 hours before travel
  
• Provide access to fresh water, but in moderation
  
• Avoid feeding immediately before the trip
  
• Skip greasy, heavy, or rich foods.

Proper feeding routines set the stage for a calmer, easier ride.

Keeping the Travel Environment Comfortable

A calm, stable environment goes a long way in preventing motion sickness. By setting up the car to reduce stress and sensory overload, you can help your dog feel safer and more relaxed throughout the journey.

Checklist for a comfortable ride:

• Ensure good airflow with slightly open windows or air conditioning
  
• Keep the temperature cool and consistent
  
• Drive smoothly, avoiding sharp turns or sudden stops
  
• Secure your dog with a harness, seat, or crate for stability
  
• Play soft, calming music to reduce anxiety

With the right setup, car rides can become a positive experience for both you and your dog. For even more practical tips, check out our guide on How to Prep & Pack for a Dog Road Trip, so you and your pup are ready for safe, stress-free adventures.

 

Effective Remedies and Treatments for Dog Motion Sickness

If your dog is already showing signs of motion sickness, prevention alone isn’t enough. This is when remedies and treatments, including natural options and vet-prescribed dog motion sickness medicine, become essential. The right approach depends on the severity of your dog’s symptoms and their overall health.

Natural remedies for dog car sickness:

• Ginger: In small, vet-approved doses, it may help ease nausea
  
• Pheromone sprays or collars: Promote relaxation and reduce stress
  
• Calming chews or supplements: Use only under veterinary guidance

Behavioural support strategies:

• Reassure your dog with a calm voice and gentle touch
  
• Take short breaks for fresh air and comfort stops
  
• Gradually build positive travel experiences to reduce future episodes

Veterinary treatments for severe or recurring sickness:

• Cerenia: A widely prescribed anti-nausea medication for dogs
  
• Antihistamines or other motion-sickness medicines: Only prescribed by a vet

Important: Never give human medications to dogs without veterinary advice.

 

Choosing the right treatment depends on your dog’s age, health, and how often symptoms occur. For safe and effective relief, always consult your vet or contact your local after-hours emergency vet clinic.

When to Consult a Vet for Dog Motion Sickness

Most cases of dog motion sickness can be managed with simple remedies and prevention, but some situations call for professional care. If your dog experiences persistent nausea, severe anxiety, or repeated vomiting, it may signal an underlying issue that goes beyond routine car sickness. Knowing when to consult a vet ensures your dog gets the right treatment and rules out more serious health concerns. 

Persistent Vomiting or Signs of Dehydration

If your dog vomits repeatedly during travel, it may indicate more than routine motion sickness. Ongoing vomiting can quickly cause dehydration, with warning signs such as dry or sticky gums, sunken eyes, or unusual lethargy.

When these symptoms appear, prompt veterinary care is essential to protect your dog’s health and ensure a safe recovery.

Severe Anxiety or Stress during Travel

When travel sparks extreme fear, such as trembling, refusing to get into the car, or vomiting from anxiety, it goes beyond typical motion sickness. In these cases, support from your vet or a professional behaviourist can make a big difference.

With tailored strategies and, if needed, calming aids, they can help your dog build confidence and feel more comfortable on the road.

Identifying and Ruling Out Underlying Health Problems

Not all nausea during car rides is caused by motion sickness. Conditions such as vestibular disease, ear infections, or gastrointestinal issues can produce similar symptoms. A thorough vet examination is essential to rule out these underlying health problems and ensure your dog receives the right treatment. 

 

Dog Motion Sickness FAQs

Is motion sickness common in puppies?

Yes, motion sickness is common in puppies because their inner ear balance system is still developing. Puppy motion sickness often improves with age, but some dogs may continue to feel sick during travel.

How long does motion sickness last in dogs? 

Motion sickness in dogs lasts only during the trip or shortly after it ends. For some, it passes within minutes; for others, symptoms such as drooling or nausea can persist until movement is completely stopped.

Do dogs outgrow motion sickness as they age?

Yes, many dogs outgrow motion sickness as they age, especially once their balance system matures. However, it varies; some dogs continue to experience car sickness and may require preventive strategies or remedies.

Which dog breeds are more prone to motion sickness?

Small or toy breeds are more prone to motion sickness because of heightened sensitivity to balance and movement. Larger dogs often show stress-related behaviours, but breed predisposition can influence how strongly symptoms appear.

Is it safe to give my dog human motion sickness medication?

No, it is not safe to give your dog human motion sickness medication without consulting a veterinarian. Only a vet can prescribe safe options, like Cerenia or specific antihistamines, tailored to your dog’s weight and health.

 

Helping Aussie Dogs Travel Happier and Healthier

Motion sickness in dogs is a common challenge, but with patience, training, and care, most dogs learn to travel more comfortably. Puppies often grow out of it as their balance systems mature, while others improve through gradual exposure and the right support.

At Petzyo, we believe well-being starts with nutrition. A healthy digestive system helps your dog cope better on the road, making every journey smoother for both of you. Our meals are designed to keep Aussie dogs strong, settled, and ready for life’s adventures.

Why Aussie dog owners choose Petzyo:

• 100% Australian-made raw and dry dog food
  
• Vet-reviewed recipes that support digestion and overall health
  
• Sustainable, eco-friendly practices you can feel good about

Support your dog’s health on and off the road, and make every trip easier, happier, and healthier with Petzyo’s balanced meals for your best mate. Remember, a happy pup makes for a happy travel companion! So, pack your bags, hit the road, and have a blast exploring new sights and smells together. Happy travels!