Can dogs grow over car sickness?

Car sickness is an annoying problem in dogs. Many owners therefore wonder if something can be done about it. And... can dogs actually grow over car sickness? Can dogs grow over car sickness?

Diseases

22 April '25 1 min reading time

This is especially true for young dogs and puppies. In young animals, car sickness is almost always linked to their development.

Balance System

In puppies and young dogs, the balance system in the inner ear is still developing, which can contribute to motion sickness. As they grow older, their balance tends to stabilize, often causing the symptoms of car sickness to disappear.

Important: Getting Used to the Car

However... it’s crucial to give your dog positive experiences with car travel during the developmental phase of the balance system. If a dog develops negative associations due to discomfort or stress, it can lead to a fear of car rides—even after they’ve physically outgrown motion sickness. Regular practice with short, calm rides and positive reinforcement (using treats or verbal praise) can make a big difference.

Does Car Sickness Persist?

If car sickness continues even after your dog has reached adulthood, they may need extra support—or there may be other underlying causes.

There are special medications available, such as travel tablets formulated for dogs. However, nausea and vomiting in the car can also stem from other issues. If the motion sickness persists, it’s a good idea to consult a veterinarian for further guidance.

Also interesting:

Welfare

As a dog owner, you want the best for your four-legged friend, but car journeys can be challenging. Some dogs feel uncomfortable or get sick or stressed during a car ride. Is this due to car sickness or anxiety? This article tells you how to recognise the difference and help your dog.

Does my dog have car sickness or is he afraid of driving?

As a dog owner, you want the best for your four-legged friend, but car journeys can be challenging. Some dogs feel uncomfortable or get sick or stressed during a car ride. Is this due to car sickness or anxiety? This article tells you how to recognise the difference and help your dog.. Car Sickness in Dogs Car sickness is caused by a disturbed sense of balance and is common in puppies and young dogs. Their inner ear – which contains the balance organ – is not yet fully developed. Typical symptoms of car sickness include: Excessive drooling Vomiting or retching Being very lethargic and quiet Licking their lips Fear of Car Rides in Dogs Fear of car rides is different from car sickness. Fear of the car can develop due to a previous bad experience or general fear of the unknown. S...

Behaviour

"Motion sickness or travel sickness in dogs is very unpleasant. Fortunately, there are several things you can do to prevent or reduce motion sickness. We list seven tips for you."

Seven tips to prevent car sickness in your dog

"Motion sickness or travel sickness in dogs is very unpleasant. Fortunately, there are several things you can do to prevent or reduce motion sickness. We list seven tips for you.". Especially young dogs can suffer from motion sickness. It's important to intervene quickly if you notice your dog getting nauseous or vomiting in the car. Drooling and stress are also symptoms of motion sickness. Being timely will prevent your dog from associating the car with an unsafe or stressful place. Seven tips To prevent motion sickness in your dog, you can do the following: Allow your puppy to get accustomed to the car regularly, in small steps. The dog should first feel comfortable bein...

Questions? AskHELTIE!

Are you looking for advice about your dog or horse? Or do you want to know more about conditions or ingredients? Feel free to contact AskHELTIE, and we will be happy to assist you! .