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How do I fix my dog's car anxiety?
How do I stop my dog from freaking out in the car? I just got a new dog and I love him to bits, but he seems to freak out every time we come near the car. What should I do?
Hana Sabah · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Aw! Congrats on your new pup!
I’m no vet, but it sounds like your dog isn’t a fan of cars. How old is the puppy? If it’s still young, then that’s normal. But if it’s an older dog, it sounds like they’re not accustomed to riding in a car or have had some negative experiences in the past.
Regardless, we’ve got a few solutions for you. To fix your dog’s car anxiety, teach them to love the car.
There’s no one, straightforward method of achieving this. You’re going to have to train your dog and counter-condition them to believe the car is a safe space. Here’s how:
Try desensitization. Put simply, gradually introduce your dog to the car until they’re finally comfortable.
Practice counter-conditioning. Slowly try to associate the car with happy experiences, like giving them a treat every time they come near the car.
Teach your dog to enjoy the ride. Once your pup is comfortable being inside the car, you should try taking them for a short-distance ride. Monitor their reaction and make sure to praise your dog throughout the ride. Give them treats, pets, and cuddles to help them associate the car with a pleasant experience—even when it’s moving.
Avoid motion sickness. Another reason your dog may not be eager about a car ride could be motion sickness. Usually, young puppies grow out of it. But if they don’t, try these methods to mediate car sickness:
- Keep the temperature cool inside the car. Do not leave your dog inside a hot car without air conditioning or an open window.
- Limit your dog’s food and water intake a few hours before a trip.
- Exercise your dog about 20 minutes before your trip to decrease stress and anxiety.
- Spray your dog with pheromones in the car. These are special scents that calm dogs down and can be found in collars, diffusers, or sprays. Purchase them at any pet store.
- Talk to your vet about treating your dog with anti-anxiety or motion sickness medication.
With your pet along for the ride, it’s even more important to drive safely! But if you do get into an accident, did you know some car insurance policies will cover injuries your dog sustains? Review your policy or ask an agent to find out more.
If your insurance doesn’t offer coverage for your pet, it might be time to shop around. Try using the
Jerry
app. Jerry will compare rates from the top providers and deliver the best deals to your phone for free.View full answer
- Gregory R.
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Jerry partners with more than 50 insurance companies, but our content is independently researched, written, and fact-checked by our team of editors and agents. We aren’t paid for reviews or other content.
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