Shivering When Getting in the Car — Top 7 Motion Sickness & Anxiety Relief Products and How to Choose Them

Brain & CognitionTop PicksMeongsiljang Veterinary Advisory Board

Car anxiety and motion sickness in dogs have different causes, so they need to be addressed separately. We’ve compiled effective management strategies and tips for choosing the right products, including desensitization training, pheromone-based products, and veterinarian-prescribed antiemetics.

Dog Car Phobia and Motion Sickness: Why It’s Essential to Distinguish the Cause First

A dog feeling anxious in the back seat of a car

Car anxiety and motion sickness in dogs are complex behavioral and physical responses that can include restlessness, vomiting, and drooling during car rides. The most important thing is to accurately distinguish between anxiety and motion sickness. Anxiety is primarily psychological, often manifesting as trembling or whining, while motion sickness is a direct physical discomfort of the stomach, mainly causing vomiting and drooling. Since both conditions can occur simultaneously, it’s essential to use the right approach for the specific cause to see effective results.

Phobia or Motion Sickness? — A Symptom-Based Checklist

Trembling and crouching: Shaking or backing away even before getting into the car → Fear

Panting and heavy breathing: Rapid breathing with the tongue hanging out during excitement → Fear

Drooling and vomiting: Signs of stomach discomfort directly linked to motion sickness → Motion sickness

Whining and persistent barking: Continuous fear responses throughout the ride → Fear

Accidental elimination: May urinate or defecate in the car when extremely stressed → Fear

If two or more symptoms occur together, both fear and motion sickness need to be managed.

See a Vet First If You Notice These Symptoms

If vomiting occurs two or more times or signs of dehydration appear—such as dry gums and reduced skin elasticity—seek veterinary care immediately. If your pet is experiencing extreme fear that leads to self-injury, such as damaging the cage or bleeding from the paw pads, or if panic episodes recur, consult a veterinary behavior specialist.

Desensitization Training — Step-by-Step Methods to Change Your Dog’s Association with the Car

Desensitization training is the key to transforming your pet’s negative associations with the car into positive experiences.

Step 1: Offer high-value treats near the car to create positive associations.

Step 2: Reward your pet simply for sitting inside the car with the engine off.

Step 3: Keep the car stationary with the engine running for no more than 5 minutes.

Step 4: Begin with short drives of one block or less.

Repeat each step until your pet can complete it without stress. This process typically takes 2 to 4 weeks.

A puppy being trained to accept treats near a parked car

Top Recommended Products for Phobia Relief — Selection Criteria and Usage

Hard-sided carrier: A sturdy carrier protects your dog from impact and provides a sense of security while in the car. Choose a size that allows your dog to turn around comfortably.

Safety harness: A harness that connects to the seatbelt secures your dog and protects them from collision forces, regardless of size. Products with verified crash safety standards are safer.

Pheromone spray: This can help reduce anxiety as a supplementary aid, but effectiveness varies by individual. Spray the inside of the carrier before departure and allow it to dry completely before placing your dog inside.

Calming treats/supplements: These can be used as supportive products to ease tension. However, they may not be sufficient for severe motion sickness or fear, so consult your veterinarian if symptoms are intense.

Car window cover: When external stimuli like passing dogs or scenery cause anxiety, blocking your dog’s view can help reduce stress.

A dog resting comfortably in a pet carrier inside the car

When Motion Sickness Is the Main Cause — Prescribed Medications and Lifestyle Management Tips

If motion sickness is the main culprit, antiemetics prescribed by your veterinarian—such as those containing maropitant—can be very effective. Veterinary guidelines recommend administering the medication at least two hours before travel. Your vet will determine the appropriate dosage and schedule based on your pet’s weight, and motion-sickness medications are typically intended for short-term use over just a few days. In addition to prescribed medication, you can help reduce the risk of motion sickness by keeping your pet fasting before travel, slightly opening windows for ventilation, and driving smoothly and safely by avoiding sudden acceleration, hard braking, and sharp turns. Securing your pet in a stable position with minimal movement can also help.

A dog comfortably gazing out the car window.

Comparison of Management Methods — Which Approach Is Right for Your Dog?

Item	Main Target	Onset of Effect	Prescription Required
Desensitization Training	Fear-focused	After 2–4 weeks	Not required
Pheromone Spray	Mild fear	30 min before	Not required
Calming Treats & Supplements	Mild anxiety	30–60 min before	Not required
Veterinarian-Prescribed Antiemetic	Motion sickness–focused	2 hours before	Required
Anti-Anxiety Medication	Severe fear	Consult veterinarian	Required

If two or more symptoms overlap, work with your veterinarian to create a combined management plan

Pay Extra Attention to Small Breeds, Brachycephalic Breeds, and Senior Dogs

Small breeds like Maltese and Chihuahuas tend to exhibit strong fear responses. Brachycephalic breeds such as French Bulldogs and Pugs are prone to rapid buildup of travel stress due to their respiratory anatomy. In senior dogs, symptoms like motion sickness and fear may suddenly worsen despite previously tolerating travel well; consult your veterinarian if you notice any deterioration.

Reviewed by a veterinarian

Dr. Tony — Punnawat Phongkittirak

Veterinarian

A veterinarian who majored in veterinary medicine at Khon Kaen University, Thailand, and completed the IVSA program at North Carolina State University in the United States. Drawing on clinical experience at animal hospitals, he works in the pet healthcare field and is dedicated to building a digital care environment that connects pet parents with veterinarians.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I buy dog motion sickness medication without a prescription?

Maropitant-based antiemetics require a veterinary prescription. While calming treats and pheromone products are available over the counter, they may not be sufficient for severe motion sickness or fear. If symptoms are severe, please consult your veterinarian first.

How long does desensitization training take?

It usually takes 2 to 4 weeks. The key is consistent repetition, 1 to 2 times a day for 5 to 10 minutes each session. If your dog shows signs of stress, such as yawning, lip-licking, or turning away, reduce the intensity and proceed more slowly.

Can I give my pet a treat before getting in the car?

For dogs prone to motion sickness, it’s best to keep them fasting for 3–4 hours before travel. Use only a very small amount of treats for desensitization training, and avoid giving any right before departure.

What should I do if my dog keeps barking in the car?

Ignoring or scolding your pet can intensify their fear. Instead, keep them securely restrained and redirect their attention with chew toys or treats. Combining this approach with desensitization training will gradually reduce the barking.

When and how should I use the pheromone spray?

Spray the inside of the cage and the blanket 30 minutes before travel, and wait until the liquid is completely dry before placing your dog inside. Do not spray directly on your dog. Effectiveness may vary from dog to dog.

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References

[1] Hammerle M. et al., Veterinary Guide to Preventing Behavior Problems in Dogs and Cats, Wiley-Blackwell, 2023, Chapter 9 (Car Ride Anxiety)

[2] Korpivaara M., Laapas K., Huhtinen M. et al., Dexmedetomidine oromucosal gel for noise-associated acute anxiety and fear in dogs, Veterinary Record, 2017, 180(14):356

[3] Pratsch L. et al., Carrier training cats reduces stress on transport to a veterinary practice, Applied Animal Behaviour Science, 2018