Summer is on its way and with it the holidays, and if you have a pet you have surely wondered about travelling by car with a dog without any nasty surprises. Getting it right is a matter of organisation: a good restraint system, well-timed stops and a few accessories turn a long drive into something calm for everyone. In this guide we go over how to carry your dog in the car within the rules, how to avoid car sickness and what to pack so your companion travels comfortably and safely.
Before you set off: prepare the trip with your dog
The key to travelling by car with a dog without trouble starts at home. If your pet is not used to the vehicle, do a couple of short drives in the days beforehand so they get familiar with the movement and the noise. Check that the microchip details are up to date, take their vaccination record and, if you are crossing a border, the European pet passport.
It is best not to give them a big meal right before leaving: a light one two or three hours earlier reduces the chances of car sickness. And never forget the water: in summer a dog dehydrates far faster inside a car.
How to carry your dog safely in the car
The rule is clear: the dog must be secured so that it cannot get into the driver's area or be thrown forward in an emergency stop. Loose on the seat is not enough. These are the most common restraint systems:
- Travel crate: ideal for small and medium dogs. It goes on the floor behind the front seats or, if it is a large one, across the boot.
- Harness with seat belt: for medium and large dogs travelling on the back seat. It should have a double anchor point to spread the force in an impact.
- Dog guard or boot divider: separates the load area from the cabin and works well for large dogs in an estate or an SUV.
Whatever you choose, it has to be properly fixed and the right size: a harness that is too big does not protect. You can see the options among our pet accessories, designed for everyday use and for the road.
Car sickness in dogs: how to avoid it
Car sickness is most common in puppies, because their balance system is still developing. The typical signs are excessive drooling, shaking, yawning, restlessness and, in the clearest cases, vomiting. To prevent it:
- Ventilate the car and keep a pleasant temperature; heat makes car sickness worse.
- Position the dog facing forwards rather than sideways, to reduce the sensation of movement.
- Make frequent stops and avoid driving sharply through bends.
- If your dog is sick every single time, talk to your vet: there are specific medicines that can help on long journeys.
With patience, most dogs that get sick as puppies grow out of it, provided they are introduced to the car gradually.
Accessories for travelling by car with dogs
A few accessories for travelling by car with dogs make the difference between a comfortable trip and one full of improvising. The basics that should not be missing:
- Seat cover: protects the upholstery from hair, scratches and mud, and many double as a hammock so the dog does not slide into the footwell.
- Collapsible travel bowl: to keep them hydrated at every stop without lugging bulky bowls around.
- Blanket or mat: gives them their own recognisable space, which lowers stress.
- A bag with the essentials: water, their usual food, poo bags, a towel and a familiar toy.
You will find this kind of product for the home and for pets in our shop, designed to make setting off simple.
On the road: stops, water and temperature
On long journeys, stop roughly every two hours so the dog can stretch their legs, drink and relieve themselves. Always take them out with the lead held firmly, especially at service areas beside main roads.
And a golden rule in summer: never leave the dog alone inside the car, not for a moment, not even with the windows down. The temperature inside climbs very quickly and can cause fatal heatstroke within minutes. If you have to stop somewhere that does not allow pets, have someone stay with them outside the vehicle.
Conclusion
Travelling by car with a dog is perfectly compatible with a relaxed holiday if you plan the drive, use a suitable restraint system and stay on top of water and rest stops. With the right accessories your pet travels safely and you drive without distractions. Take a look at our pet selection and get this summer's route ready with everything you need.