How to Get Your Puppy Used to Your Car.

Bringing a new puppy home is an exciting time. However, when it comes to car travel, not every pup is thrilled. If your puppy cries, shakes, or refuses to get in, then don’t despair. It’s entirely normal for a young dog to feel nervous or uncomfortable in a vehicle. 

From the point of view of a dog, the car is full of strange sights, sounds, smells and is constantly in motion, so it’s going to take time to adjust. With the right approach, your puppy can become a calm and confident passenger in the car. 

Whether you’re heading to the vet or planning a road trip, here’s how to help your furry little friend adjust to travelling in the car. Plus, we’ll go through what you need to know about driving with pets.

How to Help a Puppy Get Used To The Car.

Start with baby steps so your dog can get used to the car. Bring them in with you in your arms and just sit with them. 

Let your puppy explore the car while it’s parked and the engine is turned off. Sit with them, offer treats, and let them sniff around without pressure. Trust us, you’re going to need lots of treats.

Once they’ve had a good sniff and seem relaxed, it’s time to teach your pupper how to get in and out of the car safely. If they’ve mastered ‘sit’, then you’re halfway there! 

How to Teach Your Puppy To Get In The Car.

Before you open the door, tell your dog to sit. Remember to reward the good behaviour. Give your dog a treat and talk in a positive, affectionate voice to let Fido know that this is the behaviour that you’re looking for. Then, either pick them up to put them in or guide your pup inside slowly. 

Patience is key. Never force your dog into the car, as this can make their fear worse. Instead, associate the car with positive experiences over time. With regular exposure, calm voices, and lots of praise, most puppies will begin to relax.

How Should I Transport My Puppy in the Car?

By law, pets must be safely restrained while travelling in a vehicle. Unrestrained dogs can be dangerous for everyone in the vehicle. The Highway Code (Rule 57) states that dogs must be secured so they don’t distract the driver or cause injury during a sudden stop.

Many puppies feel safer in a crate or doggy car seat because they’re securely strapped in and can’t slide around. Familiar items, such as a blanket or toy, can also offer comfort.

Your options for transporting your pet safely in a car include:

• A travel crate or pet carrier
  
• A dog seat belt harness
  
• A secure dog guard in the boot

Once they seem comfortable with their surroundings, take short trips, even just going round the corner for a few minutes, then slowly build up the time in the car. 

Are Pets Covered by Car Insurance?

This is one of the most common questions we get as a broker: Does car insurance cover pets in the event of an accident?

In most cases, car insurance will not cover your pets in an accident. We understand that this is incredibly confusing for both pet parents and drivers. We may view our pets as part of the family, but in the eyes of the law, they are technically considered property. Despite this classification, they still do not qualify as ‘property’ damaged in a car accident as far as your car insurer is concerned. 

For complete peace of mind, we recommend getting car insurance and pet insurance, so you’re protected against both accident-related injuries and health issues that may come up during travel.

Why Doesn’t My Puppy Like the Car?

If your puppy seems distressed in the car, it usually comes down to unfamiliarity. Crying, panting, and shaking are all common signs of anxiety. Puppies may also drool, pace, or bark. While it’s tough to watch, these reactions are natural and temporary in most cases.

For many dogs, their first car experience involves a vet visit, which isn’t exactly a fun memory. Others might feel nauseous from motion sickness or stressed by the noise and movement.

How To Help Puppies With Motion Sickness In The Car.

Just like humans, some dogs suffer from motion sickness. This is especially common in puppies under one year old, as their inner ear, which helps with balance, is still developing. If your pup pants heavily, drools, or seems uncomfortable even on short drives, this could be the cause.

If you suspect that motion sickness is causing distress, you should get your dog checked by the vet as soon as possible. The vet will need to determine if the travel sickness is caused by anxiety or if it is caused by underdevelopment of the inner ear. Fortunately, most puppies eventually mature and grow out of travel sickness.

In other cases, your dog may simply be anxious. In this case, we highly recommend taking slow steps to build their familiarity with the vehicle, as mentioned above. Sometimes it means starting from scratch, with just sitting in the car, without the engine running, but eventually, with time, your dog will start to develop a positive association with the car. 

If the issue persists, speak with your vet. Some anxious dogs benefit from travel calming aids such as pheromone sprays and herbal remedies.

Pet insurance at One Sure Insurance

Helping your puppy get used to the car takes time, patience, and a little planning. But once they’re comfortable, the car opens up a world of adventures from beach days to weekend getaways. By following the recommended advice and choosing the right insurance cover, you’ll have peace of mind on every journey with your puppy.

As a trusted insurance broker, we’re here to help you find flexible, affordable cover for the whole family, including the four-legged members. Compare then get a car insurance and pet insurance quote instantly online now.