Travelling With an Anxious Dog: Tips to Reduce Stress on Trips

If the thought of a family road trip or flight has your dog trembling before you even grab the leash, you’re not alone. Many Kiwi pet parents face the challenge of travelling with an anxious dog. The good news? With the right prep and a little know-how, your dog can learn to feel more comfortable, whether on the road, in the air, or heading to the bach. At Petdirect, We Get Pet — and we've put together our top tips to help make trips more relaxing for you and your four-legged travel buddy.

What Causes Travel Anxiety In Dogs?

Dogs can become anxious during travel for a range of reasons. Some pups associate the car with negative experiences, like visits to the vet. Others may be overwhelmed by new smells, sounds or motion. Common causes include:

• Car sickness or discomfort during motion
• Sensitivity to unfamiliar environments
• Separation anxiety if away from their main human
• Lack of training or exposure to travel early in life

It’s important to understand your dog’s triggers so you can tailor a travel experience that keeps their tail happily wagging.

Pre-Travel Prep: Set Your Dog Up For Success

Before you depart, there are plenty of ways you can ease your dog’s nerves:

• Practice short trips: Start with short drives around the block to help your pup get used to the motion and surroundings.
• Keep routines familiar: Stick to their normal meal and walk schedule where possible, even on travel day.
• Use the right travel gear: Secure your dog with a dog seatbelt or travel harness, or opt for a comfy dog travel crate that helps them feel safe.
• Choose calming products: Products like Adaptil and ThunderShirt can help settle nerves. Explore our full calming essentials range.

Best Products To Calm Anxious Dogs On The Go

Whether you’re going on a cross-country holiday or a quick trip to the dog park, the right products can make all the difference:

• Calming chews and treats: Formulated with natural ingredients to promote relaxation (and they taste like a treat!).
• Travel-specific calming aids: Great for journeys that cause stress, such as car rides or flights.
• Travel bowls and water bottles: Keep your pup hydrated – dehydration can amplify stress levels.
• Comfortable bedding: Line crates or car seats with familiar-smelling bedding to make travel cozier.

Training Tips To Build Confidence In Nervous Travellers

Training is a long-term solution that can make trips more enjoyable for both of you. Try these tips:

• Reward calm behaviour: Use high-value training treats to reinforce relaxed behaviour during trips.
• Desensitise gradually: Let your dog explore the car without going anywhere. Praise and treat them for being inside calmly.
• Practice commands: Reinforce basic commands like "sit" and "stay" to help keep things calm in unfamiliar settings.
• Offer distractions: Bringing along interactive toys can keep their mind occupied and soothe stress.

Extra Tips For Travel Days

• Exercise before departure: A tired dog is a more relaxed traveller. Allow time for a good walk before setting off.
• Keep the car cool and shaded: Overheating can cause anxiety. Use sunshades and keep the air flowing.
• Take regular breaks: Stop every couple of hours for toilet breaks, water, and leg stretches.
• Have their favourite things handy: Bring their favourite toys or blankets for familiarity and comfort.

When To Talk To Your Vet

If your dog shows signs of extreme distress during travel (like excessive drooling, vomiting, or panic), it may be time to consult your vet. In some cases, prescription medication or behavioural therapy might be needed to truly ease their travel anxiety. At Petdirect, while we’re experts in pet nutrition and care, we always recommend chatting with your trusted vet for tailored medical advice.

We’re With You (And Your Dog!) Every Step Of The Way

Travelling with an anxious dog may take a bit more planning, but it absolutely can be done. With the right approach, some calming support, and a dash of patience, your nervous pup can become a seasoned travel companion. At Petdirect, We Get Pet, and we’re here to help you find everything you need to make roadies and adventures comfortable for your furry passenger.

Explore our full pet travel collection and shop calming essentials to feel confident hitting the road with your dog by your side.