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01
5 training tips for relaxed driving with dogs
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1. Give your dog time to get used to the car step by step.
It is important that your dog learns at its own pace that the car is not something to be afraid of. Make getting in easy: make the car a positive place – with treats, familiar blankets or small snacks. This will help your dog associate the new place with pleasant experiences. Once they feel comfortable, you can start the engine briefly after a few days without driving off. If they remain relaxed, the next step is to take short, calm drives, gradually increasing the length and speed. Always observe their body language. If they show signs of stress, take a step back. This will help your dog learn to take car rides in stride – without pressure, but with plenty of confidence.
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2. Make the transport box a home
The transport box can give your dog a sense of security when travelling – if they get to know it as a positive place early on. It's best to practise outside the car first: place treats or toys in the front of the box. Gradually move the reward further back. If your dog goes in calmly and stays relaxed, you can close the door briefly – always stay nearby. Step by step, the box will become a familiar place of retreat that also provides safety in the car.
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3. Physical activity before the car journey
A quick game or walk before the car journey can help burn off excess energy. This will make your dog more relaxed and reduce the likelihood of restlessness or travel sickness.
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4. Regular breaks
Long car journeys can be quite stressful for your dog, especially if they can't move around. Breaks are the perfect opportunity to give them a chance to stretch their legs, get some fresh air and do their business. This not only helps to reduce stress, but also ensures that they don't become nervous or restless during the journey. If your dog is afraid, panting or even shaking, it's especially important to take a break. Stay calm, give them the time they need and help them relax. A chew bone or their favourite toy can also work wonders to lift their spirits.
Remember: dogs can sense how you feel. If you stay relaxed, your dog will find it much easier to calm down – and the journey will be much more pleasant for both of you. Our tip for you: Ashwagandha capsules can help you feel more relaxed when travelling – stay calm, for both of you!
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5. Attractive destinations in the preparation phase
To begin with, you should choose places that your dog enjoys. A beautiful park, a quiet forest path or a dog-friendly beach are perfect destinations that will create positive experiences. This will ensure that your dog associates car journeys with pleasant experiences and will look forward to jumping into the car again next time.
02
Calmers for driving – how can I provide additional support for my dog?
Valerian
Valerian has a relaxing and balancing effect on your dog's nervous system without making them tired or drowsy. It can help alleviate your dog's stress reactions and make car journeys more pleasant for them. You can administer valerian in the form of drops, capsules or special supplements for dogs. Always ensure you use the correct dosage, which you should discuss with your vet.
Magnesium
Magnesium is often used to relieve stress or hyperactivity and can also be helpful for muscle tension or cramps. If your dog suffers from stress, for example when travelling by car or in other exciting situations, magnesium could be a natural remedy. However, it is important to use the correct dosage and consult a vet before use.
B-Vitamins
B vitamins can also help reduce your dog's stress and support their general well-being. Vitamin B1 (thiamine) in particular has calming properties and can help nervous dogs who become restless or anxious in stressful situations such as car journeys. B6 and B12 also play a role in the nervous system and can stabilise mood.
L-tryptophan
L-tryptophan is an amino acid that can also have a calming effect on dogs. It is a precursor to serotonin, a ‘happy hormone’ that helps relieve stress and anxiety. L-tryptophan is often used in natural supplements to calm dogs in stressful situations, such as when travelling in the car or when faced with other anxiety triggers.
Relax Drops
03
Nausea when travelling by car
Young dogs in particular often react sensitively to the rocking motion of the car – their sense of balance is still developing. Short, calm journeys and lots of patience help to alleviate their fear. An additional tip: it is best not to feed them before the journey – this often prevents travel sickness. Over time, travelling by car will become routine.
If the nausea does not subside with training, a gentle gastrointestinal supplement may help. Ingredients such as milk thistle, chamomile, fennel and caraway are known for their calming properties and can help stabilise your dog's digestive system, thereby preventing nausea and discomfort during the journey.
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