How to Travel with a Dog in the Car

Restrain your dog with a crash-tested carrier or seat-belt harness, keep the car cool, and take short practice trips. For small or senior dogs, a booster seat or stroller-style carrier reduces stress.

Safety first

• Small dogs: a buckled booster seat or carrier.
• Large dogs: a harness clipped to the seat belt.
• Never let a dog ride loose or in the front with an active airbag.

Motion sickness & comfort

• Face your dog forward and keep windows cracked for fresh air.
• Avoid feeding right before travel.
• A ramp helps senior dogs get in and out without jumping.

FAQ

Q: How do I stop my dog from getting carsick?
A: Short trips, cool air, and an empty stomach (1–2 hours before) help most dogs.

Q: Is a crate or harness safer in the car?
A: Both are safe when crash-tested and properly secured. Harnesses suit larger dogs.

Q: Can my dog ride in the front seat?
A: Only with the passenger airbag disabled — the back seat is always safest.

Written by the Furaly Pet Care Team · Updated September 2026