For some oodles, a car ride means ears flapping in the wind, noses pressed against the window, and the excitement of a new adventure. For others, it’s more of a “ruff” time—drooling, whining, and even the dreaded doggy vomit. If your oodle falls into the second category, you’re not alone. Many dogs, especially the clever and sensitive oodles, struggle with motion sickness. The good news? With patience and natural strategies, you can help your pup learn to love the ride.

Why Do Some Oodles Get Car Sick?

Not every oodle reacts the same way in the car, and there are a few reasons why:

• Inner ear balance: Just like humans, dogs rely on their inner ears for balance. Puppies often get car sick more than adults because their ear structures aren’t fully developed yet. Some oodles grow out of it, while others remain sensitive.
• Stress and anxiety: The car might mean vet visits, separation, or strange noises. If your oodle associates the car with something negative, the stress alone can trigger nausea.
• Sensory overload: Oodles are curious and alert by nature. All those smells, sights, and movements whizzing past can overwhelm their senses and upset their tummy.
• Genetics and temperament: Just like people, some dogs are naturally more prone to motion sickness.

Signs Your Oodle Might Be Feeling Car Sick

Keep an eye out for these tell-tail signs of motion sickness:

• Excessive drooling
• Licking lips
• Yawning or whining
• Restlessness or trembling
• Vomiting

Natural Ways to Help Your Oodle Feel Better

Before reaching for medication, there are gentle, natural methods you can try:

1. Gradual Training (Desensitisation)

Start slow. Let your oodle sit in the car with the engine off, offering treats and praise. Gradually build up to short drives, always making it a positive experience. Short, fun trips to the park instead of just the vet can help break negative associations.

2. Keep Their Tummy Comfortable

An empty or full stomach can both make things worse. Try a light snack a couple of hours before the ride—something bland like a plain dog biscuit.

3. Fresh Air and Positioning

Crack the windows to keep the air circulating and reduce pressure changes. Dogs often feel better facing forward, so consider using a well-secured booster seat or harness in the back seat.

4. Ginger to the Rescue

Ginger has natural anti-nausea properties. A small amount (in dog-safe form, like ginger snap biscuits made without nutmeg or xylitol, or a sprinkle of fresh ginger on food) can settle your oodle’s stomach. Always check with your vet about safe amounts for your dog’s size.

5. Chamomile or Peppermint

Chamomile tea (cooled and added sparingly to their water) or a peppermint-infused toy can help relax your pup’s tummy and calm anxiety. Again, use very small amounts and consult your vet before introducing new herbs.

6. Comfort and Familiarity

Bring along your oodle’s favourite blanket or toy. Familiar scents reduce stress, which in turn reduces nausea.

7. Exercise Before Travel

A little playtime before hopping in the car helps burn off nervous energy and keeps your oodle calmer on the ride.

Patience is Key

Some oodles may never be the biggest fans of car travel, but with consistency, natural remedies, and positive training, most will improve. Remember—it’s not just about avoiding sickness, it’s about building happy associations with car rides so your oodle can join you on adventures without fear or tummy troubles.

When to See the Vet

If your oodle is consistently sick on every car trip despite training and natural remedies, or if they become extremely anxious even near the car, a vet check is wise. Sometimes underlying ear issues or severe anxiety need a professional touch.

Car rides don’t have to be a battle between adventure and upset tummies. With patience, natural remedies, and some training, many oodles learn to enjoy the ride (or at least tolerate it without redecorating your back seat). And once you’ve cracked the code, you can look forward to stress-free road trips, beach days, and café adventures with your furry co-pilot.

7-Day Oodle Car Training Guide

Help your pup go from queasy to car-happy—naturally!

Day 1 – Car Meets Oodle

• • Parked car only.
  • Let your oodle sniff around inside, sit with them, and reward with high-value treats.
  • Keep it short and sweet—no pressure, just fun.

Day 2 – Engine On, No Drive

• • Sit in the parked car with the engine running.
  • Praise calm behaviour, offer treats or a chew toy.
  • Goal: Teach your pup that engine noise = positive experience.

Day 3 – Short & Sweet Spin

• • Drive just to the end of the street and back.
  • Keep windows slightly open for fresh air.
  • End the ride with playtime or a walk somewhere fun.

Day 4 – Extend the Trip

• • Try a 5–10 minute drive.
  • Bring along their blanket or favourite toy for comfort.
  • Keep calm energy—oodles mirror your mood!

Day 5 – Add in Natural Soothers

• • Try a small dog-safe ginger snap or a sprinkle of ginger before the ride.
  • Play soft calming music.
  • Always praise when they stay relaxed.

Day 6 – Destination = Fun

• • Take your oodle somewhere exciting (dog park, beach, or friend’s house).
  • Make the car the gateway to good times—not just vet trips!

Day 7 – Build Confidence

• • Mix it up with different routes and slightly longer trips.
  • Keep sessions positive, rewarding, and stress-free.
  • Celebrate progress, even if it’s small.

Extra Tips for Success

• Keep trips short at first—gradually increase.
• Avoid feeding a large meal right before travel.
• Always use a harness or booster seat for safety and comfort.
• Patience and consistency are the keys—oodles are clever, but sensitive!