Long trajet en voiture

Long car journey

Preparing for a long car journey with your dog: the complete guide

Holidays, moving, long weekends… A journey of several hours with a dog goes very smoothly if you plan ahead for safety , hydration , breaks , and comfort . Here's our step-by-step plan + ready-to-use checklists.

See the Transport & Car category • Harnesses & Leashes: Selection • Car Seat Belts: Black • Red • Pink • Blue • Green • Bowls & Water: See

Summary

  1. Safety: harness + belt, crate, barrier
  2. The dog's travel bag
  3. Hydration & nutrition
  4. Break rhythm & routine
  5. Managing stress & motion sickness
  6. Heat, cold & ventilation
  7. Ready-to-tick checklists
  8. FAQ

1) Safety: harness + belt, crate, barrier

The basics: always keep your dog on a leash to protect both the animal and the handler.

  • Well-fitting Y-harness + car seat belt (45–72 cm, swivel carabiner) — see our belts . Attaches to the harness's D-ring (never to the collar).
  • Crate/kennel properly strapped down: very stable for dogs who calm down in an enclosed space.
  • Trunk barrier + attachment point: practical for large sizes (add a non-slip mat).

Need a detailed step-by-step guide? Read: “Car safety: harness + seatbelt (guide)” .

2) The dog's travel bag

  • Documents : health record, medication, veterinarian's contact information.
  • Harness & leash (anti-pull if needed) + car seat belt .
  • Collapsible bowl / stainless steel bowl + water bottle.
  • Pre-measured rations + treats.
  • Manure bag (lot 150): see .
  • Bedding or a blanket that smells like home (a reassuring smell).
  • Calming toy (coffee wood, soft plush) — ideas: top 7 .
  • Absorbent mat for the bench seat: diatomaceous earth mat .

3) Hydration & nutrition

  • Fresh water available at every break. Some dogs drink better from their own bowl .
  • Meals : Avoid eating just before departure. Opt for a light meal 3–4 hours beforehand, then small portions on the road if needed.
  • Avoid new (rich) treats on the big day.

4) Break rhythm & routine

  • Breaks every 2–3 hours : short walk on a leash, water, “sniff” moments.
  • Keep the same order : exit slowly, water, 5–10 min walk, return calm.
  • Use a shock-absorbing leash if your dog is very motivated to get out of the car.

5) Managing stress & motion sickness

  • Habituation : 2–3 mini-trips in the preceding days (5→15→30 min).
  • Seat : rear/trunk, limited view to the front (reduces nausea).
  • Gentle ventilation , no wide-open windows.
  • Anti-stress : “heartbeat” plush toy for puppies, calm chewing (coffee wood), soft music.
  • Motion sickness : start on a light fast, take frequent breaks. If persistent, talk to your veterinarian.

6) Heat, cold & ventilation

  • Never leave a dog alone in a car in the sun, even for a few minutes.
  • Aim for a stable temperature : sunshade, gentle air conditioning, water available at will.
  • In winter: blanket/basket, avoid direct drafts.

7) Ready-to-tick checklists

Before departure

  • ✅ Adjustable Y-shaped harness (2 fingers' width), clipped belt .
  • ✅ Complete travel bag (papers, medication, water, rations, waste bags).
  • ✅ Familiar bed/blanket in the dog area.
  • ✅ Route with breaks every 2–3 hours.

During the journey

  • 🚗 Rear windows locked, gentle ventilation/air conditioning.
  • 🕒 Regular breaks: water + short walk on a leash.
  • 🧸 Quiet toy/supervised chewing.

On arrival

  • 🏡 Walk on a leash , calm landmarks, water, resting area.
  • 🍽️ Normal meal after rest (if no nausea).

FAQ

Where should I put my dog ​​in the car?
In the back (seat) or in the trunk, secured with a harness via a seat belt or in a strapped-down carrier. Avoid the front seat (airbag).

How many breaks during a 6-hour drive?
At least two to three , depending on the heat and the dog's tolerance.

What should I do if he vomits?
Reduce the food portion before departure, place the dog in the back seat, and ventilate gently. Consult your veterinarian if motion sickness persists.

Can I leave him alone in the car for a few minutes?
Not in hot/sunny conditions. The temperature rises very quickly, a life-threatening danger.

Going further

Back to blog