How long is too long for a dog to ride in a car?

Puppies can get carsick – though most grow out of this by the time they’re fully grown. This is because their inner ear isn’t fully developed, and it’s one of the reasons to do shorter test drives before any mega-trip. Menteith advises stopping every two to three hours. Look ahead at your route and try to factor in stops for walks or in quieter areas that your dog will enjoy – service stations can be busy and confusing, with lots of people, other dogs and cars rolling past. The key thing is lots and lots of small journeys before any big one – it’s as much for you to get used to driving with them as for them to get used to the car. Start with short drives to walking spots or the beach, to see friends and family, and watch out for any nervousness or unsettled behaviour. Create a comfy environment that’s safe for you and them. Take time deciding which part of the car your dog will travel in, making it as comfy and reassuring for them as possible. Factor in food and water When it comes to feeding your dog around a car journey, the best thing is to keep as close as possible to your dog’s usual routine.

But just how long is too long for a dog to be in a car? On average, you should give your dog a break every 2 to 4 hours for about 15 to 30 minutes each, and plan on driving no more than 7 hours per day. Factors that can alter your planned stops can include: Younger puppies who may still be learning to “hold it”, and may need more frequent potty breaks, which may mean every 2 hours or less. Elderly dogs who may be losing their ability to “hold it” for long periods, and may also need to stop more often. Dogs who have certain medical conditions, or are on medications which increase their elimination. Dogs who suffer from motion sickness, and may need several stops due to the nausea. Dogs who have travel anxiety, and can only handle short periods in a moving car.

Two hours is a good rule of thumb for stopping on a long road trip, but your dog or cat can stretch that time out, especially if it's traveling in a pet carrier or crate. During the day, experts recommend that adult pets stay in a crate for no more than four hours and young pets no more than two hours. Puppies will need to be let out once or twice during the night, no matter where you are. You should never leave your pet in the car alone for more than a minute or two, especially when the weather is hot. On a sunny, 80 degree Fahrenheit day, the interior of a parked car can reach 105 degrees Fahrenheit within 10 minutes. Pet experts recommend that you stop every two hours to allow your dog or cat to relieve itself and stretch its legs. Leaving your dog or cat alone in a car -- even with its windows cracked -- can be dangerous.

Avoid long journeys if your dog is not used to travelling in the car If your dog is not a seasoned traveller or feels nervous in the car, it’s a good idea to just stick to short journeys. Doing more short trips regularly will help your pet get used to being in the car and will allow you to build up to the longer journeys. Make sure your dog is comfortable When choosing a restraint for your dog, such as a cage or crate, make sure it’s big enough for your furry friend to rest comfortably. Don't leave dogs in hot cars This should go without saying but hot cars are extremely dangerous for dogs. Invest in a pet carrier As mentioned above, it’s recommended that smaller pets be kept in a pet carrier to help keep them secure and avoid them from moving around in the vehicle. The carrier should be big enough for them to stand up fully and turn position.