A study by Skoda and vet Dr. Scott Miller shows that dogs actually experience less stress when travelling in electric cars. If you’re looking for ways to keep your dog calm during trips, keep reading!
The study monitored Mango, a one-year-old cocker spaniel, while he was driven around a private track in three different Skoda models—electric, diesel, and petrol. Mango’s heart rate stayed pretty chill at 80 BPM until he hit 70mph in the Skoda Elroq, where it spiked to 100 BPM. But in the petrol and diesel models, his heart rate went up to 120 and 125 BPM, respectively, showing more stress.
Dr. Scott Miller explained that Mango’s calm reactions in the EV were clear.
“The quiet mechanics, absence of gear changes, and the spacious interiors of electric cars create a soothing environment for dogs, helping to create a more relaxed and pleasant travel experience for our furry companions,” he said.
Dog behaviorist Anna Webb pointed out that Mango looked the most relaxed in the electric car, just lounging on the back seat with half-closed eyes. In the fuel-powered cars, though, he was tense and upright, clearly not enjoying the ride. Dogs have super-sensitive hearing, so they pick up on engine sounds that we can’t hear, which can make them anxious. Plus, the vibrations from traditional cars can cause motion sickness, which also stresses them out.
A Growing Concern for Dog Owners
A survey of 1,500 dog-owning drivers found that 32% worry about their dog’s anxiety on car rides. The stress comes from concerns about safety (38%), lack of space (7%), and securing their dog (7%).
Even though over half (53%) of dog owners drive with their pets weekly, 54% avoid it altogether, and 51% would skip a trip if their dog had to come along. Long trips, busy roads, and highways are the biggest stressors.
Dogs are a big part of our lives, and nearly half (41%) of people consider their dog’s comfort when picking a car. A lot of people (31%) even see EVs as the quieter, more comfortable option for pets. It’s clear that pet-friendly travel is becoming more of a priority.
10 Tips to Keep Your Dog Calm on Car Rides
Here are some tips to help soothe your dog, no matter what car you drive:
- Make Them Feel Safe Train your dog to settle in a carrier or with a seat-belt harness. It’s safer and required by law under the Highway Code (rule 57). Failing to comply can cost you a fine of up to £5,000!
- Watch for Stress Signals Whining, barking, panting, or drooling are signs your dog might be anxious. If you notice these, take a break and keep training sessions short and positive.
- Start Small Cars can feel confining for dogs. Start with short trips and gradually make them longer, keeping each ride positive.
- Create a Relaxing Environment Use familiar sounds like a playlist (try "Happy Hounds" on Spotify) to calm your dog both inside and outside the car.
- Listen to Their Vocal Cues If your dog is whining or panting excessively, pull over for a break and adjust your approach.
- Mind Their Sensitive Ears Dogs can hear four times better than humans, so keep the radio low and be mindful of loud noises like engines or heavy rain.
- Keep the Airflow Going Motion sickness can be triggered by vibrations and strong smells. Drive smoothly and keep air circulating.
- Stay Calm Yourself Dogs pick up on your stress through scent, which affects their mood. Stay relaxed to help them stay calm.
- Monitor the Temperature Cars can heat up quickly, even in winter. Keep the back seat below 20°C and always bring water.
- Plan Ahead Avoid peak traffic and heat. Schedule breaks for fresh air, stretching, and hydration.
With a little prep, you and your dog can enjoy stress-free car rides together!
