As a dog owner, you know how frustrating it can be when your furry friend won't stop barking in the car. Whether you're on a road trip or just running errands, the constant noise can be distracting and even dangerous. But did you know that certain breeds are more prone to barking in the car than others?
Understanding your dog's breed and behavior can help you address the issue and make car rides more enjoyable for both you and your pup. In this article, I'll explore some of the most common breeds that are prone to barking in the car and provide tips for how to train them to be more quiet on the road.
Key Takeaways
- Understanding the root cause of your dog's barking in the car is crucial to addressing the behavior.
- Some breeds are more prone to barking in the car, but any dog can bark for various reasons.
- Excessive barking in the car can be dangerous for human drivers and potentially lead to accidents.
- Dogs may bark in the car due to anxiety, barrier aggression, excitement, fear, or being triggered by what they see out the window.
- To stop the behavior, you need to identify the root cause and use positive reinforcement techniques like treats and toys.
- Tools and techniques such as positive reinforcement, verbal commands, identifying the reason for barking, providing stimulation, gradual desensitization, and consistency can be used to stop a dog from barking in the car.
- Teaching your dog obedience commands like "speak" and "quiet" can help them understand when it's appropriate to bark and when they need to be quiet in the car.
- Signs of anxiety or stress in the car include reluctance to get in the car, whining, excessive drooling, and shaking or trembling.
- Using a crate or car harness can help prevent your dog from barking in the car.
- Reducing your dog's anxiety during car rides can improve their behavior and create positive associations with the car.
The rest of this article will explain specific topics. You may read them in any order, as they are meant to be complete but concise.
Understanding Why Dogs Bark in the Car

Dogs are known for their love of car rides, but sometimes they can become a bit too vocal during the journey. This can be a stressful experience for both the dog and the owner. If you're wondering why your furry friend barks in the car and how to stop it, keep reading.
Identifying the Root Cause of the Barking
The first step in stopping your dog from barking in the car is to identify the root cause of the behavior. Dogs bark in the car for various reasons, such as anxiety, excitement, or fear. Some dogs may be anxious about being in a confined space, while others may be excited about the prospect of going somewhere new.
Using a Crate or Car Harness
Once you have identified the cause of the barking, you can take steps to address it. One effective method is to use a crate or car harness. A crate provides a safe and secure space for your dog to travel in, while a car harness attaches to the vehicle's seatbelt, making it safer for both the dog and the owner.
Talking in a Quiet and Soft Voice
Another way to calm your dog down in the car is to talk to them in a quiet and soft voice. Dogs mirror their owners' behavior, so if someone in the back can stroke him gently, this should subdue him.
This will help reassure your dog and make them feel more comfortable during the journey.
Providing Distractions
Providing your dog with plenty of stimulation, toys, and activities while they're riding in the car can also help prevent them from barking. This will help distract them and prevent them from barking.
You can also give your dog treats or chew toys to keep them occupied during the journey.
Training Your Dog
Training your dog to sit or lie down quietly during the ride is another effective way to stop them from barking. You can also teach them obedience commands like "speak" and "quiet". This will help them understand what is expected of them during the car ride.
Covering the Windows
Covering the windows can help stop a dog from barking at everything outside the car. This will help reduce their anxiety and make them feel more comfortable during the journey.
Changing the Association with Car Rides
Finally, you can change the association your dog has with car rides. Go for boring rides that do not result in the dog getting too excited. The main goal is to get your dog looking forward to riding in the car instead of fearing it.
Breeds Prone to Barking in the Car
If you're a pet owner, you may have noticed that some dogs are more vocal than others while riding in the car. Here are some examples of breeds that are more prone to barking in the car:
- Sled dogs like Malamutes and Huskies: These breeds are known for their high energy and need for exercise. They may become anxious or frustrated if they are unable to move around freely in the car.
- Hound dogs like Beagles: Hound dogs have a strong sense of smell and are easily distracted by their surroundings. They may bark at passing cars, people, or other animals.
- High-energy herding dogs like Border Collies: These breeds are intelligent and require a lot of mental and physical stimulation. They may become bored or restless during long car rides.
- Herding breeds such as the Cowboy Corgi or the Merle Cardigan Corgi: These breeds have a strong instinct to herd and may become anxious if they are unable to control their environment.
It is fundamental to note that any dog can bark in the car, and there are many reasons why a dog may bark while riding in a car. It could be due to anxiety, fear, excitement, or barrier frustration.
Therefore, it's essential to identify the root cause of the behavior and address it accordingly.
Tips to Stop Your Dog from Barking in the Car
Training sessions can be conducted when the car is parked to make the situation less intense for most dogs. Here are some tips to help stop your dog from barking in the car:
1. Identify the Root Cause: As mentioned earlier, it's essential to identify the root cause of your dog's barking. If your dog is anxious or fearful, try to make them feel more comfortable in the car. You can use a calming spray or play soothing music to help relax your dog.
2. Use Positive Reinforcement: Positive reinforcement is an effective way to train your dog to stop barking in the car. You can reward your dog with treats or praise when they remain quiet during car rides.
3. Practice Short Trips: If your dog is new to car rides, start with short trips around the block. Gradually increase the length of the trips to help your dog become more comfortable in the car.
4. Use a Barrier: Using a barrier or crate can help prevent your dog from becoming too excited or anxious in the car. It can also prevent them from jumping around and distracting the driver.
5. Cover the Windows: Covering the windows can help reduce your dog's anxiety by limiting their view of the outside world. This can also prevent them from barking at passing cars or people.
The Harmful Effects of Excessive Barking in the Car
Among the top significant dangers of excessive barking in the car is the distraction it can cause for human drivers. Barking can be loud and disruptive, making it difficult for drivers to concentrate on the road.
This can be hazardous and potentially lead to accidents.
Root Causes of Barking
Dogs bark for a variety of reasons, including anxiety, barrier aggression, and excitement. Anxiety and stress can cause dogs to feel distressed about being confined, leading to excessive barking. Dogs may also associate the vehicle with something unpleasant like a trip to the groomer or vet, which can cause anxiety and stress.
Barking can also be a sign of fear or excitement, which can lead to over-excitement and car sickness. Dogs should be safely secured in the car to prevent injury in case of an accident.
Solutions to Excessive Barking
Training your dog to sit or lie down quietly during the ride can help reduce barking. You can also try playing calming music or using a calming scent to help your dog relax. If your dog's barking is severe and persistent, you may need to seek professional help from a dog trainer or behaviorist.
Excessive barking can be corrected with the right behavioral modification plan once you've identified the root cause of the barking. This may involve desensitization training, counter-conditioning, or other techniques.
Reasons Why Dogs Bark in the Car
Dogs are known for their love of car rides, but sometimes they can get a little too excited and bark excessively. If you're tired of your furry friend barking up a storm every time you hit the road, here are some reasons why dogs bark in the car and how to stop it.
Anxiety
One of the main reasons why dogs bark in the car is due to anxiety. Dogs may feel uneasy in the car, especially if they are not used to car rides or have had a negative experience in the past. If your dog is anxious, they may bark excessively or even pant, drool, or whine.
Barrier Aggression
Another reason why dogs bark in the car is barrier aggression. Dogs may bark in the car when they see something outside that they want to get to but can't, such as another dog or animal. This can be frustrating for both you and your furry friend, as it can disrupt the peace and quiet of your car ride.
Excitement
Some dogs may bark in the car simply because they are excited about going for a ride and all the fun things to see and smell outside the window. While this may seem harmless, excessive barking can be noisy and distracting, making it difficult to focus on the road.
Fear
Some dogs may vocalize because they are fearful. If your dog is afraid of car rides, they may bark excessively or even try to escape from the car. This can be dangerous and stressful for both you and your furry friend.
Triggered by What They See Out the Car Window
Dogs may also be triggered by what they see out the car window, which could be fear, excitement, anticipation, or something else. This can lead to excessive barking and other unwanted behaviors.
Stopping Dog Barking in the Car
To stop your dog from barking in the car, please identify the root cause of their barking. Once you know why your dog is barking, you can address it with the right behavioral modification plan. Here are some tips for stopping your dog from barking in the car:
- Conduct training sessions when the car is parked to make the situation less intense for your dog.
- Secure your dog safely in the car to prevent them from getting too excited or anxious.
- Reinforce your dog for being quiet when in the car and set up ways to encourage this behavior.
- Limit your dog's view out of the windows to eliminate barking triggered by external stimuli.
- Practice having your dog sit or lie down quietly during the ride to encourage calm behavior.
Remember that teaching your dog not to bark in the car is a gradual process that requires patience and practice. By identifying the root cause of their barking and using positive reinforcement techniques, you can help your furry friend enjoy car rides without the excessive noise.
Training Your Dog to Stop Barking in the Car
Dogs bark for a variety of reasons, and one of them is when they are in the car. It can be frustrating for both you and your pet, especially if you're going on a long car ride. However, there are several ways to train your dog to stop barking in the car.
Here are some tips:
Positive Reinforcement and Distractions
Among the top effective ways to train your dog to stop barking in the car is to use positive reinforcement and distractions. Bring some treats with you on car rides to offer positive reinforcement and distract your dog from barking.
You can also bring toys or other items that your dog likes to play with to keep them occupied.
Teach Your Dog a "Watch Me" Cue
Another way to stop your dog from barking in the car is to teach them a "watch me" cue. This involves walking with treats and toys so you can teach your dog a "watch me" cue to focus on until the car passes, and then provide a reward.
If "watch me" doesn't work for your dog, redirect their focus by calling their name, squeaking a toy, or offering treats.
Cover the Crate
If you put your dog in a crate in the car and they start barking, try putting a towel or blanket over it. If they can't see what's going on, they won't get so worked up, and they won't bark. When they stop barking, you can then remove the towel or blanket and give them another chance to stay quiet.
Provide Stimulation
Provide your dog with plenty of stimulation, toys, and activities while they're riding in the car to distract them and prevent them from barking due to barrier frustration. You can also play calming music or use a calming spray to help your dog relax.
Train the Barking Away
Training your dog to sit or lie down quietly during the ride by practicing that behavior outside of the car as well can be an effective way to stop barking. You can also use a verbal "quiet" cue or teach your dog an alternative behavior when cars are present.
Avoid Punishment
Avoid punishing your dog for barking at cars as it will be confusing and only contribute to the behavior. Instead, take time to train your dog other behaviors such as a verbal "quiet" cue or an alternative behavior when cars are present.
Tools and Techniques to Stop Barking in the Car
If you're a dog owner, you may have experienced the frustration of your furry friend constantly barking in the car. Not only can it be a nuisance and make for an unpleasant ride, but it can also be a safety hazard.
Fortunately, there are several tools and techniques that can be used to stop a dog from barking in the car.
Positive Reinforcement and Distractions
Among the top effective ways to stop your dog from barking in the car is through positive reinforcement and distractions. Bring some treats with you on car rides to offer positive reinforcement throughout the drive.
You can start to train and condition your dog to associate car rides with positive experiences.
Additionally, providing your dog with distractions such as toys or puzzle feeders can help keep them occupied and prevent them from barking out of boredom.
Teach Verbal Commands
Teaching your dog verbal commands like "speak" and "quiet" can also be helpful in reducing barking. When your dog starts barking, give the command to be quiet. When your dog stops barking after the command, reward them with a treat.
Over time, your dog will learn to associate the command with being quiet and will bark less frequently.
Identify the Reason for Barking
Before you can figure out the best way to help your dog calm down in the car, you need to pinpoint why they're barking every time you head out on a drive. Knowing the reasons for your dog's excessive barking can better help you determine the best way to resolve it.
Some common reasons for barking in the car include anxiety, excitement, or barrier frustration.
Provide Stimulation
Providing your dog with plenty of stimulation, toys, and activities while they're riding in the car can also help prevent barking due to barrier frustration. Barrier frustration occurs when a dog is unable to reach something they want, such as a person or another dog, due to being confined in the car.
By providing your dog with toys or activities to keep them occupied, you can help prevent this frustration and reduce barking.
Gradual Desensitization
Gradually exposing your dog to stimuli that trigger their barking while in a controlled environment, such as a parking lot or park, can also be helpful. Reward them for being quiet and gradually increase the level of stimuli until they can remain calm while in the car.
This technique, known as gradual desensitization, can be time-consuming but can be effective in reducing barking in the long run.
Consistency
Finally, please be consistent with enforcing quiet before letting your dog out of the car. If you let your dog out of the car while they are still barking, they may have the idea that if they bark long enough, their owner will stop and let them out.
By consistently enforcing quiet before letting your dog out of the car, you can help reinforce the idea that barking will not result in getting what they want.
Making Your Dog Comfortable in the Car
Traveling with your furry friend can be a fun and exciting experience. However, it can quickly turn into a nightmare if your dog starts barking incessantly in the car. Here are some tips to help your dog feel more comfortable in the car and stop barking:
1. Use a Crate or Car HarnessA crate or car harness is a great way to keep your dog safe while traveling. It also helps your dog feel more secure and prevents them from moving around the car. A car harness that attaches to the vehicle's seatbelt is good practice in general because it's safer.
2. Talk in a Quiet and Soft VoiceDogs mirror their owners' behavior, so if someone in the back can stroke him gently, this should subdue him. Speaking in a quiet and soft voice can also help calm your dog down and reduce their anxiety.
3. Identify the Root Cause of BarkingEstablishing the root cause of your dog's adamant barking in the car goes a long way in remedying the behavior. Is your dog anxious or excited? Are they uncomfortable in their seat or do they need to go to the bathroom? Identifying the cause of their barking can help you address the issue.
4. Use Obedience CommandsTeaching a dog how to stop barking in the car is manageable with patience and training them on cues like the “speak” and “quiet” commands. These commands can help your dog understand when it's appropriate to bark and when they need to be quiet.
- To teach the “speak” command, wait for your dog to bark and then say “speak” and reward them with a treat.
- To teach the “quiet” command, wait for your dog to stop barking and then say “quiet” and reward them with a treat.
Provide your dog with plenty of stimulation, toys, and activities while they're riding in the car to help distract them and prevent them from barking. You can also give them treats to keep them occupied and reward them for good behavior.
6. Use Window ShadesWindow shades may help cut down on your dog's view of the road, which can reduce your dog's fear or excitement that may be the cause of some barking. This can also help keep your dog cool and comfortable during the ride.
7. Train Your Dog to Sit or Lie Down Quietly During the RidePractice this behavior outside of the car as well. Teaching your dog to sit or lie down quietly during the ride can help them feel more relaxed and prevent them from barking. You can also reward them for good behavior with treats or praise.
Signs of Anxiety or Stress in the Car
Driving with a dog can be a fun and enjoyable experience, but it can quickly turn into a stressful and unpleasant one if your furry friend is showing signs of anxiety or stress. Here are some common signs that your dog may be experiencing car anxiety:
- Reluctance to get into the car: If your dog is hesitant or refuses to get into the car, it may be a sign that they are anxious about the car ride. This could be due to a previous bad experience or fear of the unknown.
- Whining, panting, or barking: These vocalizations are a way for your dog to express their discomfort or anxiety. Your dog may be trying to communicate that they want to get out of the car or that they are feeling overwhelmed.
- Pacing or acting restless: If your dog is constantly moving around or can't seem to settle down, it may be a sign that they are feeling anxious or stressed. This could be due to the car ride itself or anticipation of what's to come.
- Excessive drooling: Drooling is a common sign of stress in dogs, and it can be especially noticeable in the car. If your dog is drooling excessively, it may be a sign that they are feeling anxious or nauseous.
- Yawning: While yawning is often associated with tiredness, it can also be a sign of stress or anxiety in dogs. If your dog is yawning frequently in the car, it may be a sign that they are feeling overwhelmed.
- Lip licking or lip smacking: These behaviors are another way for dogs to express their discomfort or anxiety. If your dog is licking their lips or smacking their lips frequently in the car, it may be a sign that they are feeling stressed.
- Shaking or trembling: Shaking or trembling can be a sign of fear or anxiety in dogs. If your dog is shaking or trembling in the car, it may be a sign that they are feeling overwhelmed or scared.
If your dog is exhibiting any of these signs, please address their car anxiety to ensure that they are comfortable and safe during car rides. Here are some tips for helping your dog overcome car anxiety:
- Desensitization and counterconditioning training: This involves gradually exposing your dog to the car in a positive way, such as giving them treats or toys while they are in the car, to help them associate the car with positive experiences.
- Medication: In some cases, medication may be necessary to help calm your dog's anxiety during car rides. Talk to your veterinarian about whether medication may be an appropriate option for your dog.
- Other techniques recommended by a veterinarian or dog trainer: There are a variety of other techniques that may be effective in helping your dog overcome car anxiety, such as using calming pheromones or playing calming music in the car.
By addressing your dog's car anxiety, you can help ensure that car rides are a positive experience for both you and your furry friend. Remember to always prioritize your dog's comfort and safety, and don't hesitate to seek professional help if needed.
Preventing Barking in the Car
If you're a dog owner, you know how much they love to ride in the car with you. However, sometimes the ride can be a bit of a challenge, especially if your furry friend is barking non-stop. Here are some tips and tricks to prevent your dog from barking in the car:
Use a crate or car harness
- Getting a car harness that attaches to the vehicle's seatbelt is a good safety measure for your dog. It will also make them feel more secure and prevent them from barking.
- A crate is another option that can help your dog feel safe and secure during car rides.
Talk in a quiet and soft voice
- Dogs can mirror their owners' behavior, so if someone in the back can stroke them gently, this should subdue them.
- Stay calm and positive during car rides, and try to speak in a soft and soothing voice to help your dog relax.
Change the association
- If your dog is anxious about being in an enclosed space or away from their owner, try changing the association with the car by taking them on short, fun trips to places they enjoy.
- This will help them associate the car with positive experiences and reduce their anxiety.
Provide distractions
- Provide your dog with plenty of stimulation, toys, and activities while they're riding in the car to distract them and prevent them from barking.
- This will keep them occupied and less likely to bark out of boredom or anxiety.
Secure your dog
- Dogs should be safely secured in the car to prevent injury during an accident. A loose dog can be a distraction and cause anxiety, leading to barking.
- Make sure your dog is properly secured with a harness or crate.
Train your dog
- Train your dog to sit or lie down quietly during the ride by practicing that behavior outside of the car as well.
- Reward good behavior with treats and positive reinforcement to encourage them to continue behaving well in the car.
Avoid rewarding bad behavior
- Avoid saying "quiet" or "no" when your dog is barking, as this may reward the behavior rather than punishing it.
- Instead, try to redirect their attention with a toy or treat.
- Also, avoid letting your dog out of the car while they are still barking, as this may reinforce the idea that barking will get them what they want.
Benefits of a Quiet Car Ride with Your Dog
Covered Crates
One of the simplest ways to reduce your dog's barking in the car is to cover their crate. By doing so, you eliminate the stimuli that trigger your dog's barking. Your dog will stay calm and below threshold, and you won't be startled while driving.
This solution is especially helpful for dogs that are reactive to stimuli outside the car.
Create Positive Associations with the Car
Creating positive associations with the car is crucial for ensuring that your dog enjoys car rides. If your dog only associates the car with negative experiences such as going to the vet, they will develop a phobia of the car.
To avoid this, take your dog to places they enjoy, such as the park or the beach.
This way, your dog will associate the car with positive experiences.
Counter-conditioning is a training technique that changes your dog's emotional response from negative to positive. To counter-condition your dog, you need to have great stuff happen near and inside the car.
Depending on how severely your dog reacts, you might have to start the training while the car is parked in the driveway.
Gradually move closer to the car until your dog is comfortable getting in the car.
CBD or hemp oil is a natural way to help calm and relax your dog before a car ride. You can add it to your dog's food or give it to them directly. CBD or hemp oil is known for its calming effects and can help reduce your dog's anxiety during car rides.
- Reduced stress: A quiet car ride reduces stress for both you and your dog.
- Better focus: Without the distraction of barking, you can focus better on driving.
- Improved safety: A quiet car ride is safer for both you and your dog.
- Improved bond: A quiet car ride is an opportunity to bond with your dog without the distraction of barking.
- Improved behavior: By reducing your dog's anxiety during car rides, you can improve their behavior in the car.
Summing up the main ideas

As I wrap up this post on breeds that are prone to barking in the car, I can't help but feel a sense of confusion. On one hand, we love our furry friends and want them to be happy and comfortable during car rides.
On the other hand, excessive barking can be a nuisance and even a safety hazard while driving.
But perhaps there's a deeper issue at play here.
Maybe it's not just about the breed or the behavior, but about our own expectations and attitudes towards our pets.
Are we willing to put in the time and effort to train them properly, or do we expect them to magically behave without any guidance?
Stopping dog barking in the car is certainly possible, but it requires patience, consistency, and a willingness to understand our furry friends on a deeper level.
It's not just about silencing their barks, but about building a strong bond of trust and communication.
So the next time you're on a car ride with your furry friend, take a moment to reflect on your own expectations and attitudes.
Are you willing to put in the work to help them feel safe and comfortable, or are you just hoping for a quick fix? The answer may surprise you.
In conclusion, stopping dog barking in the car is a complex issue that requires a holistic approach.
By taking the time to understand our pets and build a strong bond of trust, we can create a happier and more harmonious relationship with our furry friends.
Why Do Dogs Bark In Cars And How To Stop It
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Links and references
- 1. The Humane Society of the United States provides tips on how to get your dog to stop barking.
- 2. The Ultimate Guide To Eliminating Your Dog's Barking Habits For Good! is a book that explains how to stop excessive barking in dogs.
- 3. The Nanton Veterinary Clinic provides information on why dogs bark and how to prevent barking problems through socialization and habituation.
- 4. Gaston County Government provides a PDF document that explains why dogs bark and provides tips on how to solve barking problems.
- petsafe.net
- kurgo.com
- ontariospca.ca
- bondvet.com
Related articles:
Essential Tips for Calming Your Dog's Car Barking
10 Effective Training Techniques to Stop Car Barking
Must-Have Products to Manage Car Barking Behavior
Common Reasons Why Dogs Bark in the Car
Signs of Stress in Dogs Exhibiting Car Barking Behavior
Memo to myself: (Article status: draft)