3 weeks ago
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MidJourney
Some dogs experience anxiety during car rides due to motion sickness, unfamiliar environments, or general stress. Nutrition plays an important role in supporting your dog’s mental and physical comfort. Here are seven natural foods that can help reduce anxiety and support a calmer experience during travel, with a few helpful supplements included where appropriate.
Pumpkin
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Pumpkin is high in fiber and helps regulate digestion, which is often disrupted by stress or motion sickness. Its naturally soothing properties can calm an upset stomach and support overall gut health. A small spoonful of plain, unsweetened pumpkin added to your dog’s meal before a car ride may ease nausea and improve digestion.
Bone Broth
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Bone broth is rich in amino acids like glycine and proline, which help soothe the gut and support the nervous system. It’s also packed with minerals and collagen that promote hydration and joint comfort. Warm broth before a trip can act as a comforting, gentle supplement that settles the stomach. You can use a convenient powder like the Organic Chicken Bone Broth Powder (on Amazon) to easily add it to your dog’s food or water before travel.
Blueberries
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Blueberries are high in antioxidants and vitamin C, which may help protect the body from stress-induced oxidative damage. They also support brain health, making them a smart addition to the diets of dogs who experience nervousness or mental fatigue from travel. Offer a few fresh or frozen blueberries as a pre-trip treat for a safe, low-calorie antioxidant boost.
Salmon
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Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, salmon supports brain health and can help regulate mood. Omega-3s also reduce inflammation, which may ease physical discomfort that contributes to anxiety. While fresh salmon can be cooked and offered in small portions, many pet parents use a daily oil supplement such as the iHeartDogs Norwegian High Omega-3 Salmon Oil (on Amazon), which is easy to add to meals and provides consistent support over time.
Sweet Potatoes
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Sweet potatoes are a great source of complex carbohydrates and fiber, helping stabilize blood sugar and reduce jitteriness. They also contain vitamin B6, which supports brain function and the production of calming neurotransmitters like serotonin. Roasted or steamed sweet potato chunks make a nutritious pre-ride snack for dogs.
Turkey
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Turkey is naturally rich in tryptophan, an amino acid that supports the production of serotonin, which helps regulate mood and promote relaxation. A small serving of cooked, unseasoned turkey can be given before travel to encourage calm behavior. Avoid processed or seasoned meats, and stick to plain, lean turkey for the best results.
Ashwagandha and Lion’s Mane
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These adaptogens are natural plant-based ingredients known to help balance stress and support cognitive function. Lion’s Mane supports nerve health and focus, while Ashwagandha helps the body manage stress responses. Both are included in the Senior 7 Anti-Aging Support for Dogs with Antioxidants, Lion’s Mane and Ashwagandha for Longevity and Cognitive Boost (on Amazon), a daily supplement that may be particularly beneficial for older dogs who become anxious or disoriented in the car.
Help Your Dog Feel More Comfortable on the Road
MidJourney
Feeding your dog natural, calming foods before a car ride can make a big difference in their travel experience. Incorporating pumpkin, salmon, and turkey into their diet—and supporting them with helpful supplements like Organic Chicken Bone Broth Powder or Senior 7 Anti-Aging Support—can help reduce anxiety and motion sickness, making travel easier for both of you. Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, iHeartDogs earns from qualifying purchases.
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