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My dogs drool and get nervous on long car trips. How to calm them?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Male | neutered | 1 year and 7 months old | 21 lbs

I am going on long trip with my dogs one is 21 lbs and the other 25. What is best medication to give them to calm them for nervousness. One drewles from the mouth. Sometimes if they go for short trips they are fine. This one is going to be 2 days traveling time. I do not want to give them it unless they need it. They are golden doodles. They are brothers and are 19 months old.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

Published on November 8th, 2017

You can try a natural calming supplement like Composure Pro or Zylkene - both of these can be used on an "as needed" basis for stressful events like car trips. Spraying a blanket with DAP (dog appeasing pheromone) spray for them to sleep on in the car may also help.

If they're still anxious, you can always talk to your vet about a stronger prescription medication such as alprazolam or trazodone to use on car rides.
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