Dogs get carsick for many reasons, including anxiety, full bellies and lack of experience. But most puppies can outgrow car sickness if taken out regularly in the car.
If you want your dog to enjoy car rides, then take him to dog parks and other fun destinations. Otherwise, if all trips seem to end at the veterinary hospital, he may never think car rides are fun.
A dog who rides in the car only when it's time for vaccinations or boarding may benefit from taking anti-anxiety medications and from having an empty stomach, to prevent having to clean up a mess. Talk to your veterinarian about medications (over-the-counter or prescription) that can help if your puppy doesn't outgrow carsickness. And make sure when your pet is on the road that he's safely secured in a crate or with a harness.
Animal behavior experts Susan and Roland Tripp are the authors of "On Good Behavior." For more information, visit their Web site at AnimalBehavior.net.