Do you know what DOG ESSENTIALS you are missing out? Find out now!
Zack Keithy, our author, is a certified veterinarian technician (UC Blue Ash) for over 6 years (contact him here). The articles written here are based on his expertise and experience, combined with a review by our expert vet reviewers including Dr M. Tarantino. Learn more about us here.
The panting, drooling and trembling are signs that your dog suffers from motion sickness. Most of the time, our dogs will outgrow it eventually; but, some will continue to have motion sickness as a result of their sensitive vestibular systems.
The solution might actually be hiding in plaing sight, as a specific dosage of ginger has been shown to be much more effective than sedating medication for calming your dog’s upset stomach.
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The Science of Ginger and the Digestive System
Ginger has been used for centuries as a “prokinetic,” which is a substance that helps the stomach empty properly and prevents the backward flow of stomach acid.
1. Blocking Nausea Signals
Ginger contains gingerols and shogaols, which are natural compounds that block the serotonin receptors in the gut that trigger the urge to vomit. Unlike many over-the-counter medications that cause drowsiness, ginger works directly on the digestive tract to settle the stomach while keeping your dog alert and calm.
2. Reducing Excessive Drooling
Excessive “ropey” drool is the #1 sign of canine nausea. This happens because the brain is signaling the stomach to prepare for vomiting. Ginger helps interrupt this signal, drying up the excess saliva and preventing the “mouth-smacking” behavior that precedes car sickness.
3. Calming the Nervous Tummy
For many dogs, car sickness is part physical and part psychological. By physically settling the stomach with ginger, you prevent the unpleasant sensation that leads to travel anxiety. Over time, your dog learns that the car doesn’t have to mean feeling ill.
How to Dose Ginger for Travel
To prevent motion sickness, ginger needs to be administered 30 to 60 minutes before you load the dog into the car.
- Fresh Ginger: You can peel and finely mince fresh ginger root. Small dogs need about 1/4 teaspoon, while large dogs (over 50 lbs) can have 1/2 to 3/4 teaspoon.
- The “Meatball” Method: Most dogs find the taste of ginger quite sharp. Hide the minced ginger inside a small piece of low-fat turkey or a “meatball” of wet dog food to ensure they swallow it.
- Powdered Ginger: If you don’t have fresh ginger, you can use 1/4 teaspoon of dried ginger powder for every 20 lbs of body weight.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is ginger safe for all dogs?
Most dogs handle ginger very well, but it can have a mild blood-thinning effect. If your dog is scheduled for surgery or is on blood-thinning medication, avoid using ginger.
Can I give my dog Gingerbread or Ginger Snaps?
No. Human ginger cookies contain high amounts of sugar, butter, and often spices like nutmeg or cinnamon which can be toxic. Stick to pure ginger root or ginger powder.
Will ginger make my dog sleepy?
No. This is the primary benefit of using ginger over medications like Dramamine. Ginger settles the stomach without affecting the central nervous system, meaning your dog will arrive at your destination ready to play.
How often can I give my dog ginger?
For car sickness, you should only give it before travel. If you are using it for general digestive support, consult with your vet about a daily limit.
Wrap Up
Motion sickness shouldn’t prevent you from taking your dog on adventures. By utilizing the natural power of ginger to block nausea and settle the digestive tract, you can make travel a positive experience for both you and your pet.
