Do Dogs Need the Window Open in the Car While Driving?

As warmer weather approaches, it's common to see dogs with their heads hanging out car windows, jowls flapping happily in the breeze. But why do dogs stick their heads out of car windows? And, as much as they love doing it, should you let them?

Here's what you should know about dogs and car windows — and how to prioritize your pup's safety above all else.

Why Do Dogs Stick Their Heads Out of Car Windows?

Dogs are naturally curious animals. Sticking their head out of a car window opens up a whole new set of thrilling sights, smells and sounds that changes with each passing block. In the same way you crave sensory stimulation, dogs are drawn to the many sensations that leaning out of an open window brings: wind and sun on their fur, sounds of air and cars whooshing by, sights of people and other pets, and a treasure trove of smells. There's so much to experience!

dog sitting in the grass

Why Dogs and Car Windows Don't Mix

Here's the catch: As much as your dog might love it, it's not safe to let them stick their head out of a car window. Here are some of the reasons it's just not worth the risk.

Jumping or Falling Risk

A squirrel in a tree, a dog barking on the corner or the smell of cooking food from a neighborhood barbecue can pose enough temptation to cause a dog to jump out of a car window. If your dog is unrestrained, making an abrupt turn can also cause them to lose balance and fall out of an open window.

Injury from Flying Debris

Flying road debris — including small rocks, dirt and twigs — can put your dog's eye health at risk, from corneal ulcers to scratches and infections. Debris can also get into your dog's ears, nose or throat. Depending on how fast you're driving, your pup can even sustain facial wounds from the impact of flying debris.

Wind Trauma to Ears

At high enough speeds, that cool, refreshing breeze can actually rupture the small blood vessels in your dog's ear flap (pinna). This can result in aural hematoma, a collection of blood in the ear cartilage that causes discomfort and complications if left untreated. Dogs with long, floppy ears (like beagles and cocker spaniels) are at higher risk, but it could happen to any dog.

Head or Neck Injury

If your car has automatic windows (and most modern cars do), a passenger — or even your dog — could accidentally roll up the window while their head's inside. This can result in your dog's head or neck getting stuck, which can cause serious injury.

Increased Risk of Car Accident Injury

For the same reason people are legally required to wear seatbelts, an unrestrained dog is at increased risk of injury or death in the event of a car accident. Giving your pup free rein can also put you at higher risk of getting into an accident by posing a distraction or interfering with your control of the vehicle.

Remember: While driving at high speeds poses more danger to your dog, even driving around the neighborhood at a low speed risks their safety and well-being.

a dog looking out from a closed car window

How to Keep Your Dog Safe While Driving

The safest way to drive with your dog is in a well-ventilated, firmly secured crate in the back seat or cargo area. If a crate isn't an option, you can also use a dog seat belt harness with thick, padded straps that locks into the seatbelt buckle. Ask your veterinarian for recommendations or advice about proper size and fit to ensure your dog's comfort and safety.

Here are some additional tips to keep your pup out of harm's way on car rides:

If you must keep car windows open, cover them with a mesh or metal panel to block access.
Use child door and window locks.
Never allow your dog to ride in the bed of a pickup truck.

Never leave your dog unattended in a car, especially in hot weather.

Prioritizing Your Pup's Well-Being

Keeping your dog secured in an anchored crate or seatbelt harness with the windows up when driving is the safest choice for everyone. Taking the proper precautions helps protect your canine companion from flying debris and other harms, and they're less likely to distract you while you're driving. Plus, your dog will still enjoy the sights and sounds on the ride and all of the fun that awaits them at their destination. There are many other, safer ways to enrich their senses!

Dr. Jessica Seid

Jessica Seid is an emergency veterinarian practicing in the New England area. She is a graduate of the North Carolina State College of Veterinary Medicine and has been in the field for more than a decade. When she's not helping patients, she enjoys spending time with her husband, daughter and French bulldog.