For most dogs, a car trip is an exciting experience. The vehicle is like a special treat, taking them into a vast new world of sights and smells. No wonder the image most associated with dogs in the car is one of a smiling canine hanging its head out the window to enjoy the breeze.

Some dogs, however, aren't quite as ready to jump into the vehicle. Car rides will make them nervous or scared. If your pet is having a hard time on rides, there are a few steps to keep them calm and gradually make them enjoy the experience.

According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, a dog who doesn't enjoy a car ride might be suffering from motion sickness. These dogs will tremble, drool, or vomit during a ride. If these symptoms occur, your veterinarian will be able to prescribe medication to assist with the problem.

If your dog does not have these symptoms but still does not like the car, it might be afraid of noise. Your veterinarian will also be able to tell you whether this phobia stems from a medical issue and what treatments might be available.

Some dogs also associate some trauma with riding in vehicles. Even if the dog enjoyed car rides before, they might begin to fear them if they are involved in a car accident or if they only get to go in the car for trips to the veterinarian.

One option for keeping a dog calm and comfortable during a trip is to provide some of their favorite items in the car. Dog trainer Cesar Milan recommends bringing along a blanket, toy, or any other familiar item the dog is fond of.

Some dogs will also be more comfortable if they are crated during travel. Don't act like the crate is punishment. Let the dog enter it on his or her own initiative, and talk to it in a positive tone rather than an apologetic one. Covering the crate with a blanket may also help to calm the dog.

Playing with the dog or otherwise exercising it is a good way to work off some nervous energy. If you're able to stop along the way, it's also good to give the dog a break and take them outside to walk or exercise some more.

Whether you're getting a puppy or an adult dog used to the car, you should start small. The ASPCA suggests getting the dog familiar with the vehicle by feeding them a meal or snack there when the car is not running.

When you do put the car in motion, start out by leaving the driveway and returning. Repeat this process for a few days before going for longer distances. Take a trip every few days, and if the dog shows no signs of nervousness keep increasing the driving time by five minutes each day.

Once the dog is accustomed to relatively long rides, go for a cruise on the highway. The lack of stops and start will make a dog sleepy, and they'll be more comfortable with being in the car and heading out on the road.

Taking the dog out on an empty stomach will reduce the chance of motion sickness, so schedule the ride for a time at least three hours after their last meal. If the dog vomits in the car, don't yell at them or otherwise try to punish them. This will only make the dog associate car rides with an unpleasant experience.

The car trips shouldn't just be limited to checkups at the veterinarian. Make the rides a pleasant experience by taking the dog to someplace fun, such as a park or a pet store.

Finally, Milan suggests that a pre-ride massage will help to calm your dog. Before you start the drive, rub some lavender oil on your hands and rub the base of the dog's head or spine. The combination of the sensation and the pleasant odor will help the dog to relax.