Traveling with dogs can be stressful, and a dog that chews up your car is not a fun travel companion. With proper training, deterrents and restraints, however, you can keep Fido from making a mess of your car.
Instructions
Remove the dog from your car when you leave the car. Do not leave your dog unsupervised in the vehicle. A dog left alone is much more likely to be able to chew and cause damage; not only is no one there to watch over him, but he can also become bored or worried while you're gone.
Teach your dog that chewing on the car--or any item that should be left alone--is bad behavior. Establish a command, such as ̶0;no chew̶1; or ̶0;leave it,̶1; to use when your dog begins to chew. Startle the dog with a squirt bottle or noise maker. Once he stops chewing, praise him.
Provide your dog with chew toys. Chewing is a natural behavior, so dogs should be given an alternative to the interior of your car. The Humane Society of the United States recommends choosing toys that are distinguishable from items that the dog is not supposed to chew on (such as a shoe). Provide your dog with these toys while she is in the car.
Use a bitter tasting spray to deter your dog from chewing. Bitter Apple is an example of such a product, and it is suggested by the Humane Society of the United States. The HSU warns that some dogs will continue to chew even with these deterrents, so be sure to supervise your dog even after using one.
Restrain your dog. This is an effective way to keep both your dog and your car safe from damage. A seat belt, crate or barrier can keep the dog from having full reign of your car. If using a crate, make sure it is secured so it can't flip over or move if there is an accident.