Do Dogs’ Ears Pop When Driving Up or Down Hills?

Understanding How Elevation Changes Can Affect Your Dog

If you’ve ever driven through hilly terrain with your dog in the car and noticed them yawning, shaking their head, or acting a little restless, you’re not imagining things — dogs can feel changes in air pressure, just like we do.

Whether you’re heading up to Mt Tamborine, driving through the hinterland, or simply navigating some steep suburban roads, elevation changes can cause shifts in air pressure that affect your dog’s ears. In this blog, we’ll explore why this happens, how to tell if your dog is affected, and what you can do to help keep them comfortable on the road.

How Dogs Sense Pressure Changes

Dogs have similar inner ear anatomy to humans, including the Eustachian tube, which helps equalise air pressure between the outer and middle ear. When the outside air pressure changes suddenly — such as when driving up or down a hill — the pressure inside the ear needs to adjust to match.

If it doesn’t equalise quickly enough, your dog may feel a build-up of pressure in their ears. For humans, this might cause a “popping” sensation or mild discomfort. While dogs can’t tell us how it feels, their behaviours offer clues that they’re experiencing something similar.

Common Signs Your Dog May Be Experiencing Ear Pressure

Most dogs handle pressure changes without fuss, but some are more sensitive, especially:

• Puppies and young dogs
• Senior dogs
• Brachycephalic breeds (e.g. Bulldogs, Pugs)
• Dogs prone to anxiety or motion sickness

Watch for these signs:

• Yawning or licking their lips repeatedly
• Head shaking
• Whining or low vocalising
• Pawing or scratching at the ears
• Restlessness or pacing in the car
• Turning away from windows or seeming spaced out

At Jordan Dog Training, our team sees many dogs that are sensitive travellers, and we help guardians learn how to support their dogs through these types of stressors with positive, reward-based strategies.

What You Can Do to Help

Here are some simple, dog-friendly ways to help your pup manage pressure changes during car rides:

1.Encourage Yawning and Swallowing

Offer a chew treat or a dental stick during the climb or descent. This helps encourage natural movements that can equalise the pressure in your dog’s ears.

2. Crack a Window Slightly

A small gap in the window helps the air pressure inside the car adjust more gradually. Good airflow can make a big difference.

3. Drive Smoothly Where Possible

Avoid sudden elevation shifts when safe to do so. A steady climb or descent gives your dog’s body more time to adjust.

4. Comfort and Reassurance

Use a calm voice, bring along a familiar blanket or toy, and reward relaxed behaviour. Your calm presence helps your dog feel safe.

5. Try Calming Aids If Needed

For anxious dogs, natural options like Adaptil collars or vet-approved calming supplements may help ease travel-related stress.

We often work with guardians to build confidence in the car using tailored desensitisation plans. If your dog shows ongoing anxiety in the car, it may be worth booking in with one of our trainers.

The Science Behind It

When altitude increases, the surrounding air pressure drops. If your dog’s Eustachian tubes can’t adjust fast enough, it can cause discomfort or a feeling of fullness. This is more likely in dogs with narrow ear canals or a history of ear infections.

Dogs with floppy ears or breeds like Spaniels, Poodles, and Labradors are also more prone to chronic ear issues, making them more sensitive to pressure changes. At Jordan Dog Training, we always encourage regular ear checks as part of routine grooming and vet care.

When to See a Vet

If your dog:

• Keeps shaking or scratching their ears after the drive
• Tilts their head to one side
• Seems off-balance or dizzy
• Has visible redness or discharge from the ears

…it’s time for a vet check. These symptoms may point to an ear infection, not just pressure discomfort.

Preparing for Hilly Drives — Our Road Trip Checklist

• Offer a chew or treat before the climb
• Crack a window slightly
• Drive smoothly where possible
• Pack water and avoid feeding a big meal beforehand
• Use a secure harness or crate
• Plan for breaks on longer drives

If you’re heading somewhere with steep climbs like Maleny, Mt Glorious, or the Scenic Rim, these small steps can make a big difference.

Even Red Dog gives a big shake after heading up Mt Coot-tha — you’re not alone!

Supporting Your Dog on the Road

At Jordan Dog Training, we believe in looking at the whole dog. That means helping dogs not just learn how to behave, but feel calm, safe, and understood in all environments — including the car.

If your dog struggles with car rides, motion sickness, or stress, our qualified trainers can help. We work across Brisbane and beyond with tailored training plans that suit you and your dog’s needs.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is intended as general guidance and is based on our experience as dog trainers and behaviourists. It is not veterinary advice and should not replace consultation with a qualified veterinarian. If you have any concerns about your dog’s health, wellbeing, or mobility, we always recommend speaking with your vet to ensure the best care for your dog.

You may also like:

• How to Travel Safely with Your Dog in the Car
• Motion Sickness in Dogs: What You Need to Know
• Understanding Canine Body Language on the Road

Want to learn more about helping your dog become a calm, confident traveller? Reach out to our team or explore the blog section on our website. We’re always happy to help.