in spoke with veterinarian Panagiotis Papadopoulos to shed light on this dog behavior and just how dangerous it is.
It’s a scene, says Mr. Papadopoulos, that we see often. And it seems to bring dogs immense joy—the fresh air, the smells, the sense of freedom.
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However, as a veterinarian, he states categorically that it is not safe at all. Allowing a dog to stick its head out the window while the car is moving poses serious risks—both to the dog’s health and to its physical safety.
Let’s look at the main problems this can cause for the dog.
Eye and facial injuries from foreign objects
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This is the most common clinical case, according to Mr. Papadopoulos.
When a car is moving, even at low speeds (e.g., 40–50 km/h), a small stone, a pebble, an insect, or even a hard leaf striking the dog’s face acts like a projectile.
Eye problems that a dog may experience can range from simple irritation and conjunctivitis to a severe corneal ulcer. Or even a perforation of the eye caused by sharp objects.
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In addition, the veterinarian points out that foreign objects can cause abrasions and wounds on the face and nose.
Ear Infections and Ear Problems
The intense and continuous blast of wind forcing its way into the dog’s ear canals can cause inflammation (otitis).
The air, explains Mr. Papadopoulos, dries out and irritates the ear canal, while carrying dust and bacteria deep into the ear.
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Especially in dogs with floppy ears, the constant and forceful “flapping” of the ear caused by the wind can rupture small blood vessels (otohematoma). This results in the ear filling with blood (pinna hematoma), a painful condition that often requires surgical repair.
Respiratory Problems
The direct flow of cold or strong air into the mouth and nose can cause dryness of the mucous membranes. It can also lead to irritation of the trachea, a severe cough, and even susceptibility to respiratory infections (such as tracheobronchitis).
Risk of a Serious Accident – Collision
There is always a risk, the veterinarian emphasizes, that the dog’s head could come into contact with a fixed object. For example, tree branches at the side of the road, the side mirrors of other vehicles, or a passing motorcyclist.
Falling out of a window
Even a well-behaved dog, if it sees something that strongly catches its attention (a cat, another dog) or if the car makes a sudden maneuver or brakes abruptly, it may lose its balance and fall onto the road. As Mr. Papadopoulos points out, this usually proves fatal or results in serious fractures.
The Safe Alternative
To let your dog enjoy the smells without any danger, the veterinarian advises keeping the window open just a few centimeters. This allows air and scents to enter, but prevents the dog from sticking its head or snout outside.
The Dog and the Special Safety Harness
Finally, Mr. Papadopoulos emphasizes: “Using a special safety harness for dogs (which fastens to the chest strap and not to the neck collar) is essential for every trip.”
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