Tips for Riding in your Car with your Puppy/Dog

 It's not unusual for dogs to have behavior problems related to the car. Usually, it is fear of riding in the car, car sickness or hyperactive. If your dog is fearful of car rides or gets car sick, then you must show your dog that there is nothing to be afraid of and no reason to be sick. Many dogs associate car rides with previously being carsick or something unpleasant. Reintroduce them to the car again slowly and in a non-stressful way. 

Start out by just sitting in the car with the dog. The safest way for a dog to ride in the car is in the back seat with a dog seatbelt with a harness combination. At first attempt just sit in the car, don’t even start the motor. Don’t go anywhere. Just sit in there, listen to the radio, etc. Soon your dog will realize that nothing terrible has happened and that it did not make him sick. Keep doing this until the dog is obviously relaxed and not fearful. If the dog does get sick, then you’ve stayed in the car too long and should start for shorter periods. When you see that your dog is comfortable in the car, move on to the next step and start the engine, but still do not go anywhere. When the dog is relaxed with the motor running, then begin taking very short trips, perhaps just around the block. Then maybe to the corner store. 

Once your dog gets more and more comfortable, you can gradually go for longer rides. Drive to places where the dog will have fun. Like a favorite walking area, hike or to the beach, a park or a friend's house. Let the dog associate car rides with fun, pleasant and rewarding experiences. 

Do not rush your dog into anything or else it may just slow down the process. 

Make sure you teach your dog some basic obedience commands. Down-stay command. Sit in the car while it is running and practice with your dog. Start out when your parked in a quiet spot. Once this command is mastered, then you can begin practicing in some distracting places. But avoid traffic until your dog can obey this command.   

Happy Trails🐾