Tips to Help Your Dog Love Car Rides
Just because your dog isn’t a fan of riding in the car now, doesn’t mean they have to hate car rides forever. There are ways to transform your dog’s hatred or anxiety of car rides into at least tolerable affection for the open road.
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“Teaching your dog to like car rides is about making him feel comfortable and repeating the process, so he knows that he is safe and you are with him,” according to WagWalking.com. “He will also know if the journey is not fun, at least there will be a reward at the end of the trip.
Comfort
Your pup’s comfort is key to them enjoying the car ride, so that means you need to transform your cabin into a dog-friendly sanctuary. They need a soft place to rest their weary and anxious body, so bring a blanket or their bed. Don’t forget their favorite toy for added comfort.
“When you’re gearing up for a long ride in the car with your dog, tune into a calming classical or soft indie playlist to help relax them a bit as you drive,” suggests Bustle.com writer Jordan Bissell.
Safety
It isn’t safe for you or your dog if they’re able to roam free while you’re driving. Just like you use your seatbelt, they need a safety harness or seatbelt approved for dogs. If you prefer they travel in a dog carrier or crate, deck it out with a soft blanket or bed to help them feel more comfortable.
Bribes
If your dog has a nervous stomach, it’s probably best not to feed them treats while you’re on the go. But, definitely pack treats so you can reward them when you arrive at your destination.
Fun destinations
Even though it’s all about the journey, for an anxious pup, it’s all about the journey being over. Even though there will be an inevitable trip to the vet for yearly checkups, you can help your dog associate car rides with fun places by taking them to fun places.
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It may take time, but it will be worth the effort to help your pup enjoy riding in the car. Start slowly and do everything you can to make the ride comfortable, safe, and enjoyable for your dog.
DeAnn Owens is a Dayton transplant by way of the Windy City, yet considers herself to be a California girl at heart even though she’s only visited there once. To get through the dreaded allergy season unique to the Miami Valley, she reads, writes, complains about the weather, and enjoys spending time with her husband, two sons, and their newest addition, a Boston terrier puppy that is now in charge of all their lives. In the future, she hopes to write a novel and travel through time. See more articles by DeAnn.