When Driving with a dog responsible pet owners must, out of consideration for their loyal four-legged companion, exhibit behavior that ensures a safe arrival for both human and animal. The owner looks forward to a relaxing walk in an idyllic spot far away, and a joint vacation for human and dog also promises restful days and long tours in the middle of nature. In practice, driving with a dog is unfortunately not always so harmonious. As soon as the car's tailgate opens, Hasso and Bello vehemently plant their feet on the ground and cannot be persuaded by anything or anyone to jump into the vehicle. Sometimes the dog's behavior can even become dangerous if the animal tries to climb over the back seat in a panic or starts moving restlessly back and forth in the trunk. Stress for man's best friend and his owner is inevitable here. But how does a dog learn to remain calm and relaxed while driving?
How to turn dogs into cool passengers!
Proper driving with a dog must be learned. And this schooling begins at a tender puppy age. A reputable breeder prepares their offspring for the most diverse situations in life so that new owners do not even get into the predicament of having an excited and stubborn dog. And so, the young four-legged friends take a few relaxed car rides together with their mother before being handed over, learning that the motorized vehicle is nothing to fear. However, it is necessary that the dog is slowly accustomed to the car so that unnecessary stress can be avoided. Purchasing a spacious crate provides security, both for the animal and for the driver, who is then not disturbed in traffic. The size of the crate is determined by the dog; it should be able to stand up and turn around in the confined space. The puppy lets off steam outdoors before the practice drive and thus has no excess energy. Now, human and dog sit together in the trunk. The four-legged friend quickly associates feedings in the car with something pleasant. Closing the crate when the pet is lying or sitting nicely and calmly is also practiced again and again. Driving with a dog only becomes an unspectacular everyday routine for everyone if getting in, driving, and getting out are split into the smallest exercises and these are trained repeatedly.
Driving with a dog – made easy!
Now the puppy remains calm in its crate, so it is time to go one step further. The times the dog is left alone are slowly extended. The trunk lid can now also be closed. If the animal makes itself known by barking and whining, the owner must not give in immediately and "free" the dog. The entire training success would be ruined. A bone to chew on can distract the loyal four-legged friend and definitely provides occupation. After starting a few times, the puppy has also gotten used to the engine noise, and nothing stands in the way of the first short trips. But be careful, curves must not be driven too tightly or too quickly. Dog owners talk to the still inexperienced passenger during the drive; this gives them security. Relaxed driving with a dog is an absolute breeze with good preparation. Nevertheless, there are a few animals that get sick during the drive and have to vomit. And even if there is medication for motion sickness from the vet, one should cover as many distances as possible on foot or by bicycle. For the sake of the animal, and the owner too, the extra exercise is certainly good.
Read also: Dog training – From the beginning
Photo by Sabine, meinhaushalt.at
