Car rides can be a fun and enriching activity for dogs and owners, but without proper training and safety measures, the dream of traveling with dogs can quickly turn into a nightmare.
Pets are an integral part of many peoples' lives. At some point, dog and owner will be put in a car together, whether it is a vet appointment, grooming or moving to a new place. To ensure a safe and comfortable ride for all passengers, owners must train their animals to behave well in a car.
Before even attempting to ride in the car with a pet, owners should first evaluate how well their vehicles will suit the needs of the breed. Trying to fit a Saint Bernard into a compact may be a bit much to ask. Vehicles should be big enough for the animal to ride comfortably.
"Dogs stay in the back seat" is the cardinal rule of riding. If allowed to sit in the front seat, they can quickly become a big distraction for drivers. If allowed within close proximity of the driver -- who is usually the owner -- a dog's natural inclination is to nudge, paw and try to crawl onto the driver in an attempt to get affection. No matter what size the dog, this behavior can result in an accident if they choose to behave in a such a manner at the wrong time.
Several products exist specifically for pets in cars. Owners can purchase harnesses that come with a seat belt attachment to secure the dog. This not only ensures the pet stays in the back seat, but also keeps them from being thrown out of the seat in case of an accident or sudden stop. Alternatively, special pet barriers, which are specifically designed for cars, can be put up between the pet and human areas of the car to keep them from climbing up. For owners with SUV's, the cargo area can be an ideal place for pets, since a barrier can be easily installed and the back of the seat is high enough to cushion impacts from sudden stops.
Making sure the dog is sufficiently entertained can also help with car behavior. Chew toys and "busy balls" -- balls which can be stuffed with treats for the dog to dig out -- help occupy the pet and literally eat up the miles. Water should be readily available as well, and frequent bathroom breaks should be planned into longer trips.
All the harnesses, barriers and chew toys in the world cannot combat barking and whining, however. While climbing can be a physical distraction for drivers, excessive noise from the dog can be an auditory distraction and just as big of a safety concern. Training dogs in the car and reinforcing positive behavior is a must if owners want a travel-worthy animal. If owners have the opportunity to expose their pets to cars when they are puppies, it is much easier to reinforce manners at that young age. Taking the dog on short rides at first, then to fun, nearby destinations later on will help them associate the car with fun and excitement.
Some dogs enjoy car rides more than others, but with proper preparation and training, the experience can be a fun and safe bonding experience for any pet.
