Shawnee Dog Training Experts Give 8 Great Tips for Training Your Dog to Stay Calm in the Car
Shawnee Dog Training Experts Give 8 Great Tips for Training Your Dog to Stay Calm in the Car – Are car rides with your furry friend turning into a chaotic experience? Dogs, just like humans, can sometimes experience anxiety and restlessness when traveling in a car. If you’re a pet parent in Shawnee looking for effective solutions to make car rides a pleasant experience for both you and your four-legged companion, you’re in luck. Shawnee dog training experts at K.I.S.S. Dog Training have shared eight great tips to help you train your dog to stay calm in the car.
At K.I.S.S. Dog Training, we are proud to be a leading Shawnee dog trainer; we believe that dogs are only as good as their owners; that’s why we stick to our motto, “keep it simple, stupid!” We understand that you want to provide your dog with the best life possible; that’s why we also offer books to help boost and enrich training sessions with your pup.
1. Start with Short Rides
According to Shawnee dog training experts, the first step in car training is to acclimate your dog to the vehicle gradually. Begin with short rides around the block or even just sitting in the parked car with your dog. This helps your furry friend get used to the car’s environment without the stress of a long trip.
Shawnee dog training experts often recommend offering treats and praise during these initial sessions to create a positive association with the car.
2. Use Safety Harnesses or Crates
According to a leading dog behavior specialist in Kansas City and Shawnee, safety should always be a priority when traveling with your dog. Invest in a dog-specific car safety harness or a travel crate that keeps your pup secure during the ride. This ensures both your safety and that of your dog, making the ride more relaxing for everyone.
3. Gradual Exposure to the Engine
According to Shawnee dog training experts, introducing your dog to the sounds and vibrations of the car’s engine is essential. Start by letting your dog sit in the car with the engine running but not moving. Gradually increase the duration to help them get accustomed to the noise and vibrations. Remember to reward good behavior with treats.
4. Keep the First Rides Short
According to a leading dog trainer in Shawnee, when you’re ready for the first actual car ride, keep it short. A trip around the block or a quick drive to a nearby park can be a great start. Use the same positive reinforcement techniques of treats and praise.
5. Plan Fun Destinations
According to Shawnee dog training experts, to further motivate your dog to enjoy car rides, plan fun destinations. Visit a dog park, a favorite hiking spot, or a friend’s house where your dog can have a good time. This way, they’ll associate car rides with exciting adventures.
6. Minimize Car Sickness
According to experts of puppy training in Shawnee, some dogs may experience motion sickness, which can make car rides distressing. Shawnee dog training experts suggest feeding your dog a light meal a few hours before a ride and keeping the car well-ventilated. Consult with your veterinarian for motion sickness remedies if the problem persists.
7. Consistent Routine
According to Shawnee dog training experts, dogs thrive on routine, and it can be applied to car training as well. Try to establish a consistent routine for car rides, including the time of day and any pre-ride rituals. Your dog will feel more at ease when they know what to expect.
8. Positive Reinforcement and Patience
According to dog training in Shawnee experts, patience is key when training your dog to stay calm in the car. Use positive reinforcement, praise, and treats to reward your pup for their calm behavior. Remember that some dogs may take longer to adjust than others, so be patient and persistent.
Shawnee dog training experts believe that training your dog to stay calm in the car not only benefits you as a pet parent but also enhances your dog’s overall well-being. Whether it’s a trip to the dog park or a family vacation, your dog will be a well-behaved and content travel companion.
Call a Leader of Shawnee Dog Training Today!
K.I.S.S. Dog Training has been a leading Shawnee dog trainer for over ten years. We take pride in strengthening the relationships between owners and their dogs. We believe it’s essential for humans to understand what their dog needs and best ways to help them get it.
Contact us online or give us a call at 913-269-7595 to partner with a trainer. We are located in Shawnee and service Overland Park, Olathe, and the Kansas City metro area.
