How to Cure Your Dog's Fear of the Car

Cars are smelly, confined places that make strange noises and can take dogs to unpleasant places – like the veterinarian’s office. No wonder so many dogs are afraid of riding in them. You can ease your dog’s fears and help him to enjoy car rides with patience and consistent training.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Leash
• Treats or toys

Entering the Vehicle

1. Use treats to lure your dog near the car. It’s best to put a leash on him when doing this. Go slowly and make sure he is comfortable before moving closer to the car. If he acts scared or nervous, stop and wait until he is calm. Give your dog treats and praise when he is calm. Repeat this until you can walk you dog right next to the car and sit there quietly without fear.

2. Open the car door. Then walk the dog over to the car. When he can sit beside the open car door calmly, give him treats and praise. Allow him to sniff the inside of the car if he wants.

3. Put a few treats inside the car near where the dog is sitting. If he is interested in the treats, encourage him to get in the car to get them. Putting a dog’s favorite blanket or toy into the car might also make him feel more comfortable.

4. Get into the car and pull gently on the leash to encourage your dog to get into the car with you. You can verbally command your pet to “Get into the car.”

5. While standing just outside, reach into the car as far as you can and pull gently on the leash. Give the command “Get into the car.” Or give the command and let your dog enter on his own.

6. Don’t let your dog win. If your dog backs away from the car and you let him go, he gets what he wants. Always end a training session on a positive note, when your dog has done something you want him to do.

Riding in the Car

7. Ask your dog to lie down in the car. For safety, keep her in the backseat. Many owners like to use a dog gate or a doggie seatbelt to keep their canines secure.

8. Turn on the car’s engine. Praise the dog if he remains calm. Be aware of signs of nervousness and fear. If your dog’s posture changes, his ears and eyes start to dart around or his tail lifts, stop. Don’t comfort your dog when is afraid. Petting or trying to soothe him is like praising him for being afraid. Instead, be quiet and praise him when he is calm.

9. Take a short drive around the block. Praise the dog when you get back home and reward him with treats or playtime.

10. Take a drive to places your dog would enjoy, such as the park or a pet store that allows pets. Taking him to fun places will help your dog associate the car with good things.

Tips & Warnings

• Go slowly. Repeat a step until your dog feels comfortable and secure.
• Try these exercises a few times a day for just a few minutes. Training for long periods might overwhelm your dog.
• If your dog has an accident or vomits in the car, it could be because of stress. In that case, take things more slowly. Remember, too, that some dogs can get motion sickness. Your vet might be able to give you remedies to help a carsick pup.