How to Train a Puppy to Ride in the Car

Most dogs love to ride in cars and are easily taught how to behave in them.

It is vitally important that your puppy learn car safety at a young age. While some people choose to always crate their dogs when they travel, there are some times that this may not be an option. In the event that a car is not large enough for a dog crate or you have to travel unexpectedly, your dog must be able to ride in the car safely and without causing you distraction. The best way to do this is to start training early so that your puppy is not afraid of the car and knows where he belongs when the vehicle is in motion.

Things You'll Need

• Dog harness or dog seat
• Treats
• Leash

Instructions

1. 

   Get the proper restraining devices. If you are in an accident and your dog is not belted in, then she will be thrown around the same way that a person would be if they were not buckled. Keep your pet safe by placing them in a restraining harness. Some harnesses thread through a seatbelt, while others for smaller dogs work in a similar manner to a car seat and allow the dog to sit up but not exit the carrier.

2. 

   Introduce your puppy to the harness before his first car ride. Let him sniff it and wear it around the house. Because harnesses feel different from leashes, a dog may worry his harness at first. This will be easier to deal with if he is not also belted in while he is getting used to the strange feeling.

3. Gently settle your dog in the car. Talk soothingly while you buckle her in and reward her with a treat if she is calm. The back seat is always the best place for a dog, just like for a child. If your car does not have a back seat, you need to be sure to disable the airbag so that it does not hurt your dog in case of an accident.

4. Avoid talking to your dog while driving. If the puppy is agitated you can speak soothingly, but you must not turn around or give any indication that your attention can be gotten while you are driving. This is for your own safety since you are not as good a driver when you are distracted.

5. 

   Be firm with your puppy. If they behave badly, cry or bark, do not cave in and let them ride in your lap or unrestrained. Dogs almost always prefer to be as free as possible, and rewarding this type of behavior will just teach your puppy that she can get what she wants by misbehaving and making your driving experience more dangerous for both of you.

Tips & Warnings

• If your puppy gets sick on car rides, you will need to start off with short rides and gradually extend them over time until he can make it without throwing up. Make sure you have plenty of water so that he does not get dehydrated. Try to limit his "drive time" until he is a little larger and the problem will usually resolve itself. Consult your vet for more specific, case-related advice.