If you need to take your dog with you in the car, you probably understand that this is not always the most straightforward task. Keeping a happy dog in the car can be a challenge, especially if you have a large dog. Dogs can get anxious even when they are eager to go along for the ride.
It is easy for your dog to get stressed out in the car, mainly if they associate your car with a trip to the vet. Fortunately, there are ways you can make this trip easier so you can keep a happy dog in the car rather than a nervous one.
If you make the trip more enjoyable for your dog, you will make the journey easier for yourself as well. What does your dog need to do well in the car? Remember to reach out to a professional if you are looking for more ideas, but the ones listed are a good place to start.
How to Have a Happy Dog in the Car
When I first started driving around with Noreen, she had all the chill. It wasn’t until she was spayed that she began to show signs of stress in the car. Still to this day, she is eager to jump in and “go bye bye.” But as soon as the wheels start moving, she’s panting and whimpering.
My other dog, Dexter, has all the chill. He’s one happy dog in the car. He loves the window down, loves the cool air from the vent, and loves sitting on my lap to see everything that’s going on.
But he also loves to curl up and sleep too. If your dog can nap in the car, that’s a sure way to know they are calm. I have to ask myself, “How can I get Noreen to be more like Dexter so she can be a happy dog in the car?”
These tips have helped me a lot. I hope they can help you so you can have a happy dog in the car too.
Let the Fresh Air In
It should go without saying that your dog still needs plenty of fresh air in the car. For example, you may want to increase the circulation at the back of the vehicle.
If your dog has plenty of fresh air, it will probably remain calm during the trip. Furthermore, it would be best to make sure you do not leave your dog alone in the car.
Even if you crack the window, this is not enough for your dog to remain happy and healthy. If you have to get out of the car for any reason, you may want to let your dog out as well.
Make sure your dog is on a leash so they do not run away.