A loose dog in a car is a distraction on a regular drive and a real danger when braking. Preparation is not complicated, and it changes the entire experience, both for the dog and for the driver.
Three ways to restrain a dog in a car
- Harness and seatbelt strap. The common solution. Attach to a body harness, never to a collar: in a sudden stop, all the force will go to the neck.
- Secured crate or kennel. The most stable, especially for large dogs and long trips.
- Trunk divider. Suitable for SUVs, but doesn't prevent movement within the trunk.
The back seat, not the front
An airbag deploying at the height of a sitting dog is an injury, not protection. The safest place is in the back.
Seat covers are not just for cleanliness
Smooth leather and upholstery don't provide grip. A dog that slides around every turn gets stressed by the ride, and next time won't want to get in. A non-slip bottomed cover provides a stable surface, and also catches hair, mud, and water.
Gradual acclimatization
- Start with the car parked and off, door open, for a few minutes.
- Continue with the engine running but not driving.
- Drive five minutes to a place the dog loves, not to the vet.
- Gradually extend the duration.
A first ride that ends in a fun place is worth more than any training.
On a long journey
Stop approximately every two hours, provide accessible water, and shade. A heavy meal right before the trip increases the chance of nausea, so it's better to feed two or three hours prior.
And no matter how short: never leave a dog alone in a closed car. Even on a cloudy day and with a window open, the internal temperature rises quickly.