My puppy doesn’t like car travel. can we do?

What

The Highway Code says dogs must be suitably restrained in vehicles so, before travelling, teach your dog to feel relaxed in a comfortably sized seat-belt harness, pet carrier, dog cage or in the boot behind a dog guard.

It’s important to slowly build his confidence. Whenever he is near the car, reward calm behaviour using his favourite special treats. Have the doors open and reward him for getting close. Place treats around the open doors and inside, to encourage him to sniff inside, keeping the doors open so he can come out when he chooses.

If your pup is very small, a ramp will enable him to choose when he gets in. You could put a trail of treats on the ramp.

Once he is happy in the car, sit inside with him and perhaps give him a safe and long-lasting chew to enjoy so he learns the car is an enjoyable place to be. Keep the doors open and the engine off.

When you feel he is ready, turn the engine on and give him some extra tasty treats. If he shows any anxiety, turn the engine off and go back a stage. When he is comfortable with the engine being on, it’s time for him to be in the car when it’s moving. Continue to give him lots of praise and treats so he’ll begin to associate these changes with good things happening.

Start with short, slow and gentle journeys. Having someone he knows well beside him, to give him praise and treats, can help. Drive smoothly,

allowing plenty of time for braking.

Never force your puppy to travel because that will make him even more worried, and always take training at his pace. If he doesn’t respond to the training, avoid car travel and speak to your vet for referral to an experienced behaviourist.