Terrier Dogs Training Tips

Vacationing with your furry four legged friend is a lot of fun for both of you.  Most dogs love t o travel and are great company on long drives.  Without planning and organization however, it could end up a huge disaster.  Here are some tips to help you and your dog have a safe and fun journey.

Safety in the car is as important for dogs as it is for people. It’s not a good idea to have them free and hopping about in the back seat, or sitting in the driver’s or even a passenger’s lap is just as dangerous.  Even though every dog loves it because of the smells, letting them hang their head out of the window is also extremely dangerous.  There are harness style restraints that buckle directly to the shoulder part of a standard seat belt for medium and large dogs.  The harnesses are designed to allow some movement but still prevent injury during a sudden stop or an accident.  Smaller dogs are best placed in a travel carrier.  The carrier is then buckled into the seat belt in the same way as a baby seat.

If your dog is not used to riding in a car, or doesn’t usually ride for long distances, this is the perfect place to start.  Puppies, and even adult dogs, can suffer from car sickness.  To get them adjusted, take them for longer and longer rides, and make sure there is something fun at the end, like a romp in the park or even a visit with a friend or family member they don’t see on a regular basis.  This helps the dog think of the ride itself as a reward.

As you plan your trip, don’t forget to plan extra stops for your pet’s potty breaks, leg stretching and even a drink of water.  You are able to eat or drink along the way without stopping, but your dog is not that fortunate.  A water bowl will slosh and spill with the movement of the car.  Even the ones made for travel are not spill proof.  Allow enough time during these stops for doggie to romp and run as well as go potty.  Highly active dogs need longer and more frequent stops than a less active dog.  Too much time between breaks can cause any dog to become bored or stressed.  when planning your trip, maybe a few short side trips to a park or other site where not only can your dog get some exercise, but you and your family can have a picnic and a bit of a break, too.

Leashes are extremely important.  No matter how well trained your dog is, if they are stressed or excited, they may take off as soon as the car door is opened.  Or, they may smell something new they want to investigate, or even become confused.  The possibility of becoming lost in a new area is very real.  Leashing your dog before the door is opened can insure your dog’s safety, and your peace of mind. 

Booking hotels in advance insure that your dog will be accepted at that particular hotel or motel.  Not all breeds are welcome everywhere.  Whether a community restriction or ban, or just that the motel owner doesn’t like large dogs is not what’s important.  What’s important is that your dog will be as comfortable inside as you are.  Also, there may be an added charge for your dog, and don’t forget to make sure they have potty stations.  Many hotels and motels are extremely pet friendly, and have great little parks for your dog’s business, and room enough to play and run.

Something to consider for you and your pet’s travel convenience is a Porch Potty. Not only do you not have to worry about where and when your pet does his or her business, it has the added benefit of smelling like home.  Tillman, the Skateboarding Bull Dog takes his Porch Potty where ever he goes, even his float in the Rose Bowl Parade!  Porch Potty will benefit both you and your dog, in your travels and at home.