How to Get Your Dog to Stay in a Car Seat

We have noticed a constant ambivalence in the responses of dogs when it is time to go for car rides. Some absolutely love the idea and it is difficult to get them to stay calm while they are in the car. On the flip side, some dogs dislike the idea of going on road trips to get inside a car. Whichever side your pet is on, this article on how to get a dog to stay in a car seat is what you need to get the best response from your dog. 

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Get Your Dog to Stay in a Car Seat 

You can decide to teach your dog to stay in a car seat or use certain methods to make them stay. If you want to go the teaching route, this is how to get your dog to stay in a car seat:

1. Designate a spot in the car
2. Use the “sit” command
3. Practice “sit-stay”
4. Reinforce and redirect

Before we discuss the tools and technical methods to keep a dog calm during road trips, let’s walk through the steps where we teach them to stay calm by obeying our commands. 

Designate a spot in the car

The first step to showing your dog how you want them to behave in the car is to designate a spot. This could double as the spot where you would want to install a dog car seat later on. It is advisable that this location should not be in the front seat of your car but in the back seat. 

Now, when you have your designated spot ready, place the dog there and give it a treat. Repeat the process until the dog learns that sitting at that spot earns it the right to a treat. For a dog who’s not comfortable stepping into the car by themself, this can help it overcome whatever fear it has. 

Once the dog can recognize its place, we can proceed to other aspects of our training. 

Use the “sit” command

The “sit” command is the most important part of this training. If you cannot get your dog to sit and wait before you open the car door, you’ll need to try other means to keep your dog restrained while you drive. 

When you are taking your dog to the car, open the car dog, but ask it to sit. Do not let him jump on his own without being asked to. If the dog obeys, give it a treat. 

Practice “Sit-Stay”

The “sit-stay” command is the final step in achieving calmer dogs during car trips. When inside the car, in the designated spot, ask your dog to “sit-stay.” reward them for doing so and attempt to drive the vehicle to be sure they’ll sit and stay. For every minute they sit and stay, you can reward them. 

Reinforce and Redirect 

This step just calls for rinsing and repeating. Go over the steps as often as possible until you can get your furry friend to stay in a car seat without restraints. 

However, it is important to note that it could take some time to get your dog to stay calm in a ride. As you teach and train your dog, we recommend you try some alternatives to help you. 

Alternatives to Help Keep Your Dog in a Car Seat

There are two good alternatives to help you ensure your dog remains in a car seat. You can adopt these alternatives even while you teach your dog how to stay in the seat:

Use a Dog Car Seat 

Using a dog car seat comes with multiple benefits that contribute to a safer and more enjoyable travel experience for both you and your furry friend. The primary advantage lies in the ability of the dog car seat to keep your pet in a stable position throughout the journey, minimizing distractions for the driver and ensuring a safer ride. This stability is crucial, especially during sudden stops or in the event of an accident. 

Additionally, the well-thought-out design of most dog car seats focuses on providing a comfortable and cushioned space for your dog, enhancing their overall experience during car rides. This feature aims to reduce any potential stress or discomfort, making the journey more pleasant for your canine companion.

Moreover, dog car seats go beyond mere security by offering an elevated viewpoint for your pet. Some seats are designed to provide your dog with a vantage point, allowing them to see outside of the car. This not only caters to their natural curiosity but also adds an engaging element to the ride. 

The elevated viewpoint contributes to a more enriching experience for your dog, making the journey more than just a means of transportation. It aligns with the idea that a dog car seat is not only a safety measure but also a way to enhance the overall well-being and enjoyment of your pet during car travel.

Hammock or Backseat Barriers 

When it comes to accommodating larger dogs during car rides, the choice between a backseat hammock and backseat barriers depends on your specific preferences and the needs of your canine companion. The suggestion to consider using a barrier to keep larger dogs in the back seat or opting for a back seat hammock for older dogs highlights two distinct approaches to ensuring a secure and comfortable environment.

Back seat barriers are practical solutions for larger dogs, offering a physical barrier that confines them to the designated back seat area. This helps prevent them from moving around the car, minimizing potential distractions for the driver. Barriers come in various designs, such as mesh or metal grates, providing both visibility and ventilation while maintaining a clear boundary. This option is particularly suitable for those who prefer a straightforward and functional solution to keep their larger dogs safely confined in the back seat.

On the other hand, the mention of a backseat hammock caters to the comfort and well-being of older dogs during car journeys. Hammocks cover the entire back seat, creating a cozy and secure space for your furry friend. This design not only prevents the dog from moving around but also provides a comfortable platform for them to rest during the ride. 

For older dogs, the hammock-style arrangement ensures that they can enjoy the journey without any discomfort, offering support and a sense of security. It’s a choice that aligns with prioritizing the comfort and ease of older canine passengers.

Final Thoughts on How to Get Your Dog to Stay in a Car Seat

Ensuring your dog stays safe and comfortable in a car seat is essential for both short trips and long journeys. By investing in a suitable dog car seat, using secure restraints like seat belts or harnesses, and creating a positive and comfortable environment, you can make car rides an enjoyable experience for your furry friend. 

Remember to prioritize their safety, provide positive reinforcement, and never leave them unattended in the car. With these measures in place, you can travel with peace of mind, knowing your canine companion is secure and content during every ride.