by KYW's Nan Tallena
A car can be a scary confining place for your dog initially with too much sound and movement. Make it fun.
Start by having him stay in a parked car with you. Get in together and make it a positive experience. If he is afraid to get in, use his favorite treat and lure him in with you gently. Comfort and soothe him in a calming tone. Do not start the car. Praise and treat when he sits in the back seat calmly, even if just for a few seconds.
Take him out and try again tomorrow. If he is still too excited, do not correct him, just simply remove him calmly and try again tomorrow. (This may take some patience but do not become tense, as it is counterproductive and will only scare the dog more!) Keep increasing the amount of time with treats and praise and follow up with starting up the car, stay parked but now turn on the radio softly, again praise and treat.
The next step is to take short trips around the block as long as he remains calm. Make him curious about the car harness by leaving it out in clear view at home and rewarding him as he approaches it so he associates it with a treat and the car, making it a positive experience.
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