Chihuahua Information Center
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My Chihuahua Won't Go in My Car!
One of the things that is so great about having a Chihuahua is that they are so small, it is easy to take them with you just about anywhere! When you love your dog, you don't want to leave them at home unless you have to. There may be a lot of places that you wish to drive to and wouldn't it be great if your Chihuahua loved going in the car with you? But what do you do when your Chihuahua hates being in the car? There are several elements involved when driving with your pooch is a problem. One reason why you Chihuahua may not like being in the car is because of motion sickness. Many people get this and so can dogs. The best way to deal with this not only will help your Chihuahua like being in the car but will also ensure that he or she is safe while you are driving.
When you allow your dog to roam around the car or you expect them to sit nicely while you drive, you are putting them in danger. Putting your Chihuahua in a dog car restraint seat is the answer. This dog breed is so small, that if you do not restrain them, just stopping your car can be a potential danger; many Chihuahuas are injured when they fall off of car seats. One must not think too harshly regarding the word "restraint" because dog restraint are comfortable and will make your Chihuahua feel safe while driving.
Suddenly being in a moving vehicle when they are used to solid ground can be quite disturbing. When in a restraint, they will have a feeling of security and this usually does the trick. There are 2 types of methods: an actual car seat made especially for toy dogs or a seat belt that connects around the seat to hold your dog in safely.
Begin with short drives and see how your Chihuahua does. Make sure to open their window a bit, even if your Chihuahua can not reach their head out of the window, the fresh air rushing in will help to make them feel better while you are driving. You can also bring along their favorite toy; if they become very attached to a certain toy you can save that toy just for car trips. This can help your Chihuahua look forward to the drive.
Note: If you are having any type of Chihuahua behavioral issues...and feel left out of the loop...you know that feeling! ...When you know that animal behaviorists and breeders have information and keep it all closely guarded.. click here to see how you can have this information.
What if I Need to Drive Far?
Long drives with your Chihuahua just needs some planning. You can begin by taking longer and longer drives to allow your dog to become accustom to the feeling and learn that all is safe. If you make your destination a fun event, this will teach your dog to look forward to getting into the car.
When you are ready to take that long drive, bring all of the necessities and more! Water is crucially important, as is a first aid kit, plenty of food, their toys, blanket, and any items that will make them feel at home when out on the road.
You should plan to stop about every hour. Make sure to stop in an area that will not frighten your dog. Stopping on the side of a highway could be quite terrifying to your little dog. A park or a quiet parking lot is a much better idea. These stops will allow your dog to stretch their legs, have some water, be able to eliminate and have a break from the motion of the moving car. If you plan the stops for each hour, your Chihuahua will become use to knowing a break is soon to come and will not be so anxious.
