Odds are that during your time as a dog owner, they will need to get in a pet carrier. You may be hopping on a plane for a big move, or taking a road trip with your furry friend and need to transport them. Pet carriers are a great way to maintain control over your pup, and can provide a safe place for your dog to stay in when in an unfamiliar environment. Dogs naturally love spaces they can “den” in, so as long as you introduce it slowly and let them get accustomed to it, they should take well to the carrier. Otherwise, you’ll end up having to fight them each time you need to bring them somewhere.
Getting Accustomed to the Pet Carrier
- First, choose the right size pet carrier for your pup. The carrier should be large enough for your dog to comfortably lay down and turn around in, but doesn’t need much more than that. Measure from your dog’s collar to the tip of their tail, then add a few inches to that. This should be a good length for your crate. Then, measure from the top of their shoulder to the ground and add about 4 inches to that. A carrier of this size should comfortably fit your dog.
- Once you’ve chosen the right size carrier, place it on the floor of a room in your house where your dog is relaxed. Leave the door open, and allow your pup to explore it as they feel fit. You should leave them alone so they don’t feel like it’s a big event or something to be wary of. Throw some treats inside if they need a little encouragement to investigate the inside.
- After your dog is used to seeing the carrier and is comfortable around it, begin making it more homey for them. Add a blanket, some toys, and even feed them meals in it. They’ll realize it’s nothing to be scared of, and instead something to look forward to.
- Now that Fido is willingly entering and exiting the crate, try closing the door. Begging with only shutting it for a few seconds before opening it again and letting your dog out. Reward them with treats, pets, and praise so that they don’t get frightened or begin to associate with it negatively. Each day, repeat this exercise a couple of times. Slowly extend the amount of time you leave the door closed for.
- With Fido in the carrier and the door closed, pick it up and walk around slowly. Start inside, then over a few days work your way to carrying them out into your backyard. Keep the carrying sessions short, practicing lifting, turning, and stopping. Stick treats into the crate often so that your pup is constantly rewarded. You want to make sure they form as positive a relationship with the crate and being carried as possible.
- Practice being out in public. Your pup should get some experience being out in public while in the crate before your actual trip. Many malls, cafes, or other public areas will allow dogs in a pet carrier, so take short outings to these places in the weeks leading up to your big trip.
Do you Need More Help?
Gulf Coast K9 Dog Training offers comprehensive dog training to dog owners in the Sarasota and Bradenton area. From puppy training to helping mature dogs reinforce behaviors, we are here to help.
