Puts the breaks on when scared.

by Julia
(Colorado)

Teddy socializing at the Vet's Office.

Teddy socializing at the Vet's Office.

My 6 1/2 month old male coton, Teddy is terrified to ride in the car. As we are approaching the car he puts the brakes on at about 20 feet away. He won't budge and I have to pick him up. I've tried a car seat, letting him lay on the floor behind my driver seat and now he rides in the crate in the back of my Honda CRV.


I want to take him everywhere with me and when he rides in the car we go to fun places like dog park, Petsmart, friends homes, etc. He shows anxiety by shutting down. He gets very quiet, puts his head down and pants and drools. He doesn't cry, he doesn't bark, he just gets very quiet. I've learned to watch his body language and I can read the signs of when he's feeling overwhelmed.

That being said, herein lies my problem. When he shuts down he is not motivated by treats, toys or affection. I know I need to begin the training before he shuts down and it will take time and patience. But does anybody have any other suggestions? I've tried everything I can think of. We are at a standstill.
Thanks so much, Julia

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Feb 25, 2014
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by: Teddy's Mom

Also, I want you (Gale and Vicky) to know that I'm going to slowly let him sit in the car for a minute or two and then gradually increase the time until he gets comfortable with the car. I'm going to follow your advice and I will keep you posted on our progress.

Thanks again,
Julia
Feb 25, 2014
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by: Teddy's Mom

Thank you all for your suggestions! I gained insight from each of your suggestions. I will continue to take him to fun places when we go in the car. I'll also keep looking for a treat that he will do tricks for to motivate him.

I appreciate all of your input. It is nice to know there are others out there who are invested in helping their dogs live the happiest life possible.

Thanks again!

Julia
Jan 31, 2014
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by: Gale

Here's what worked for Luc who had the same problem when he was a very young pup.

I had him sit with me in the car every day without going anywhere. I did this just for a few minutes. Then when he started to get comfortable with that I'd just drive around the block and just kept gradually increasing time as he got less anxious.

It took some time and patience and I must admit that Luc is VERY motivated by food and toys which is a big help. But there's a lot to be said for hugs and praise as well.

Now when I ask him if he wants to go for a ride, he can't get in the car fast enough :)

Good luck and let us know how it goes.
Jan 30, 2014
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by: Vicky & Jonah

Jonah used to do that when a puppy but I just picked him up seat belted him in & went. He has always played quickly on back sit which I praised him for because that's what u want.

When he gets out at dog park is he OK & enjoys himself.

Jonah's never been a dog that takes treats at park or walks but will training at home. I just look at it as a quirk & use praise & pets.

One thing may be that up until 6 mos alot of time they go in the car to puppy shots then 1st rabies.

Once that is over then they go to fun places until 1 yr which gives them a little time to forget. I think your good as long as he travels quietly & gets excited & enjoys when he gets to fun places.

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