Dogs love rides, but some dogs exhibit excessive excitement when they are on outings or car rides with their owners. This can be problematic, especially if it is putting the safety of the dog or the driver in jeopardy.

In this article, we will provide tips on how to manage your dog’s excessive excitement during rides.

1. Keep Them Calm Before The Ride

It is important to make sure that your dog is calm before you even start the car. You can do this by taking them on a walk that will calm them down, or by playing with them until they are tired.

You can even give them some calming treats that will help to keep them calm during the ride. When they are calm, they won’t be as excited when they get into the car.

2. Use A Dog Seatbelt

One way to keep your dog safe during the ride is by using a dog seatbelt. This will keep them from moving around too much and potentially distracting the driver. It will also keep them safe in case there is an accident.

Make sure that the seatbelt is properly adjusted so that your dog is comfortable, but not too loose that they can move around too much.

3. Use A Crate

If your dog is very high energy and difficult to manage during car rides, you may want to consider using a crate. This will keep them confined and prevent them from moving around too much. It will also help to keep them safe in case there is an accident.

Make sure that the crate is properly secured in the car so that it does not move around.

4. Gradually Increase The Length Of Rides

If your dog gets very excited during car rides, it may be because they are not used to them. You can gradually increase the length of rides over time so that they get used to them.

Start with short trips around the block and gradually increase the distance over time. This will help your dog to get acclimated to car rides and become less excited over time.

5. Use Positive Reinforcement Training

You can use positive reinforcement training to help manage your dog’s excitement during car rides. For example, you can reward them with treats and praise when they behave well during the ride.

This will encourage them to behave well in the future and make car rides a more positive experience for both of you.

6. Provide Distractions

Another way to manage your dog’s excitement during car rides is by providing them with distractions. For example, you can give them a special toy or treat that they only get during car rides.

This will keep them occupied and less likely to get overly excited during the ride.

7. Take Frequent Breaks

If you are taking a long car ride with your dog, it is important to take frequent breaks so that they can stretch their legs and use the bathroom.

This will also help to keep them calm during the ride because they won’t be stuck in the car for too long.

8. Address Underlying Health Issues

If your dog is excessively excited during car rides even after you have tried all of the above tips, there may be an underlying health issue that is causing the behavior. For example, they may be experiencing motion sickness or anxiety.

Talk to your vet to rule out any health issues that may be causing the problem.

9. Consider Professional Help

If your dog’s excessive excitement during car rides is causing a safety risk or is disruptive to your life, you may want to consider working with a professional dog trainer.

A trainer can help to address the underlying behavior issues and provide you with the tools to effectively manage your dog’s behavior during car rides.