Dog Stroller Training And Tips
Thinking about buying your doggie a dog stroller? Already bought a dog stroller but having a bit of a challenging time getting your pup to stay put while using the stroller?
Here are some Pro Tips for Dog Stroller Training:
Training your dog to ride in a dog stroller can be a great way to give your furry friend some fresh air, exercise, and a change of scenery and free up your hands and save your neck and back the added pressure and pain from having to carry your dog when she/he gets tired.
Introduce the stroller gradually: Start by letting your dog explore the stroller while it's stationary and in your home in familiar surroundings. Let them sniff and investigate the stroller on their own terms, and reward them with treats or praise for any positive interactions.
Use positive reinforcement: Reward your dog with treats or praise every time they get into the stroller or ride in it calmly. This will help them associate the stroller with positive experiences.
Start with short rides: Begin by taking your dog on short rides in the stroller around your home, neighborhood, or short trips around the local grocery store. Gradually increase the length of the rides over time.
Get them used to the motion: Some dogs may initially be nervous about the movement of the stroller, even if they are used to riding in a car every day, it is a different kind of motion and sensation. To help them get used to it, start by pushing the stroller slowly and gradually increase the speed as your dog becomes more comfortable. * Your pup may get nauseous or vomit or even pee in the stroller the first few times you take them out in it, so be prepared for this as well. You might even take a larger potty pad and wrap it around the stroller pad so that clean up is much easier and your pup doesn’t stress out and feel bad if he/she has an accident in it. The good thing is that the stroller is a small area and your pup is confined, so if and when they do have a an accident, its relatively quick and easy to take care of and be on your way.
* Ginger root is a good thing to have on hand for preventing nausea for both animals and humans. * We also like to take along some type of natural, non-pharmaceutical Hemp ‘calming treats’ for stroller rides and car rides as these really help with anxiety in many ways.
Make it comfortable: Make sure the stroller is comfortable for your dog. Add blankets, pillows, or toys to make the ride more enjoyable. * Do NOT put any type of soft toy with stuffing inside of it for a stroller or crate ride because while you’re busy pushing the stroller ,its pretty much guaranteed that your pup is tearing up the toy and may accidentally ingest that stuffing from the toy. You may also want to remove the padded seat cover and or the restraining straps if you have a puppy or dog that is the ‘velociraptor’ type aggressive chewer. At least until they get used to the stroller, its movement, and they grow out of the chewing phase. You could also consider purchasing a bottle of Grannick’s Bitter Apple Spray and spray it ONLY on the seat pad and straps you don’t want your pup to chew on.
Keep your dog secure: Make sure your dog is securely fastened in the stroller with a harness or leash to prevent them from jumping out. * Most reputable brands of strollers have one or more straps with a clip already built in to the bed of the stroller. The stroller we have for our current puppy PawHut Luxury stroller comes with a clip outside in front rather than zipper closure so this one is very durable and safe.
Be patient: Some dogs may take longer than others to get used to the stroller. Be patient, and don't force your dog to ride in the stroller if they are uncomfortable.
By following these tips and taking things slow, you can help your dog get comfortable with riding in a stroller and enjoy some outdoor adventures together.
