Doggone Etiquette —

Driver’s Ed

By Bardi McLennan

A Word to the Dog:                           

How often do you go for a ride in the car? Not too much joy-riding in warm weather, I hope, but there are lots of times when I’m sure you are included as “family.” So, how’s your driving? Are you a backseat driver, or are you a privileged type who sits up front? Do you slam on the brakes when you see a red light (or a Stop sign) or just brace yourself and hope you won’t hit the windshield? Do you jump around like a madman — uh, wild dog, that is — when the car next to yours is occupied by a dog? Do you stick your nose, paw or tail out the window to indicate a turn? Maybe what some of you dogs need is driver’s education, or more likely it’s your owners who need a refresher course.

A Word to the Dog’s Owner:            

Every dog has to ride in the car at some point, whether it’s daily for companionship or as seldom as that essential trip to the veterinarian. Car rides can also depend upon how the dog feels about these joy rides — some can’t wait to hop in, and others prefer four feet firmly on terra firma! Apart from never leaving a dog in a car even for a few minutes on a hot or “just warm” day, there are other dangers.  With 65 miles per hour speed limits on expressways, 45 mph on major roads, the dangers are obvious, but those 25 mph back roads can be just as risky for Rufus.

A dog riding in the car needs to be IN the car — and definitely not doing the driving! That warning includes the dog’s head, paws and tail. No matter how much you may think Rufus is enjoying it, allowing him to stick his head out the window as you’re driving down the road is a no-no. In addition to severe eye and ear damage from road dirt, there are lots of other dangers. If you have to come to a sudden stop, for example, he could easily crack his head against the window frame, and that would mean a quick trip to the vet. Rufus does not need to hang out an open car window to check on the traffic, or to warn you of road work up ahead.

As for paws on the edge of the open car window, keep in mind that the dog does NOT stretch a leg in order to give directional signals! Here again, there are dangers. At any given moment, Rufus could easily jump out of the car or again, at a sudden stop, be flung out of the car. The tragic results are endless, but would probably start with a hit-and-run accident, or a lost dog, to say nothing of his nails having scratched your car. As for a lovely shaggy tail hung out the window, well, that’s just not very polite!

Here are your rules for “Dog Driver’s Ed.” For small to medium-sized dogs, use a securely anchored dog crate in the back of the car. There are other options for a dog in that size range if he does not get car sick, and is not given to barking or fits of hysteria when riding in the car. A special harness, or seat belt for dogs, or even a seat similar to one for babies, can keep the dog safely on the passenger’s seat. (Just be sure you check those bad habits before you try it.) A large dog can be safely restrained either crated or loose behind a barrier in the rear of an SUV.

Taking Rufus along for a ride should be pleasant for all, but having to pay close attention to the dog while you’re driving is as hazardous as talking on your cell phone — if not worse. We’ve gone over it before, but — with your new dog safely confined — a Driver’s Ed Test can begin with casual trips up and down your driveway followed by short trips down and back on a quiet (25 mph) road.

Until next time – Be a good driver!

- Bardi

Bardi McLennan bred, trained and showed Welsh Terriers for 30 years, during which time she wrote a monthly column on canine behavior in Dog Fancy Magazine. In addition to contributing to numerous dog publications, she has written 15 books on dogs, the latest being Rescue Me!, which received the ASPCA Humane Issues Award in 2008.