How Do You Train A Dog To Stay In A Carrier? [Everything You Need To Know]

Many folks like to always have their animal companion by their side. And more and more owners are taking their tiny dogs with them to the grocery store, mall, coffee shop, etc.

Your dog needs to get used to traveling in a carrier in order for this to happen.

Exposure, treats, and brief trips are the best ways to train a dog to travel in a carrier. Among the safest methods for traveling with small dogs and pups is in a travel carrier.

But what should you do if your dog dislikes the carrier or is afraid of it?

It will be less traumatic for your pet when you have to relocate him in it if he is more accustomed to and at ease with his carrier and feels safer there. To learn how to train your dog to remain in his carrier, keep reading.

Part 1: Introducing Dogs To Carriers

Get your dog a carrier that fits. From the ground up to the top of the dog’s shoulders, measure it.

This measurement, which corresponds to your dog’s height, is crucial to take into account while purchasing a carrier.

Additionally, you want to confirm that your dog can turn around in the carrier. From the base of the tail to the end of the nose, measure your dog.

Give your dog access to the carrier. You must first expose your dog to the carrier before expecting them to ride in it.

This must be accomplished a few days before any significant travel.

Put your carrier in a prominent location in your house, ideally where the dog likes to hang out. You might position the carrier next to the dog’s bed or toys, for instance.

Using an animated voice when you exit the carrier is another option. In this manner, the dog will associate the new object favorably.

Your dog can play close to the carrier. Your dog will feel more at ease around the carrier if you do this.

It will also start to understand that the carrier isn’t really dangerous. You may, for instance, play tug of war or fetch next to the carrier.

Your dog will feel more at ease in the carrier the more positive experiences it has had with it (see also ‘Your Dog Hates Their Crate – What To Do‘).

To entice your dog into the carrier, use treats. Give your dog a chance to investigate its carrier on his own terms. Put some snacks inside the carrier, for instance, and open or unscrew the door.

Allow the dog to approach and investigate the carrier at its own speed.

Never push your dog into his carrier or force him in. Place your dog inside the carrier for brief intervals.

Put your dog in the carrier for between five and ten minutes each time to get him accustomed to it.

You should first keep the dog by your side for comfort. Speak to the dog so it doesn’t feel lonely when you put its carrier at your feet.

Increase the amount of time the dog spends inside the carrier by 15-20 minute increments as it gets easier.

Increase the time each time until the dog can spend an hour comfortably in the carrier. You may try to leave the room briefly when your dog is feeling more at ease.

Part 2: Preparing Your Dog For A Carrier Ride

Create a command phrase. By employing a command word, you can teach your dog to use the carrier without receiving treats.

Say something like “go in your carrier” or “into your carrier,” for instance. When you train your dog, always use the same command.

Your dog can become frustrated and perplexed if you alternate between orders.

Your dog should be taught to use the carrier when asked. Say “go in your carrier” while holding a treat for him. After that, put the treat inside the carrier.

Reward the dog with another treat after it is in the carrier. Your dog will eventually connect the order with stepping inside the carrier.

Practice the command without securing your dog in the carrier to start. You can secure the dog inside the carrier as soon as it feels secure.

Take a quick trip with your dog. Get your dog used to traveling in the carrier before setting out on a long journey.

Use the carrier to transport your dog to exciting locations, such as the dog park.

In this manner, the dog will relate the carrier to enjoyable journeys and experiences. If you intend to fly with your dog, you should first transport them in the carrier for a short drive.

They’ll be able to adjust to the engine’s noise and motion thanks to this. Reward your dog with treats and attention each time it travels in the carrier.

Part 3: Taking A Dog On The Road In A Carrier

Before going a great distance, make sure the dog gets lots of exercise. Ensure that the dog gets plenty of movement before the journey if you are traveling a long distance.

Your dog will become exhausted as a result, and it probably will nod off during the journey.

Your dog shouldn’t be anxious or whine when traveling in the carrier. Taking out their water two hours before a journey is also a smart idea.

This will lessen the likelihood of the dog using the restroom inside the carrier.

Put blankets or a cushion on the carrier’s bottom to protect it. You should provide your dog with a cozy environment in the carrier.

Cover the carrier’s bottom with blankets. Put your dog’s favorite blanket, which they are accustomed to using for sleep, in the carrier.

Your dog’s blanket shouldn’t be washed. While they are inside the carrier, the comforting scent can actually be helpful. Set up the carrier with your dog’s favorite toy inside, such a plush animal.

With this, your dog will have something to chew, play with, or cuddle up to while you’re traveling. Additionally, it will relax them and perhaps even lessen their anxiousness.

Consult your animal doctor regarding sedatives. You might wish to consult with your veterinarian regarding sedatives if the dog struggles to unwind while riding in the carrier.

Your dog’s health must be evaluated by your veterinarian in order to decide whether a sedative is necessary.

Before leaving, you might want to experiment with a sample at home to see how your dog will react to the sedative.

Ensure that you make the carrier as cozy as you can. You can include his favorite toy and a blanket to sit on.

Additionally, getting him used to the carrier first before setting out on your trip will help.

Praise your dog anytime he enters the carrier. Also try opening the door and leaving the carrier outside.

Check the dimensions and weight restrictions for dog carriers before bringing your dog on an aircraft. Depending on the airline, these proportions vary.

On the day before a lengthy vacation, avoid putting the dog in a brand-new carrier. Your dog could become anxious in an unfamiliar environment.

Final Thoughts

We hope that this article has been helpful in assisting you to teach your dog how to remain in his carrier while you’re traveling together.

Whether you’re taking a quick trip to the vets or going on a long journey, as long as you make sure your dog becomes accustomed to the carrier before you set off, he will feel much more comfortable and relaxed on the journey.