Introducing a puppy to our PVC

[Trout bum]

We “should” be picking up our PVC within the next couple of weeks. We have lots of plans which include our 7 month old Whippet. Currently the little lad is very unsure about getting in the car and does not enter it willingly (has to be lifted in) although once in he does lay down for the journey.

We’re looking for some tips for getting him into the PVC without stressing him out and to make him feel comfortable.

Our thinking is to slowly introduce him to it without driving anywhere. Give him his meals in it, sit with him, have the TV on, create a comfortable safe space etc. We then plan to take a few short journeys with a walk upon arrival.

What else can we do, what has worked for you? All tips and hints gratefully received.
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Sounds good what you've suggested, maybe a wee run in the van just to get him used to any rattles etc , I would make it to a beach or woodland area , maybe he would connect to getting in the van and ending up at a nice walk area , they are not daft , let us know how it goes .

 

[Tonks]

Our dogs are far too intelligent to fall for spam

Hah yes! Mum's dogs - one of them in particular - views ANY high value foods with great suspicion. We think she assumes there will be a pill hidden in them! Which, btw, she always manages to spit out, no matter how 'well' they are encased...

Her last dog was unsettled in the car as a puppy initially, but with consistent short journeys and calm treatment, and a 'banked up bed' in his crate so he could relax and not have to brace himself against the movement, he got used to it quickly and we would never hear him once on the road. He always settled and was fine. We'd sit in Mum's caravan/my camper with the dogs and now they just get in and compete for the best seats! (Pic of Mum's hounds in MY van. I think there's a couple of inches sleeping space for me...)

I think it sounds like you're doing/planning to do all the right things. Just take it slow.

 

[DumfriesDik]

Love Skipper.

Listen, if the spam doesn’t work, I’ll be your dog. Yummy.

Sounds like you have some good ideas to make it a positive experience for him. Best wishes.

 

[nexxo698]

Let him drive a bit and he’ll be fine

 

[Reallyretired]

Ours have no problem travelling as long as we cater to their differing requirements. Meg likes to be up on a seat so she can look out of a window. Spice has no interest in the journey and sleeps under the table until we arrive somewhere.
Same in the car, they are both in the luggage area but Meg looks out the rear window, and Spice lies down.

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