Rule number one for car rides: never put a dog inside a car by grabbing them and placing them in.
Never force your dog to go inside the car. And never simply put a dog who is full of physical energy into the car, either.
When a dog is not ready, the car can become a cage. It can become a crate—or a den. Then the car moves, and the dog may become carsick.
That is why the beginning of the car experience should happen while the car is parked.
How Your Dog Goes Into the Car Matters
Before you drive anywhere, focus on two things:
- How does your dog go into the car?
- How does your dog feel once inside?
The goal is not just to get your dog through the door. The goal is to give them time to settle inside the car before movement is added.
Keep the door open. Let your dog stay in the car without trying to get out.
Wait for Calm Surrender
This is where the human has to wait.
Cesar’s instruction is to wait until the dog is in an absolute calm, surrender state—with the door open and without trying to leave the car.
Then check the breathing.
Is your dog breathing fast or slow?
You want slow breathing. That is the sign Cesar looks for: a dog who is calm, patient, and beginning to understand that this is the experience they are meant to have in the car.
Wait for slow breathing before movement is added to the experience.
Do Not Move the Car Too Soon
If your dog is breathing too fast, too shallowly, or appears uncomfortable, do not move the car.
Do not go anywhere yet.
Wait until your dog shifts from not feeling good to becoming patient, calm, and surrendered. Otherwise, the car ride can become the worst experience for them.
A calmer car ride starts with a parked car, an open door, and a dog who is ready before the vehicle moves.
Calm Surrender™: Support for the Routine
A calmer car ride starts with patience, observation, and a dog who has time to settle before the car moves.
Calm Surrender™ is designed to complement that routine. It is a simple way to support the calm, steady moments you build with your dog every day.