My mini dachshund is 14 now and understandably doesn’t have the same energy she had when she was a puppy. Now that the weather is warming up, we’ll be doing a lot of traveling and day trips. She loves going with us, but she just can’t keep up anymore – so we end up carrying her. I’m considering buying her a carrier/tote, but she’s never used one and will likely be afraid of it at first. Does anyone have any training tips/tricks for me?
Senior dog – carrier/tote training advice?
Posted May 25th, 2010 by admin
One Response to “Senior dog – carrier/tote training advice?”
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May 25th, 2010 - 8:57 pm
Treat it like crate training. Start by coaxing her into it with treats and making a fuss over her while she is in the carrier. Feed her meals in it. Don’t force her into it. Once she is comfortable going into and sitting or lying in it, try picking it up supporting it as you would support her when picking her up. Lift her onto your lap in the carrier and again fuss over her and give her treats. Gradually carry her in the carrier around the house greater distances and for longer periods. If you go slowly and pace yourself based on her reaction, increasing the difficulty only when she is ready, she should be happy about the carrier very quickly.