10/23/2026
I think one of the best ways to commit to a training process that might feel a bit tedious, is to incorporate into your existing routine — and why not make it a little fun?
If your dog is a happy walker but is still building their car confidence, you could try stashing some high value treats in the car and make a quick pit stop to grab them when you’re out for a walk. (Your dog should wait safely on the curb / neutral territory at this point.)
If your pup knows the word “car” and reacts negatively, don’t use it. Once they start getting more comfortable with this process, try incorporate an unfamiliar, neutral word like “ride”.. before long, they’ll probably know that word to mean “treat wagon.” 😂 If they aren’t comfortable getting near the car, bring a helper for this part and allow them to wait where they’re comfortable (you can still walk solo). You don’t want to push them past their comfort zone, but watch to see their threshold gradually increase.
In the early stages, these should feel pretty uneventful and quick, and after a lot of repetition you might start feeding treats inside the car and hang out for a moment.
Instead of making car training one more thing you have to do, incorporate it into something you already do! (You could even stash a sweet treat for yourself in there if it helps! 😉)
Note: Barker actually likes the car but has been enjoying his treat stops anyway for a change of pace! He’s happily cronching his reward in this pic.