Supporting Greyhounds Who Are Wary of Cars

By gapnsw.com.au

September 13, 2023 11:05

Why do some greys develop a dislike of cars?

Greyhounds may become wary or fearful of cars primarily because they haven't been exposed to them during their early life.

Without a proper reference point, they don't know what to expect when they encounter a car.

It's important to note that a Greyhound's fear of seeing a car on the street doesn't necessarily mean they'll be afraid of travelling in a car; these situations are distinct.

How can I determine if my Greyhound's unease around cars is linked to past experiences or if it's a general concern?

It's not crucial to pinpoint the exact cause, as helping your dog is the priority.

If it's a generalised concern, your dog may exhibit unease with various things, not just cars. The distinction between a specific fear and a generalised one is significant. In cases of generalised anxiety, consulting a veterinary behaviorist is recommended. The aim is to help your dog reach a relaxed state conducive to learning. High anxiety can hinder their ability to learn effectively.

This holds true for specific phobias too. These dogs can react intensely and swiftly, making it challenging to implement a behavioral modification plan when they're not in a calm learning state and more advanced levels of support can be required.

What signs indicate that a Greyhound is uncomfortable near or inside a car?

If your dog is uneasy around cars, they may exhibit typical signs associated with anxiety or discomfort. Look for a stiff body, hunched posture, and a lack of engagement in positive behaviors like exploration or play. They might also show reluctance to accept treats.

When it comes to car travel, similar signs may appear: a tense body, restlessness, increased panting, and an inability to relax. Motion sickness can also be a factor, leading to salivation, vomiting, or even urination or defecation. If motion sickness is a concern, consult your veterinarian for guidance.

How do I best support my greyhound who is wary of cars?

To help your dog become more comfortable with cars, start by gradually introducing them to cars from a distance, making it a positive experience.

Gradually decrease the distance over weeks and months. Consider the intensity, as a running car may be more intimidating than a stationary one. Begin with stationary cars and then progress to cars with the engine on and eventually to moving traffic.

Pay close attention to your dog's behavior throughout to ensure they remain in a neutral to positive emotional state during the process.

If you live in a busy city and traffic is an unavoidable part of life, consider taking a drive to a quiet reserve or suburban street to avoid flooding your dog by trying to walk adjacent to a busy road before they are ready.

Are there specific training techniques to help a Greyhound's confidence around cars?

Certainly! You can employ classical or counter-conditioning.

This method involves giving your dog a high-value food reward when they encounter the source of their discomfort, in this case, cars. Ensure that the car is introduced to the dog at an intensity where they don't display any fear response.

Start with a stationary car with the engine off at a distance, and each time the dog sees the car, reward them with high-value treats. Gradually decrease the distance between the dog and the car over successive sessions while ensuring the dog maintains a positive emotional state throughout the process.

We also recommend a well fitted martingale collar or harness, both for safety as well as the comfort of the grey.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the key to helping your Greyhound overcome their unease around cars is to ensure they remain in a positive emotional state as much as possible.

Whether it's car travel or encountering cars on the street, pairing these experiences with positive associations is crucial. For most dogs, high-value food rewards work effectively in this process, as food is a biological necessity and makes behavioral modification smoother compared to other methods like treats and praise.

By taking these steps and focusing on your dog's comfort and confidence, you can help them build trust and reduce their anxiety around cars, ultimately creating a more enjoyable and stress-free experience for both you and your furry companion.

Interested in adopting a new best mate to join you for the morning walk?

At GAP NSW, all of our wonderful greyhounds go through our expert training and rehoming preparation.

We match a greyhound to your lifestyle and requests
All greyhounds undergo assessment and veterinarian care whilst in our program
We have multiple locations in NSW
You can meet and greet a few cool doggos before adopting!

Head on over to our greyhounds for adoption page, and get started meeting your new best mate!