See Spot Play/Joyride: Creating Calm in the Car Self-Study

  • $55

Joyride: Creating Calm in the Car Self-Study

  • Course

Is your dog terrified of the car? Insistent on being a backseat driver? The fun police? A chaotic distraction? If our dogs don't yet have the skills to be calm co-pilots, car trips can be stressful, if not very dangerous.

Using pattern games and creative set-ups, this class provides a roadmap to success so you can adventure more and worry less.

The course kicks off with a live webinar, which will be recorded. Each week, written and video lectures will be released to help you practice, build on success, and troubleshoot.

Course Schedule

Getting Started

Approach to Training
Preview
Why We Want Good Feelings
Why We Don't Yet Have Good Feelings
Medical Considerations
Who is your dog?
Car Set Ups
Training Philosophy: Midwest Nice Splitting
Welcome Webinar Recording

Week 1: Getting Started with Pattern Games

Markers, Mechanics, Methods, oh my!
Take a Breath
Up and Down
Treat Scatter

Week 2: Pattern Games in Motion

1-2-3
Give Me a Break

Week 3: Introducing Equipment with Pattern Games

Choosing Equipment
Introducing the Crate
Introducing Ramps or Steps
Introducing Equipment
Adding in the Car

Week 4: Putting it Together

Increasing Criteria: Easing off the Brakes
Relaxation Protocol
Travel Skill Set
Pattern Game Comparison Chart

Frequently asked questions

Is this class for me?

Whether your dog is a Nervous Nelly, a Chaos Claire, a FOMO Fido, or you just want to learn some more skills, we've got you covered!

Online courses give you structured plans to follow while working with your schedule. You'll be able to focus on your dog without worrying about running into potential triggers or having to schedule a babysitter. You can work at your own pace while still getting plenty of help along the way.

What do I need to participate?

You'll need a dog, a leash, access to a car, and a variety of treats. It's also helpful to have a way to video your training sessions so you can review later.

For car set ups, you will need:

  • A way to contain your dog, such as a crate, buckle in harness, or booster seat

  • A way for your dog to get into your car, such as a ramp or steps

  • Long-lasting treats, such as Toppls, Kongs, appropriate chews, lick mats, and snuffle mats

  • A safe place to practice with doors open. That could be in your garage, a friend's back yard, or in a public lot with exercise pens providing a barrier around the car

What is the payment and cancellation policy?

Secure payment will be collected at the time of registration. All sales are final.