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2 questions re: terry mix breed-benji lookalike

18 16:58:51

Question
1) My dog loves to go for rides but she whines nonstop and runs back and forth the whole time. Drives us crazy and isn't safe for her as she slips off the seat to the floor once in awhile. Have tried restraining her (kennel & doggie seatbelt) but the whining reaches epic proportions. I see so many dogs content to just watch the world around them, how do I get that ?
2) We are moving in the next few weeks to our 5 acres where have been building our home.  She absolutely loves it there. Unfortunately she's a runner.  If I am watching her every second she won't take off but the moment she realizes she isn't being monitored, bam, off like the wind and no calling will get her to come back. I've seen her look back as I yelling at her and she just picks up speed. She is very protective of her property and have run Rot's off but I know one day she is going to get torn up or run over by a car which I caught her chasing one time a couple of years ago.

Answer
Loose dogs in a car are dangerous. She could block your view, or get under your feet while driving. If you come to sudden stop, she becomes a projectile - endangering both her and you. If you have an accident, she risks being thrown out of the car, or escaping if the door is open by someone trying to help you. I'd kennel her where she can't see movement, and make very short trips - around the block, with someone giving her treats for being quiet. Gradually lengthen trips. You can even fix a PVC pipe to slip treats back to inside the crate when she's being quiet while you move.
You are right that she is in great danger when she runs away on the acreage. I'd have her with me on a long line, so I can control her, while building a REALLY strong recall. If you've already ruined your recall cue by using it when she has the option of paying no attention, you may need to use a different word and start over in her training. Everytime you call her and she chooses not to come, you are lessening the chances that she will respond to that cue the next time. Are you planning to fence an area for her when you move? I hope so. Property boundaries are a hard concept for a dog, especially one with a history of bolting. Sandy Case MEd CPDT www.positivelycanine.com