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Followup To
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My border collie is very smart and has learned a great deal in his six months. My question is when we drive for over 8 hours to our destination, at night when it's time to go to bed, he doesn't want to be in his kennel. He prefers to sleep with us. Normally, he doesn't care one way or the other - only on trips does he seem to change his ways. Could this possibly be from some sort of insecurity that he's feeling? I don't want him to be uncomfortable, but some of the beds are only twin, so there's barely enough room for a human, let along the collie too.
Answer -
Usually I see the kennel or crate as a great advantage when traveling, the dog's own den wherever you are. For us, the dog is treated to having the crate in the same room as us on trips instead of down stairs by itself. I could go on about how well it works for other dogs, but even if you read it to your dog, it wouldn't change how it behaves. Nobody really knows what is going on in those furry little heads.
I wonder if the forced inactivity of a long drive is more than a Border Collie can take? Is it rested up at the end of the 8 hours, and ready to go anywhere except to bed? After a long drive likely you are ready for bed. A nice walk first might relieve tensions for you and work off some energy for the dog. It may be less disruptive to the other guests than an active game of fetch.
If you don't mind, I see nothing wrong with letting it sleep with you if there is room. If not, put the crate right next to the bed, maybe extending your hand out giving it fingers to lick. Don't forget a familar chew toy.
We do put the crate next to our bed and always keep him with us. We take him out twice during the trip and we also play with him to relieve some of his excess energy once we reach our destination. He's a good dog and we do allow him to sleep with us, it's just I was concerned about his mental well-being more than his traveling. He's a good traveler and loves to ride in the car. Yes, we have the doggie seatbelt for him. :)
AnswerI am not sure there is that much more you can do. You are concerned about the dog and want what is best for it. I think they sense that. You may even need to relax a little on this so your tension isn't picked up by the dog. They are so tuned to us. I think my 11 year old Aster senses it every night when I cram the Benadryl down her throat, that is some misguided way I am doing it because I love her. Dogs have a hard time understanding people.
