How to Train Your Dog to Ride in Back of a Truck

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How to Train Your Dog to Ride in Back of a Truck

Hard

2-4 Months

General

Introduction

Like most of us, you have probably seen more than one pickup truck going down the road with a dog standing in the back with his face in the wind. You would think that as much as the dog seems to be enjoying himself, that it wouldn't be a big deal getting him to hop up in the back. And, while it might look like fun for the dog, if he is not properly secured, your dog could become injured or worse.

So, if you are going to have your dog ride in the back of your truck, be sure he has some way to remain safe and secure while he is there. This being said, there is no reason you can't train your dog to ride in the back of your truck provided you have a proper restraint system in place or that you are not cruising down the open highway. Remember, the safety of your pup is paramount.

Defining Tasks

The basic concept is that you will be training your dog to jump up into the back of your pickup truck and then to remain there while you are driving. Getting him in there is only one part of the problem and probably the easiest. The hard part is getting him to stay in place. This means staying put not only while you are moving down the road, but when you come to stop signs, red lights, and anywhere else where you and your vehicle come to a halt.

Bear in mind that if your pup should get it in his mind to jump out of your truck, he is at risk of serious injury or worse. No matter what, be sure you secure your pup in the back of your truck with a leash or a topper to avoid the risk of injury.

Getting Started

The first step in training your dog to jump into the back of your truck is getting him to physically jump into the bed. After that, you need to spend a lot of time getting him used to being in the bed both while your truck is in motion and at a stop. Keeping him in the back of the truck is relatively easy, making him stay there is a different picture.

But before you start training your pup to ride in the bed, be sure to check local and state laws as many states now have laws in place making the transportation of live animals, such as dogs unsecured in the back of a pickup truck, illegal.

The Treat Method

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Step

Getting in the truck

The first step is to get your dog in the back of the truck.

Step

Use a treat

The fastest way to get your dog to jump into the back of your truck is to drop the tailgate and toss one of his favorite treats in the bed after showing it to him.

Step

Prepare the truck for your pup

Add a rubber mat to the bed of your truck so that your pup has something to grip onto while you are in motion.

Step

Tell him to load

Tell your pup to 'load', 'load up', or 'get in' or use another command of your choice. Just be sure you use the same command each time. If he jumps into the back of the truck, give him a treat and praise him. If not repeat the process until he figures it out.

Step

Lay down

Tell your pooch to lie down on the mat and give him a treat when he does. Leave him in this position for several minutes. Then release him let him out of the bed so that he can run around and stretch his muscles.

Step

Repeat this process

Do this over the course of several days until he seems to feel comfortable laying in the back of your truck before moving on.

Step

Go slow

Have your pup jump up in the bed, attach his leash to the securing lug and start your truck. This will give him time to get used to the noise of the truck running before you start driving.

Step

Time for a drive

Take off nice and slow at first, try finding a very quiet location to start with. One without traffic, if possible. If he gets up and starts acting like he wants to jump out of the truck, stop and make him lay down again.

Step

Increasing speeds

Once he is used to being in the back of a moving truck, slowly increase your speed and travel in areas where there is a little more traffic. It may take a few weeks for him to feel fully comfortable riding in the back of the truck. Just remember, your pup should always be secured in the bed to ensure he can't jump out or be flung out in the event of an accident.

The Demo Method

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Step

Start with a friend

Have a friend with a dog who already knows how to jump up in the bed come for a visit.

Step

Watch me

Bring your pup over to watch the other dog getting in and out of the truck bed.

Step

Try it

Now bring your pup over to the back of the truck on his leash and give him your command to load up while loosely holding the leash. It might take a few attempts for him to understand what is expected, but when he does, be sure to give him lots of praise and treats.

Step

Everyone goes for a ride

With both dogs secured in the back of the truck, go for a slow ride. Let your pup learn the appropriate behavior from his buddy. Be sure to go nice and slow at first while your pup gets used to the motion of the vehicle.

Step

Pick up the pace

Once your pup seems to be comfortable riding in the back of your truck you can start traveling a bit faster and going for a longer drive. Remember, having your pup riding in the back of an open truck is dangerous and not recommended, but if you decide to do so, make sure he is properly secured in place or better yet, in a kennel or enclose your truck with a topper.

The Couch First Method

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Step

Start in the house

Start training your pup to jump up indoors before you try the truck.

Step

Use the couch

Start by teaching your pup to jump on and off the couch. It is much lower than the bed of your truck. Use treats to entice him to make the leap and repeat until he will do so without any hesitation--try to get him to do it without treats.

Step

Move outside

Move the training outside to your truck and using the same process, teach him to jump in and out of your truck. This is important, be sure to work on it until your pup will jump in and out every time. Be sure to use plenty of treats and praise.

Step

Secure your pup

Be sure you have a rubber mat on the floor of the bed to help your pup keep his footing on the bed or for him to lay down on and a way to keep him from jumping out of the bed.

Step

Slowly does it

Start the engine and let your pup get used to the sounds and vibrations before you move slowly out of your driveway and onto the road. Give him plenty of time to get used to the feelings of motion and wind before you start speeding up. The longer you can give him, the more likely he will be to enjoy the experience. Take your time and make it fun, just be sure to keep him safe at all times.

Written by PB Getz

Published: 10/23/2017, edited: 01/08/2021

Success Stories and Training Questions

Training Questions and Answers

Question

Jackson

German Shepherd

2 Years

0 found helpful

Question

0 found helpful

Jackson

German Shepherd

2 Years

I adopted my 100 pound shepherd from the animal shelter. He is sweet and loving, but jumps and nips, especially when he doesn't want to do what is asked. He is very reactive when he sees dogs and people he does not know. What is the best way to calm him down to keep him from jumping, nipping and barking?

1 year, 3 months ago

Jackson's Owner

Darlene Stott

Dog Trainer and Groomer

104 Dog owners recommended

Thank you for the question. German Shepherds are wonderful, loyal dogs. They do need to be well trained in order for anyone to enjoy them, though - including you. First, you need to teach Jackson his sit, stay, come, and leave it commands. This is a great guide on basic commands: https://wagwalking.com/training/train-a-german-shepherd-puppy-basic-commands As well, take a look at this: https://wagwalking.com/behavior/why-are-german-shepherds-aggressive Here are excellent videos on training your dog. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JhxvSXEwewQ&list=PLjYrEepn8OLXXzW5rcpXO8PA-mkfEcaUd and https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YOhly-mBgAM&list=PLjYrEepn8OLXXzW5rcpXO8PA-mkfEcaUd&index=2 A visual explanation is better than a description. This trainer has many good training sessions online. Alternatively, take Jackson to positive re-inforcement obedience classes, which will get him used to being around other dogs and behaving properly. Obedience classes will help you form a good bond with him, too. Good luck!

1 year, 3 months ago