Shaking, pacing and panting
Our 8 year old 21 lb. American Eskimo Begins to shake, pace and pant (as if he just ran hard) as soon as we are in motion. Rig is noisy over bumps, poor roads etc. However he still has similar behavio...
Forum Discussion
Is this only happening in the RV? Or in other vehicles as well?
Has he always done this while in the rig moving? Or did he used to handle the motion fine?
If suddenly happening when it didn't before, then it could be a health issue.
If it is anxiety, how long has it been going on? If he's only been in the rig a couple times, then it might just be a matter of getting used to it. If that's the case, here are some ideas:
Take him for short rides in the RV to fun places. Drive to the neighborhood park and then let him out to play. If he enjoys the pet stores, take him there and buy him a special toy for the RV - the toy stays in the RV for him to play with.
Some dogs need to be able to see out the window while in motion. is there a spot he can sit or lie down at where he can see out? Can you work something out so he can?
Slow down. RVs are subject to a lot more internal movement and noise than regular vehicles. Sometimes, that is enough for him to start getting carsick. Going a bit slower will lessen the movements and noise some and may be enough to help.
Have someone sit with him for a few rides. Someone who can talk to him and cuddle him and help lessen the stress.
Give him time to adjust. Some dogs are nervous at the new experience - with positive reinforcements, they will adjust. My Moose-dog was like this. He was extremely nervous the first few times. Now, he's fine with it as long as I'm careful about speed and stay off those noisy lane guards.
Has he always done this while in the rig moving? Or did he used to handle the motion fine?
If suddenly happening when it didn't before, then it could be a health issue.
If it is anxiety, how long has it been going on? If he's only been in the rig a couple times, then it might just be a matter of getting used to it. If that's the case, here are some ideas:
Take him for short rides in the RV to fun places. Drive to the neighborhood park and then let him out to play. If he enjoys the pet stores, take him there and buy him a special toy for the RV - the toy stays in the RV for him to play with.
Some dogs need to be able to see out the window while in motion. is there a spot he can sit or lie down at where he can see out? Can you work something out so he can?
Slow down. RVs are subject to a lot more internal movement and noise than regular vehicles. Sometimes, that is enough for him to start getting carsick. Going a bit slower will lessen the movements and noise some and may be enough to help.
Have someone sit with him for a few rides. Someone who can talk to him and cuddle him and help lessen the stress.
Give him time to adjust. Some dogs are nervous at the new experience - with positive reinforcements, they will adjust. My Moose-dog was like this. He was extremely nervous the first few times. Now, he's fine with it as long as I'm careful about speed and stay off those noisy lane guards.
