How to Train Your Dog to Ride in a Bike Basket

Part of the joy of having a dog is being able to share your life with it. People travel with their pets and take them to family gatherings. Heck, many pet owners celebrate their dogs’ birthdays. Therefore, it doesn’t sound too crazy that people want to train their canine companions to go on a bike ride, and more specifically, that they want to train their dogs to ride in a basket of men or womens hybrid bikes. Thankfully, the training process is straightforward, and you can be riding with your best animal friend in about two weeks with consistent practice.

1. Introducing the Dog to the Basket

The first thing you will need to do to train your pooch is getting them used to bike baskets for cruisers. Make sure you have a basket big enough for your dog to sit comfortably. When starting, you will not attach the basket to the bike. You want to get your dog used to sitting and lying in the basket. Once the animal is used to it, you can begin carrying them around the house.

2. Connect the Basket to Bike

After a few days of carrying the dog around, you can attach the basket to bikes for women or men, and place the dog inside. You want to guard the animal, so they don’t fall or jump out and hurt themselves. If you are worried about the potential for injury, you can purchase a harness to secure your pup. You should practice this exercise for a couple of days.

3. Walk the Bike

When you are confident your dog is comfortable with the basket, you can begin walking the bike, but only short distances. You want the animal to get used to the feel of the bike’s movement and the sound of changing and moving gears. You can practice this exercise a couple of times per day to try to speed up the training process.

4. Go on a Slow Ride

When your favorite pooch seems comfortable sitting in the basket while you walk the bike, try moving onto to riding the bike. Do not go into a full-blown ride. You want to pedal slowly and talk with your animal to keep them calm. Again, trips need to remain short in the early stages of training to avoid traumatizing or injury your pet.

5. Introducing Distance and Terrain

In the last days of training, you can add distance and various terrains to your furry pal. Increase your riding speed and go over slight bumps, so your dog can get used to the feel of the unique elements of riding. Eventually, you can take your dog on a regular ride, without hesitating or questioning whether they are ready.

Dogs are fantastic creatures, and they are resilient to change. Training your favorite canine to ride in a basket on the front or back of your bicycle primarily depends on your commitment to the training. Talk to a bike supplies retailer to make sure you have everything you need before starting the training process.