Riding With Your Dog

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For most of us, our pets are considered family. So, have you ever felt guilty leaving your furry friend at home when you’re taking a ride? Nowadays, you don’t have to leave them whining at the door. Dogs already love the wind in their hair, so taking Fido with you on your next ride could be a match made in heaven. Check out our tips for motorcycling with your dog and don’t forget, safety should always be your #1 priority.

Make Sure Your Dog is Comfortable 

You know your dog better than anyone else so you need to make sure your dog is 100% comfortable with riding on a motorcycle. Some dogs are very easy going, while others can be skittish and scared. Your dog puts their trust in you – don’t abuse your power to force them into something they aren’t comfortable with. It’s also important to consider their health and size before riding. Typically smaller dogs are more comfortable being held, or placed in carriers, so keep that in mind before you attempt to take your St. Bernard on a road trip. We talk more about carrier and sidecar options a little further down, so just hang tight.

Start Them Young & Take it Slow

Starting a dog on a motorcycle while they are still young is one of your best bets to get them used to riding. To get your dog to warm up to riding on a motorcycle, try taking short/slow trips around the neighborhood. Once they get more comfortable with the bike, try extending the length of your trips slowly. Make sure to reward them with treats after each ride, no matter the length. Ease your pup into riding, and if they aren’t warming up to it after a few weeks or even months – you might need to stick to solo rides.

Outfit Them in the Proper Gear

Safety gear is important for any rider and man’s best friend is no exception. Check out some the dog-friendly gear we recommend.

Dog Helmet

You keep your head covered while riding (we hope), so it’s important to keep your dog’s head covered too. Helmets are not only great for impact situations, but they can also protect your dog’s head from small rocks that might come up from the road and can shield them from bad weather, such as wind or rain. Check out this doggie helmet from Lifeunion. Keep in mind, it might take some time for your dog to adjust to a having something placed on their head. Show them some pawsitive reinforcement with treats.

Helmet Review: “My Yorkie likes to take motorcycle rides with me, I wanted something that would keep the wind from blowing her bangs ponytail and tangle it but also that would give some protection from sun and rain. This little helmet did it. It is super easy to put on… the helmet stayed put on our long ride to Sturgis… and she was fine the whole time she wore it.”

Goggles AKA Doggles

Doggie goggles are a great way to protect your dog’s eyes from the wind, rain, rocks, insects, and the sun’s rays. We recommend trying out QUMY Dog Goggles. These goggles come in at a low price point ($8.99) and include mirrored lenses that offer protection and will have your pup looking very stylish out on the road.

Doggie Jackets

Depending on the weather, you might want to consider investing in a dog jacket for your pooch. We recommend the Ruffwear Sunshower Rain Jacket to keep your dog dry during those unexpected showers. This jacket is lightweight and water-resistant so you can avoid that wet dog smell. If the weather is chilly on your ride, check out the Ruffwear Quinzee Coat. This jacket is made from recycled polyester insulation to keep your dog nice and warm.

Emily Sullivan

Emily Sullivan is a Content Curator for Trader Interactive, serving the recreational brands RV Trader and Cycle Trader. Her mission is to provide thoughtful, practical content to those who are always on the hunt for their next adventure.

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