Motorcycling with your dog: how and why?

August 25, 10:54 PMSeattle Motorcycle ExaminerPhil Herring

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The late motocross star Marty Moates and Rainbow ride I-5

The question most frequently asked of motorcyclists who ride with their dog is:  Are you out of your frickin' mind?

Good question, no easy answer.  It's not like we're inseparable from our dogs.  Well, maybe we are, but not all the time.  Mostly.

But it really is fun to bring the hound along.  Riding can be a solitary experience and putting your K9 on the bike adds company without adding drama, complaints, and an extra hundred (or two) pounds of weight.  Not to mention luggage.

It also brings an extra dollop of adventure to an activity that already pushes some adrenaline.

And it's not as tricky as you might think.

First, find a carrier that fits your dog and your bike.  Your dog needs room to stretch but not enough to bang around from bumps or stops.  Your bike needs a carrier that will mount securely and not move around.

Start by putting the carrier somewhere in your home where the dog will live around it.  Put treats in it, even use it to feed the dog.  Do not strap your dog in or do anything at all stressful.  You want him to associate the carrier with good things.

After your dog considers the carrier an old friend (at least a week), move it to the bike and strap him in.  Again, ply your pooch with treats and praise.  Do not start the bike.

After a few sessions, crank the engine and let it idle.  This lets Fido get used to the noise.  Lots of treats and praise again, reassuring the dog that everything is good.

When you and your pal are ready, start with short rides and slow speeds, gradually increasing ride duration until you're motoring coast to coast.

On your first trip you'll be glad you did it right.  And, you'll know the answer to the frequently asked question.

    Also in this series:
    Motorcycles 101: riding with your dog

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