It all starts with training.
The first step is to get your dog to understand what it’s all about in small steps. Even before your Ruff Rack arrives, the training can start. We started with the “turn around” command. Just hold a treat slightly above them and get them to follow it in a slow spin move. Once they’ve done a 180° turn, they get the treat. Then do a similar thing to get them to “back up” this will come naturally after they figure out their new riding routine.
Familiarize them with the motorcycle.
It’s a good idea to feed them or just give them treats next to the bike. It’s a big noisy thing and can be a little intimidating to them at first so ease into it. After a couple of days or once they are comfortable with the bike, place a bath towel on any surface that you don’t want their claws to scratch or mar when they first start getting themselves up there. That’s when they can learn the “load up” or “let’s ride” command. You don’t want to have to lift a 90 lb. dog each time you want to ride. (Your dog’s weight may be more or way less) Most dogs require only the permission to hop on. Usually, if you have on your riding gear and they see the harness, they know what comes next.
Once your Ruff Rack arrives just do the same as with the motorcycle.
You can put their favorite toy in it with The Ruff Rack sitting somewhere they like to hang out. It’s going to have an unfamiliar look and smell that may be strange to them and take a little introduction to get used to. Even putting their food or water bowl near it, then actually in The Ruff Rack can help this along. They can become familiar with it before it’s installed on the motorcycle. It’s also a good time to get them used to the goggles. You absolutely need to protect their eyes just like you protect your own. The wind alone can be uncomfortable and cause permanent damage. So protect them each and every time.
Now to put it all together.
The Ruff Rack is securely installed and you’re both ready. You give the “load up” command. Until they become a seasoned rider, they will face The Ruff Rack at first looking for their toy or water dish from before. (Never put them in The Ruff Rack without the rubber mat.) This is very important. Their claws could get stuck in one of the small holes and cause injury. Also, if the bike will be in the sun, it’s a good idea to remove the mat and put it in your saddle bag or other area out of the hot sun. You would not want your naked butt sitting on a scalding hot motorcycle seat so much either.
Once they hop up onto the motorcycle seat (or protective towel covering it) give the “turn around” command followed by the “back up” command and they should naturally sit when they follow the curved design of The Ruff Rack. Now comes the most important part. Secure the included restraint strap and locking carabiner to the metal ring on the back of their harness!
Do this before you close the backrest/gate or put on their goggles. Make this a routine habit so that you never forget this crucial step. Once secured, close the gate, then put their googles on them. And now you’re ready to enjoy the open road.
When it’s time for a break or you’ve reached your destination, there are two important details that you need to consider. One is to connect their leash before disconnecting the carabiner so they can’t just run off since they will still be full of excitement. And secondly, when they go to jump off of the motorcycle, make absolutely sure that they do not put their paw onto the hot exhaust pipe. Grabbing their harness and guiding them off the first few times is very helpful.
So now that we’ve covered loading and unloading, let’s talk about the ride itself.
You will get attention.
A lot of attention.
For example, imagine riding around Nashville, Tennessee with Taylor Swift as your passenger. People will wave, smile point, give you the thumbs up and take pictures. Before you know it you’ll feel special, but keep in mind that they aren’t looking at you. They are happy and reacting to seeing your furry little rock star there on a motorcycle. This is when you must remain vigilant to handling a motorcycle in traffic. There have been many times when someone was driving and taking a photo or video and are not paying enough attention to the road or traffic ahead. I’ve even had a vehicle drift into my lane while the driver was looking at his phone talking photos. I’ve noticed debris in the road and brake lights that the other driver/photographer didn’t see. It’s going to have to be your responsibility to manage the situation. Usually just squeezing the brake lever and letting them pass is enough to get them to focus on the road instead of you and your passenger.
Also be prepared for the attention that comes while at the gas pump. Imagine Taylor Swift again. People will want to ask questions and take photos. Don’t get distracted and leave your helmet unbuckled, your kickstand down or your card or wallet on the gas tank. Always run your checklist before you start your engine to assure that you’re all together and ready to roll.
So that’s about everything to consider when venturing out and making some of the best memories you can ever have with your best friend. Now load up and get out there and enjoy the ride.