Going on a family vacation on your UTV and your pet’s coming along? Not so fast! It’s important to keep your dog safe on your side-by-side. 

If you’re a dog lover, like us, leaving your four-legged friend at home can leave you feeling like you’ve left part of your family behind. Ditch the guilt and bring your fur-child along on your next off-roading adventure. But before you pack up the crew with your pup in tow, there are a few things you need to do to keep your dog safe on your UTV. With a little preparation and planning, you can ensure you and your doggo are safe, comfortable, and having fun!

Learn how to keep your pupper safe on your UTV below.

Train Your Pup

Before you head for the hills with your dog sitting next to you, it’s important to make sure he knows and follows the rules. 

OBEDIENCE — Taking your dog up in the mountains for some fun is only a good time if they’re obedient. You don’t know what sorts of things you’ll run into in the wild. Between treacherous terrain, other people and UTV riders, and feral animals, the mountains can be dangerous. Because of this, it’s essential that Fido comes to you when you call him. If your pup isn’t a good listener, you’ll have to keep him on a leash at all times.

GET COMFORTABLE — Some dogs spook easily. It’s important that Rex feels comfortable in your side-by-side no matter where he is. These machines are loud and bumpy, so practice riding with your pup in your lap, in the passenger seat, in the back seats, and the bed (in an attached crate, of course!). 

AVERSION CONDITIONING — There are many things in the mountains or woods that you don’t want Spot getting curious about. Help her avoid common mountainous hazards like snakes, poisonous plants, and cliffs with aversion training.

Safety Gear

While an obedient fur-baby is necessary, it isn’t always enough to keep your dog safe on your UTV; some canine safety gear is needed, too.

HARNESS — When it comes to UTV riding and adventuring, a standard collar will not make the cut. Instead, Fido will need a harness that can securely attach to your machine’s 4- or 5-point seat harnesses. Fastening your doggo in will let him get the full experience in a safe way. In fact, in the cab in his own seat is the safest way for your pup to ride — even safer than lap riding.

CANINE FIRST-AID KIT — While many of the things found in your first-aid kit can be found in Rex’s, it’s important to make sure you have everything you need to take care of your furry friend in an emergency or if he gets hurt. Check out this DIY pet first-aid kit here.

GOGGLES — Googles for both you and your pup are a must-have for UTV adventuring. Like yours, ole Spot’s eyes need protection from wind and flying debris. Dog goggles will help your dog avoid injuries from flying bugs and sticks and irritation from wind and dust.

FOOD AND WATER — Make sure you bring along enough food and water for the entire crew, including your four-legged buddy.

Contact TerraRider UTV Windshields

Bringing your dog along on your adventures and keeping her safe is a great way to make fun memories. While pups are often the best accessory and the ultimate UTV upgrade, TerraRider UTV Windshields has all the UTV aftermarket accessories and windshields your machine could need! We’re committed to delivering high-quality windshields and accessories to our happy and satisfied customers. Check out our online shop today!