Most dogs, including Chihuahuas, like to hang their head out the window while riding in the car. The reasons why they love it so much vary — See Why Dogs Love To Stick Their Head Out The Car Window.
Why Not?
The reasons why you should never let them do that are numerous. The reason why not on the top of the list actually happened to a friend of mine and her little Yorkie.
They could fall out of the car, or even jump out. I’ve seen so many dogs not only hanging out the window but standing with their front paws on the open window. If that’s not an accident waiting to happen, I don’t know what is!
If your Chihuahua saw a squirrel or something similarly irresistible, no matter how well trained they may be, he just might jump out after it. Your Chihuahua may know the car is moving, but he doesn’t know that it’s moving 65 MPH and that it could be a fatal jump.
This one also happened to someone I know. You could have an accident or have to suddenly stop. Your Chihuahua would more than likely go flying either through the windshield or out the window.
Eye injuries. I’ve seen dogs come into the vet hospital with eye injuries either from a rock that was picked up by the wheels, or a bug or some other debris. They can even lose an eye.
Your car could suddenly be sideswiped and crush your Chihuahua between the two cars.
Similarly, you could lose control of the car and hit something on the side of your car where your Chihuahua is unprotected.
A Better Alternative To Leaning Out Car Window
I know that you want your Chi to enjoy the car ride, but you also want him to be safe! Buckle your Chihuahua securely in the back seat and crack the window just a little. He will still get all the scents and feel the wind, but will be so much safer!
Use A Car Seat Instead of a Car Window
They make some really adorable and affordable car seats especially for small dogs like Chihuahuas. They can ride safe, and still be able to see out the window. Crack the window just a little and they also get the wind and the smells. Win, Win! Check out these cute car seats:
AlfaTok Memory Foam Booster Seat
- High-Quality memory foam
- Adjustable Strap, Easy To Install
- Machine Washable Cover
- Anti-slip Bottom
- Comes with blanket
- 4 Colors to choose from
- Pocket on each side
JOEJOY Small dog Booster Seat
- Elevated
- Adjustable clip on leash
- Ideal size for small dogs
- high-quality Oxford fabric
- removable and plush lining
- thoughtfully designed pillow-especially for anxious dogs
- Easy to Install & Fold
- Adjustable buckle design
oiilores delux car seat
- adjustable straps
- reinforced with durable buckles and snap-hooks capable of withstanding up to 100 lbs of force, preventing your pet from leaping out of the window or being thrown forward during sudden stops.
- Plush, easy-to-clean
- for pets under 25lbs
- Multi purpose-doubles as a comfy bed for home