My blue heeler is somewhat barky anyway, but when we put her in the car she goes INSANE. She tries to bite the car door as it is closing and then barks the entire car ride. Any suggestions??
It depends on what she is reacting to. If she's anxious about the car itself, I'd suggest desensitizing her towards it much like you would if you were crate training. making her comfortable in the car by making positive associations for her with treats and reassurance and gradually increasing the duration of her time in the car, as well as desensitizing her to starting the engine and actually driving.
If she's reacting to things outside the windows, you can cover the windows for her, only allowing her to see out a little bit at a time when she's quiet (and covering everything back up if she starts barking), so she learns she only gets to see all the fun stuff out there if she's quiet.
Start with walking her up to the car, as far as she goes without getting riled up. While she is calm, praise her and give her a treat. If there isn't a point where she is calm (i.e. she is all rambunctious and barky even in the house) try excercising her and getting her tired before the training sessions. Gradually go closer and increase time in the car as above.
When my dogs get excited in the car and start barking, I tap on the brakes. It gives them a little jolt and they don't like it. It surprises and quiets them, even if just for a second. As soon as they bark again, tap the brake again. Bark, tap, bark, tap. It might take several tries, but eventually your dog will learn that if they bark while the car is in motion they will get jerked. Every time they bark, tap the brakes, and they will learn very quickly.
My best bet would to bring a toy if she has one, or a raw hyde. It will keep the pup busy and distract them from looking out the car window.
I entertain my dog by turning the radio up and singing. Works everytime!
Easy. DON'T LEAVE YOUR DOG IN A CAR!