The story of Ocho, the rescue pitbull

In 2020, Ocho was dumped at Horse Creek Bridge around Lake Kaweah in Three Rivers, CA. He was spotted behind a dumpster sitting in the rain. He sat in the same spot for three days waiting for his owner to return. Several concerned citizens stopped to feed him and attempt to coerce him into their cars. He growled at the people who were trying to help him when they got too close and scared them off. He refused to leave his spot behind the dumpster. I was able to gain his trust by feeding him some turkey and slipping a leash around his neck and the rest is history.

Plan some extra time when you go on a ride with your sidecar dog because everywhere you go people will want to stop and talk to you and take photos. Your dog is the star of the show and you are just the human along for the ride.

The simple answer to that question is no. Your dog has to have the right temperament to be a good sidecar dog. Riding a motorcycle is dangerous. Riding a motorcycle with a dog for a passenger is 10x as dangerous. Other drivers will slow down or speed up to get a better look at your dog. People will take photos and videos while they are driving. Your dog needs to be calm and able to sit still. You can’t be distracted by your dog while riding in traffic or going 70mph. You need to be smooth with your braking and turns with a four legged passenger. Make sure you are experienced with your motorcycle and sidecar before you even think about riding with your dog.

The most important thing to remember is that we don’t want anyone to get hurt. (You or your dog)

You can practice on a bicycle with sidecar. This will get your dog used to the experience but at a safe, low speed. You can take your dog for car rides with his goggles on so he can get used to them. Park in a nice shady spot under a tree and just let your dog sit in the Sidecar and take a nap. Once he’s comfortable with that, you can get him used to the sound of your bike starting up. Take everything slow and give your dog time to get comfortable with each step. 

My dogs only get in and out of the sidecar if I pick them up. I don’t allow them to jump in or out on their own. I want them to wait for me so they won’t ever jump in or out at the wrong time. Your dog should wear a harness and be tethered to the bottom of your sidecar so that he is unable to jump over the side or fall out. Ideally he will have enough slack to change his position, lie down or sit up but not enough leash that would make it possible to go over the side. If you have a very   experienced sidecar dog, then he would be able to ride without being tied down. An advanced dog will know how to lean into turns and have excellent balance. If your dog is old and has arthritis you can build a ramp for him to walk up. You will still lift him up and place him into the Sidecar.

Riding a Sidecar outfit with your dog is one of the funnest things you can do. Your dog will feel the same way. He will notice when you pick up the keys to your bike and become very excited. Your dog may lie down next to your bike and wait for you to take him for a ride.