Did you know that dogs sleep more than 10 hours a day on average? (Believe it or not, scientists estimated that in a recent canine sleep review.)
If your dog treats your couch like a cloud, imagine how they’ll behave in the backseat. Let’s face it: car rides are basically scheduled nap time for some pups.
Now, before you worry, your lazy dog will critique your driving; some breeds seem genetically wired to snooze through motion. And no—they don’t snore to annoy you (much).
In this article, we’ll reveal nine breeds that turn long road trips into slumber parties. Spoiler: these aren’t the energetic zoomies types.
Buckle up. If your current travel companion is a howl-freak, these breeds might finally let you get some shut-eye, too.
Dog Breeds That Sleep Soundly Even on Long Car Trips
1. Pug
Pugs are basically professional nap-takers disguised as dogs. As puppies, they’ll sleep up to 20 hours a day — yes, that’s almost as much as your college roommate. Adults mellow into a still-impressive 12–14 hours, meaning they’re always prepped for a snooze.
On car rides? Forget it. A Pug will curl up, snort a little symphony, and happily drift off like the road trip is their personal spa day. Motion sickness is rare, but keep the AC on — their flat faces don’t love stuffy air.
PDSA claims that training-wise, Pugs are people-pleasers, but also professional snack hunters. Keep sessions short, positive, and reward-based. Owner tip: bring a cozy blanket for the car. Your Pug will see it, sigh dramatically, and fall asleep faster than you can say “Are we there yet?”
Owners Insight
Must-know: Be aware of overheating in the summer. Limit exertion before the drive. Provide frequent hydration stops.
Supply: Crash-tested harness.
Worry: Noisy breathing, sudden lethargy, or blue gums.
Comfort: A cool mat or shaded seating area.
2. Basset Hound
If laziness were an Olympic sport, the Basset Hound would medal every year. These droopy-eared charmers nap most of the day, saving their energy for sniffing out snacks or following an invisible scent trail across your yard. Puppies need play, but adults are glorified couch potatoes.
Car rides? Once the initial excitement wears off, they’ll slump down and snooze like they’re being paid by the hour. Their low energy makes them surprisingly great road companions, though you might have to wake them up at rest stops.
Now, training a Basset Hound? That’s the real challenge. They’re stubborn, driven by their nose, and perfectly content to ignore you, according to AKC. Tip: arm yourself with high-value treats and a sense of humor. At least you’ll laugh while they sleep through your hard work.
Owners Insight
Must-know: Long ears risk ear injury.Support over obstacles. Control loose skin folds.
Supply: Collapsible water bowl.
Worry: Back pain or dragging limbs.
Comfort: Padded crate floor.
3. Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus were bred to be royal lap dogs — and it shows. These little fluff-balls treat sleep as a full-time job, napping throughout the day with a dramatic flair that screams, “Wake me at your peril.” Puppies are playful, but by adulthood, they’re seasoned snoozers.
In the car, Shih Tzus are usually zen masters. Some will nap the whole trip; others like to perch and watch the world roll by before dozing off anyway. Either way, they’re not the type to fuss for hours on the road.
PetMD suggests that training a Shih Tzu is a mix of comedy and patience. They respond best to short, sweet sessions with lots of rewards. Tip: introduce them early to a comfy travel crate — it becomes their little moving palace. Bonus: fewer hairy surprises on your seats.
Owners Insight
Must-know: Brachycephalic — monitor breathing. Avoid extreme heat. Brush before long rides.
Supply: Pet health records.
Worry: Heavy panting, gagging, or eye discharge.
Comfort: Small fan near crate.
4. Saint Bernard
Saint Bernards may look like mountain rescue heroes, but honestly, they’re giant cuddle machines who love their sleep. As puppies, they burn energy quickly and nap like oversized toddlers; as adults, they’re professional loungers, clocking 12+ hours a day.
On a car ride, don’t expect drama — these gentle giants often stretch out, sigh loudly, and snooze through traffic like they’re on vacation. The only issue? They’re massive, so make sure your backseat can handle their “sprawl mode.”
Hills Pet adds that training a Saint Bernard is usually straightforward since they’re eager to please, but consistency is key with a dog this size. Tip: keep a blanket or mat in the car so your seats aren’t covered in fur… or drool. Mostly drool.
Owners Insight
Must-know: Prone to joint stress. Avoid overfeeding before travel. Regular vet checks for large breeds.
Supply: Ramp for SUV entry.
Worry: Sudden limping or swelling of joints.
Comfort: Orthopedic dog mat.
5. Dachshund
Dachshunds may look like sausages on legs, but don’t let the cuteness fool you — they’re both stubborn and sleepy in equal measure. As pups, they’re bursts of chaos followed by epic naps. Adults still snooze plenty, often curling up under blankets like it’s a survival skill.
On car rides, a Dachshund can be a surprisingly good nap buddy. They’ll usually burrow into a blanket or carrier and pass out, only waking up if they sense snacks or adventure.
Training, though? That’s where the comedy begins. Dachshunds are smart but bossy — they think rules are optional. Keep lessons short and packed with treats. Pro tip: secure their car crate, or they’ll “hotdog” their way into the front seat mid-nap.
Owners Insight
Must-know: Spinal risk — no jumping. Always support the belly when lifted. Short-legged legs tire easily.
Supply: Crate with headroom.
Worry: Yelping, tail dragging, or refusal to walk.
Comfort: Low platform step and padded crate.
6. Pekingese
The Pekingese takes a royal attitude to a whole new level. These little fluff monarchs enjoy sleeping in long, dramatic stretches, especially once they’re past puppyhood. Expect a minimum of 12–14 hours of shut-eye daily, with bonus naps for good measure.
In the car, Pekingese are usually mellow travelers. They’ll plop down, look unimpressed with your driving, and eventually snooze like they own the backseat. Their small size makes them easy travel companions — less fuss, more fluff.
Training? Let’s just say you’re negotiating with royalty. They’re smart but can be stubborn, so positive reinforcement is your only hope. Tip: pack their favorite blanket or pillow for the ride. A Pekingese with a “throne” will nap anywhere, anytime.
Owners Insight
Must-know: Eyes are vulnerable to injury. Flat face = breathing care. Limit direct sun exposure.
Supply: Protective crate cover.
Worry: Eye swelling, wheezing, or heatstroke.
Comfort: Cooling pad under crate.
7. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Cavaliers are basically velcro dogs with a side hustle as professional nappers. Puppies are playful shadows that follow you everywhere, then flop into long naps. Adults snooze 12+ hours a day, especially if they’ve had a good walk or play session.
In the car, Cavaliers are dream travel buddies. They’ll curl up in their seat, stare at you adoringly for a few minutes, and then drift off like lullabies were built into their DNA.
Training is a breeze since they’re people-pleasers with a love of treats. Tip: bring a soft bed for the car — they’ll nap faster and you’ll avoid drool stains on the upholstery. Win-win.
Owners Insight
Must-know: Prone to heart conditions. Ears need regular cleaning. Moderate exercise is best.
Supply: Ear wipes.
Worry: Coughing or breathing difficulty.
Comfort: Quiet rest area with soft headrest.
8. Mastiff
Mastiffs may be massive, but they’ve got the energy level of a retired grandpa. Puppies go through clumsy play-burst phases, but by adulthood, they’re serious about their 14+ hours of beauty sleep.
On car rides, Mastiffs tend to snooze the entire trip, occasionally waking up to drool or shift into “take-up-all-the-space” mode. A road trip with a Mastiff is basically hauling a furry recliner in the backseat.
Training is essential — they’re gentle giants but need early boundaries because of their size. Tip: secure a roomy spot in the car and keep water handy. A hydrated, comfy Mastiff = a snoring, peaceful passenger.
Owners Insight
Must-know: Monitor weight carefully. Start socialization early. Keep the environment cool.
Supply: Heavy-duty harness.
Worry: Joint collapse or heat sensitivity.
Comfort: Foam bed base with ventilation.
9. Greyhound
Despite their racetrack reputation, Greyhounds are Olympic-level couch potatoes. Puppies zoom around like rockets, but adults? Expect 16–18 hours of glorious naps daily. Yes, really.
In the car, Greyhounds are impressively chill. They’ll either sprawl elegantly across the seat or curl up like they’re auditioning for a “best nap pose” contest. Road noise doesn’t bother them — they’re too busy dreaming.
Training Greyhounds requires patience since they can be independent thinkers, but they respond well to gentle, reward-based methods. Tip: invest in a soft car blanket or bed. They love their comfort, and a cozy Greyhound is guaranteed to snooze the whole ride.
Owners Insight
Must-know: Very sensitive skin. Avoid sudden stops in the vehicle. Train at a gentle pace.
Supply: Thin travel pad.
Worry: Muscle tremors or imbalance.
Comfort: Soft blanket to cover crate rails.
FAQs
Does age or size affect a dog’s ability to snooze on the road?
Yes — puppies in their first year need more sleep, while older dogs may tire faster. Size and overall health also play a role, as bigger breeds often nap longer. For example, a Mastiff may snooze through the trip while a small, active pup stays alert.
Why do some dogs snooze effortlessly while traveling?
Some dogs simply adapt better to the rhythm of the road. A calm head, a secure spot in the SUV, and low stress make snoozing easier. If she’s anxious or excited, force-free training and helpful routines can smooth the ride.
Which dogs are naturally built to snooze through long drives?
Breeds with lower energy and mellow temperaments are more likely to nap. They stick to relaxed lifestyles indoors and on the road, making them cute and easy passengers. Still, always watch for rough signs of stress to avoid any health risk.
Conclusion
Road trips with dogs can be as funny and unpredictable as traveling with kids or cats. While our nine sleepy breeds handle a moving vehicle with ease, even a Shiba Inu might need planning to avoid car sickness.
Keep your pet safe with a harness in the back seat, feed light meals, and check with a veterinarian if you spot signs of stress. Simple steps like grooming, keeping windows managed, and watching weight changes make life smoother for pets and humans alike.
In the end, travel should be fun, safe, and full of care. Stay alert, adapt to short trips or long ones, and enjoy every happy mile with your family.
👉 Want smoother adventures with your dog? Share this guide and help other pet lovers hit the road prepared!
