There’s something magical about sharing the open road with your canine companion. The soft hum of the engine, the scenery blurring past, and your dog peacefully curled up in the backseat can make every trip feel special.
But not all pups are natural travelers—while some dogs grow restless or anxious during long drives, others remain composed, content, and calm no matter how many miles pass beneath the tires.
Choosing the right travel companion can transform your journeys from stressful to serene. Certain breeds are naturally more relaxed, adaptable, and patient, making them ideal for road trips and long car rides.
These dogs often enjoy the gentle motion of a car and are less likely to experience travel-related anxiety, turning every journey into a peaceful adventure rather than a chaotic challenge.
If you’re planning a cross-country escapade or frequent weekend getaways, selecting a breed known for staying calm in transit is key. The following breeds are not only loving companions but also perfectly suited for life on the move—ensuring your time on the road is as enjoyable as your destination.
Dog Breeds That Stay Calm During Long Car Rides
1. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, often called simply the “Cavalier,” is a toy breed admired for its elegant appearance, soulful eyes, and silky, feathered ears.
AKC says the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel reflects its British heritage in its breed name. Originally cherished by British royalty, these dogs were bred as affectionate lap companions, and their charming personalities reflect that noble heritage.
Their naturally calm temperament makes them ideal travel partners, especially during long car rides. Cavaliers are known to adapt quickly to new environments, remaining relaxed even in the hustle and bustle of road trips.
They’re less likely to become anxious on motion or noise, which keeps them composed in the backseat. Because they thrive on companionship, Cavaliers often find comfort simply being close to their owners during journeys.
Their gentle nature means they rarely fuss or bark in the car, creating a serene atmosphere for everyone on board. They usually curl up quietly and nap once the car gets moving.
These dogs balance their affectionate energy with quiet composure, making road travel easy and stress-free.
2. Labrador Retriever
The Labrador Retriever is often called the Lab. They are one of the most popular dog breeds, according to WebMD.
Known for their gentle expressions, athletic build, and cheerful personalities, they have long been favored as companions for families and travelers alike. Their even-tempered nature and eagerness to please make them naturally suited for shared adventures.
When it comes to long car rides, Labs shine because of their calm yet social temperament. They handle changes in scenery and routine with ease, making them stress-free travel companions. Their outgoing spirit ensures they remain relaxed while still enjoying the novelty of each stop along the journey.
Labradors are also incredibly adaptable, which helps them stay composed during lengthy trips. They enjoy car rides as much as the destinations, provided they get occasional breaks to stretch and move around. This adaptability keeps them content in the back seat for hours.
Another reason they thrive on long journeys is their boundless friendliness. Labs are quick to make friends at rest stops, dog parks, or roadside attractions, which adds to the joy of traveling with them.
3. Golden Retriever
The Golden Retriever, often called the “Goldie,” is a friendly, intelligent breed recognized for its flowing golden coat and expressive dark eyes. PetMD says that they have a broad head, short ears, a deep chest, and a muscular build.
Known for their eagerness to please, they blend warmth and adaptability, making them a cherished family companion and a steady traveler.
Golden Retrievers are naturally calm passengers, which helps them settle during long car rides. Their relaxed nature minimizes stress and motion-related anxiety, allowing them to remain composed even on unfamiliar routes.
They thrive on companionship, so being close to their family during trips gives them a reassuring sense of security. This emotional stability often makes them eager participants on journeys, turning car rides into shared bonding experiences.
Goldens also adjust quickly to new surroundings, which is ideal for families who travel often. Their patience and gentle disposition make them suited for exploring new places without restlessness or fear.
4. French Bulldog
The French Bulldog, often affectionately called the “Frenchie,” is a compact and muscular companion breed celebrated for its charming bat-like ears and expressive face. Their playful yet mellow personality makes them one of the most adaptable small dogs, especially during travel.
Their calm nature is perfect for families who spend long hours on the road. Unlike more energetic breeds, Frenchies tend to settle quickly into a relaxed state, making car rides peaceful and low-stress for everyone.
Because they thrive on human companionship, French Bulldogs see car rides as opportunities to stay close to their favorite people. They’re rarely anxious as long as they feel secure and can stay near their owners throughout the trip.
Their small size also works to their advantage—Frenchies fit easily into travel crates or car seats, which helps keep them safe and comfortable while on the move.
French Bulldogs are brachycephalic, meaning their short snouts can make them prone to overheating, so breaks and proper ventilation are key on long journeys
5. Clumber Spaniel
The Clumber Spaniel, often nicknamed the “gentleman of spaniels,” is a dignified and mellow breed that has long been favored as a hunting companion of royalty.
Recognizable by its heavy build, soft white coat with lemon or orange markings, and soulful amber eyes, this Spaniel brings an air of calm wherever it goes.
What sets the Clumber Spaniel apart on long car rides is its naturally laid-back personality. Rather than pacing or fussing, it tends to settle quickly, happily lounging as the miles roll by. Their calm energy helps prevent travel anxiety, making them a soothing presence in the car.
To keep them relaxed during road trips, give them ample space to stretch out and a cushioned mat for extra comfort. While they don’t require intense exercise, stopping occasionally for a short walk lets them stretch and explore, which keeps them content.
Positive reinforcement also works wonders with this breed—pack a few favorite treats or toys to create happy associations with car rides.
6. Maltese
The Maltese, also fondly called “Ye Ancient Dogge of Malta,” is a toy breed admired for its long, flowing white coat and expressive dark eyes. Known for their affectionate nature, these dogs form strong bonds with their owners and thrive as loyal companions on any journey.
During long car rides, Maltese dogs tend to stay calm due to their easygoing personalities and small size, which allows them to rest comfortably in confined spaces. They often settle quietly on a blanket or soft travel cushion, showing little sign of stress even during lengthy trips.
Their adaptable temperament makes them resilient travelers, provided they get brief breaks to stretch and explore. Unlike larger, more energetic breeds, Malteses rarely become restless or anxious on the road, making them ideal for stress-free drives.
A fun fact about the Maltese is that despite their dainty appearance, they have a history as favored lapdogs among European nobility, celebrated for their elegance and gentle nature.
7. Newfoundland
The Newfoundland, often called the “Newfie,” is a massive working dog famous for its thick water-resistant coat, gentle eyes, and webbed feet. Known as natural lifeguards, these dogs were originally bred to assist fishermen in icy waters, combining strength with a calm and nurturing temperament.
Their serene disposition makes them exceptional passengers on long journeys. Newfoundlands are content to stretch out and relax, turning even the longest car ride into a soothing experience. They rarely fuss or fidget, which keeps travel stress to a minimum for everyone on board.
Their adaptability to new surroundings is another reason they thrive during road trips. Whether it’s bustling cities or quiet countryside stops, Newfies handle changing environments with patient curiosity, never appearing rattled by unfamiliar sights or sounds.
Families especially appreciate their mellow nature on the road. Newfoundlands often nap through most of the trip, then perk up happily when it’s time to explore, making them both low-maintenance and engaging travel companions.
Conclusion
Long car rides can be a joy when you have the right canine companion by your side. While not all dogs are suited for hours on the road, some breeds naturally love car rides and settle into travel routines with ease.
These calm, adaptable dogs make great companions for pet parents who frequently embark on long trips or outdoor adventures.
From relaxed Basset Hounds that often fall asleep as the miles roll by to energetic yet focused breeds like the Border Collie or Australian Shepherd, choosing wisely ensures comfort for both you and your pup.
Remember, even the best dogs for travel need gradual acclimation and patience to enjoy the journey. While breeds like Miniature Poodles, Yorkshire Terriers, and even certain hunting dogs can become road-ready.
It’s important to note that most dogs thrive when their needs are met consistently throughout their entire life. With the right preparation, your four-legged friend can join you happily on countless outdoor activities and scenic drives.
