There’s nothing quite like the pure joy of a dog during car rides—ears flapping, nose twitching, and eyes full of excitement. Interestingly, if your dog has been to a specific place before, they may recognize familiar sights from the seat as they look out the window, and even pick up on scent cues as they get closer.
That’s why many pups start wagging their tails the moment they realize they’re near home or heading to one of their favorite spots.
While most dogs will need a journey in a car at some point—whether it’s a quick trip to the vet or a longer road trip—not all dogs love the experience. Some feel stress or discomfort, which is why choosing the right companion for travel is important.
In this guide, we’ll share the top travel companions—your perfect co-pilots for unforgettable adventures!
Dog Breeds That Love Car Rides
1. Labrador Retriever
The Labrador Retriever is easily one of the best dogs for any adventure, and it’s no surprise that they’re among the most popular dog breeds in the world. Friendly, outgoing, and always eager to please, Labs are the kind of canine companion that will hop into the car without hesitation, ready for a fun ride.
Their sweet nature and easy-going personality make them ideal travel companions, whether you’re planning a quick trip to the park or an extended road trip with plenty of stops along the way.
Because Labradors are a high-energy breed, they thrive on stimulation and need frequent exercise, even during long car rides. That means plenty of rest stops for walks, playtime, and maybe even a game of fetch to keep them happy and calm.
Despite their medium-to-large size, these lovable pups manage to fit comfortably in most vehicles and are relaxed enough to handle longer drives without stress.
2. French Bulldog
The French Bulldog is one of the most charming and easy-going companions you could ask for on a road trip. Small but sturdy, this little dog with its signature bat-like ears and sweet expression loves nothing more than being by your side—whether you’re relaxing at home or heading out for car rides.
Britannica states that they are part of the brachycephalic (short-nosed) breed, so careful planning is needed for journeys, especially in hot or humid climates, as they can easily overheat. They’re happiest in a well-ventilated vehicle where they can relax in the back seat or even the passenger seat.
Despite their little bodies, French Bulldogs are packed with personality—they’re playful, affectionate, and love being the center of attention. They’re also incredibly loyal, making them great companions for both solo travelers and families with kids.
3. Maltese
The Maltese may be tiny, but this little dog has a big personality and an even bigger heart, making them one of the best dogs for car rides and short trips. Known for their luxurious, silky white coat and sweet, expressive eyes, Malteses are adaptable and surprisingly fearless for their size.
Their little bodies weigh under seven pounds, so they’re easy to lift in and out of the car, and they can fit comfortably even in minimal space, making them perfect for both city drives and longer trips on the open road.
Despite their elegant appearance, Maltese are alert and spirited, often acting like a tiny watchdog who loves to stay close to their owners.
They’re easy-going, intelligent, and respond well to positive training, making them a great companion for travel. Plus, since they’re low-shedding, you won’t have to worry too much about extra cleanup in the vehicle.
4. Chihuahua
The Chihuahua may be one of the smallest dog breeds, but their big personality makes them an unforgettable travel companion. Known as the national symbol of Mexico, these tiny yet confident pups are ideal breeds for short trips and even longer drives.
Weighing no more than six pounds, they’re incredibly easy to carry, and their little bodies take up hardly any space in the vehicle—perfect for minimal space situations.
Since they don’t require much exercise, you’ll probably need to stretch your legs before your Chihuahua does!
Their spirited and sometimes sassy nature makes them fun, eager little co-pilots who bring plenty of charm to any journey. Just remember, even the smallest dogs love feeling safe and cozy, so a soft carrier or blanket in the back seat can help keep them calm during trips.
5. Clumber Spaniel
The Clumber Spaniel is a dignified yet mellow furry friend, famously known as a hunting companion of kings. AKC states that they are the largest of the AKC flushing spaniels, and are built long and low with heavy bone, a massive head, and a dense coat that’s primarily white with light lemon or orange markings.
These sweet and easygoing dogs are gentle at home, but outdoors can be relentless on scent. Smart and eager to please, Clumbers are easily trained, making them adaptable even when meeting other travellers or exploring new environments.
While they can be a bit wary around strangers, they bark only when necessary, so they’re not the best watchdogs. Because of their calm temperament, Clumbers can handle extended periods of relaxation and make ideal companions for a long journey.
6. Shih Tzu
That face! Those big, dark eyes looking up with such a sweet expression make the Shih Tzu truly irresistible. Known for their long history as royal lapdogs, these little charmers thrive on close companionship with their favorite humans and are especially affectionate with children.
Shih Tzus are highly trainable, making it easier to introduce them to new experiences, like car travel. Since some dogs can feel uneasy or even motion sick in vehicles, it’s best to get them used to the car at an early age as part of their socialization.
Allowing your Shih Tzu to face forward or giving them a good view out the window can help reduce anxiety and make rides more comfortable. Their calm and affectionate demeanor makes them pleasant companions for road trips, and they’re unlikely to disturb other travelers along the way.
7. Havanese
The Havanese is a lively, affectionate, and intelligent breed with a fascinating history. PetMD says that these pups were originally called the Havana Silk Dog or Spanish Silk Poodle; their ancestors were brought from Spain to Cuba in the 1600s. During the Cuban Revolution in the 1950s, many families fleeing to the US brought their beloved Havanese with them, ensuring the breed’s survival beyond its homeland.
Cheerful and adaptable, the Havanese loves being with their people and thrives as a devoted family companion. They’re also intelligent and eager to please, which makes them easy to introduce to new experiences like car rides.
Conclusion
Hitting the road with a four-legged friend can turn any ordinary drive into a joyful adventure. From the excitement of seeing new places to simply enjoying the breeze through the window, traveling together creates unforgettable moments. With the right preparation, patience, and care, car rides can become a stress-free and enjoyable experience for both you and your furry passenger.
Apart from the breeds mentioned above, there are other dogs as well that love car rides. These include the Brussels Griffon, Golden Retriever, Great Dane, Standard Poodle, Yorkshire Terrier, Boston Terrier, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, German Shorthaired Pointer, and Border Collie.
Whether it’s a quick trip around town or an extended road journey, sharing the ride builds a special bond and makes the journey just as rewarding as the destination. With love, attention, and a little planning, your loyal companion will always be ready to hop in and join you for the next adventure.
