Benefits Of Dogs In Semi-Trucks

Dogs in semi-trucks can be a great companion for you during long drives. Music, podcasts, and blogs about semi-trucks can only help pass time on the road for so long.

If you’re feeling lonely and isolated from being on the road so much, a dog in your cab could be the solution for you.

It’s important to note that having a pet in the cab can be distracting and may even be illegal in some states. Be sure to read up on your state’s regulations for trucking with a dog.

Some trucking companies have a rule against having a dog on the road with you, while others may charge a pet deposit so be sure to have your pets vaccination records readily available. 

Check with your trucking company to make sure getting a cab pet is a good idea.

Benefits of truck driving with a pet

Cab pets are known for reducing stress and anxiety in truck drivers, they can be a great way to combat the long periods of time you’re driving.

Improved mood

Research proves having a pet of any kind can brighten your mood and even increase serotonin levels in your brain.

A 2009 Japanese study found that simply looking at your dog’s eyes can boost your oxytocin levels, which is known as the love hormone.

Improved heart health

A collection of research studies found that owning and taking care of a dog can reduce hypertension as well as improve your stress symptoms.

The same study found that a bond between a human and a dog can reduce stress, resulting in a significant decline in cardiovascular problems. 

Improved mobility

Dog owners spend nearly 300 minutes every week walking with their dogs. That’s 200 more minutes walking than people without a pup of their own. 

A UK study proved that dog owners are four times more likely to meet their daily physical activity requirements when compared to their non-dog owning counterparts.

To summarize, dogs do a lot in terms of improving your overall health and wellness, but what are some ways you can make sure your pet is being taken care of?

Tips for Truck Driving With a Pet

Driving with a furry companion can present a handful of different challenges that need to be well avoided. Here are some tips you can use to ensure your four-legged friend is well taken care of.

Never leave your dog in a hot car

The summer time can be an especially busy time for truck drivers so it makes sense that with those long hours you would want a companion.

It’s important you never leave your dog in the truck, not just during the summer, but year-round.

In over 30 states you could face criminal charges for leaving your dog inside your semi-truck unattended.

Put a tracker on your pet

Trackers can be a lifesaving device for your furry friends. Some animal tracking devices can guide you to as close as a few inches away from the tracker. 

A lesser alternative is a collar with a name tag and your phone number. This can be helpful should your dog ever run away from you.

Schedule regular vet visits

Regularly taking your pet to the vet is as important as your own annual check-ups. Preventative care is much cheaper than treatment care. 

Some veterinary clinics also offer pet insurance, typically paid monthly, which can reduce the cost of both preventative and treatment care.

Consider your pets needs

Like people, animals have stuff too. They need things like toys, food, beds, and even medication in some cases.

Making yourself a full checklist of the things you need prior to getting a pet is great preparation. 

Always make sure to have food and water stocked up, you never know how long between pet stores you could be.

Different dog breeds have different needs. So, which dog breeds are the best for semi-trucks?

Best Dog Breeds for Semi-Truck Drivers

Before you start pet proofing your truck, let’s discuss the best dog breeds to keep you company in your cab. 

In no particular order, the best dogs to have with you in a semi-truck are Labrador Retriever, Chihuahua, Beagle, and Miniature Poodle.

Labrador Retriever

Labs are known for being affectionate, smart, kind, and most importantly, easy to train. Labrador’s are typically left off of lists like this but due to their ability to be trained quickly they could be a good fit for you.

Labrador Retrievers have been known to have a chewing habit, but this can be solved with training. 

In addition to chewing, labs are energetic and hyper. They love to run and be active, so it’s important that you spend some time at each rest stop having some pet safe fun.

It would also be beneficial to have a few mentally stimulating toys for your pup in your cab.

Labs are a large breed of dog, so it is recommended that they are sleeper cab pets and not your typical box truck cab. 

Getting an older pet is also a great option. Senior animals tend to need less exercise, and have significantly less energy so they are more than happy to sleep during those extra long drives.

Chihuahua

Chihuahua’s are very popular pets for their tiny stature. They’re very loyal but they do have a tendency to bark at strangers, children, and other animals.

While Chihuahuas are tempermental, they make very good travel companions, so if you’re looking for a tiny lap dog with a big personality, a chihuahua might be the dog for you.

Beagle

Beagles are curious, small, and laid back dogs who crave companionship. The more time they can spend with you, the happier they are, so long trips on the road should not be a problem for them.

Beagles are scent-curious dogs, which means they will follow the trail of a scent should it intrigue them. This can result in them running away should they find a scent they like, so be sure to get your furry friend microchipped.

Another thing to consider with beagles is they require a lot of exercise and can become disruptive without it. So be sure to bring extra toys for you and your dog to play with at the next truck stop. 

Miniature Poodle

Miniature poodles are great companions for anyone with an allergy to dander. Miniature poodles are very smart, playful, loving, and tiny.

While miniature poodles aren’t quite as small as toy poodles and not quite as big as your standard poodle. This makes them the perfect travel companion.

Miniature poodles are very easy to train as they respond well to positive reinforcement and praise. Due to their high energy, it’s important to have scheduled play time to ensure their needs are being met too.

Poodles also suffer from separation anxiety, which should not be an issue if they are in the truck with you.

Conclusion

Traveling with pets in semi-trucks can provide companionship and reduce stress during long hauls. Should you bring your furry friend on the road with you, it’s important to make sure your pet is comfortable and safe during the ride.

Additionally, you should be aware of any state laws or company policies regarding pets in the cab or sleeper cab.

ABOUT TOPMARK FUNDING

TopMark Funding is a top-rated semi-truck financing and trailer financing company located in Roseville, CA. We specialize in commercial trucking and heavy equipment. Our mission is to become your long-term financial partner by helping you grow your trucking business and fleet.

We’re not here for the short-term, we’re on the long-haul with you!

We have financing options for trailers, semi-trucks, commercial trucks, and small businesses. We have great rates, low down payments, and flexible monthly payments regardless of credit history.

Learn more about Trailer Financing.

Fill out the contact form or give us a call at (866) 627-6644. One of our truck financing specialists will contact you as soon as possible to go over your truck lease needs and learn more about you and your business financing goals.