22 Best Dog Breeds For Truck Drivers (With Pictures)

Driving across the country tends to get lonely when you have nobody tagging along with you. Some companies allow truck drivers to take their dogs with them on the road. While the idea of taking your dog with you on the road may sound great, not all dogs are suited for the truck driver lifestyle.

Listed below are dog breeds that are suitable for the truck driver lifestyle of being on the road.

List Of 22 Best Dog Breeds For Truck Drivers

1. Pug

cute pug

Pugs make the best traveling buddies. Their small size allows them to take up less space and are low-maintenance dogs that do not require much exercise. 

Allowing them to walk or run around at every stop is enough physical activity to keep them fit.

2. Chihuahua

Chihuahua

This is a popular breed among those who love having their dog close to them. Chihuahua’s are often soft-tempered and get along well with people. 

Their size makes them well suited to live in small areas, so creating space will not be an issue.  

3. Labrador Retriever

Labrador Retriever

Loyal Labradors will make the perfect companion for drivers who do not want to feel alone. 

They are known to be loving and protective of their owners; they are also easily trained; thus, you will not have to spend time reprimanding them while on the road.

4. Golden Retriever

golden retriever in grass

This friendly dog breed makes great companions for drivers on the road. 

They are loyal breeds that bond instantly to their human friends, so they will always be by your side. They love to exercise and can act as a hunting buddy.

5. Miniature Pinscher

Miniature Pinscher

Also known as the Zwerg Pinscher, the Miniature Pinscher is an assertive and outgoing dog. They are incredibly friendly towards their owners and tend to be friendly towards other pets and strangers after becoming familiar with them.

The Miniature Pinscher’s attentive nature is ideal for truck drivers because they will alert you of anything that seems suspicious, so you can rest assured that you would be safe with them around.

6. Miniature Schnauzer

Miniature Schnauzer

The Miniature Schnauzer is of German origins and is amongst the most intelligent breeds in the world. They are easy to train and tend to pick up on new commands. 

Although the Miniature Schnauzer is even-tempered mainly, they can be pretty spunky and vocal at times. They are drawn to chasing any rodents and tend to wander off now and then, so you should keep an eye on them during your stops.

7. Bulldog

bull dog

Bulldogs are among the best medium-sized dog breeds that can give you great companionship. Bulldogs are one of the great choices on the road; being friendly and gregarious are one of the temperaments of Bulldogs.

8. Boxer

Boxer

Boxers are loyal companions that are well suited for the lifestyle of a trucker. They love nothing more than being next to their human friend, making them an excellent pick for those long drives. Boxers are medium-sized dogs that don’t take too much space to fit comfortably on the seat.

9. Older Dogs

older dogs

Older dogs of any breed generally make good companions for truckers on the road. They are housebroken and require less exercise than their younger counterparts, so a good walk around is sufficient physical activity when you stop. 

They will spend most of their time sleeping as you drive and not bother you too much.

10. Miniature Poodle

Miniature Poodle

Poodles will make the best road companion for drivers. Their small size allows them to live in small areas, and the best thing is that they do not usually shed a lot, so your chairs will be spared. 

They have separation anxiety, so be prepared to be followed everywhere you go.

11. Yorkshire Terrier

Yorkshire Terrier

This is the smallest of the terrier family and makes great travel companions for truck drivers.  They have an obedient nature with a strong personality and do not mind being left alone for long periods. The bonus is that their coat is low maintenance, so they will not shed and mess up your seat.

12. Boston Terrier

Boston Terrier

This breed is considered as being a delightful travel companion for truck drivers.

They can comfortably fit under any cabin or seat next to you while in a carrier. Give them lots of toys to chew on to keep them occupied, so they do not get nervous.

13. Poodles

poodle

Poodles are elegant and generally calm dogs. They are affectionate dogs who appreciate being cuddled. They are also highly obedient, which makes it easy to train them.

Their affectionate and attention-seeking nature makes them ideal for the road. They do not mind spending long hours confined to a small space, just as long as they are with their family.

14. Pitbull

Pit Bull

Pitbulls are physically just as muscular as they are mentally strong. Despite common belief, Pitbulls are not the crude breed that society has made them out to be.

Pitbulls are friendly dogs who make it their mission to please their owners. You would be surprised by how easily this misunderstood dog can become your best friend.

15. Shih Tzu

Shih Tzu

Shih Tzu is easily recognizable based on its silky and glamorous fur coats. Although they are playful and lively, the Shih Tzu can be even-tempered lapdogs.

The Shih Tzu does not require much more than a brief daily walk regarding their exercise requirements. 

16. German Shepherd

German Shepherd

Known as a Jack of all trades, the German Shepherd is a highly versatile and devoted breed. They can excel at anything they are trained to do, making excellent companions. 

German Shepherds tend to shed a lot which can be bothersome to clean out of a truck. However, if you can get past the shedding, you could have a loyal and adventurous companion for all your journeys. 

17. Miniature Doberman

Miniature Doberman

These small yet confident dogs are known for their dynamite personalities. Although they are friendly and relatively calm at times, Miniature Dobermans can be rather vocal. They also tend to wander off now and then, and therefore you should keep a close eye on them during your stops.

18. Rottweiler

Rottweiler

As one of the most popular breeds in the United States, the Rottweiler is a highly social dog who tends to form deep bonds with their families.

This characteristic, paired with their protective nature, makes them ideal for truck drivers.

19. Doberman

Doberman Pinscher

Doberman is of German origins, where they commonly performed watchdog and military duties. The Doberman is an adventurous and loyal companion. They are curious and would love the opportunity to accompany you on truck drives and see new places.

20. Border Collie

Border Collie

Despite being an absolute sports prodigy, the Border Collie can have a calm personality. They are loyal and excellent companions to have on the road. 

Border Collies are intelligent and responsive. Not only will they keep you company, but you would feel significantly safer with a Border Collie at your side.

21. Dachshund

Dachshund

If you are a novice dog owner, then the Dachshund would be the ideal breed for you. They are friendly and well-behaved, and they thrive when paired with loving owners. 

Their easy-going attitude is ideal for long car rides. But they do tend to bark quite a lot.

22. Pomeranians

pomeranian

The Pomeranian is a toy breed between 7 to 12 inches tall and weighs between 3 to 7 pounds. Their small size makes them ideal for truck drivers because they do not take too much space.

Pomeranians are active dogs that require daily exercise, and a quick walk or playtime would be sufficient to satisfy their need for physical activity.

Trucking With A Dog Tips

Free Up Some Space

You should ensure that there is enough space for your dog to sit in your truck and move around comfortably. Your dog should be able to stretch their limbs throughout the ride to ensure that they do not grow frustrated.

Bring A Dog Carrier And Leash

This is more applicable if you have a small dog who can fit and be carried in a dog carrier. This will ensure that your dog is kept safe and does not wander off while you are doing your deliveries or in an area that does not allow pets.

If your dog tends to wander off, a leash would be ideal to ensure that you are not running after your dog during your stops. Certain areas are not safe for dogs; a leash will ensure that your dog remains near you and does not find itself in unwanted trouble.

Bring Feces Bags And Supplies To Clean

Even though you are traveling, it does not excuse you from cleaning up after your dog after they have relieved themselves. Feces bags are an absolute necessity to ensure that you can clean up after your dog.

Dogs shed and tend to be a bit messy at times. Ensure that you bring cleaning supplies to clean your truck so that you do not have fur everywhere and end up with a messy truck.

Ensure That You Have Toys And Blankets

Unlike you, the radio is not sufficient entertainment for your dog. You should pack some toys to entertain your dog while driving or to play with during your stops. Your dog might get cold, so a blanket is necessary to keep them warm.

Benefits Of Trucking With Your Dog

Company

Driving across the country can get quite lonely, and having a companion makes the journey a whole lot less lonely and more enjoyable. Trucker dogs are generally loyal and adapt to your routine to ensure that they are present along the way.

Safety

Trucker dogs provide a sense of safety, especially since most dogs are naturally alert and vigilant. You would be able to entirely focus on the road because your trucker dog will have your back.

Stress Relief

Traveling with your dog will feel like traveling with a close friend. Petting your dog and having conversations with them along the way will help to relieve you of any stress that you are experiencing. Stopping along the way for your dog to relieve themselves or to stretch their legs also allows you to clear your head and have a break along the way.

FAQ

Can You Have A Dog As A Truck Driver?

Yes, many truck drivers now take their dogs with them on the road to make the trip feel less lonely. 

Are Pitbulls Good Truck Dogs?

Pitbulls make great truck dogs because of their small size, allowing them to take up less space. Not to mention that Pitbulls have an intimidating presence that will scare off unwelcome visitors.

What Percentage Of Truck Drivers Have Dogs?

Approximately 60% of truck drivers in the U.S. have dogs, and another 40% of them take their dogs along with them.

Why Do Truck Drivers Have Dogs?

There are various reasons why some truck drivers have dogs. One of them is that they want to feel less lonely on the road, and the other could be that they want a companion that will protect them if danger comes.

Do Truck Drivers Keep Pets?

Yes, many drivers now keep pets. Pets are a great way to make the trip feel less long or tedious because their furry friend entertains them.

Conclusion

Being on the road for long hours does not have to be lonely. You can build a bond with your dog and end up with a lifelong companion. However, you should ensure that your dog is suited for long-distance truck rides to ensure that you both enjoy the journey.

Ensure to do the research for the best dog breeds for truck drivers so that it best suits your lifestyle.

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