Is It Safe For Dogs to Ride in The Back of Pick-Up Trucks?

If you’re a pet parent, you’ve probably asked yourself this question at least once: is it safe for dogs to ride in the back of pickup trucks?

Whether your furry friend enjoys the wind in their fur or is just along for the journey, you want to make sure they are safe and comfortable during your travels.

So before you hit the road with Fido by your side, let’s take a look at what you need to know about dogs riding in pickup trucks.

Is it safe for dogs to ride in the back of pick-up trucks?

The short answer is no. While it may seem like a safe and convenient way to travel with your pet, the truth is that the back of a pickup truck is not an ideal spot for your pup. Here are 10 reasons why:

1. Lack of Protection:

Riding in the back of a pickup truck leaves dogs exposed to debris, dust, and other environmental hazards. These can cause them significant harm.

Unprotected by sides or a windshield, items such as rocks, sticks, or branches can be thrown at them with force. Also, being unprotected makes it easier for other animals to attack your pet.

2. High Risk of Injury:

Dogs may jump off the back of the truck if they become frightened or overexcited. It can generally happen when passing another vehicle or an object on the road such as a signboard.

They could also be knocked off if you make sudden turns or swerves.

Even if your dog is secured with a leash, it still won’t protect him from injuries that can happen if he’s thrown out of the truck.

3. Overheating:

Since the dog would be outside the car, the harsh sun rays will hit more.

Being exposed to direct sunlight for an extended period can cause severe heat exhaustion or even heat stroke in dogs, especially those with shorter coats and smaller breeds.

4. Hypothermia:

A sudden weather change could put your pet at risk for hypothermia if they haven’t been provided with adequate protection from wind chill or rain.

5. Poisonous Substances:

The air contains many pollutants, pesticides, and other such harmful materials. These might be more in quantity if you are traveling around a farm or in a busy city.

6. Lung Ailments:

Being exposed to exhaust fumes in the back of a truck can cause breathing problems for dogs or worsen existing lung conditions like bronchitis and asthma.

Constant inhalation of vehicle smoke could also lead to more severe respiratory illnesses over time.

7. Anxiety:

Dogs have sensitive hearing and may become frightened by loud noises they encounter while riding in the back of a pickup truck, such as cars honking or sirens blaring.

This could lead to anxiety in your pet and can affect their behavior when returning home.

8. Distraction:

Even the best-behaved dog can be a distraction while driving, especially if they’re unable to remain still or become overly excited.

You might have to keep an ee on your dog which may result in serious consequences and might get you into road accidents.

9. Illegal Activity:

Depending on where you live, it may be illegal to transport animals in the back of pickup trucks without proper safety restraints and/or cages.

Breaking these laws may result in fines or other legal penalties.

10. Lack of Comfort:

Riding in the back of a pick up truck isn’t comfortable for your pet. There’s usually no padding to cushion the hard surface, and dogs will be bouncing around as you drive over bumps or uneven roads.

It can also be difficult to keep them from sliding off in turns, meaning they likely won’t get much sleep during the trip.

Alternatives to safely ride along with a dog

Even if you have a tonneau cover or tailgate netting, there’s still always potential for your dog to jump outor even suffer from heat exhaustion due to exposure when in the back of a pick up truck.

We recommend checking out some of these alternatives which offer more safety and security for both you and your furry friend while riding together:

1. A Doggie Seatbelt:

Just as we use seatbelts in cars, dogs can do the same! Most pet stores sell special seat belts that connect to their collars, allowing them to sit or lay in the seat without distracting you from driving.

2. Dog Ramps or Steps:

If you have an SUV or other large vehicle that allows access through the back doors, a dog ramp or step is perfect for small breeds (or even older pups) who need help getting into the car.

This way, they can get comfortable in the backseat with ease.

Bottom Line

In conclusion, is not safe for dogs to ride in the back of pickup trucks. It should be avoided at all costs!

If you must take your pup along for a ride, make sure they are secured properly inside the enclosed cab. That way, everyone can enjoy their journey stress-free!