13 Best Dogs for Van Life: Breeds, Info, & More
There is no greater adventure to go on with your dog than a road trip! Living it up in a van (or whatever your rig may be) with your dog is a treat. But there are some dogs that are better for van life than others. If you’re out on the road already or plan on taking a trip and want to find a furry companion to bring along, read on.
Because life on the road with a dog is better, but not all dogs are suited to handle long days of travel or living in a smaller space. It’s always important to keep your lifestyle and expectations in mind when getting a dog, especially if you’re planning on doing nomad life with them.
Every dog deserves a good home, and you’ll be able to give them just that as you travel the world in your vehicle. Let’s talk about the best dogs for van life and how you can make this experience a good time for all.
13 Best Dogs for Van Life
There are so many breeds of dogs that it’s hard to wrap your head around, and you may not know where to begin your search for your travel companion. When making this list, I’ve considered that your rig may not be a van, so keep that in mind. Read on for some of the breeds that will be best fitted for travel in a vehicle.
1. Australian Cattle Dog
The Australian cattle dog (also known as the blue heeler) is a mid-size dog with a lot of energy and love to give. I am partial to this breed because this is the dominant breed in my little Luna.
These dogs are herders but are not as sensitive as some of the other breeds in the herding category.
They are extremely intelligent and high-energy, which means you’ll need to ensure that you keep this dog well-exercised. This energy makes them the perfect trail companion or running buddy.
Like all herding dogs, this breed can be easily reactive to anything that moves. This may make being in a van difficult, but as your dog adjusts to life on the road, they may be able to become less reactive.
2. Chihuahua
When you think of a travel companion, the first breed that comes to mind is most likely not the Chihuahua, but don’t count this breed out!
This tiny breed won’t demand too much space and will be more than willing to cuddle in your lap while you work from your car.
Chihuahuas don’t require too much exercise because of their small size, but they can still be down to go on little hikes with you.
If you’re the type of van lifer who wants to spend time relaxing while you take in the sites and get some cuddles, a chihuahua may just be the dog for you and your van life adventure.
3. Border Collie
This energetic herding breed could be what you’re looking for to bring on your van life adventure. Border collies are energetic and ready to go.
The border collie can be more on the reactive side and may struggle if there is a lack of routine in their life. They are frightened of loud noises and may exhibit extreme reactivity to anything that moves.
If you feel confident in your ability to keep this dog exercised and trained, the border collie may be the road trip companion you’re looking for.
4. Jack Russel Terrier
Jack Russell terriers are high-energy dogs who are fearless on adventures. They love to walk, dig, and explore.
This breed is intelligent and easy to train. You can have all the joys of a dog that loves to hike in a smaller package. They have a short coat, which makes grooming and cleaning your van a lot easier. Plus, they’re adorable.
The Jack Russell will be the perfect compact adventurer if you can provide this dog with the exercise it needs.
5. Golden Retriever
The golden retriever is one of the most popular dog breeds in the US. This is probably because it’s one of the most friendly dogs you’ll ever meet. I love this breed, although I may be biased because I used to have a lovely golden who had all of the love to give.
This breed has a tolerant attitude, making them perfect companions for van life. You can take them out on hikes or bring them to a dog park to meet some of the locals as you travel.
The downside to this breed is the shedding. Goldens have a long coats and are known for leaving tufts of fur everywhere.
6. Rat Terrier
This little breed was bred for the purpose of hunting rats, which makes them intelligent companions. They are agile and ready to go anywhere their owner goes.
A rat terrier is easy to train and groom. Their short fur helps them to stay cool, even in the hottest of weather.
These dogs are highly alert and are prepared to keep you safe as you live in your van.
7. Dalmation
A dalmatian is suited to life in a vehicle, especially because they are resistant to extreme temperatures. This is helpful when the climate of your home on wheels varies greatly.
They can be easy to train and are generally friendly dogs. They have energy, love, and affection to offer you on your van life journey.
8. German Shepherd
If you have room in your rig, the German may be a perfect companion for your travels. They are considered one of the most intelligent dog breeds out there. Training them is easy and their size means that they are ready for all of the hiking and exercise.
This dog is perfect for you if you’re looking for a loyal breed that will also offer you security and protection while on the road.
9. Labrador Retrievers
Like the golden, labrador retrievers are very loyal to their owners and are ready to go wherever they do. The positive to this breed over a golden is that their coat is more manageable, and they shed a great deal less.
The labrador retriever will love spending time outside with you as you go exploring.
10. Dachshund
This dashing breed could be just what you’re looking for when it comes to finding the perfect van life companion. They are a small breed that won’t mind living in tighter quarters.
Dachshunds are clever creatures with a nose for scents. They can have big personalities which will keep you entertained on the road. They also make for a very loyal companion. Just be aware that their coat will require a little more attention, and you’ll need to lift them in and out of the car.
11. Miniature Pinscher
If you’re looking for a toy dog breed who still loves an adventure, the min pin may be just what you’re after. This is an athletic dog that is active and ready to play.
They are fearless, bold, and have watchdog instincts that will help to keep any solo traveler safe on their adventure.
This dog packs a lot of personality into its tiny body.
12. Chi-Heeler
I’m not going to pretend I’m not biased toward this breed. My little Luna is a chi-heeler and she has been the perfect companion for my solo road trip adventures.
The Chi-heeler, or cross between a chihuahua and blue heeler, can have all of the love for adventure as a blue heeler in a compact package. This mix can be known to love romping around and exploring their surroundings, which makes them great hiking buddies.
This alert breed will help you feel protected and give you all of the cuddles.
13. Mutt
Sometimes the best van life dog is one that’s a mix of breeds. With a mutt, you can potentially have the best that many breeds have to offer. This mixture may make the best dog for van life!
This also means that you may not know what you will get with this companion, but I think the risk is worth it.
Luna has been the perfect companion for my travels, and she was a mutt from a shelter. Besides, if you’re looking to bring a mutt on your van life journey, you may be able to save a dog from a shelter.
The most important thing is knowing what you’re looking for in a mutt. This will help you to narrow your search down. With a mutt, I highly suggest meeting the dog before you commit to being their forever family.
Dog Needs For A Comfortable Van Life
Now that you’ve selected the breed that is right for you, it’s time to get the gear they need to love their home in your vehicle.
Living in a vehicle with your pet requires the same things you would need when you have a dog in a traditional home: a leash, a collar, tags, toys, food, and grooming supplies.
However, there are additional items you’ll want to consider having in your rig:
- Fan: This is a great way to keep your pup cool in the summer heat. When it’s hot outside, you’ll find Luna and me chilling out in front of the fan I bring in my SUV. There are many options when it comes to bringing a fan with you, and none of them have to break the bank. Look into USB-charged and battery-operated fans, as these will be most conducive to life on the road.
- Collapsable bowl: I find this the perfect solution to save on space. Since I travel in an SUV, this bowl is perfect for shoving into my cup holder so that Luna can access water on long drives. This can also be brought on hikes or whenever you plan on exploring with your doggo. We love an item that can serve multiple functions!
- Dedicated dog blanket: Dogs get dirty. If you have a dog in a small space, they will get fur and dirt everywhere. When in a tiny living arrangement, remember that you will notice dirt more than in a larger space. For this reason, I have a sheet dedicated to protecting my bed from the dirt Luna tracks in from her adventures. It allows Luna to nap on my bed while keeping my blankets clean.
Advice To Keep Your Dog Happy In a Van
Remember, the happiness of your dog should be the most important thing while you live in a van. You never want to make your dog suffer due to your choices. While on the road, I observe Luna to ensure that she loves our adventures.
If she’s not happy, I brainstorm what the problem may be and find a solution for it. Just know that living in a new space on wheels takes time for a dog to adjust to. Dogs thrive on schedules, but life on the road is constant change. Do your best to maintain normalcy for your upper.
The best dogs for van life are the ones whose needs are met at all times.
FAQs about Life On the Road with a Dog
Still not sure what breed is best for your life on the road? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. When bringing a dog into the mix, there’s a lot to consider, so I’ve compiled some of the most common questions people have!
Is van life okay for dogs?
Yes! With the right modifications and dog personality, life on the road with a dog is extremely rewarding.
Luna has loved our time on the road. She gets to hang out with me, explore new smells, and go on all of the hikes.
What breed of dog can be left alone during the day?
Please know that leaving a dog in a hot vehicle of any kind is dangerous. Leaving your dog alone in your van or SUV is way different than them chilling in an apartment.
I typically don’t leave Luna alone in the vehicle for extended periods. But, if I’m staying with a friend, I am able to leave her in their temperature-controlled home for up to 8 hours.
What is the best low-energy dog for van life?
As you may have noticed from the list above, smaller doesn’t necessarily mean low energy. A low-energy dog would be best if you’re not planning to do too much hiking while you live on the road. Pugs are a great option because they are smaller, and they’d love nothing more than lazing around. A Boston terrier is a great pick if you’re looking for a mid-energy dog.
What is the best camper van for dogs?
Like I say about traveling on the road, any vehicle is a good vehicle. You can make the nomad lifestyle work in whatever car or truck or van. However, that doesn’t mean that every vehicle is ideal for every breed.
I live out of my SUV, and I’d be a little more hesitant about that choice if I had a larger dog, like a golden. Take into consideration the breed you’re choosing and select a rig that would best fit the size of that dog.
How do I train my dog for van life?
Along with properly socializing your dog and teaching them the basics (i.e., “sit”), you’ll want to get your dog comfortable with being in a vehicle. Not every dog will love the car, so take it slow and go at your baby’s pace. It helps if you take them on trips to places they love, like the dog park.
Give your dog time to adjust to changes on the road. They may be nervous at first, and that’s ok as long as you work with them to overcome their discomfort. Create a safe place in your van, bring their favorite treats, and give them lots of time to exercise.
With a bit of training, any dog has the potential to be great for van life.
TLDR: Best Dogs For Van Life
There is no “one best breed” for van life. Even if you pick the “perfect” breed, your dog may end up having a personality that isn’t suited to the lifestyle. That said, most dogs will find something they love about the trip. This may mean you have to adjust what you envisioned life on the road to be like, but the chance to bring along your pup is so worth it.
Solo road-tripping with my dog has brought me so much joy. I love going out there and exploring with my best friend.
When selecting the breed that is right for your nomad life adventure, make sure you are always putting your dog’s needs first. You’ll never go wrong when you take care of your furry friend with love!