Can Dogs Ride in Ubers or Lyfts?
Whether you're heading to the vet, visiting friends, or embarking on a dog-friendly adventure, rideshare services like Uber and Lyft offer convenient transportation options. But as a dog owner, you might wonder: Can my dog ride with me in an Uber or Lyft? The answer is yes—but there are important considerations to keep in mind.
In this post, we'll explore the pet policies of major rideshare companies and provide tips to ensure a safe and comfortable ride for you, your dog, and your driver.
Uber and Lyft Pet Policies
Uber: Pet-Friendly Rides Available in Select Cities
Uber offers a service called Uber Pet in select cities around the world. This option allows riders to bring one pet on their trip, typically with a small surcharge. When you select Uber Pet in the app, you're matched with a driver who has agreed to accommodate pets.
If Uber Pet isn't available in your area, you can still request a standard Uber ride. However, it's important to contact the driver immediately after booking to ask if they're comfortable with your dog joining the ride. Since pet acceptance is up to the individual driver, be prepared to cancel and try again if needed. Here’s a quick overview of Uber Pet.
Lyft: Driver Discretion Applies
Lyft does not currently offer a dedicated pet-friendly ride option. For non-service animals, Lyft recommends that riders contact the driver after being matched to request approval. It's entirely at the driver's discretion whether pets are allowed.
Service Animals: Know Your Rights
In many countries, service animals are legally protected, and rideshare drivers cannot deny service to riders accompanied by them. For example, in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and the European Union, laws protect the rights of individuals with disabilities who use service animals.
Uber and Lyft both have global policies that state drivers must accept service animals, regardless of personal preferences or pet policies. Drivers who refuse service to riders with service animals may face penalties or removal from the platform.
If you're traveling with a service animal, you may be able to self-identify in the app (where available), helping reduce confusion or delay when requesting a ride.
Tips for a Smooth and Safe Ride with Your Dog
If your driver agrees to take your dog, follow these guidelines to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone:
1. Communicate Clearly
Be upfront about your dog's size and behavior when you contact your driver. A message like, "Hi, I'm traveling with my well-behaved 30-lb Labrador. Is it okay if he rides with me?" can help set expectations.
2. Protect the Vehicle
Bring a blanket or seat cover to protect the car’s interior from fur, dirt, or scratches. This shows respect for the driver’s vehicle and may encourage them to accept pets more readily.
3. Use a Leash or Carrier
Keep your dog leashed at all times during the ride. For smaller dogs, a secure carrier is ideal. This ensures your dog won't move around the car or distract the driver.
4. Consider a Harness Seatbelt
For larger dogs, a crash-tested dog seatbelt harness can help keep them secure in the back seat and reduce the risk of injury during sudden stops.
5. Sit in the Back
Always sit in the back seat with your dog. It’s the safest place for both of you and gives you better control in case your dog gets anxious or excited.
6. Keep Your Dog Clean
Make sure your dog is clean and dry before the ride. Carry waste bags just in case, and avoid bringing your dog into the car if they’re muddy or wet.
7. Tip Generously
If your driver accommodates your pet, especially if your dog sheds or takes up extra space, consider giving a generous tip to show appreciation.
Final Thoughts
Yes, dogs can ride in Ubers and Lyfts, but it’s important to plan ahead and respect the driver’s preferences. By being transparent, prepared, and considerate, you can make the trip enjoyable for everyone — including your four-legged friend.
Have you taken your dog in a rideshare before? Share your experiences and tips in the comments — we’d love to hear how you keep your pup riding in style! Also, rideshares are not the only option to getting around town with your dog. Public transit is also a fantastic option. If you live in Toronto, the TTC and GO Transit allow pets on board. Learn more here.