What Is Tesla Dog Mode?

Unattended pooches can stay comfortable in a Tesla.

Andrew Ganz | 

Apr 4, 2024 | 3 min read

Tesla

Tesla owners who choose to leave a pet inside their vehicle while they run into a store or restaurant can activate a special mode designed to keep the car's cabin at a comfortable temperature. Tesla Dog Mode does more than just cycle the air conditioning, though. Here's what it is — and how to activate it.

Tesla Dog Mode Uses Climate Control to Maintain a Comfy Temperature

When activated, Dog Mode uses the climate control system to keep the car's interior within a preset temperature range — usually warm in winter or cool in the summer. The system also activates a message on the car's central infotainment screen. While the exact text of the message has varied depending on software updates, it's usually along the lines of "My driver will be back soon. Don't worry! The A/C is on." The display will also indicate the car's interior temperature setting.

Tesla Dog Mode allows users to select the temperature they prefer for their pet.

Dog Mode differs from simply leaving all of the car's electrical accessories on. Features such as the audio system, the window controls, and the shift lever have been deactivated. If a dog inadvertently steps on the window button, for instance, nothing will happen.

One feature that's left activated in late-model Teslas is the interior cabin camera, which users can view through the Tesla App on their smartphone.

Activating Tesla Dog Mode Is Easy

To activate Dog Mode, you'll first need to navigate to the climate control screen. At the top right corner, you'll see a small paw icon. Tap this and Dog Mode will activate as soon as you exit the vehicle.

Note that Tesla Dog Mode only works if the car's main battery has at least 20% charge. If the battery dips below 20% while Dog Mode is active, the car will send a message to the Tesla App on a user's smartphone. The system is designed to continue running Dog Mode until the car's battery is entirely depleted. Users can also check the status of Dog Mode via the Tesla App.

Dog Mode will activate as soon as you turn the vehicle off, which in a Tesla usually means simply exiting the car with the key after you've put it in park.

It's worth noting that Dog Mode's exact features and activation are subject to change, as Tesla regularly pushes over-the-air updates to its vehicles.

Take Special Considerations When Leaving Your Pet in Any Car

Canine anxiety is a real thing. Even a dog who appears happy to go for a ride may not enjoy being left alone in a car, so consider your pooch accordingly. And no dog will want to be left in a car for a long time. Tesla Dog Mode is generally for short stints when you need to pop into a store or restaurant.

Andrew Ganz

Andrew Ganz has had cars in his blood ever since he gnawed the paint off of a diecast model as a toddler. After growing up in Dallas, Texas, he earned a journalism degree, worked in public relations for two manufacturers, and served as an editor for a luxury-lifestyle print publication and several well-known automotive websites. In his free time, Andrew loves exploring the Rocky Mountains' best back roads—when he’s not browsing ads for his next car purchase.