Released in 2019, Tesla dog mode does two things: it maintains a safe cabin temperature when you leave your dog in the car, and it notifies passers-by that the dog is safe and comfortable. With these two functions, dog mode ensures that you won’t return to a suffering pet or a broken window.

If you’re not sure how to access this feature—or just want to know more about Tesla’s efforts to protect dog kind—check out this guide to Tesla dog mode from

Jerry

, the

super app

that makes upgrading your

car insurance

as easy as sending a text. We’ll show you how to put a Tesla in dog mode, how the Tesla dog mode screen works, and which Tesla models have dog mode for you and your furry passenger.

What is Tesla dog mode?

Tesla’s dog mode is a climate control feature designed to protect dogs and other pets from overheating when they’re left in a parked car. It’s different from Tesla’s Cabin Overheat Prevention feature, which keeps the interior of your vehicle from exceeding a certain safe temperature when no one is in the car—including animals.

When you turn on dog mode, you’ll be able to set the temperature in the car according to your pet’s needs. Because Teslas are electric, it’s easy to run the A/C when the car is off—and you’ll get a notification on your smartphone if the battery level dips below 20% while you’re still away. On super-hot days, this feature could be a literal lifesaver—and it can run the heater in cold weather, too!

Dog mode also includes a message to passers-by on the central touchscreen, reading “My owner will be back soon.” The Tesla dog mode screen also lists the internal temperature of the car, setting people’s minds at ease. This feature ensures that concerned strangers won’t try to meddle with your car out of concern for your pet.

Basically, Tesla dog mode is a high-tech way of doing

this

MORE:

How to buy and install a dog car seat

RECOMMENDED

Compare auto insurance policies

No spam or unwanted phone calls · No long forms

ZIP Code

Find insurance savings

How to turn on Tesla dog mode

To turn on dog mode in your Tesla, simply follow these steps:

Locate the fan icon at the bottom of your touchscreen.

When the “Keep Climate On” menu pops up, select “Dog”

Choose your temperature settings

Depart with confidence that your furry friend will stay cool and safe

If you prefer using voice commands in your Tesla, just say “Turn dog mode on” to set up a cool climate for your pet!

Dog mode will remain on as long as you’re gone. If the battery drains past 20%, dog mode stays on as long as possible—but it will turn off eventually if the battery loses all power, so it’s a good idea to get back to the car as fast as you can. (Plus, you’ll avoid being stranded with a dead battery.)

If your battery capacity is already under 20%, dog mode will not turn on. In this situation, it’s better not to leave your animal in the car. Find a charging station, bring the dog with you, or simply skip whatever indoor errand you had planned and head home to keep your best friend safe and comfortable.

How long can you leave Tesla dog mode on?

Tesla dog mode runs on the same battery power as your car’s motor, consuming approximately four miles of range per hour. In a

Model 3

with a full battery charge, you could theoretically leave dog mode on for 68 hours before turning it off (though we don’t recommend leaving a dog in a car for that long, anyway!).

Just keep an eye on your battery capacity, and you should be fine. That’s where Tesla’s helpful “below 20%” notification comes in handy.

MORE:

What is the maximum Tesla Model Y range?

Compare insurance quotes from 50+ insurance companies with Jerry in under 45 seconds

Find Savings!

4.7/5 rating on the App Store | Trusted by 5+ million customers and 7 million cars

4.7/5 app rating | Trusted by 5M+ drivers

Which Teslas have dog mode?

Dog mode is a feature on every single Tesla made today, and older models can receive over-the-air updates for dog mode. Whether you’re behind the wheel of a Model 3, a

Model Y

, or a super-sleek, high-powered

Model S

, you and your dog will be comfortable.

The only Tesla with no dog mode capability is the original 2011 Tesla Roadster—so if you’ve got your eye on a used Roadster, keep your pet in mind before making the final decision!

MORE: 8 steps to a perfect road trip with your dog

How to optimize your Tesla insurance

Owning a Tesla is all about embracing the future and celebrating what technology can do for us—and for our pets, in the case of dog mode!

If you want to embrace the future of car insurance, download the

Jerry

app and see what technology can do for your wallet by finding you optimized coverage at a competitive price. With over 55 partner companies and a team of high-speed insurance experts, Jerry only needs 45 seconds to find out if you’re overpaying for your Tesla’s coverage!

“
Jerry
saved me $80 a month! I have a Tesla Model Y and really wanted to lower my rates. And they did! I really recommend you give this a shot!” —Nick M.

Let Jerry find your price in only 45 seconds

No spam · No long forms · No fees

Find insurance savings

FAQs

Is Tesla dog mode legal?

Yes! In some states, leaving a dog or other pet in a dangerously hot car is illegal, but Tesla dog mode is specifically designed to maintain safe conditions for the animal.

Does the Tesla Model 3 have dog mode?

Yes—every Tesla Model 3 has dog mode.

Are you overpaying for car insurance?

Compare quotes and find out in 45 seconds.

Try Jerry