The great debate of RV travel isn’t about diesel vs. gas, or which campground has the best Wi-Fi—it’s about who gets to ride shotgun, and we’re not talking about your spouse.

The topic of what type of furry, feathered, or scaled companion joins us on our adventures is a serious one for the RV community, dictating floor plans, walk schedules, and the crucial “who-sheds-on-the-dinette” dynamic.

We recently posed this burning question to our readers, asking them to reveal the true co-pilots of their home-on-wheels. This critical data was gathered from a poll in our weekly newsletter, where the most important opinions on RV living are cast.

For those who haven’t voted yet, make sure you’re subscribed so you can have your say in future polls and be a part of the results and findings! Without further ado, let’s unveil the hierarchy of the highway.

The Official Poll Results: A Tale of Tails and Trails

Pet TypePercentage of Votes
Dog77%
Cat0%
Bird0%
Other0%
None23%

Man’s Best Friend, RV’s Best Passenger

In a stunning, earth-shattering, and frankly predictable turn of events, dogs have been declared the absolute monarchs of the motorhome. With a whopping 77% of the vote, our canine companions didn’t just win the poll; they lapped the water bowl of victory and then napped on the throne. Dogs are the natural partners for RV life—they’re always up for a hike, they think every new smell at a rest stop is a five-star review, and they provide an excellent excuse to get outside and explore that new trail. They are the furry, wagging ambassadors of the RV lifestyle, and these results confirm their reign is undisputed.

The Feline, Feathered, and Scaled Caucus: A No-Show

The results for cats, birds, and “other” pets were… well, let’s just say they were a purrfect zero. Not a single vote. This is less of a loss and more of a silent protest. We imagine the cats saw the poll, gave a look of utter disdain, and went back to strategically napping on the dashboard in the one spot that blocks the entire view. Birds were probably too busy chirping angrily about the sudden change in scenery, and the “other” pets—likely lizards, rabbits, or very patient ferrets—were simply unavailable for comment, possibly hiding under the sofa. Their zero percent isn’t a failure; it’s a statement of magnificent indifference.

The “No Pet” Party: A Quiet 23%

Let’s not forget the respectable 23% who travel with no pet at all. This brave faction enjoys a crumb-free floor, never has to utter the phrase “did you just eat a bug off the tire?!” and can leave their RV unattended for more than four hours without planning a complex potty-break strategy.

Theirs is a world of quiet contemplation and clean upholstery, and while it may seem lonely to some, we suspect they are just enjoying the serene silence… right up until their dog-owning neighbor stops by for a visit and leaves a trail of fur behind.

Why Dogs Rule the Roost (And the Road)

So, why did the results land this way? The answer is a blend of lifestyle and logistics. The very essence of RVing—exploring the great outdoors, spontaneous adventures, long walks in nature—aligns perfectly with the needs and desires of most dogs. They are built for adventure and reward us with unwavering enthusiasm.

Conversely, cats are creatures of territory and routine; the constant movement of an RV can be deeply stressful for many felines, making them less ideal candidates for full-time travel. Birds and other exotic pets often require stable environments and specialized care that can be challenging to maintain on the road.

Furthermore, there’s a powerful social element. RVing is a profoundly social hobby, and dogs are incredible icebreakers. A friendly pup is an instant conversation starter at a campground, leading to new friendships and shared stories.

The “none” category, while smaller, represents those who value simplicity or perhaps have allergies, but it’s clear that for the vast majority, an RV adventure simply feels incomplete without a loyal, four-legged friend riding shotgun. The people have spoken, and their verdict is a resounding bark of approval.