A new study from researchers at the University of Lincoln found that dogs prefer riding on electric vehicles over diesel cars. The team observed that the dogs were more restless in the latter, but were more relaxed in the former.
MailOnline reported that the dog's heart rate is reduced by up to 30%, which helped them avoid car sickness, due to reduced road noise and vibration in an electric car. About 50% of the time, the dogs were in their lying position while riding in the electric car.
Relaxed Dogs on Electric Vehicles
CarGurus, an online car marketplace, carried out a study to record the biometrics of dogs during their car rides. They filmed the whole process using a GoPro camera to identify behavior that indicated discomfort or relaxation in the pooches. There were 20 dogs in the experiment and each one of them were given an hour break between the trips to ensure they were relaxed for both car rides.
Out of the 20 dogs in the study, only one travels in an electric car in its everyday life. Based on their experiment, the dogs seemed more relaxed in electric vehicles as they display less restless behavior. Professor Daniel Mills of the university's Veterinary Behavior Medicine department said that it was interesting to see the potential symptoms linked to travel sickness in dogs.
Biometric recordings of dogs in electric cars showed that their heart rates slowed down more than when they were in diesel cars. An increase in a dog's heart rate is usually associated with motion sickness. More so, the team noticed that dogs tend to lie down more while in an electric car than in diesel cars.
CarGurus carried out further research to test how different they behave while traveling, Metro reported. Pet owners said that their pets suffered from over-excitement, anxiety, and nausea in both cars. However, their pets were 43% calmer, 42% less anxious, 45% whined less, and 39% settled better in an electric car.
Chris Knapman of CarGurus UK said that as many people consider their pet's wellness in buying a car, their findings will provide reassurance that an electric car will suit their dog just fine.
Which Electric Car Models Are Good For Dogs?
There are many hybrid and electric cars available on the market today that are suitable for dogs, especially for larger breeds. Here are the top electric cars as analyzed by Yarrah based on their accessories and other functionalities:
- Hyundai Kona (hybrid and electric)- This spacious SUV also has a spacious trunk for dogs complete with a fence, and other nifty options that protect the trunk.
- Range Rover PHEV- This hybrid car comes with special accessories, like a special gangway where dogs can enter and exit the car, a dog cage, a portable rinsing system, and a spill-free water bowl for them.
- Tesla- All models of Tesla are fully electric and offer a "Dog mode" that ensures the car remains airconditioned while parked so pet owners can safely leave their dogs in the car. Its dashboard also shows a notification that the dog is not in danger so strangers will not break the glass window to rescue the owner's dog.
- Volvo XC90 Hybrid- This Swedish car offers a large trunk with enough room for a dog. it is also equipped with synthetic mats or bins, a safety rack, a separation rack, and a dog fence for a safe closed-off space.
Yarrah noted that although some electric cars may not come with these options, it does not mean that they are unsuitable for dogs. There are accessories that can be bought to make their car rides safe.
Check out more news and information on Electric Cars in Science Times.
