If you’re visiting Las Vegas with your dog, you’ll probably end up relying on rideshare services at some point to get around the city.

Whether you’re heading from your hotel to a nearby dog park, traveling to a pet-friendly café, or just trying to avoid the heat of walking on the Strip, Uber is often the most convenient option. But that brings up a common question for pet owners: Can you bring your dog in an Uber in Las Vegas?

The answer isn’t a simple yes or no—it depends on the kind of ride you request, the type of dog you’re traveling with, and how prepared you are to ride responsibly with your pet. Here’s what you need to know before calling an Uber with your pup in Vegas.

Uber’s Pet Policy in Las Vegas

Let’s start with the basics: Uber does allow dogs in Las Vegas, but not in every ride by default. In 2020, Uber introduced a feature called Uber Pet to make it easier for riders to travel with pets. If you’re traveling with a dog that isn’t a service animal, Uber Pet is the option you’ll want to choose in the app.

When you select Uber Pet, you’re matched with a driver who has opted in to accept rides with animals. This removes the guesswork and potential awkwardness of having to ask each driver if they’re okay with your dog before they arrive. There’s usually a $3–$5 surcharge for this service, which is automatically added to your fare.

If you’re not seeing Uber Pet in your ride options, it may be due to limited availability at the moment or in your location. In that case, your best bet is to message the driver immediately after requesting a standard ride to confirm they’re comfortable with your dog tagging along. Be upfront, courteous, and ready to cancel if they say no—most drivers appreciate the heads-up.

What About Service Animals?

If your dog is a trained service animal, you do not need to select Uber Pet or pay any extra fees. According to Uber’s official policy — and in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act — service animals are always permitted in any Uber ride, regardless of whether the driver has opted into Uber Pet.

That said, it’s still a good idea to be polite and inform your driver when they arrive. While they’re legally obligated to accept service animals, mutual respect goes a long way toward making the ride smooth and stress-free for everyone involved.

Keep in mind: emotional support animals (ESAs) do not qualify as service animals under the ADA and therefore fall under the regular Uber Pet policy.

Tips for Bringing Your Dog in an Uber

Even if your dog is well-behaved, sharing a car with a stranger in a confined space means there’s a bit of etiquette to follow. A little preparation can make the experience better for both you and your driver—and help ensure future riders with dogs are welcomed just as warmly.

Bring a Blanket or Towel

One of the most respectful things you can do is bring a small blanket or towel to place on the seat where your dog will be sitting. This protects the car from fur, dirt, or drool and shows your driver you care about keeping their vehicle clean.

Keep Your Dog Leashed or Crated

Most drivers will feel more comfortable if your dog is secured in some way. Small dogs can often be held or kept in carriers, while medium or large dogs should be leashed and ideally sit calmly at your feet or beside you. If your dog tends to get excited or anxious in cars, a soft-sided crate can offer a sense of security while keeping everyone safe.

Communicate Clearly and Quickly

If you’re not using Uber Pet and are requesting a regular ride, always send a quick message through the app before the car arrives. Let the driver know that you’re traveling with a dog and ask if that’s okay. Keep it short and polite—something like: “Hi! I’m traveling with a small dog. Is that okay with you?”

If the driver isn’t comfortable with it, cancel the ride promptly and try again with someone else. It’s not personal—some drivers may have allergies, past bad experiences, or valid concerns, and they’re not required to accept pets outside of Uber Pet or service animal scenarios.

What If Uber Pet Isn’t Available?

If Uber Pet isn’t showing up in your app, don’t panic. Here are a few things you can try:

• Switch pickup locations: Moving a block or two can sometimes increase the number of available Uber Pet drivers nearby.
• Wait a few minutes: Availability can change quickly as drivers finish other rides.
• Try a different app: Lyft or a local pet-friendly taxi service may have availability even when Uber Pet doesn’t.
• Book a pet transport service: In Las Vegas, there are local companies and pet transporters who offer rides specifically for people traveling with dogs. While it’s not as instant as Uber, they can be a great backup for airport runs or longer trips.

Are Dogs Allowed in Lyft Rides Too?

Lyft also allows pets, it’s up to the individual driver. Lyft doesn’t currently have a dedicated “Pet” ride option in most cities, including Las Vegas, so it’s entirely based on driver discretion. So your best bet is to book an Uber Pet for peace of mind.

Can You Rely on Uber with Your Dog in Las Vegas?

Yes—with the right approach, Uber can be a convenient, reliable way to get around Las Vegas with your dog. The introduction of Uber Pet has made things easier than ever, and even without it, a little communication and courtesy usually go a long way.

Whether you’re heading to the vet, a pet-friendly brunch spot, or just trying to beat the heat on your way back to the hotel, it’s completely possible to navigate Vegas by rideshare with your pup at your side.

Just remember: plan ahead, protect the vehicle, and treat the driver (and their car) with the same care you’d want if the roles were reversed. With that in mind, you and your dog are good to go.