Is It Illegal To Drive With A Dog In Your Lap In Texas?

Occasionally, I'll see someone driving with a dog on their lap whether I'm out shopping, running errands, or doing anything else. I've seen a range of sizes of dogs in their owners' laps, from tiny little pups to large canines.

However, is it against the law in Texas to drive with your dog, no matter how big, resting on your lap?

I'm guessing it's pretty distracting. Additionally, I would worry that they would unintentionally bump the wheel and make me pass out. Bad!

Texas Laws for Dogs Riding in Cars
When it comes to moving livestock animals, there are regulations governing things like how they must be transported and how long they can stay in the compartment before being unloaded.

As to an item published on Click 2 Houston, the transportation code of Texas does not contain any explicit prohibition on dogs resting on a driver's lap. Yes, you read correctly—there is no explicit legislation prohibiting you from walking your dog in public. But there's more to the story before you prepare Rover for a journey.

Can Dogs Lay On Your Lap While Driving?
There is some gray area when it comes to whether a dog can sit on the driver's lap.

You risk being pulled over and given a penalty if your dog is sleeping on your lap and distracting you from the road. However, a police officer has no right to stop you if they see you with a dog in your lap and you are not distracted.

Ultimately, I wouldn't advise it because you never know what your dog might do and it could cause you to drive while distracted. However, there isn't a clear legal restriction prohibiting you from driving with your dog curled up on your lap.