A High-Res Look at Tesla's New Pet Mode Avatars [VIDEO]

Tesla is broadening its well-known animal-safety feature with the Spring 2026 Software Update by officially rebranding Dog Mode as Pet Mode. The rollout began with vehicle firmware version 2026.14 and Tesla app version 4.55.6, adding high-resolution avatars and new personalization options.

To see exactly how these additions look in action, check out our full video showcase below:

Personalized Messaging for Your Furry Friends

The first change drivers will notice is an updated on-screen notice meant to reassure passersby. The display originally showed a generic line, which Tesla later revised to "My driver will be back soon," replacing "My owner will be back soon."

With the new Pet Mode, the screen now reads: "Don't worry! [Pet’s Name] is chillin'." You can enter your pet’s actual name so people walking by know exactly who is inside. The display also continues to show the current A/C temperature in large text. It is a critical safety feature that helps deter window breaking and has even saved pets' lives during extreme weather conditions.

Beyond the Balloon Dog: New Avatars

As part of the rebranding, there are three distinct high-resolution avatars to choose from: the classic balloon dog, a new balloon cat, and a Cyberpunk-themed hedgehog wearing pixelated sunglasses and a leather jacket.

Customizing these settings is straightforward. On the vehicle’s touchscreen, go to Controls > Display > Customize Pet Mode to select the Pet Mode icon and enter your pet’s name. After saving, the chosen avatar and name appear whenever the mode is active. The car maintains a consistent temperature using climate control and will send a notification to your phone if the battery drops below 20% or if the HVAC malfunctions.

A More Inclusive and Feature-Rich Ecosystem

Pet Mode can be enabled through the HVAC settings on the screen, via the Tesla app, or with a quick voice command. It is part of a broader Spring update that also includes larger icons in the navigation dock, a dedicated "Hey Grok" wake word for the xAI assistant, and a new Self-Driving app.