Tri Axle vs Dog Axle Dog Trailers: Which One to Choose?

Alright, you’re looking at two trailers: a Tri Axle and a Dog Axle. Which one’s going to get the job done for you? Let’s break it down.

A dog trailer has an axle or group of axles at both the front and rear of the trailer. Typically, the front axles are steered by being connected to the towing vehicle by a tow bar. However, the number of axles at each end of the trailer may vary, affecting your choice of trailer.

Understanding the Differences: Tri Axle vs Quad Axle

A tri-axle dog trailer is often known as a Super Dog and generally has one set of axles at the front of the trailer and two at the rear. A quad axle dog trailer has two axles at the front and a further two at the rear, with two of them generally being powered and the others not powered. We call these a quad dog.

The differences between the two mainly result from the extra axle, which provides more stability, increased load capacity and extra versatility. However, this is at the cost of manoeuvrability and financial factors.

In some cases, one or more of the axles can be lifted clear of the ground when no load is being carried. This reduces wear on the tyres and can improve fuel efficiency. If you’re hauling heavy equipment, the Tri-Axle gets it done. But if you need more flexibility on tight sites, the Dog Axle is a good move.

Pros & Cons of Tri Axle Dog Trailers

Compared to a two-axle dog trailer, the tri-axle version has several advantages:

• increased load capacity
• improved stability
• better load distribution across three axles
• safer carrying of cargoes
• added versatility for more efficient operation.

Some things to consider:

• increased purchase and running costs due to added components and greater weight
• more difficult to manoeuvre, especially in tight spaces and when reversing.

Pros & Cons of Quad Axle Dog Trailers

With two axles at the front and another two at the rear, the quad axle trailer has several advantages over a tri-axle model:

• load capacity is significantly higher
• weight distribution is more even, so there is less pressure on the road
• stability is improved further, so cargoes are carried more safely, especially important for those that are susceptible to damage
• a more varied range of loads can be carried.

Some things to consider:

• a higher purchase price due to more components
• less fuel-efficient and so higher running costs
• harder to manoeuvre than a tri-axle.

Which One Should You Choose?

When it comes down to it, choosing between a Tri and a Quad is a bit like picking your fave pub, depends on the crowd and how many drinks you’re picking up. If you generally only transport relatively light loads over short distances, a tri-axle trailer will be cheaper to buy and more economical to run. However, when you regularly carry large and heavier loads, especially over long distances, a quad axle trailer will do the job better.

Although a quad axle trailer will be more expensive to buy, maintain and operate, it may well save you money in greater operational efficiency and reduced trips. It will offer greater stability and safety when carrying heavy loads.

Each variation in the number of axles imposes different practical weight limits on what can be carried — the more axles, the heavier the load. Additionally, each state may impose different weight limits, so if you regularly cross state boundaries with loads, you need to be sure you comply with regulations. In this case, a quad axle trailer will give greater certainty of compliance.

A few quick questions to ask yourself, e.g. “How heavy is your usual load?”, “Are you mostly on highways or in tight spots?”

There’s no right or wrong—just what works best for your run. And hey, if you’re still undecided, pop down toFWR, and we’ll steer you in the right direction. Contact us for what trailer options we have available.