New and confused

We have three kids and use a crew cab. For a time we had two of three in rear facing seats too. It was tight but worked okay. The dog goes in a kennel in the truck bed unless it's really hot or cold in which case we flip up the front console and let her ride up front, which she thinks is awesome.

For the length of trips you are contemplating with that size family...I don't think a half ton SUV is a great choice. Check out the HD crew cabs and the Ram Mega if you think a little more space would be better. I was tempted by the Mega but ultimately we decided the crew cab was a better fit.