A responsible dog owner will take their pooch into consideration when shopping for a new car. Dog lovers often take their pets with them on adventures and having a car that suits both the needs of the pet parent and the dog is important to many dog owners.
If you want to get a sport utility vehicle (SUV) that is great for you and your four-legged friend, then look no further. We have provided a list of the best cars for you and your dog, that takes into consideration the amount of boot space, climate control, and accessibility.
Table of Contents
Best SUVs for Dog Owners
Want to rather lease an SUV for you and your dog? Review car lease deals here.
The Ford Explorer
The latest 2022 Ford Explorer is the perfect dog-friendly SUV. The extra space available when you collapse the third-row seats means there is plenty of boot space for crates, dog beds, or the dogs themselves.
The electric sliding-glass window in the back means that your dog can get some fresh air, and enjoy the views while out for a drive.
The Ford Explorer is considered one of the best cars for dogs because of its tri-zone climate control feature that will keep you and your furry friends comfortable, as well as tie-down cargo hooks and ample boot space. The maximum cargo space of the Ford Explorer is 2.5 cubic meters.
The Subaru Crosstrek
The Subaru Crosstrek is considered a car that can easily transition into “Dog Mode”. The seats can flatten, the car can go off-road, and there is an optional rear tray for quick cleaning. You can decide between cloth or leather seats – whatever will keep your furry friend comfortable on car rides.
The maximum cargo space for the Crosstrek is 1.6 cubic meters with the back seats folded flat.
The Range Rover
Unlike the Land Rover Discovery, the Range Rover may seem like a luxury sports car, but this SUV is perfect for dogs. The advanced technology will keep your dog safe and the passenger compartment comfortable.
The maximum cargo space of the Range Rover is 2.2 cubic meters with the seats down.
The Volvo V60 Wagon
The Volvo V60 is not exactly an SUV, it is more of a wagon, but we had to include it in the list of the best dog-friendly cars. Although larger dogs will not fit in the rear space, there is still plenty of space for small dogs when the seats are down.
The maximum cargo space of the Volvo V60 is 0.8 cubic meters.
The Mitsubishi Outlander
The Outlander has plenty of space because of its three rows. The rear hatch makes it easy for your dog to jump into the car, and the foldable back row opens up enough space on the boot floor for dogs, dog accessories, and your luggage.
The maximum cargo space of the Mitsubishi Outlander is 2.2 cubic meters.
What Should You Look for in a Dog-Friendly SUV?
Not all cars are well suited for dogs. Car buyers should consider the following when looking to purchase a car for them and their dogs.
Enough space for human passengers and dogs
Your dog should have enough space in the car to be comfortable and lie down on long journeys, even if there are other passengers in the car.
A Separate Cargo Area
Having a climate-controlled cargo area is a great way to transport your dog. A cargo barrier is a must if the dog will be traveling in the back, to keep the dog safe and prevent it from jumping over onto the seats.
Easy Access
Older dogs may struggle to jump onto the back seat, so it is best to get a car with easy access to the cargo area. SUVs are great, because they have a hatchback and flat floor in the rear, making it easy to load your dog or your dog crate into the car.
Cargo Hooks
Cargo tie-down hooks are a must for a dog-friendly car if you plan on tying down a dog crate or attaching your dog’s harness to a hook for safety.
Rear seats that fold flat
A back row that can fold flat will increase the space in your boot, allowing your dog to be more comfortable and less cramped when driving long distances.
Concluding Thoughts
There are plenty of SUVs on the market for people who want to take their dogs on the road with them. No dog owner will be disappointed by the dog-friendly cars listed above.
