Car shopping gets everyone’s tails wagging, but the process can get a little hairy for dog owners. As beloved family members, doggos cruise around in our vehicles, too, so finding something pet-friendly is a must.
There are many factors to consider while making your decision, ranging from storage space to climate control, as you probably couldn’t (and shouldn’t) stuff a Great Dane into a Smart car.
We followed the scent trail and found the best cars and SUVs for dog owners. Check them out below!
Best Cars & SUVs for Dogs and Their Owners: Quick Picks
- #1 Subaru Crosstrek [Best Overall Vehicle for Dogs]: Low height and ample storage space make this sporty compact SUV an excellent fit for most dog owners.
- #2 Nissan Rogue [Best SUV for Dogs]: A solid amount of storage space and an epic dog-specific trim with a ramp and wash setup are this SUV’s pup parent selling points.
- #3 Kia K5 [Best Sedan for Dogs]: This vehicle’s low height is easy for most dogs to board, while the spacious rear seat lets your fur friend stretch out comfortably.
- #4 Tesla Model X [Best Car with Dog Mode]: Bearing Tesla’s pup-pleasing technology, your dog can safely idle inside thanks to its climate-control setting.
What Features Should Owners Look For in a Dog-Friendly Car?
Dog-friendly cars come in all shapes and sizes, so don’t think your options are limited. Every doggo is different, so it’s important to keep your four-footed friend’s features in mind while shopping.
For instance, you’ll need a lot more space for a mastiff than a toy poodle. Likewise, a lowrider like a Basset hound might need something shorter to climb into than a long-legged Borzoi.
When browsing the car lot (or your computer), you should consider the following characteristics:
Separate Cargo Area (with Climate Control)
Space is great, but having a separate doggy zone is optimal for keeping everyone safe and secure.
No one wants a surprise lap visitor while cruising down the freeway, nor do you want your pupper to make a break for it when you open a door. This cargo space should have plenty of room for your dog and his accessories, allowing for a comfortable ride. Luckily, a flat load floor is standard in most SUVs today, giving you a level surface for crates too.
The best vehicles have climate control in the cargo area, ensuring that ruff riders have a cozy journey. These rear air vents are particularly important for bulldogs and other brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds during summer, as air conditioning can be a matter of life or death.
While we’re on the subject of summer car travel, check out a few additional tips on keeping canines cool in the car. There are more ways to keep your dog comfy than just using the AC!
Easy Access For Fido
Climbing in and out of the car shouldn’t be an ordeal. The best vehicles for dogs make access a breeze with low floorboards that allow your pup to pounce right in.
Hatchbacks are particularly pawsome, as they offer a wide rear entry point. This is very helpful for multi-dog households and those who travel with crates and other equipment like ramps.
Some cars also include self-opening features, where drivers can wave a foot over a sensor for hands-free entry. These are obviously helpful for busy families with fur kids.
Adequate Space For Your Pup
Keeping your canine companion comfy goes a long way in guaranteeing a smooth ride. He should have enough room to lie down comfortably without feeling cramped.
Ideally, your dog should ride in a car-safe travel crate, so you’ll want to ensure your new ride has enough space to accommodate one. Crates can be tough to fit, so owners must consider the height and width of doors and rear cargo areas when studying a new vehicle.
A larger vehicle may be best, particularly if you regularly travel with pets, people, and dog gear.
Foldable Rear Seats
Foldable rear seats are fantastic for families with four-footers. They offer more space than traditional seats, letting puppers perfect their best napping skills on the road and making room for crates and other supplies.
Foldable seats also protect themselves from damage, particularly leather ones prone to nail damage. It’s easier to vacuum or wipe clean seatbacks, too, rather than scouring the nooks and crannies of a traditional seat.
Childproof Locks (They’re Dogproof Too)!
Keeping things secure with childproof locks for rear doors and windows is a must. Accidents happen, and while a slightly ajar window offers fresh air, serious problems could occur if your pooch puts his paw on the button while you’re driving.
Luckily, these are one of many safety features that come standard in most vehicles today, but just make sure you double-check.
Tie-Down Hooks
Many cars feature backseat or cargo tie-down hooks that are great for securing dog travel harnesses or dog car crates. While puppers love to roam, a car ride is not the time or the place for it. A loose dog can easily cause an accident by jumping into your lap or bumping into the steering wheel.
In the unfortunate event of a crash, your dog can get seriously injured if left roaming free. So, just like the humans riding in your car, dogs should be secured to stay safe.
Containment Barrier
Some vehicles come with containment barriers, keeping the fun (and fur) in the back while you focus on driving. These can be used for separating the cargo space from the cabin or the backseat from the front.
Generally, these barriers are made of metal or mesh. But don’t worry if your preferred pick doesn’t come with included containment barriers; you can purchase an aftermarket canine car barrier.
Easy-Cleaning Interior
While romping outdoors with your pup is fun, the cleanup afterward isn’t. An easy-cleaning interior goes a long way for fur families.
A waterproof liner is preferred for the cargo floor, as they typically only need a wipe-down to stay fresh between rides.
Things get a little trickier when it comes to seats. Some paw parents like the easy cleanup of leather, while others fear their dog’s nails will damage the material (although good news, there are some ways to fix leather scratches caused by your dog). Cloth is great for durability, but things can get a little hairy (literally) as fur weaves into the fabric easily, and they can trap liquids and odors.
The decision can be made easier by purchasing car seat covers that leave messes and potential damage in the dust and keep your car looking and smelling great between doggy adventures.
Ample Storage Space
Doggos have lots of pet accessories to tote around like leashes, toys, and training treats. Having extra storage around the car to contain them is always a bonus.
Storing them out of sight is ideal, preventing treat snatching while driving from point A to B. Some vehicles include hidden underfloor storage, while others have netted side compartments.
Built-in Navigation
Okay, so this isn’t a must, but it’s definitely nice to have a car with built-in navigation for stress-free exploration. Dogs, after all, aren’t good at holding maps or plotting a course (they prefer to navigate via their noses).
Most navigation systems also have features for finding attractions or amenities in your area, and they could also help you find an emergency vet, dog park, or pet store, should the need arise.
11 Best Cars for Dog Owners
You wanted our favorites, and you got ’em! Check out our favorite cars and SUVs for dog-loving families below.
1. Subaru Crosstrek
About: From its spacious cargo area to its easy-to-clean interior, the Subaru Crosstrek checks off multiple dog-friendly boxes that make it a hit with pet parents. Its acoustic windshield also blocks scary road sounds, and you can choose between leather or cloth seating to keep human and pupper passengers comfortable.
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Subaru Crosstrek
A compact crossover packing plenty of wows like a spacious interior and a wide rear hatch for entry.
MSRP: Base starts at $23,645
Features:
- Boasts an impressive 20.8 cubic feet of cargo capacity that’s expandable to 55.3 cubic feet by lowering the standard fold-flat seats
- Comes standard with 4 cargo area tie-downs and 2 bag hooks
- Optional cargo floor tray for quick cleanup
- All trims come with standard all-wheel drive
- Boasts 33 miles per gallon on the highway; 28 miles per gallon in the city
Pros
- Earns four paws up for cargo space and 38 inches of headroom for fitting canines, crates, and more
- Wide rear entry is perfect for loading dogs and supplies
- Low floorboards are great for small and older pooches
Cons
- While there is a lot of cargo room to work with, tall crates may be a tight squeeze
- Lack of rear climate control is a bummer
2. Nissan Rogue
About: Dog-friendly drives are guaranteed with the Nissan Rogue, bearing rear climate control and four cargo hooks for securing crates and other accessories. Spacious yet cozy, the Rogue allows owners and their puppers to travel comfortably and safely.
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Nissan Rogue
Storage space and style aren’t lacking with this dog-friendly SUV featuring 36.5 cubic feet of room.
MSRP: Starts at $27,150
Features:
- Has 36.5 cubic feet of cargo space, which can be expanded to 74.1 cubic feet by lowering the foldable rear seats
- Motion-activated liftgate available on some trims for hands-free rear access
- Nissan X-Trail 4Dogs version is available outside of the U.S. with dog-focused extras like a built-in ramp, shower, and dryer
- Front-wheel drive standard, all-wheel drive optional for higher trims
- Gas mileage is 37 miles per gallon highway and 30 miles per gallon city
Pros
- Excellent amount of storage space
- Plenty of headroom for taller dogs
- Separate cargo area keeps canines contained
Cons
- May be too tall for small doggos to hop into
- Those without the X-Trail 4Dogs version may need a pet ramp
3. Chevrolet Equinox
About: The Chevrolet Equinox has a lot of elements dog lovers will wag their tails over like an optional sunroof. It’s chockful of convenience options, too, like hands-free rear entry and standard features, including foldable rear seats to maximize cargo space.
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Chevy Equinox
A spacious SUV offering several nifty options for riding with doggos, such as hands-free rear access.
MSRP: Starts at $25,800
Features:
- A maximum of 63.9 cubic feet of cargo space for dogs and canine carry-on (29.9 cubic feet of space with seats up)
- Active Noise Cancellation system reduces road sounds for a quiet ride
- Optional all-weather cargo and floorboard mats makes for easy cleaning
- Comes with standard all-wheel drive
- Gas mileage is 26 miles per gallon city and 31 gallons per mile highway
Pros
- Enough space for furry and non-furry passengers
- Storage space beneath the cargo area is helpful
- Wide rear entry provides easy access for dogs
Cons
- Too high for some pups to climb into comfortably
- Optional extras quickly increase the price
4. Honda Odyssey
About: Traveling with large dogs is easier with the Honda Odyssey. Two rows of rear seating allow plenty of space for passengers and pets, even if you don’t use its generous cargo area.
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Honda Odyssey
A pup porter like no other with tri-zone climate control, crazy amounts of storage space, and more.
MSRP: Starts at $37,340
Features:
- Offers up to 144.9 cubic feet of interior space with seats lowered; 32.8 cubic feet with seats raised
- Tri-zone climate control allows you to customize comfort for dogs and people alike
- Plenty of awesome extras like noise cancellation technology and hands-free rear access
- Standard front-wheel drive
- Gets up to 28 miles per gallon highway and 19 miles per gallon around the city
Pros
- Plenty of cargo room, including optional organization bins
- Hands-free rear access great for traveling with doggos
- Tri-zone climate control for peak pup comfort
Cons
- Might be too tall for some pups to jump into easily
- All that storage space may be hard to keep clean
5. Kia Soul
About: Hound lovers with an eye for the out-of-the-ordinary will adore the Kia Soul, a small crossover with an oddball look and roomy interior. A separate cargo hold allows for distraction-free driving, and its rear hatch offers effortless entry.
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Kia Soul
A standout SUV featuring an eye-catching look and canine-friendly extras like a separate cargo hold.
MSRP: Starts at $19,790
Features:
- Standard cargo hold is 24.2 cubic space and expandable up to 62.1 cubic feet by folding the seats
- Rear privacy glass blocks passersby from peeking in and bothering your doggo
- Higher trims feature Cluster Ionizer technology for interior freshness
- Front-wheel drive standard
- Gets up to 33 miles per gallon
Pros
- Provides enough room for larger doggos while still being short enough for small dogs to hop in
- Optional dual-zone automatic climate control
- One of the more affordable SUVs
Cons
- Not large enough for a big doggo and several passengers
- Cargo area on its own is on the smaller side
6. Kia K5
About: Sedan lovers will find the Kia K5 a solid option for traveling with their pooch. Roomier than many of its counterparts, this mid-size pick has enough space for a large dog or two.
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Kia K5
A sleek sedan that’s easy to board and offers enough rear room for most dogs to ride comfortably.
MSRP: Base starts at $25,090
Features:
- Has 16 cubic feet of cargo space and 105.3 cubic feet of passenger volume
- Dual-zone climate control keeps human cruisers and canines comfortable
- Remote start option lets you warm or cool the car before boarding with your best fur friend
- Available in all-wheel drive
- Gets 27 to 37 miles per gallon
Pros
- Many dog owners find the K5 paw-friendly
- Spacious without being too large
- Low height ideal for older or mobility-challenged pups
Cons
- Not enough space for travel crates and other large equipment
- No separate cargo bay
7. Honda Accord
About: Another sedan that earns high marks for being dog-friendly, the Honda Accord is ready for all of your four-footed adventures. Cozy and comfortable, the Accord makes car rides fun for you and your pooch.
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Honda Accord
A comfortable cruiser with a spacious trunk for storage and pup-pleasing extras like heated seats.
MSRP: Base starts at $26,520
Features:
- 16.7 cubic feet of truck space offers great storage for doggo items, while the rear seats also fold flat to make room for more accessories
- Active Noise Cancellation technology allows for a quiet ride, easing some travel anxieties
- Optional perks for improving canine comfort like heated rear seats and a moon roof
- Front-wheel drive standard
- Gets an impressive 38 miles per gallon highway and 30 miles per gallon in the city
Pros
- Low entry height makes boarding and exiting easy for small and older pups
- Spacious rear seat has room for most dogs to stretch out comfortably
- Optional rear climate control keeps canines cozy
Cons
- Not ideal for giant breeds or toting large equipment
- Lack of a separate cargo area is a bummer
8. Subaru Outback
About: The Subaru Outback is a dog lover’s dream with a roomy interior and rugged design that works well as a daily driver and outdoor explorer. The standard removable cargo tray also helps you tend to messes, while the Onyx Edition XT version takes it further with a water-resistant cabin built for wear and tear.
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Subaru Outback
A mid-sized, low-profile SUV that’s suitable for daily doggo chores and off-road activities alike.
MSRP: Base starts at $27,645
Features:
- 32.5 cubic feet of cargo space that can be expanded to 75.7 cubic feet by folding the rear seats
- Power rear gate allows for one-touch access (A win when your hands are full!)
- Dual-zone temperature control for keeping everyone cozy
- Standard all-wheel drive
- Gets up to 33 miles per gallon on the highway
Pros
- Provides enough room for most pooches to ride comfortably
- Tie-down cargo hooks allow for safer crate travel
- Low floorboard height is perfect for old or small dogs
Cons
- Can’t fit most large travel crates
- Headspace can be a tad short for leggier doggos
9. Ford Explorer
About: The Ford Explorer is an SUV that isn’t playing around when it comes to dog-friendly fun. A spacious interior with 38 to 40 inches of headroom is just the start with this all-purpose pooch party mobile.
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Ford Explorer
A roomy pooch-and-people mover, made with the features your dog needs and the sporty style you love.
MSRP: Base starts at $35,510
Features:
- Has a whopping 87 cubic feet of cargo space with fold-down seats
- Loaded with optional extras like a sunroof and keyless entry, many of which make #doglife easier
- Tri-zone climate control lets you customize comfort for all riders (furry or not)
- Standard intelligent four-wheel drive
- Estimated 20 miles per gallon city and 28 miles per gallon highway
Pros
- Wonderful option for those with big, active pooches (or lots of equipment)
- Separate cargo area is a major perk
- Climate zones provide customizable comfort throughout the vehicle
Cons
- Too tall for small or aging canines to board on their own
- Steep pricing compared to other SUVs
10. Tesla Model X
About: The Tesla Model X is a high-tech electric SUV with Tesla’s famous Dog Mode, a setting that keeps your canine cozy with temperature control when you’re out of the vehicle. It also displays a dashboard message for passersby, letting everyone know your pupper is living his best life safely inside.
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Tesla Model X
A tech-savvy electric SUV featuring the highly coveted (and canine-friendly) “Dog Mode” for safe travels and idling.
MSRP: Starts at $120,990
Features:
- Maximum cargo capacity of 91 cubic feet offers ample room for canines and carry-on
- Falcon-wing doors make for easy pup and accessory loading
- Active Road Noise Reduction system muffles traffic sounds
- Standard all-wheel drive
- Gets up to 348 miles per change (333 miles for X Plaid model)
Pros
- Tesla is the only car brand with Dog Mode currently
- Heaps of cargo room for doggos and goods
- Electric design is a hit with the eco-friendly crowd
Cons
- Much pricier than other vehicles on our list
- Charging stations can be few and far between in some areas
11. Jeep Wrangler
About: Conquer new adventures with your pup in the Jeep Wrangler, an off-roading rover for Rover, featuring a four-wheel drive and no-fuss interior that cleans easily. There are multiple trims to choose from, including bare-bones basics made for no-frills travel to those suitable for daily driving.
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Jeep Wrangler
An adventurer’s dream ride with lots of room for doggos, tons of available options, and an easy-to-clean design.
MSRP: Base model starts at $29,995
Features:
- 31.7 cubic feet of interior cargo space
- Choose between two-door and four-door models
- Cargo tie-downs for securing crates and other canine accessories
- Available in all-wheel drive and four-wheel drive
- Gas mileage ranges from 17 to 25 miles per gallon
Pros
- Top-tier choice for trail-riding on rough terrain with your doggo
- Fair amount of storage space for toting your dog and his particulars
- Lots of upgrades available for customizing to your needs and liking
Cons
- Not the best gas mileage
- Rugged design doesn’t come with cushy extras like climate zones
- Jeeps aren’t the safest option for canine travel
Bonus Features For Dog-Friendly Cars
While these pet-friendly accessories and features are non-essential, they are worth considering in your car search!
- Privacy Glass / Built-In Window Shades. Tinted glass or built-in rear sunshades will help keep your car cooler in the summer, keeping your pup more comfy. If you live in an area with a large number of hot, humid days, you may want to consider this a must-have feature (although it’s worth noting that window shades can easily be installed aftermarket as well). These also shield your pup from prying eyes and harassers.
- Sunroof. Sunroofs offer a fun way for your pup to get the air he craves without hanging a head unsafely out the window. They’re also great for keeping the air breathable during travel, as doggy odor can be rough, especially if your pupper is damp from the rain or a swim.
- Cameras. Some fancier cars are actually equipped with built-in cameras for the backseat or cargo area so that you can monitor your canine and make sure he’s doing OK when he’s in the car solo.
- Built-In Ramp. Built-in ramps are especially handy for senior doggos, allowing them to go on car rides without needing to jump up and down from the car (which can be hard on the joints of older dogs). The good news is that even if your car doesn’t have a built-in ramp, there are plenty of car and SUV ramps you can buy yourself.
- Shower & Dryer. You basically won’t see this in any car except for the Nissan X-Trail 4Dogs, but if you take your dog on muddy hikes often, it might be worth considering this dog-centric car.
- Noise-Blocking Technology. A quiet cabin goes a long way in keeping your canine calm during travel. Thankfully, many brands now offer active noise cancellation technology as a standard feature to shield the interior from wind and engine noises.
- Good Fuel Economy. A decent fuel economy saves you time and money while traveling with your pup. For one, you don’t have to stop as often and disturb your dog with the commotion of pumping gas. You also save on gas money, freeing up room in your budget for more canine adventures.
Best Cars & SUVs for Dogs: FAQ
There’s no doubt about it: Dog owners in need of a car have a lot of things they must consider, and this often leads to a ton of questions. But we’ve got you covered!
We answer a few of the most common car-buying questions dog owners often have below.
What is the most dog-friendly car?
The most dog-friendly vehicle is easy for canines to board and roomy enough to house your dog comfortably. This description suits several sedans and SUVs, though those traveling with giant breeds, crates, and other large accessories should almost always opt for the latter.
Is Tesla the only car with dog mode?
At the moment, yes. Other brands are working on their own versions, but Tesla is the pioneer on the Dog Mode front.
What kind of car has dog mode?
As of 2022, Tesla is the only car manufacturer offering Dog Mode. Other brands are working on their models, but we’ll have to wait and see if they hold a candle to Tesla’s innovative idea.
Are dogs safe in the back of an SUV?
Your dog should travel in the rear of a vehicle, though he should be secured, preferably in a crash-tested crate or carrier for peak safety. This keeps him away from the driver, preventing distraction, and adds an added layer of protection in the event of an accident. At the very least, he should be tethered with a safety belt and harness, as sudden braking or an accident can lead to injury.
What is the best car for dog owners?
It depends.
Your list of must-haves car features differs from other people’s needs based on your dog and lifestyle.
Suppose you have a large dog or tote around many accessories. In that case, you may be best suited to a large SUV or van, while those with small dogs may prefer a sedan with decent storage space, as it’s easiest for their pup to hop in. Hatchbacks and small SUVs offer a happy medium between the two, with ample storage space and not too high of clearance for canines climbing in and out.
Narrowing it down more, you need to consider a vehicle’s features. For instance, a flat cargo area is on most people’s list, as it offers a designated space for your dog, whether he’s crated or tethered. Easy-to-clean flooring or mats are also helpful since we all know dogs can make quite the mess.
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Do you own any of the vehicles on this list? What dog-friendly car and SUVs do you recommend? Let us know in the comments below!
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