Best Cars for Dogs

Our four-legged friends are part of the family, so choosing the right car means thinking beyond fuel economy, performance or styling. If, like many, you plan to take your dog in the car with you on holiday or just further afield for a walk, or simply heading to the vets, your vehicle should provide a safe, comfortable and practical environment for every passenger, including those with four legs. 

The best cars for dog owners have generous boot space, easy access, comfortable suspension and practical interiors that can cope with muddy paws, wet coats and plenty of dog hair. A wide boot opening, low loading height, and durable materials can make a significant difference, particularly if you have a larger breed or regularly travel with multiple dogs. 

Different dogs have different requirements, too. A Chihuahua or Cockapoo may travel happily on the rear seat using an approved safety harness, while larger breeds such as Labradors, Golden Retrievers or German Shepherds are often more comfortable travelling in the boot behind a properly fitted dog guard or inside a secure travel crate. If you frequently take longer trips or enjoy weekends away, having plenty of room for your dog alongside luggage, pushchairs or outdoor equipment becomes even more important. 

Fortunately, there are plenty of excellent options available. Estate cars continue to offer some of the largest boots on the market, while modern SUVs provide excellent visibility and versatile interiors. Even many electric cars now offer impressive luggage capacity, flat load areas and quiet cabins that can help nervous dogs feel more relaxed during travel. Van-based models also provide exceptional practicality for owners with multiple dogs or larger breeds. 

In this guide, we'll explain what makes a truly pet-friendly car, the features worth prioritising before you buy, and our pick of the best cars for dogs across a range of budgets and body styles. So if you're looking for a compact family hatchback, a mid-size SUV, a spacious estate or a capable Land Rover for outdoor adventures, we'll help you find a vehicle that's practical for both you and your canine companion. 

Best Cars for Different Types of Dogs

What Makes a Good Car for Dog Owners? 

Not every large car is automatically dog-friendly. While boot size is important, there are several other things to consider which can make travelling with your pet easier, safer and more enjoyable. The best cars for dog owners are those that strike the right balance between practicality, comfort, and safety, making everyday trips and longer journeys less stressful for everyone, including your furry family member. 

Large Boot Space 

A spacious boot is often the first feature dog owners look for, and for good reason. Larger dogs need enough room to sit, stand and lie down comfortably, while owners using travel crates must ensure the crate fits securely without restricting ventilation. 

Estate cars often provide the biggest load areas, although many modern SUVs and van-based vehicles now offer equally impressive practicality. 

Wide Boot Opening 

Boot capacity alone doesn't tell the whole story. A wide opening makes it much easier for dogs to jump in and out naturally and to lift older pets or larger breeds into the vehicle when needed. 

Low Loading Height 

A low boot lip reduces the strain placed on your dog's joints, particularly for puppies, senior dogs or breeds prone to hip and elbow problems. This feature becomes especially valuable if your dog travels frequently or has reduced mobility. It allows them to get in and out on their own without you having to lift them in. Of course, some of the more pampered pooches will still expect your help! 

Plenty of Room for Passengers and Pets 

Many busy family households need space for far more than just their dog/s. Child seats, luggage, shopping, camping equipment, and sports gear can quickly fill a car, so choosing a model with plenty of cabin space helps ensure everyone travels comfortably. 

Family SUVs and larger estate cars often offer the best combination of passenger comfort and cargo capacity. 

Comfortable Ride Quality 

A smooth ride can make a significant difference, particularly for nervous dogs or pets that suffer from travel sickness. Cars with a well-tuned suspension help reduce bumps and excessive movement, making longer trips more relaxing for your companion. 

Easy-to-Clean Interior 

All dog owners know that muddy paws, wet fur and shedding are unavoidable. Hard-wearing upholstery, rubber floor mats, and wipe-clean boot liners can make maintaining your car much easier year-round. 

Good Ventilation 

Fresh airflow helps keep dogs comfortable, particularly during warmer months. Rear air vents, climate control and large windows all contribute to a more pleasant travelling environment without compromising safety. 

Safety Features 

Keeping your dog secure is just as important as protecting human passengers. A dog should never travel loose inside the cabin, where sudden braking could cause injury to both your pet and other occupants. 

Depending on your dog's size, the safest options include: 

• A fitted dog guard separating the boot from the passenger compartment. 

• A crash-tested travel crate. 

• An approved dog harness attached to the vehicle's seat belt. 

• Non-slip boot liners to improve stability while travelling. 

Dog Travel Safety 

Keeping your dog safe while travelling should always be your top priority. While comfort and boot space are important, the safest cars for dog owners are those that allow pets to travel securely without distracting the driver or increasing the risk of injury in the event of sudden braking or a collision. 

The UK Highway Code states that dogs and other animals should be suitably restrained so they cannot distract the driver or injure themselves or occupants if the vehicle stops suddenly. There are several safe ways to transport your dog, depending on their size and the type of vehicle you own. 

Use a Dog Guard 

A dog guard is one of the most popular solutions for larger doggies travelling in the boot. Fitted securely behind the rear seats, it creates a barrier between the passenger compartment and the load area, which stops your dog from moving into the cabin during the journey and distracting you. 

Dog guards work particularly well in estate cars, family SUVs and van-based vehicles where the boot offers plenty of room for your pet to move comfortably and securely.  

Consider a Travel Crate 

Using a crash-tested dog crate is one of the safest ways to transport dogs, particularly on longer trips. The crate should be appropriately sized, allowing your dog to stand, turn around and lie down comfortably without excessive movement. 

Harnesses for Smaller Dogs 

If your dog prefers to travel snuggled on the rear seat, you need to use an approved dog harness that attaches to the vehicle's seat belt. This helps keep them secure while reducing distractions for the driver. 

Keep Your Dog Comfortable 

Safety isn't just about restraints. Your dog should also remain comfortable throughout the journey by ensuring: 

• Good ventilation throughout the cabin. 

• Access to fresh drinking water. 

• Regular breaks on longer trips. 

• A comfortable blanket or bed. 

• The vehicle remains cool during warmer weather. 

If you're planning frequent motorway journeys or holidays, choosing a pet-friendly car with climate control and rear air vents can help make travelling much more enjoyable for your dog. 

Never Allow Your Dog to Travel Loose 

We love our dogs so much, and it can be tempting to have them sat next to you or even on your knee whilst travelling, but allowing a dog to roam freely around the cabin can be dangerous for everyone inside the vehicle. Even a small dog can distract the driver, while an unrestrained larger dog may become a serious hazard during emergency braking. 

By combining the right vehicle with suitable safety equipment, you can help ensure every journey is as safe and stress-free as possible. 

Best Cars Models for Dogs 

Before choosing a specific model, here's a quick comparison of some of the best cars for dog owners

Skoda Octavia Estate 

If practicality is your priority, it's difficult to overlook the Skoda Octavia Estate. Frequently recommended as one of the best estate cars available, it combines outstanding value with exceptional everyday usability. 

Its generous 640-litre boot offers more than enough room for most medium and large dog breeds, while the low loading height makes getting in and out much easier than many SUVs The wide boot opening also accommodates travel crates with ease, making it an excellent choice for dog owners who regularly travel longer distances. 

Inside, there's ample rear-seat space for families, while the smooth ride quality helps keep dogs comfortable on longer trips. Running costs are also relatively modest compared with larger premium vehicles. 

Best for: Families wanting a practical, affordable estate with excellent boot space. 

Skoda Superb Estate 

The Superb Estate takes practicality even further. Offering around 690 litres of boot space before folding the rear seats, it's one of the largest estate cars available without stepping into premium executive territory. 

That additional space makes a noticeable difference if you own multiple dogs or frequently carry luggage alongside your pets. The comfortable suspension, refined cabin, and spacious interior also make it particularly well-suited to long journeys and family holidays. 

Its sensible running costs and excellent reliability make it one of the most complete cars currently available to dog owners. 

Best for: Large dogs, multiple dogs and regular motorway journeys. 

Kia Sportage 

For buyers who prefer the higher driving position of an SUV, the Kia Sportage is an excellent all-round choice. 

Its generous boot provides plenty of room for medium and large dogs, while the wide-opening tailgate makes loading far easier than some competing family SUVs The rear seats also offer excellent space if your dog travels inside the cabin using a harness. 

The Sportage strikes a good balance between practicality, comfort and affordability, making it particularly attractive for growing families. 

With efficient petrol, hybrid and plug-in hybrid options available, it's also relatively economical to own. 

Best for: Families wanting a practical mid-size SUV. 

Tesla Model Y 

Electric cars have become increasingly attractive for pet owners, the quiet smooth ride soothes pets that can often become nervous when travelling. The Tesla Model Y is one of the strongest options on the market. 

Its exceptionally large boot, additional front storage compartment and flat load floor provide outstanding practicality. The quiet electric drivetrain also creates a calmer environment that many dogs find less stressful than traditional petrol or diesel engines. 

One particularly useful feature is Tesla's Dog Mode, which maintains a comfortable cabin temperature while displaying a message on the central screen informing passers-by that your pet is safe inside the vehicle. 

Combined with low running costs and excellent passenger space, the Model Y is an outstanding pet-friendly car for modern families. 

Best for: Buyers wanting one of the best electric cars for dogs. 

Citroën Berlingo 

Although often overlooked, the Citroën Berlingo may be one of the most practical vehicles available for dog owners. 

Its van-based design delivers a huge, square load area that's perfect for larger breeds, multiple dogs or substantial travel crates. Sliding rear doors also make it much easier for children and pets to access the cabin in tight parking spaces. 

The Berlingo's upright design provides excellent headroom, while its durable interior is well-suited to active families who regularly visit beaches, forests, or go on countryside walks. 

For anyone who needs maximum practicality without switching to a full-size van, it's one of the smartest choices available. 

Best for: Owners of multiple dogs, active families and anyone needing exceptional practicality. 

Skoda Enyaq 

The Skoda Enyaq proves that electric cars can be just as practical as traditional family vehicles. Combining a spacious interior with a large boot and smooth electric performance, it's an excellent option for dog owners looking to reduce their running costs without compromising on space. 

The flat load floor makes it easier for dogs to move around in the boot, while the quiet electric motor creates a calmer environment that many pets find less intimidating than a conventional engine. With generous rear passenger space and a comfortable ride, the Enyaq is particularly well suited to family life and longer trips. 

As charging infrastructure continues to improve across the UK, electric SUVs like the Enyaq are becoming an increasingly sensible choice for active households. 

Best for: Families looking for a practical electric SUV with ample space. 

Dacia Duster 

Not everyone needs a premium SUV to enjoy practical dog-friendly motoring. The Dacia Duster offers excellent value for money while still providing generous interior space and a useful-sized boot. 

Its raised ride height makes it popular with owners who enjoy countryside walks, while the simple, durable interior copes well with muddy paws and wet coats. Although the boot isn't the largest on this list, it comfortably accommodates most medium-sized dogs and everyday pet accessories. 

The Duster is also one of the most affordable SUVs to buy and run, making it an excellent choice for first-time buyers or growing families. 

Best for: Budget-conscious dog owners who want SUV practicality. 

Land Rover Defender 

If your weekends revolve around beaches, forests, hiking trails or country estates, few vehicles are better suited than the Land Rover Defender. 

Designed to tackle challenging terrain, the Defender combines exceptional off-road capability with a spacious interior and a practical load area. Larger breeds benefit from the generous boot, while the durable materials throughout the cabin are designed to withstand heavy use. 

Land Rover also offers a range of genuine pet accessories, including dog guards, portable rinsing systems, folding pet carriers and protective load-space liners, making the Defender one of the most pet-focused vehicles available. 

Although ownership costs are higher than many alternatives, its versatility makes it an outstanding option for adventurous dog owners. 

Best for: Outdoor lifestyles and owners of larger breeds. 

Volvo XC60 

Volvo has built its reputation around safety, making the XC60 an excellent choice for families travelling with children and pets. 

The spacious boot provides ample room for larger dogs, while the comfortable suspension and refined cabin help create a relaxing environment on long journeys. Excellent visibility, advanced driver assistance systems and a premium interior further enhance its appeal. 

Volvo also offers dedicated pet accessories including protective boot mats and dog gates, allowing owners to customise the vehicle specifically for travelling with animals. 

For those seeking a premium SUV that combines comfort, safety and practicality, the XC60 is one of the strongest contenders. 

Best for: Safety-conscious families wanting a premium SUV. 

Volkswagen ID. Buzz 

The Volkswagen ID. Buzz brings modern electric technology together with outstanding practicality. Inspired by the iconic Volkswagen camper, its boxy shape provides one of the largest interiors of any electric vehicle currently on sale. 

Its van based design creates exceptional headroom and an enormous load area, making it ideal for larger breeds, multiple dogs or oversized travel crates. Sliding rear doors also improve accessibility, particularly when parked in tighter spaces. 

The quiet electric powertrain, flexible seating configuration and huge amount of interior space make it one of the most versatile family vehicles available today. 

Although it's larger than many buyers need, few vehicles offer the same combination of practicality and character. 

Best for: Multiple dogs, active families and owners wanting maximum interior space. 

Best SUVs for Dog Owners 

SUVs remain one of the most popular choices for dog owners thanks to their versatile interiors, comfortable driving position and generous luggage space. 

• Higher driving position. 

• Flexible seating arrangements. 

• Large boots. 

• Excellent visibility. 

• Ideal for family life. 

• Comfortable on longer journeys. 

Top recommendations include: 

• Kia Sportage 

• Volvo XC60 

• Tesla Model Y 

• Skoda Enyaq 

• Land Rover Defender 

Best Estate Cars for Dog Owners 

If maximum practicality is your priority, estate cars remain difficult to beat. Their long roofline creates larger, more usable boots than many SUVs while maintaining lower loading heights that are easier for older dogs. 

Benefits of estate cars 

• Lower boot lip. 

• Larger square-shaped load area. 

• Excellent fuel economy. 

• Comfortable motorway driving. 

• Ideal for travel crates. 

Our favourites are: 

• Skoda Superb Estate 

• Skoda Octavia Estate 

Best Electric Cars for Dog Owners 

Modern electric cars are becoming increasingly popular among dog owners thanks to their quiet operation and lower running costs. 

Benefits include: 

• Quiet cabins that can help reduce anxiety in nervous dogs. 

• Instant heating and cooling. 

• Lower fuel costs. 

• Large, flat load areas. 

• Smooth acceleration for comfortable travel. 

Dog Travel Essentials Checklist 

Should Your Dog Travel in the Boot or on the Rear Seat? 

There isn't a single answer that suits every dog. The safest option depends on your dog's size, the type of vehicle you drive and how your pet is restrained. 

Whichever option you choose, your dog should always be properly restrained and never allowed to move freely around the cabin. 

Frequently Asked Questions