For many dog owners, owning a vehicle that can comfortably accommodate their furry companion is a necessity rather than a luxury. While sedans and compact cars offer efficiency and maneuverability, they often lack the space needed for a medium or large dog crate.
This can make trips to the vet, weekend getaways, or long road journeys stressful for both the pet and the owner. Small SUVs provide a practical solution, offering a combination of size, versatility, and comfort without the bulk of a full-size SUV.
Their cargo areas often allow for easy placement of dog crates while still leaving room for passengers and additional gear. The right small SUV can transform traveling with a dog from a cramped experience into an organized and enjoyable one.
When selecting a vehicle to fit a dog crate, several factors come into play. Cargo space is the most obvious consideration, but the shape of the cargo area, the presence of a flat floor, and the ability to fold rear seats all influence whether a crate can sit securely and comfortably.
Additionally, ease of entry and exit is important, as some vehicles sit higher off the ground, which can make lifting a crate more difficult. Safety features, such as cargo anchors or a secure partition between the crate and the passenger area, can also enhance the travel experience for a pet.
Beyond practical considerations, the daily life of a dog owner can benefit from the adaptability of a small SUV. These vehicles typically offer higher seating positions that provide better visibility on the road and can make traffic navigation less stressful.
They often include features like rear climate controls, USB ports, and storage compartments that allow owners to keep leashes, toys, and food organized. Even for smaller breeds, a designated space in the back allows the dog to feel secure and reduces anxiety during rides.
Choosing the right small SUV for a dog is about balancing size, comfort, and convenience. While many vehicles may technically fit a crate, the ideal choice combines cargo room with practicality and features that make traveling with a pet straightforward.
The following list highlights ten small SUVs that excel in these areas, providing enough space to comfortably accommodate a dog crate and the lifestyle of a pet owner.
1. Honda CR-V
The Honda CR-V is a consistent favorite among small SUV buyers and pet owners alike. Its cargo area measures roughly 39 cubic feet behind the rear seats and expands to over 75 cubic feet with the seats folded. This provides ample room for a standard large dog crate while still allowing space for additional items like bags, water bowls, or pet supplies. The CR-V’s wide rear opening and low lift-over height make it easy to load and unload a crate without straining your back.
Inside, the CR-V is designed with comfort in mind. Rear seats fold flat to create a smooth surface, reducing the risk of a crate tipping or sliding during transit.
Additionally, the interior materials are durable and easy to clean, which is a significant benefit when traveling with pets. Many owners use a liner or protective mat to safeguard the cargo area from hair and scratches, and the CR-V’s design accommodates this without compromising space.
Safety is another key feature of the CR-V. Honda includes anchors and tether points that allow pet owners to secure crates or harnesses, preventing movement during sudden stops. This makes it safer for both the dog and human passengers.
Furthermore, the CR-V’s stability control system ensures smooth handling, which is particularly important when transporting pets, as sudden jolts can cause anxiety or injury.
The CR-V also balances practicality with fuel efficiency. Its small SUV size makes city driving manageable while still offering the space needed for longer trips. Owners often appreciate the higher seating position, which allows better road visibility and makes merging and parking less stressful. The Honda CR-V offers a combination of cargo space, interior flexibility, and pet-friendly design that makes it a top choice for dog owners.
2. Toyota RAV4
The Toyota RAV4 provides a thoughtful blend of space, reliability, and comfort for pet owners. Its cargo area offers around 37 cubic feet with the rear seats up and close to 70 cubic feet when folded flat. This makes it compatible with medium to large dog crates while still leaving room for personal belongings. The RAV4’s squared-off rear cargo area ensures that crates fit without awkward tilting, and its low cargo floor simplifies lifting and lowering heavier crates.
The interior of the RAV4 emphasizes convenience and durability. It features hard-wearing materials that can withstand scratches and spills, which is ideal for pets. Folding the rear seats creates a continuous flat surface, which helps keep the crate steady during travel.
Additionally, the rear doors open wide enough to maneuver a crate into position without difficulty, an often-overlooked aspect of pet-friendly vehicle design.
Toyota’s safety technology adds another layer of reassurance. Many RAV4 models include multiple tie-down points in the cargo area that allow owners to secure crates effectively. Stability and traction systems ensure a smooth ride, which minimizes stress for anxious pets. For longer trips, features like rear air vents and climate control help maintain a comfortable environment for dogs.
Finally, the RAV4 is known for its reliability and low maintenance costs. Its combination of a spacious cargo area, user-friendly features, and secure handling makes it a practical choice for dog owners who want a small SUV that accommodates both daily commuting and weekend adventures. Whether driving through city streets or heading to a trailhead, the RAV4 balances convenience with pet-friendly functionality.
3. Subaru Forester
The Subaru Forester is often praised for its versatility and strong reputation for safety, making it ideal for dog owners. Its cargo capacity stands at approximately 35 cubic feet behind the rear seats and extends to over 70 cubic feet with the seats folded.
The boxy shape of the Forester’s rear area allows a dog crate to fit easily without needing to angle or tilt it, and the low lift-over height simplifies placement for larger crates.
One of the Forester’s standout features is its all-wheel-drive system. This ensures stability and traction in a variety of conditions, which is particularly useful for owners who enjoy outdoor adventures with their dogs. The smooth ride also reduces the chances of sudden jolts that could upset a pet. Rear seats fold flat to provide a continuous surface, which helps prevent the crate from shifting while driving.
The interior is designed with usability in mind. Durable cargo materials and protective liners make cleaning after trips straightforward. Subaru also offers accessories like cargo dividers and pet barriers that enhance safety and organization. The rear hatch opens wide, providing easy access for lifting crates in and out, while tie-down points in the cargo area offer additional security during travel.
Subaru’s commitment to safety is apparent with advanced driver assistance features such as automatic emergency braking and adaptive cruise control.
These systems contribute to a calmer ride, which benefits both pets and humans. The Forester’s combination of space, stability, and thoughtful interior design makes it a practical choice for dog owners seeking a small SUV that balances functionality with comfort.
4. Mazda CX-5
The Mazda CX-5 combines sleek styling with practical cargo space, making it an attractive option for pet owners. With approximately 30 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats and over 60 cubic feet when folded, the CX-5 can accommodate medium-sized dog crates comfortably. The cargo floor is relatively flat, which prevents crates from tilting, and the rear opening provides easy access for loading.
Mazda prioritizes a driver-focused interior, but it also accommodates pets well. Rear seats fold nearly flat, providing a stable base for a crate. The cargo area is lined with materials that are resistant to scratches and easy to clean, and the wide rear hatch ensures that loading and unloading crates is straightforward. Storage compartments in the side panels allow owners to stow leashes, toys, and other pet essentials efficiently.
The CX-5 offers a smooth ride that benefits pets who may be anxious during travel. Suspension tuning minimizes bumps and vibrations, reducing stress on the crate. Additionally, the vehicle’s handling and responsive brakes allow the driver to navigate city streets and highways with confidence, ensuring a safer environment for pets. Anchor points in the cargo area can secure a crate in place, further increasing travel safety.
Finally, the CX-5 balances performance with fuel efficiency, making it a practical choice for daily commuting as well as long trips.
The higher seating position provides better visibility, and rear climate vents help maintain a comfortable environment for pets. Its combination of style, comfort, and functional cargo space makes the Mazda CX-5 a reliable small SUV for dog owners who want both aesthetic appeal and practicality.
5. Ford Escape
The Ford Escape offers a versatile option for dog owners seeking a small SUV that accommodates a crate comfortably. The Escape provides around 33 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and nearly 65 cubic feet with the seats folded flat.
Its rectangular cargo layout makes it easier to fit larger crates without having to angle them awkwardly, which is particularly important for heavier crates that require careful lifting. The low floor height combined with a wide rear hatch opening simplifies loading and unloading, allowing pets to be transported without excessive strain on the owner’s back.
The interior of the Escape is designed to withstand daily use, especially for owners with active pets. Hard plastics and durable carpeting in the cargo area resist scratches, dirt, and hair, while mats or liners can be added for extra protection.
The rear seats fold flat in a 60/40 configuration, allowing for a mix of crate space and passenger seating if needed. In addition, side compartments and pockets provide convenient storage for leashes, water bottles, or pet toys, keeping the interior organized during longer trips.
Ford has also included thoughtful safety measures in the Escape. Cargo tie-down points in the rear ensure that crates can be secured and prevented from shifting during sudden braking or sharp turns. The vehicle’s stability control system helps maintain a smooth ride even on uneven surfaces, which reduces stress for anxious pets.
Drivers can feel confident that the crate will remain stationary and that their dog is safe during transit. Furthermore, the Escape’s higher seating position offers improved visibility for drivers, which is a practical advantage in urban environments and crowded parking lots.
Another advantage of the Escape is its efficient performance. It offers competitive fuel economy, making it an economical choice for daily commutes and long weekend trips alike. The combination of comfortable cargo space, practical features, and reliability makes the Ford Escape a solid choice for dog owners who require a small SUV capable of accommodating a crate without sacrificing comfort or convenience.
6. Nissan Rogue
The Nissan Rogue has earned a reputation as a practical, pet-friendly small SUV due to its spacious cargo area and versatile seating options. The Rogue offers approximately 36 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and over 74 cubic feet with the seats folded flat.
This generous capacity allows medium and large dog crates to fit easily while leaving additional room for personal items or pet accessories. The nearly square cargo area provides a stable base for crates, which is especially useful for dogs who may shift or move around during travel.
The Rogue’s interior is designed with convenience and durability in mind. The rear seats fold flat to create a level floor for crates, reducing the risk of tipping and providing a comfortable travel environment. Materials in the cargo area are easy to clean, which is beneficial for pet owners who frequently transport dogs with shedding or muddy paws.
Rear doors open wide, giving ample space to maneuver larger crates in and out without difficulty. Moreover, the Rogue includes additional storage compartments and hooks that can be used to secure pet leashes, food containers, or travel bowls.
Safety is a significant focus in the Rogue, and the vehicle includes multiple anchor points and tie-downs in the cargo area to ensure that crates remain stable. The SUV’s stability and traction systems reduce abrupt movements during turns or stops, minimizing stress for pets during the journey.
Features like rear climate control vents also allow owners to maintain a comfortable temperature in the back, which is essential during longer drives or hot summer months.
In addition to practicality, the Nissan Rogue provides an enjoyable driving experience. Its smooth ride quality, responsive steering, and higher seating position offer confidence and comfort for the driver while traveling with pets.
The Rogue combines cargo space, user-friendly features, and safety systems that make it an excellent choice for dog owners looking for a small SUV capable of handling a crate comfortably.
7. Chevrolet Trailblazer
The Chevrolet Trailblazer is a small SUV that stands out for its compact design paired with surprisingly practical cargo space. Behind the rear seats, the Trailblazer provides roughly 25 cubic feet of storage, which expands to nearly 54 cubic feet when the seats are folded flat.
While this space may be smaller than some competitors, the SUV’s boxy layout allows medium dog crates to fit securely, and the low cargo floor makes lifting and positioning crates more manageable. Its rear hatch opens wide, facilitating easy access for both pets and owners during loading and unloading.
The Trailblazer’s interior is built to handle the demands of pet owners. Durable upholstery and cargo materials resist damage from claws and dirt, and mats or liners can be used to protect the floor while providing additional grip for crates.
Rear seats fold flat, creating a continuous surface that keeps the crate stable and prevents it from sliding during sudden stops. Side storage compartments are also useful for organizing smaller pet essentials, ensuring that items like leashes and water bottles remain easily accessible.
Safety and stability are important features in the Trailblazer. Tie-down points in the cargo area allow crates to be secured effectively, minimizing the risk of movement while driving.
The SUV’s stability control system ensures smoother handling, which is particularly beneficial for pets that may become anxious during bumpy rides. The Trailblazer also offers driver-assist technologies that help maintain safe driving conditions, further enhancing the comfort and security of traveling with a pet.
Chevrolet balances practicality with performance in the Trailblazer. Its compact size makes it easy to navigate city streets and tight parking spaces, while the cargo area remains large enough to accommodate the needs of dog owners. For those seeking a small SUV that combines maneuverability, pet-friendly cargo space, and reliable features, the Chevrolet Trailblazer is a practical option that meets everyday demands and weekend adventures alike.
8. Kia Sportage
The Kia Sportage has consistently been a popular choice among small SUV buyers due to its spacious interior and comfortable ride. The Sportage offers around 30 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and expands to nearly 60 cubic feet with the seats folded flat.
The rectangular cargo area allows dog crates to fit without tilting, and the rear opening is wide enough to make loading and unloading a simple task. Its slightly higher cargo floor may require a lift, but the space is well-suited for medium to large crates.
Durability is a strong point of the Sportage’s interior design. The cargo materials are resistant to scratches, hair, and dirt, making it easier to maintain a clean and organized space when transporting pets.
Rear seats fold in a 60/40 split, offering flexibility for both passengers and a crate simultaneously. Side storage compartments allow for convenient storage of pet supplies, while tie-down points in the cargo area provide extra security for crates during travel.
The Sportage also prioritizes passenger and pet safety. Stability and traction systems reduce unwanted movements during sudden stops or uneven road conditions, providing a smoother and safer ride for dogs.
Climate control vents in the rear ensure that pets remain comfortable during longer drives, and wide rear doors facilitate easy access for both pets and owners. Additionally, the Sportage’s higher seating position offers improved visibility, which can make city driving less stressful.
Finally, the Kia Sportage balances comfort and efficiency. Its smooth ride quality and responsive handling allow drivers to feel confident while transporting pets, while the available technology features enhance convenience and safety. For dog owners seeking a small SUV that provides practical cargo space, reliable safety features, and user-friendly interiors, the Kia Sportage is a versatile and dependable choice.
9. Hyundai Tucson
The Hyundai Tucson combines style, reliability, and practicality for pet owners who need a small SUV that can fit a crate comfortably. The Tucson provides approximately 31 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and around 61 cubic feet when folded flat.
The rear cargo area has a practical shape for accommodating crates of varying sizes, and its wide hatch opening ensures that even larger crates can be loaded with minimal effort. The low lift-over height further simplifies the process, reducing strain on the owner.
Inside, Tucson’s cargo area is both durable and functional. Its materials resist scratches and dirt, making cleaning after pet trips relatively easy. Rear seats fold flat to create a level surface, helping prevent crates from tipping or shifting during travel.
The SUV also offers storage compartments for leashes, toys, and other pet accessories, keeping the interior organized. Tie-down points in the cargo area provide added security for crates, ensuring that they remain stable even on bumpy roads.
The Tucson emphasizes safety for both pets and passengers. Stability control and traction systems work together to provide a smooth ride, which minimizes stress for dogs during transit. Rear climate vents allow owners to maintain a comfortable environment for pets, which is especially important for longer journeys.
Additionally, wide rear doors make it easier to maneuver crates into place without difficulty, a convenience often overlooked in small SUVs.
Performance and efficiency are additional strengths of the Tucson. Its smooth handling and fuel-efficient engine make it a practical choice for everyday driving and longer road trips. With a balance of interior space, safety features, and convenience, the Hyundai Tucson meets the needs of dog owners seeking a small SUV capable of transporting a crate comfortably and reliably.
10. Volkswagen Tiguan
The Volkswagen Tiguan offers a European touch combined with practicality for pet owners. With about 37 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and nearly 73 cubic feet with the seats folded, it provides enough room for medium and large dog crates.
The Tiguan’s rectangular cargo area and flat floor design make it easier to fit crates securely, while the wide rear hatch opening simplifies loading and unloading. Its rear lift height is moderate, making it accessible for crates without excessive lifting effort.
The Tiguan’s interior is durable and pet-friendly. Materials in the cargo area resist scratches and are easy to clean, while rear seats fold flat to create a stable surface for crates.
Additional storage compartments in the side panels offer convenient spaces for pet supplies, leashes, and food. Tie-down points in the cargo area allow owners to secure crates safely, preventing unwanted movement during travel and enhancing safety for pets.
Safety is a key focus for Volkswagen, and the Tiguan includes features such as stability control, traction systems, and multiple anchor points that ensure a smooth and secure ride. Rear climate vents and consistent airflow help maintain a comfortable environment for pets during longer drives.
Wide rear doors and a low cargo floor make loading and unloading crates less cumbersome, an important consideration for dog owners who frequently travel with their pets.
Finally, the Tiguan balances practicality with style and performance. Its smooth ride quality, efficient handling, and responsive braking create a comfortable driving experience for both the owner and pet. With generous cargo space, thoughtful interior design, and reliable features, the Volkswagen Tiguan is an excellent small SUV choice for dog owners who want to transport a crate safely and comfortably without sacrificing comfort or aesthetics.
