We readily admit to being a bit obsessed with dogs—and for good reason! Dogs are not just wonderful companions at home; they’re fantastic company in the office and on the road. Whenever possible, we love to bring our furry friends along, incorporating them into our car-testing adventures.
Approximately 62% of dog owners take their pets for car rides at least once a week, and a significant 77% factor their dogs into vehicle purchasing decisions. A whopping 92% of these owners view their dogs as family members or even their best friends.
This naturally raises the question: What are the best vehicles for dog lovers?
Essential Features of Dog-Friendly Vehicles
A vehicle well-suited for dogs should have specific features to ensure both comfort and practicality. Here are some key considerations:
- Durable Seats
Preferred seating materials for dog owners include vinyl, leather, and faux leather due to their resilience and ease of cleaning. - Low Cargo Floor
A high cargo floor can be challenging for dogs, especially smaller breeds or those with mobility issues. A low cargo floor makes it easier for them to hop in and out. - Rugged Interior
Even the most well-behaved dogs might unintentionally scratch or damage delicate surfaces. Interiors designed to withstand wear and tear are ideal for handling dog nails, slobber, and more. - Accessories
Many car manufacturers offer dog-friendly accessories such as pet screens. Additionally, aftermarket suppliers provide excellent harnesses, kennels, and other essentials for pet travel, some of which are universal while others are model-specific. - Cargo Tie-Downs
Secure cargo tie-down hooks ensure pet accessories like kennels remain firmly in place during travel.
Now, let’s go into a list of 10 vehicles—presented alphabetically—that both dogs and their owners are sure to appreciate.
1. 2023 Audi Q3
The Audi Q3 is perfect for pet owners who appreciate a touch of luxury for themselves and their canine companions. This 2023 model boasts a refined yet practical interior with smooth leather seats and a 60/40 split-folding second row that can recline.
Smaller dogs will find the 23.7 cubic feet of luggage space behind the seats cozy, while larger breeds can take advantage of the generous 37.6 inches of second-row headroom. For even more room, the second row can be folded flat.
Beyond comfort, the Q3 offers impressive performance. Drivers can choose between two 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engines: one delivering 184 horsepower and another producing 228 horsepower.
Standard quattro all-wheel drive, paired with an 8-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission, ensures smooth and reliable rides. Whether cruising through city streets or taking scenic drives, you and your dog will do so in style.
2. 2023 Ford Bronco Sport
For dog owners who enjoy outdoor adventures, the 2023 Ford Bronco Sport is an excellent choice. While it shares the iconic Bronco name, the Bronco Sport is built on the Ford Escape platform, offering a smoother, car-like ride compared to its rugged off-road sibling.
Despite its tamer demeanor, the Bronco Sport comes standard with all-wheel drive and Ford’s innovative “G.O.A.T. Mode” (short for “Goes Over Any Terrain”), making it capable of handling a variety of terrains.
This SUV is an ideal companion for hiking trips and other outdoor escapades, ensuring you and your four-legged friend can explore exciting trails while staying safe and comfortable on the way back.
3. 2023 Honda Pilot
For many, dogs are more than just pets—they’re family. That makes the 2023 Honda Pilot an excellent choice, as it’s designed with families in mind.
This three-row SUV boasts a durable interior, offering options ranging from the LX trim’s cloth seats to the leather-trimmed upholstery available in the EX-L trim and above. Opt for the Elite trim, and your dogs will even enjoy heated second-row seats—something they’re sure to appreciate on chilly days.
Every Honda Pilot is powered by a robust 3.5-liter V-6 engine, with configurations available in either front-wheel or all-wheel drive. Flexible seating layouts allow dogs to enter easily through the liftgate or rear side doors, then settle into their favorite spot.
Whether lounging in the cargo area or standing between the second-row captain’s chairs to soak up affection from all passengers, your canine companion will ride in ultimate comfort.
4. 2023 Hyundai Venue
If you’re a budget-conscious dog owner with small to medium-sized pets, the 2023 Hyundai Venue might be your perfect match. Starting at an affordable $19,650, this stylish and fuel-efficient subcompact SUV offers excellent value.
Dogs will especially enjoy the Venue’s second-row and rear cargo visibility, providing them with expansive views of the surrounding environment—a true delight for curious pups.
Upgrade to the SEL trim (starting at $21,400), and you’ll gain a power tilt-and-slide sunroof, which lets in refreshing air and natural light. Your dogs will appreciate the extra ventilation, while their adventurous noses revel in the scents of the outdoors.
5. 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L
For owners of large dogs—or households with multiple smaller pets—the 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L is a standout option.
With a six-inch longer wheelbase and 14 cubic feet of additional cargo space compared to the standard Grand Cherokee, this SUV provides ample room.
Fold down the third row, and you can easily accommodate an oversized crate. If your big dog prefers patrolling the windows, they’ll have plenty of space to roam without bumping into the ceiling.
The Grand Cherokee L is as versatile as it is spacious, excelling both as a rugged off-roader for adventurous hikes and as a refined suburban cruiser for the dog-show circuit. Whether navigating mountain trails or city streets, this SUV will keep you and your pet traveling in style.
6. 2023 Kia Soul
Ranked as the second-most affordable vehicle on this list, with a starting price of $19,890, the 2023 Kia Soul brings fun and flair to dog-friendly transportation.
Known for its quirky and modern design, the Soul features a roomy interior and a 60/40 split-folding second row that expands the cargo area to a generous 62 cubic feet.
Although it’s an affordable compact SUV, the Kia Soul doesn’t skimp on options. You can equip it with cutting-edge technology and stylish enhancements to personalize your ride.
From bright, bold exterior colors to sound-reactive LED speaker lights, the Soul radiates positivity. Your dogs will love the cheerful energy you bring to every drive, proving once again that happy owners make for happy pets.
7. 2023 Subaru Forester
If you’ve seen Subaru’s heartwarming TV commercials featuring a family of golden retrievers, you already know the brand’s dedication to dogs. That commitment is embodied in the 2023 Subaru Forester, the ultimate dog-friendly vehicle in Subaru’s lineup.
With its tall wagon design, the Forester offers more room for larger dogs compared to the Outback or Crosstrek, while its low entry threshold is ideal for older or smaller dogs, making it more accessible than the Ascent.
Subaru enhances its pet-friendly reputation with a wide range of dog-specific accessories, including crates, harnesses, and travel essentials.
Moreover, the company’s philanthropic efforts—being the largest corporate donor to the ASPCA and supporting nationwide pet adoption initiatives—further demonstrate their devotion to our furry friends. Choosing the Forester means showing your dogs just how much you care.
8. 2023 Tesla Model Y
Electric vehicles are rapidly gaining popularity, and the 2023 Tesla Model Y stands out not just as the best-selling car model globally but also as an excellent choice for dog owners.
Featuring a wide liftgate opening, low liftover height, spacious cargo area, oversized windows, and an innovative climate control system with a dedicated “Dog Mode,” the Model Y makes traveling with pets a breeze.
As an electric vehicle, it operates almost silently, which can be a significant advantage for owners with noise-sensitive or nervous dogs.
Its interior, while minimalist, is highly practical for pet travel, with smooth, durable surfaces that are easy to clean. The Model Y offers a forward-thinking blend of luxury and functionality—perfect for taking your dog into the future.
9. 2023 Toyota Sienna
Minivans are often regarded as the ultimate family vehicles, and the 2023 Toyota Sienna proves they’re just as well-suited for dog lovers.
The very features that make the Sienna ideal for families—its ease of access, rugged materials, and versatile, spacious seating configurations—also cater perfectly to pet owners.
Whether your dogs prefer lounging in the cargo area or riding on the seats, they’ll have plenty of room to stretch out and feel at home.
Plus, the Sienna’s practicality extends to cleanliness: when kids inevitably drop Cheerios or leave snacks like Slim Jims behind, your dogs will happily take care of the mess while keeping your minivan tidy and pest-free.
10. 2023 Volvo V60 Cross Country
For decades, the Volvo station wagon has symbolized safe and reliable suburban family life. The 2023 Volvo V60 Cross Country continues this tradition, offering a stylish, modern take on the classic boxy family hauler. It’s the perfect choice for a long drive with your dogs riding happily in the back.
Volvo has been a pioneer in vehicle safety, and this extends to pet travel. The pet safety net, a staple in Volvo’s accessory catalog, helps keep dogs securely in the cargo area, ensuring both convenience and safety.
In the event of an accident, this feature minimizes the risk of injury to both your pets and passengers. Opting for the Cross Country model not only reflects your appreciation for safety and practicality but also underscores how cool you—and your dogs—truly are.