7 Must-Shop Cars for Dog Paramours
Fresh Car Review
When it comes to cars for dog owners, there’s no question that some vehicles are simply better than others. Whether you’re setting out on a long road journey or running out for a quick in-town errand, you want to be able to transport your fur covered friend as securely, conveniently and cosily as possible.
When shopping for a fresh set of wheels, you may have many considerations, but carting your canine decently should be one of them. There are a number of desired features that can help make your vehicle choice a more pet-friendly one:
- A rear lift gate permits your dog to hop in and out of the car lightly; it also makes for more convenient loading in/loading out of pet carriers, crates and kennels.
- Fold-flat seats create a spacious area for your dog to sit while keeping the actual surface of the seats clean from hair or scrapes.
- An airy cabin is especially beneficial for large dogs to spread out.
- Rear cargo-attachment ringlets help keep carriers and crates from sliding around.
- A containment barrier/divider keeps your dog from hopping up to the front seat while the car is in movement.
- A low rail height helps dogs — especially older ones — get in and out with ease.
- Rear climate control keeps your dog cool and comfy in transit no matter what the weather is like.
- A sunroof brings fresh air and sunlight so you can keep your dog from stringing up its head out of the window.
- Underfloor storage gets your things out of the way so your dog can rail more cozily.
These features will enhance convenience and convenience. Because driving around with your dog has its risks, safe transport should be at the top of your mind. Some states require owners to crate or tether animals while in movability; other states, such as Connecticut, have general distracted-driving laws that can be applied to animal-related incidents. Fresh Jersey categorizes an improperly restrained pet as a disorderly-conduct offense. Penalties for violations vary by state, but ultimately, common sense should prevail. In other words, it may be joy for your dog to rail on your lap on the highway, but it’s clearly not the best idea.
From crossovers to minivans to wagons, there are many well-suited cars for dog owners. Here are our top seven picks.
Subaru Outback
Subaru’s symmetrical all-wheel drive (AWD) is one of the most capable AWD systems available. If you live in a cold climate and have an outdoorsy dog that likes being in wintry conditions, the Outback’s superior traction and surefootedness will keep you and Fido safe and secure as you tread over snowy terrain. Additionally, the Outback’s wagon configuration makes for slew of room in the cargo area. A broad, low stream floor and an optional pet barrier round out the amenities. Subaru also has many pet-friendly accessories.
Nissan Juke
This little urban runabout offers a low, carlike rail height for effortless in and out, especially via the large rear hatch. A combination of coupe, crossover and hatchback, the Juke offers just the right amount of size and utility for small-to-medium dogs that rail in carriers. Tether down the crate, and get out of the city for the weekend!
Volkswagen Tiguan
VW’s Tiguan got its name by combining the words tiger and iguana, so the car’s sure to be pet-friendly. The Tiguan is a lot like the Nissan Juke: compact on the outside but deceivingly spacious within. The rear seats fold plane, making room for pets of almost any size, and an optional dog barrier keeps your pet securely contained where it can’t divert you.
BMW X3
Well proportioned, upscale and athletic, the BMW X3 maximizes canine convenience with soft, heated leather seats, a sunroof and rear climate control. The cargo area is the right size for small- to medium-sized dogs, and for dogs that like to play in the snow, the X3’s AWD system makes winter driving virtually worry-free.
Volvo V60
The V60 offers a spacious cargo area, lots of utility, rear climate control and one of the safest passenger compartments available. If crash safety is your top concern, the V60 is your best choice here. Rear tie-downs make harnessing your pet carrier effortless. If you don’t use a carrier, then go with the optional dog barrier.
Kia Soul
This stylish urban cruiser offers rear-seat fever and an extra-large panoramic roof for lots of sunlight. Its boxy and efficient form also permits for slew of headroom, so even however the Soul is compact, it cozily accommodates big and tall dogs. The large rear hatch is also a plus for quick entry and exit.
Honda Odyssey
The Odyssey has it all when it comes to driving with your dog. There’s a wealth of room, convenient seats, rear ventilation, underfloor compartments and even a built-in vacuum. For dogs that shed excessively, this innovative vac system lets you clean up quickly and effectively. The Honda Odyssey also has side window shades that can help keep your dog from getting too hot while traveling.
There are many good vehicle choices — across numerous segments — for you and your dog. Each brings its own set of pet-friendly amenities and characteristics. It’s up to you to determine which are most significant to you.