Best Cars for Dog Owners
Dog owners need vehicles that accommodate their four-legged family members comfortably and safely. The best cars for dogs offer ample cargo space, low load floors for easy jumping, durable and easy-to-clean interiors, and enough room for crates or dog barriers. We've selected vehicles that real dog owners love for trips to the park, the vet, and everywhere in between.
How to Choose
For dog owners, prioritize: (1) Cargo area size and shape — flat, wide cargo areas work best, (2) Load floor height — lower is easier for dogs to jump in, (3) Interior materials — leather or vinyl seats clean easier than cloth, (4) Rear ventilation for cargo area, (5) Available accessories like cargo liners and pet barriers, (6) Rear wiper and washer for visibility with dog nose prints on the back window.
Our Top Picks
Pros
- + Standard AWD on every trim
- + Excellent visibility
- + Great in snow and light off-road
Cons
- - Engine can feel underpowered
- - CVT transmission is not sporty
- - Wind noise at highway speeds
Pros
- + Standard AWD
- + Excellent ground clearance
- + Rugged and versatile
Cons
- - CVT can feel unresponsive
- - Fuel economy only average
Pros
- + Great reliability
- + Good resale value
- + Hybrid option available
Cons
- - Not the sportiest drive
- - Some trims get pricey
Pros
- + Spacious interior for its class
- + Smooth hybrid powertrain
- + Excellent fuel economy
Cons
- - Infotainment can be laggy
- - Road noise on the highway
Pros
- + Standard AWD across the lineup
- + Genuinely capable off-road
- + Rugged, distinctive styling
Cons
- - Base engine is underpowered
- - Road manners are not as refined as CR-V
- - Cargo space is on the small side
Pros
- + Upscale interior for the price
- + Engaging driving dynamics
- + Strong reliability record
Cons
- - Smaller cargo area than rivals
- - No hybrid or EV option
- - Rear seat is tight for adults
Pros
- + Legendary off-road capability
- + New hybrid powertrain for 2025
- + Body-on-frame durability
Cons
- - Rides rougher than car-based SUVs
- - Expensive compared to crossovers
- - Fuel economy still lags the class
Pros
- + Most usable third row in class
- + Rugged TrailSport trim
- + Refined V6 power
Cons
- - No hybrid option
- - Fuel economy is mediocre
- - Can get expensive fully loaded