For many dog owners, their beloved pooches are important members of the family.
According to a survey of 1,500 dog owners, carried out by Crufts sponsor Samsung, more than half admitted their pets’ needs would influence an important life decision such as where to live or even which job to take.
And with the RSPCA estimating that 1 in 7 of us in the UK owns a dog, now is the ideal time to find the best canine-friendly car. Read our top 7 and find the best one to you suit you – and your four-legged friend.
Our selection includes:
• Land Rover Discovery
• Skoda Superb Estate
• Citroen C3 Picasso
• Volvo XC70
• Citroen C4 Cactus
• Ford Kuga
• Nissan Juke
Read on to find out more on these great dog-friendly vehicle options.
All are available to purchase in new and used stock from your nearest Lookers dealership.
Land Rover Discovery
Your dog will be wagging its tail in delight with a journey in a Land Rover Discovery. A generous 1,124 litres of load space (with the third row of seats removed) ensures even a large dog can recline in comfort. Meanwhile, the Discovery’s legendary off-road prowess means that the most remote dog-walking paths are accessible. It’s the perfect choice for those who enjoy the outdoors life.
Skoda Superb Estate
With an emphasis on comfort and performance, the Superb Estate delivers and refinement in equal measure. Versatile and adaptable, its optional extra ‘pet pack’ includes a rear bumper protector, a bootliner and a dog guard – ensuring your car is as clean as the day you bought it. The boot can hold 660 litres of cargo and is long and flat, with a low loading sill – perfect for your dog to jump into.
Citroen C3 Picasso
If an estate car isn’t your thing, then the C3 Picasso could be a gold medal winner. This compact MPV offers seating for five, a comfortable ride and secure handling. Its tall and square shape allows for easy loading while good all-round visibility - due to its low window line - means that the smallest of dogs can enjoy the view while on the move.
Volvo XC70
The Volvo XC70 boasts a raised ride height, chunky bumpers and crucially for dog owners, generous amounts of boot space. The four-wheel drive system is also a bonus for those looking to go walkies in more challenging terrains. Optional doggie extras are generous and include a guard dog which, when not in use, can be stored against the interior headlining of the boot, which ensures clear visibility. This is a great family car for humans and pets alike who enjoy the great outdoors.
Citroen C4 Cactus
As much as its fun for dogs to pop their head out of a moving car, responsible owners will want to keep them safe – which is where the unique window design of the C4 cactus comes into its own. Unlike many other cars, the rear windows don’t slide down, but instead hinge outwards – perfect for some fresh air without the worry of a canine escape.
Ford Kuga
This compact 4x4 is great to drive and with Fords reliability, benefits from great peace of mind when it comes to maintenance and reliability. Easy access to the Ford Kuga boot makes it perfect for pooches to jump in and out of with ease. The doggy accessories are reasonably priced too. For around £45 a transparent film can be added to the rear bumper to prevent scratches and the Protection Pack includes a boot liner and rubber floor mats for £89.
Nissan Juke
The Nissan Juke – one of the most popular offerings from Nissan – delivers car-like ride height for easy in and out access, especially via the large rear hatch. A combination of coupe, crossover and hatchback, the Juke offers just the right amount of space for small-to-medium dogs. The elevated driving position delivers a good view of the open road and the petrol turbo engines offer responsive performance which will keep your dogs tail wagging for the duration of any journey!
Other aspects to consider when driving with your dog
Once you have found the ideal dog vehicle you should also consider ways to restrain your dog safely - as per the Highway Code regulations.
Dog seatbelts
Car safety harnesses for dogs simply hook on to your dog’s collar or harness like a lead and then attach to the seatbelt plug. They are perfect for keeping your dog restrained yet comfortable on the back seat whatever their size. Ideal if you have a very active pet or have to brake suddenly.
Dog car seats
Car seats for dogs are similar to the human equivalent and will keep your dog secure in one place during any journey.
Dog car crate
The function of a crate is to keep your dog restrained in the boot; they vary in size according to how big your pet is. Available in a variety of materials, you can generally choose from plastic metal or even fabric.
