How to Choose a Pet-Friendly Vehicle

Article summary

• More than 77 percent of dog owners factor in their pet's transportation needs when shopping for a new vehicle, according to Autotrader's 2023 research, though budget and lifestyle should still come first.
• Pet-friendly features to look for include a low entry height, wide doors, a flat cargo floor, rear climate control, durable upholstery, tinted windows and ample storage for supplies.
• Buyers should test drive a vehicle with their pet, if possible, and balance pet-related features with practical factors like budget, safety, reliability and fuel economy.

There are several factors that may influence your next vehicle choice: kids, hobbies, safety features, fuel economy, ease of maintenance…or you may choose the vehicle that best suits the needs of your furry companion. Autotrader’s 2023 research found that more than 77% of dog owners think about transporting their dog when considering which vehicle to buy. If you’re in need of a new vehicle, and you have pets, it’s natural to consider how they fit into the equation, but it’s important that they do not overshadow your budget, lifestyle needs or specific transportation requirements.

Why are pets influencing vehicle purchases?

In recent years, pets have become more ingrained in their owners’ lives, with many people bringing their pets on vacations, outdoor day trips or even routine errands. If this is true for you, on a routine drive your vehicle may need to accommodate passengers and cargo as well as potential pet-related needs like:

• A travel carrier, harness or pet travel seat
• Food, water, toys and overnight supplies if taking a trip
• Larger or multiple dogs

Dealerships and auto manufacturers have recognized the trend of pet-oriented decision-making and have occasionally tailored ads to entice car buyers with pet-friendly features. Subaru’s long-running campaign “Dog Tested. Dog Approved.” follows a dog family called the Barkleys as they drive their Subaru and engage in humorous humanlike antics. Sites like U.S. News and Autotrader even put out lists like “Best Cars for Dogs 2026” or “Best Cars for Dog Lovers” so that pet owners can stay informed on what vehicles might best accommodate their furry friend’s transportation needs.

Which features make a car more pet-friendly?

When deciding which vehicle is right for you and your pet, there are a few factors you should take into consideration.

• How big is your pet?
• How many pets will you be shuttling at the same time?
• How mobile is your pet?
• How much room is left for passengers and cargo?

With this information in mind, it’s time to shop around. Though your primary needs should reflect your family’s lifestyle, this checklist will help keep your pet’s needs at the forefront of your mind. Consider the following:

• Low entry height – If you have a puppy, they won’t be young and spry forever. You will want to be prepared for when their mobility begins to decline. Consider a vehicle lower to the ground for ease of entry and exit.
• Wide doors or liftgates – The wider openings allow for ease of loading and unloading pet carriers or larger dogs.
• Flat, accessible cargo floor – A flat cargo area unencumbered by wheel wells provides more functional space for supplies and larger pets.
• Rear climate control – With rear climate control, your pets (and kids!) can stay cool on warm days or toasty on cool ones.
• Durable upholstery – Seating with durable fabrics or liners is easier to clean and will withstand abuse from childlike antics and paws with sharp nails.
• Rubber floor mats and cargo liners – These help contain hair, dirt, water and accidents.
• Tinted windows or sunshades – Tinted windows reduce direct sunlight.
• Ample storage – You can never have too much storage for leashes, waste bags, water and even toys for your pups and kids.
• Rear-seat reminders and cameras – These tools help monitor the back seat so that you are less likely to leave your children or pets behind unintentionally. Just because they exist doesn’t mean you shouldn’t still do a physical rear-seat check before stepping away from your vehicle.
• Safety – While comfort is important, safety is a must. Are there plenty of anchor points capable of restraining your pet or securing their carrier? After all, it’s dangerous to let your pet roam freely while you drive.

How to request a pet-focused test drive

If you know that you will be using your new vehicle for pet-related activities, test it like you’re going to use it. If the dealership approves, consider bringing your pet with you for the test drive. This will allow you to explore how well the above options work under real-life conditions. 

How do you choose the car that’s right for you and your pet?

With so many different options out there, choosing a vehicle can be a daunting task, even without factoring in your beloved furry companion. It’s important to balance your pet’s needs with your own practical considerations. Consider the following:

• What’s your budget?
• What will insurance cost?
• What are the potential maintenance expenses?
• What is the fuel economy or driving range?
• How safe is it?
• How reliable is it?
• What are the everyday needs of you and your passengers?

Just because something like an SUV is bigger doesn’t make it the best vehicle for your lifestyle. Hatchbacks, sedans, wagons or minivans may work depending on the animal and carrier size. In the end, the right vehicle will provide enough room for your needs and allow your pets to join in on your daily adventures.