Top Cars for Dog Owners in 2023: A Comprehensive Guide

pug holding head outside of car window

When it comes to our dogs, we often find ourselves obsessing over the best kibble, the most engaging toys, or the most durable leashes. But how many of us consider the vehicle we’re driving when we take our dogs on trips? Sure, your sedan may suffice for quick jaunts to the vet or local dog park. But what about longer journeys or those spontaneous adventures you want to share with your four-legged companion? Believe it or not, the car you drive can have a significant impact on the quality of life you offer to your dog.

The vehicle you choose isn’t just about you anymore—it becomes a shared space, a temporary home on wheels for your canine companion. The right car can make the difference between a cramped, stressful journey and a comfortable, enjoyable adventure for both of you. In this comprehensive guide, we’re diving deep into the subject, one that is often overlooked even by the most dedicated dog owners:

  • Why certain safety features are not just ‘nice-to-have’ but ‘must-haves’ for your dog’s protection.
  • How space isn’t just about cargo but also about your dog’s comfort and stress levels.
  • Why accessibility matters, particularly for dogs who are older or have mobility issues.
  • Which brands and car models shine in 2023 when it comes to being pet-friendly.

These considerations go beyond the typical, surface-level advice you’ll find on general pet blogs. We’re not just talking about installing a dog barrier or buying a seat cover; we’re talking about making a life-altering decision that impacts your dog’s well-being. Buckle up (and strap in your pup); you’re in for an enlightening journey on choosing the best cars for dog lovers in 2023.

Why Car Choice Matters for Dog Owners

dog resting head on car seat

You might wonder, “Why make such a big fuss over choosing a car based on my dog’s needs?” For those who view their dogs as mere pets, the query might seem valid. But for you, our target audience of dedicated dog parents, you know that caring for a dog is much like caring for a family member. And for family, you want nothing short of the best, especially when it involves something as essential as transportation.

Safety Features

Imagine this: You’re driving down the highway when you need to make a sudden stop. We all know seat belts are crucial for human passengers, but what about your dog? The unfortunate reality is that many of us overlook this detail. In a study published by the American Veterinary Medical Association, only 16% of people who transport their dogs use proper safety restraints. A specialized dog harness or car seat can mean the difference between your pet walking away unscathed and a tragic outcome in a sudden-stop situation.

  • Reinforced Safety Barriers: Cars that come with built-in barriers between the trunk and the passenger area can prevent your dog from becoming a projectile in an accident.
  • Collision Alert Systems: Modern cars with collision detection can give you those extra seconds to secure yourself and your dog before a possible impact.

Comfort and Space

Think of your dog’s comfort as you would think of your own. Just like you wouldn’t want to be cramped in a small space for hours, your dog wouldn’t either. A car with ample space and comfortable temperature control can mitigate a lot of stress, which is particularly beneficial for dogs prone to anxiety or those with joint issues.

  • Ventilation: Backseat or trunk area ventilation ensures that your dog gets fresh air, reducing the risk of overheating.
  • Flat-Folding Seats: This feature allows you to create a flat area where your dog can lie down comfortably, especially during long drives.

Accessibility

Finally, consider how easy it is for your dog to enter and exit the vehicle. This point is particularly crucial for older dogs or those with mobility issues. Cars with low sills and wide door openings can make a world of difference for them.

  • Built-In Ramps: Some modern cars offer built-in ramps that can be extended to help dogs get in and out effortlessly.
  • Automatic Lift Gates: A trunk that opens automatically can be beneficial when your hands are full with leashes, water bottles, and doggie backpacks.

Remember, it’s not just about adapting your life to fit your car; it’s about adapting your car to fit the lives of those who matter most to you—your canine companions included. Stay tuned as we delve into the specific criteria you should use to pick the best car for you and your furry friend in 2023.

Criteria for Car Selection

puppy looking out of car window

When it comes to selecting a car that meets not just your needs but those of your four-legged family members, the considerations are multifaceted. While general car reviews focus on elements like mileage, engine performance, or aesthetics, our criteria go several steps further. We delve into aspects that are crucial for dog owners but often ignored by the mainstream automotive industry and pet-care experts alike.

Reliability and Performance

This might sound like a no-brainer, but it’s shocking how many people overlook general reliability when purchasing a car. A car that’s prone to breaking down is not just an inconvenience for you; it poses a direct risk to your dog, especially in harsh weather conditions.

  • Fuel Efficiency: Choosing a fuel-efficient car means fewer stops at the gas station, making the journey smoother for anxious pets.
  • All-Terrain Capability: If your adventures include heading into the great outdoors, an all-terrain vehicle ensures that both you and your dog can explore safely.

Safety

While we all want the latest tech in our cars, there are some features that dog owners should consider as non-negotiable.

  • Climate Control in Trunk or Cargo Area: Most cars’ climate control doesn’t extend to the trunk. For dogs who travel there, this feature is invaluable.
  • Rearview Cameras with Animal Detection: This advanced feature can prevent tragic accidents by alerting you if your dog or other animals are behind your car.

Interior Space

The physical space inside the vehicle is perhaps the most apparent consideration, yet there are intricacies many overlook.

  • Floor Material: A car with an easy-to-clean floor material makes for straightforward clean-up in case of muddy paws or worse.
  • Non-Slip Surfaces: Beyond comfort, non-slip surfaces in the cargo area can help your dog maintain balance, reducing the risk of injuries during a drive.

Pet-Friendly Add-ons

We’re in an age where cars come with an array of customizable options. But how many of these are truly beneficial for your dog?

  • Built-in Water Bowls: Some newer models come with attachable water bowls to keep your dog hydrated on the go.
  • UV-Protective Windows: Overexposure to sunlight can be as harmful to dogs as it is to humans. UV-protective windows can help mitigate this risk.

Selecting a car based on these nuanced criteria assures you’re not just making a purchase, but investing in your dog’s overall well-being. In the next section, we’ll put these criteria to the test and unveil the top 5 cars for dog owners in 2023. Stay with us.

Top 5 Cars for Dog Owners in 2023

After exhaustively researching and applying our specialized criteria, we’ve curated a list of the top 5 cars that go beyond the norm to accommodate dog owners. Each selection is not just a vehicle but a lifestyle choice that profoundly affects your canine companion’s well-being. While these cars offer features beneficial for any driver, they also provide distinct features particularly advantageous to dog owners.

#1: Subaru Outback

subaru outback 2022

The Subaru Outback has long been a favorite among dog owners for its rugged capabilities and reliable nature. It stands out for its focus on safety and spacious interior.

Features

  • Spacious Interior: The ample room ensures your dog can stretch, lay down, or explore a bit.
  • All-Weather Mats: Ideal for muddy or wet adventures with your pup.
  • Climate Control in Cargo Area: A rare but essential feature for your dog’s comfort.

Pros and Cons

  • Pro: The optional pet-friendly package is a holistic approach to pet travel, including a ramp, a dog bed, and seat covers.
  • Con: Some find the overall cargo space to be slightly less when compared to competitors.

#2: Honda CR-V

honda cr-v

Known for its unbeatable reliability, the Honda CR-V takes it a step further with specific features designed to make your dog’s journey as comfortable as possible.

Features

  • Flat-Folding Seats: Perfect for accommodating a dog bed or crate.
  • Rearview Camera with Wide Angle: An extra layer of safety to keep your pet secure.
  • Easy-to-Clean Upholstery: Built for the practicalities of dog ownership.

Pros and Cons

  • Pro: The flat-folding seats make it one of the best in its class for cargo space flexibility.
  • Con: The rear area may not be as well-ventilated as some other models.

#3: Ford Escape

ford escape 2023

While Ford Escape is not usually the first car you might consider for pet travel, its accessibility features put it on this list.

Features

  • Low Entry Height: Accessibility is easy for older or smaller dogs.
  • Spacious Cargo: Ideal for accommodating larger breeds comfortably.
  • Climate Vents in the Rear: Designed to keep the back cool or warm.

Pros and Cons

  • Pro: The low entry height makes it uniquely suitable for dogs with mobility issues.
  • Con: Fuel efficiency is not as good as some other cars on this list.

#4: Volvo XC60

The Volvo XC60 stands out for its cutting-edge safety features that benefit all passengers, furry ones included.

Features

  • Animal Detection System: Innovative technology that does more than help you avoid collisions.
  • Integrated Booster Seats: A boon for smaller breeds who like to look out the window.
  • Advanced Air Filtration System: Ideal for dogs with allergies or sensitivities.

Pros and Cons

  • Pro: Animal Detection System is one of the most advanced safety features currently available in consumer vehicles.
  • Con: The cost of add-ons and features can quickly escalate, making it a more expensive option.

#5: Tesla Model Y

tesla model y

For those looking for an eco-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on pet-friendly features, the Tesla Model Y is a compelling choice.

Features

  • Dog Mode: Ensures a comfortable climate for your dog even when parked.
  • Noiseless Drive: Electric motors mean a quieter ride, benefitting noise-sensitive dogs.
  • Spacious ‘Frunk’: An additional space to store your dog’s accessories or food.

Pros and Cons

  • Pro: The “Dog Mode” not only regulates temperature but also displays a message assuring passersby that the dog inside is safe.
  • Con: Electric vehicle charging infrastructure may be limited depending on your location, requiring more planning for long trips with your dog.

Now that we’ve examined these models in-depth, accounting for pros, cons, and features that cater to your dog’s needs, your next step is to consider your budget. In the following section, we’ll explore financing options and cost considerations to guide you in making an economically sound decision for you and your pup. Stay with us.

Cost Considerations

petrol pump

Selecting a car that caters to your dog’s needs requires more than just an eye for dog-friendly features; it also demands financial savvy. Most dog owners contemplate the upfront cost and perhaps fuel efficiency, but there are several overlooked monetary considerations specifically pertinent to pet parents. Let’s dive into these with real numbers to offer a clearer perspective.

Upfront Costs and Financing

The initial cost of the car and any pet-friendly add-ons can quickly balloon your budget. For example:

  • Dog Accessory Packages: Subaru’s pet-friendly package, which includes a dog bed, a ramp, and seat covers, could add an extra $500-$1,000 to the base price.
  • Upgraded Features: Opting for Volvo’s XC60 with the advanced air filtration system might push you into a higher trim level, potentially adding another $3,000 to $5,000.

Ongoing Costs

Long-term expenses can significantly impact your finances and should be a part of your decision-making process.

  • Fuel Efficiency: If a Honda CR-V offers 28 MPG and you frequent a dog park 20 miles away, compared to a Ford Escape with 24 MPG, you could save approximately $150-200 annually in fuel costs alone.
  • Maintenance: Tesla’s electric engine requires less frequent maintenance but replacing something like a specialized air filter could cost you upwards of $300.

Resale Value

The value of your car after a few years can be greatly influenced by its condition and brand reputation. For example:

  • Material Durability: Resilient materials might add $500 to your car’s resale value, as the interior remains in better condition.
  • Brand Reputation: A Subaru Outback might fetch you around $20,000 after 5 years, while a similar but less reputable brand could be closer to $15,000.

Dog-Related Incidentals

Unforeseen pet-related costs can sneak up on you, impacting your overall budget.

  • Cleaning Costs: A specialized interior car cleaning due to a pet accident might set you back $150.
  • Safety Gear: High-quality dog seat belts or car barriers can be a one-time cost of $50 to $100.

By taking the time to break down these often overlooked, dog-related financial variables, you’re not just buying a car; you’re investing in a safe, comfortable travel experience for your canine companion. Next, we’ll wrap up with some final recommendations and considerations, so stick around.

Conclusion

In the world of car buying, dog owners have a unique set of requirements that often go unaddressed by the general automotive buying guides. In this comprehensive look at the best cars for dog owners in 2023, we’ve delved into areas most commonly overlooked, right from tailoring your car selection based on specific dog breeds to addressing intricate cost variables.

Recap of Key Takeaways

To wrap it up, here are some essential considerations we discussed:

  • Specialized Features Matter: Upgrades like the Tesla’s Dog Mode or Volvo’s Animal Detection System can be worth the extra investment.
  • Pet-Friendly Packages: Brands like Subaru are setting a benchmark in pet-centric design, making the whole traveling experience more comfortable for your four-legged family member.
  • Beyond Upfront Costs: Our financial deep-dive underscored the importance of considering long-term and hidden costs specifically relevant to dog owners.
  • One Size Doesn’t Fit All: The best choice of vehicle can differ greatly depending on your dog’s size, breed, and age.

Future-Proofing Your Purchase

One topic seldom addressed is the concept of future-proofing your vehicle purchase as a dog owner. The dog you have today might not be the same one you’ll have in a decade. Just as families with young children ponder the long-term suitability of their vehicle, so should dog owners.

  • Changing Needs: As dogs age, their mobility needs will change. A vehicle with a low entry height or a built-in ramp might become crucial in the later years.
  • Technological Advances: Keeping an eye out for future software updates, like Tesla’s, can provide new features that might benefit pet owners down the road.

Your car isn’t just a vehicle; it’s a part of your dog’s extended environment. Make sure it’s an extension of the safety, comfort, and love they experience at home.

In the realm of pet care, every decision, big or small, compounds to shape the quality of life for your furry companion. Choosing the right car is an integral part of this equation, one that requires just as much care, research, and thoughtful consideration as any other aspect of pet ownership. If you’ve followed us through this guide, you’re now armed with the in-depth information needed to make a well-informed decision, beneficial for all family members—whether they walk on two legs or four. Thank you for trusting Everything Doggos in this critical aspect of dog care; drive safely and cherish each journey with your four-legged friend.