Finding the Perfect Car for Dog Owners: A Real-World Guide

As someone constantly on the go with my dog, whether it’s heading to one of the stunning National Trust parks or embarking on a well-deserved holiday, finding the right car is crucial. In my own quest for a new or used vehicle, I’ve sifted through countless articles and reviews. However, I often find these sources lack a certain realism; they tend to focus solely on the latest models, overlooking the practical needs and financial realities many of us face. Moreover, with the recent change in UK legislation, specifically "Rule 57," which mandates that dogs and other animals in vehicles must be suitably restrained to avoid distraction or injury, choosing the right car has become even more significant and specific. This rule means exploring various restraining options like barriers, car crates, or harnesses—though, personally, I prefer barriers for their convenience.

My recommendations
So before I get into may recommendations, I need you to remember that I’m not going for aesthetic here, I’m going for a combination of practically, therefore, some of my recommendations might come across as quite rogue - but I hope this information for some will help satisfy that "car for the dogs" tick people have in their life. 

Cars Between £3,000 and £6,000

 

 

1. Skoda Yeti (1.9 TDI 4x4) - Believe it or not, my personal favourite

Preferably opt for the 1.9 TDI 4x4 model, which boasts the same engine you’d find in a Golf or an Audi. Bear in mind, these vehicles can be found online with around 190,000 miles and still going strong. The dream is to pick one up with between 60,000 and 70,000 miles on the clock; this will ensure the car has enough life left to make it a worthwhile purchase.

I get it, it’s not the most visually appealing vehicle, but there are far too many advantages at this price point to overlook, and the price really reflects Skoda’s history before their acquisition by VW/Audi. In short, buying a comparable model from Audi—which is essentially the same vehicle—would cost at least double. First, the large, boxy boot is perfect for barriers or a car crate and offers the most versatile space, accommodating anything from a terrier to a large Labrador. The boot serves as a clean division between the seating area for you, your family, and friends, and a dedicated, comfortable space for your dog.

Most of these cars come equipped with a great deal of comfort features, such as standard CarPlay, heated seats, and air conditioning. If you opt for the automatic version, the gearbox is exceptionally smooth, which helps prevent your dog from slipping around in the back as you navigate steep country lanes. One of my favourite features of this car is the washable lining—some models include this feature, allowing you to take them to the nearest car wash and jet them clean easily.

The 4x4 capability should not be underestimated; you can switch it on and off to make it more economical to run. For me, it’s about having the confidence on icy mornings or along windy, leafy roads, ensuring safe and enjoyable walks for our furry friends. Trust me, I had a Volvo XC40 from new, and I slipped and slid everywhere.

Just a note on the fact that it’s a diesel and environmental concerns: I know it’s a bit unusual to recommend a diesel vehicle, but at this price point, electric options aren’t feasible, and there’s a strong case for making the most of what we’ve got. This particular car will comfortably achieve up to 45 miles per gallon and should be considered a good option to run into the ground.

• Engine and Reliability: The Yeti is powered by the reliable 1.9 TDI engine, renowned for its longevity and shared with premium brands like Audi. It's perfect for those seeking durability without the hefty price tag.
• Practicality: Its boxy shape translates into a spacious and versatile boot space, ideal for fitting barriers or a dog crate, accommodating dogs from terriers to Labradors with ease.
• Comfort and Features: Despite its budget-friendly pricing, the Yeti comes equipped with modern amenities such as CarPlay, heated seats, and air conditioning. The washable lining is particularly useful for muddy outings, making clean-up a breeze.

 

2. VW Caddy

Ideal for adventurers who travel with just their dog, partner, and themselves. You probably enjoy activities like camping and might need the car for additional uses, such as I do, with a partner who dabbles in upholstery on the side.

These compact vans are perfect for pampered dogs. While most models offer seating for two people in the front, they leave the entire back free for a dog crate, creating a veritable doggy heaven. They typically come equipped with good ventilation and a host of other features.

One aspect of this option that I particularly appreciate is the low height of the rear entry, making it easier for your dog to climb in without having to jump too high—a great benefit for dogs with joint issues.

• Space and Comfort: Designed with a spacious rear, the Caddy acts like a small van, perfect for a dog crate and additional storage for gear or tools.
• Accessibility: The rear of the Caddy is lower to the ground, making it easier for dogs with mobility issues to enter and exit without stress.

 

Cars Between £6,000 and £15,000

 

1. Hyundai Tucson

Environmentally conscious, family-friendly, and offering great value, this vehicle is often underestimated and comes with a guarantee of reliability.

It’s arguably one of the most underrated vehicles on the market for the price. You can acquire a model that’s practically new in terms of mileage for around £10k. These cars are economical to run, featuring intelligent engines that translate to low insurance and tax costs—often as little as £35 per year. Plus, they boast a stylish design both inside and out. A feature I appreciate greatly is the inclusion of creature comforts like CarPlay, making it an excellent option for families.

Regarding your dog, the boot offers a massive 620 litres of space, which can comfortably fit two medium-sized dogs. I find the electric boot particularly convenient when you have your hands full, or it’s simply too cold to take your hands out of your pockets!

• Eco-friendly and Affordable: The Tucson stands out for its environmental credentials and affordability, often found with low mileage around £10k. It's economical to run, with many models boasting low tax and insurance costs.
• Spaciousness: Features a 620-litre boot, which comfortably houses two medium-sized dogs and includes convenient features like an electric boot for easy loading when your hands are full.

 

2. Toyota Land Cruiser

Unbelievably reliable and built to go anywhere, this vehicle is perfect for those with multiple dogs, offering a lifetime of robust service.

Although it’s a bit of a wildcard due to its size, I felt compelled to include this vehicle after having driven it in extreme conditions over the past year—from the sands of Wadi Rum to the Bolivian salt flats and into Chile. This car is the ultimate in durability and versatility, capable of handling virtually any challenge. Owning such a vehicle may require justification, like a job that demands rugged transport or living in areas prone to flooding or heavy snow. However, it will truly enhance your dog walking experiences, especially when exploring the hundreds of green lanes across the UK.

Ask any Toyota Land Cruiser owner about their vehicle, and they’ll respond with pride. This car comfortably tackles any terrain, rarely experiences breakdowns—to illustrate, the highest mileage Land Cruiser currently for sale on eBay boasts 356,000 miles on the clock.

The boot space is immense, easily accommodating two to three medium-sized dogs, ensuring they ride in comfort and safety.

• Durability: Renowned for its robust build, the Land Cruiser is capable of handling the most challenging terrains, perfect for adventurous dog owners who frequent rugged locations.
• Capacity: Its large boot can accommodate up to three medium-sized dogs, making it ideal for multi-dog households.

 

Cars Over £15,000

1. Land Rover Discovery Sport

Sophisticated yet rugged, the Land Rover Discovery Sport offers a seamless blend of luxury and practicality. Designed for both urban drives and off-road adventures, this vehicle ensures comfort for every occupant—human and canine alike. Its spacious interior is complemented by advanced features like adjustable terrain settings, making it adaptable to any environment. Known for its reliability and ample space, the Discovery Sport’s boot can easily accommodate gear for the entire family and a couple of large dogs, making it an ideal choice for active families.

• Luxury and Capability: This vehicle combines luxury with practical utility. It offers ample space for multiple dogs and comes equipped with terrain response systems ideal for various outdoor adventures.
• High-end Features: The Discovery Sport is well-appointed with luxurious interiors and cutting-edge technology for safety and comfort.

 

2. Volvo XC60

Renowned for its safety and sleek Scandinavian design, the Volvo XC60 stands out as a top choice for families and their furry friends. It offers a spacious and well-appointed interior, equipped with the latest safety technologies to protect all passengers. The XC60 excels in providing a comfortable ride with its large boot space perfect for two medium-sized dogs and a range of human-friendly amenities such as heated seating and advanced climate control.

• Safety First: With its focus on safety, the XC60 is a top choice for dog owners. The spacious boot and easy-clean interior surfaces are practical for pets, while advanced safety systems protect all occupants.
• Comfort: Known for its comfort and style, the XC60 ensures a pleasant ride for both pets and humans.

 

3. Ford Kuga

The Ford Kuga is celebrated for its versatility and value, making it a popular choice among dog owners. With a focus on efficiency and comfort, it offers a responsive driving experience and a spacious interior that does not compromise on style. The Kuga’s boot space is generous, fitting everything from pet crates to sports equipment, while its economical engine options keep running costs low. This car is particularly suited to those seeking a practical vehicle that delivers performance without the premium price tag.

• All-Rounder: The Kuga offers a mix of value and versatility, with a spacious interior and features that make daily commutes and long journeys equally enjoyable.
• Economical: Its fuel efficiency and reasonable maintenance costs make it an economical choice for dog owners looking for value and style.

Choosing the right car for both you and your dog involves balancing various factors including safety, comfort, and budget. Each of the cars listed above offers unique features that cater to the diverse needs of dog owners, ensuring that every journey with your furry friend is as enjoyable as possible. Whether you're driving to a nearby park or embarking on a long adventure, the right vehicle can make all the difference.