The Top Cars for Dog Owners
- Searching for the best cars with a big boot space for dogs?
- You’ll want something that’s spacious, comfortable, and easily accessible for you and your pooch.
- We have a wide range of used cars that are perfect for dog owners.
Dogs aren’t just pets; they’re part of the family! Consequently, we often get asked questions such as:
“What are the best used cars with a big boot space for dogs?”
“What car is best for big dogs?”
“What is the best vehicle to transport multiple dogs?”
So, we’ve pulled together this guide with five of our top cars for dog owners to help. Continue reading to learn more.
Honda CR-V
The Honda CR-V has been a hugely popular SUV since its release back in 1997. With a boot space of up to 617 litres (extending to 1,710 litres with the rear seats folded), there is plenty of room for your dog to stretch out. Plus, there is easy access to the boot, thanks to the low floor and flush boot lip. The boot floor is carpeted, however, this can be easily removed if it needs cleaning.
You might also want to consider adding rear privacy glass to keep your dog cool while travelling in the back.
Honda’s reputation for reliability should ensure you and your canine companion have many years of enjoyment in your CR-V.
MINI Clubman
The MINI Clubman is far from mini in size! The spacious estate has space for the whole family – including your furry friends. Whether your dog prefers to sit in the main cabin or in the boot, there is plenty of room to accommodate them in the Clubman. The boot has up to 1,250 litres of space with the seats down and 360 litres with them up.
The split rear doors allow total ease of access. With no parcel shelf, once inside your dog should be able to stand up and turn around comfortably. Plus, the Clubman is renowned for its smooth handling which can help ease dogs' nerves while travelling.
MINI also offer a range of dog-related accessories to help you make the most of your car. Speak to our team to learn more.
Did you know that our MINI centres have the seal of approval from the Dogs Trust, for being pooch friendly?
Browse used MINI Clubman offers
Toyota RAV4
Winner of the 2023 ‘Best Car for Dog Owners’ from Auto Trader, the Toyota RAV4 simply had to feature on our list!
This large SUV is reliable, durable, and has impressive dog carrying capacity. The huge boot can accommodate 580 litres with the rear seats in place. Folding the rear bench flat will unlock up to 1,690 litres of space. With a hands-free power tailgate and a height-adjustable rear cargo floor, the RAV4 makes it easy to accommodate your dog and all their gear.
It is available as a self-charging or plug-in hybrid. This means you can benefit from efficient power, with a smooth driving experience for ultimate enjoyment.
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Land Rover Defender
The Land Rover Defender is synonymous with country life, so it’s well equipped for transporting your canine companions. It’s available in 90, 110, and 130 versions, allowing you to select the model that suits your needs.
- The 90 has a boot space of 397 litres, making it more suited to puppies than larger dogs. This can be extended to 1,263 litres with the rear seats folded, however.
- The 110 offers up to 786 litres of space, extending to 1,875 litres with the rear seats down.
- As an eight-seater, the 130 has a boot space of 290 litres with all seats in place. However, this can be extended to 1,900 litres with the third row of seats folded.
Land Rover is known for its rugged and durable nature. No matter which Defender model you choose, you can expect an interior that's built to withstand wear and tear. This ensures that the car remains in good condition despite the presence of pets.
Additionally, there are lots of Land Rover Accessories available to make the Defender even more suitable for your dog(s). Simply ask a member of our team for further details.
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Volkswagen Tiguan
The Volkswagen Tiguan is the brand's best-selling model worldwide. It’s a versatile SUV that offers a spacious interior and adjustable rear seats, providing plenty of room for passengers and pets.
It boasts a large boot, with a capacity of up to 652 litres extending to 1,655 litres with the rear seats folded. Plus, the wide boot opening makes it a winner for older dogs that might struggle to get in and out of the vehicle.
The Tiguan also features a range of pet-friendly options, including rear seat covers to protect against scratches. Plus, with Volkswagen's reputation for reliability, you can trust that your furry friend will be safe and comfortable on every journey.
Browse used Volkswagen Tiguan offers
What are the rules around transporting a dog in a car?
It is legal to take your dog with you in the car. The Highway Code states that your pet needs to be suitably restrained so that they aren’t a distraction to you while driving. Examples of restraints may include a harness, cage, or guard – the right option will vary depending on your dog.
You might also want to bring some items with you to make your dog more comfortable on the road. Consider things like toys, blankets, snacks, and water to keep them happy and relaxed.
Can I leave my dog in the car?
It is strongly advised that you never leave your dog alone in your car. Once you’ve arrived at your destination, you should let your pet out of the car as soon as possible. Even on days that don’t feel too warm, it’s important to remember that weather conditions can change rapidly, and cars readily absorb heat. Every year, dogs die in hot cars – and according to the RSPCA, it takes as little as 6 minutes for a dog to suffer heat stroke. It’s simply not worth the risk.
Find your dog-friendly car at Vertu Motors
Choosing the right car for you and your dog is an important decision! Thankfully, we have a wide selection of used cars for dog owners, plus an expert team available to provide advice and guidance based on your needs.
The best way to see how the car will fit into your lifestyle? Book a test drive at your local dealership today!