Around eight in 10 pet owners in the U.S. travel with their pets annually. We love dogs so much that around six in 10 people admit they would rather travel with their dog than with a loved one or friend. Ouch!
Americans Love Their Pets
Forbes reports that 66% of U.S. households—nearly seven in 10—own a pet. As you might imagine, dogs are the most common variety. Cats and fish come in at number two and three, respectively. But few people travel with cats and fish…unless they take them to the vet.
Traveling With a Dog Is Easier With the Right Vehicle
Some cars are more suitable than others for traveling with your dog. Here are 14 vehicles to consider.
Tesla
If you want a dog-friendly vehicle, it’s hard to bet against a Tesla. The brand offers a feature that makes dog owners rejoice—Dog Mode. When Dog Mode is activated, the interior cabin camera provides a view of the vehicle’s interior, allowing you to check on your pet whenever you need
The feature also ensures the interior temperature is comfortable enough for your four-legged bundle of love. Whether it’s hot or cold outside, your dog will be comfortable. That can be useful if, when traveling with your pet, you want to stop to get something to eat.
While you’re chowing down, your dog will be comfortable. And since the touchscreen includes a message alerting anyone passing by that your dog isn’t in distress, no one will have a reason to smash your windshield—talk about a win!
Subaru Outback
Plan to spend time in the great outdoors with your favorite traveling companion? A Subaru Outback makes an excellent vehicle for you and your dog. It’s a modern station wagon with sporty looks and all-wheel-drive functionality. You can fold down the rear seats to increase space for you, your dog, and your camping gear.
Honda CR-V
A popular midsize SUV is the Honda CR-V, which also happens to be dog-friendly. Orangeville Honda says the SUV “offers a big cargo area and a low-loading floor that dogs will love.” It adds that the “cargo area is very flat, which is ideal for owners who place pets in crates while traveling.” It’s a vehicle worth considering if you want to travel with your dog.
Ford Escape
Another suitable vehicle for you and your dog to hit the road is a Ford Escape. The flat-folding seats are useful since they afford more room for your pet, whether it’s in a dog bed or crate. It’s a vehicle to consider if you like the Ford Explorer but want something smaller.
Volvo XC60
Many pet owners recommend the Volvo XC60 as a dog-friendly vehicle due to its spacious boot and easy-to-clean interior, making it practical for traveling with pets. Additionally, its advanced safety features and built-in pet barriers help keep both pets and passengers secure on the road.
Toyota RAV4
The Toyota RAV4 was the best-selling SUV in the U.S. last year. There are many reasons people love the RAV4. One user on an online forum commented that the vehicle’s exterior is “sporty and stylish, and it won’t look out of date in a couple of years.” The commenter adds the SUV has “good safety features.” But the RAV4 is also great for dog owners. It has a spacious interior for you and your pet, and the AWD drivetrain means you can tackle more challenging terrain.
Chevrolet Equinox
Aaron Chevrolet says the Chevrolet Equinox “offers a balance between size and practicality for smaller dogs. The cargo space comfortably fits crates and carriers, while the available rear cargo access door allows for easy entry and exit.” If you need a dog hauler, the Equinox is a great option.
Subaru Forester
Like its stablemate, the Subaru Outback, the Subaru Forester is dog-friendly. The SUV features a low load height so dogs can easily get into and out, a spacious cargo area, and big windows so dogs can enjoy the trip and do some sightseeing.
Ford Flex
The Ford Flex is another option if you need a vehicle for you and your dog to travel in. Its boxy shape and flat load floor allow it to accommodate bigger or multiple dogs.
Honda Pilot
Offering three rows of seating and ample cargo space, the Honda Pilot is worth considering if you’re traveling with pets. The rear seat can be folded down to provide even more space.
Toyota Highlander
One reviewer calls the Toyota Highlander a dog’s best friend. It’s worth considering if you want an SUV suitable for your pets. You’ll have lots of room for your dog, particularly if you fold down the rear seats.
Audi Q7
If you like traveling with your pet, the Audi Q7 is another vehicle to consider. It features a spacious cargo area and luxury finishes, so it’ll be a pleasant ride for both of you.
Chrysler Pacifica
The Chrysler Pacifica stands out as a top choice for pet owners, offering both comfort and a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS. This makes it a safe and practical option for families traveling with their four-legged friends.
Mazda CX-5
The Mazda CX-5 offers a large cargo area and flat-folding rear seats. It also offers a smooth and quiet ride for you and your pet.
Get the Right Vehicle for You and Your Pet
If you have a dog and want to hit the open road with your partner in crime, get the right vehicle. Whether on long or short trips, you’ll want your dog to be comfortable, and the right car will help.
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