Best cars for dogs and dog owners

By Craig Hale

Last updated: 22 July 2025

Us Brits are a pet-loving people, with more than one in four of us having a canine companion. So it’s logical that the best car for dogs is quite often high on our car's 'must-have' list.

To ensure you’re not barking up the wrong tree when buying a car, we’ve got some things for you to consider when deciding on the best car for your dogs.

Best cars for dog owners

Let's face it, not all dogs are lap dogs, and some need more space than others, so finding the best cars for dog owners depends on how much space you need.

So, finding the right car for your four-legged friend isn't just about looks or fuel economy – it's about boot space, wipe-clean interiors and easy access.

Whether you've got a muddy Labrador who treats your car like a second home or a playful cockapoo who needs to be contained safely, the best dog-friendly cars are practical, paw-proof and don't make you sacrifice in day-to-day driving.

What are the best cars for dogs?

• Škoda Octavia Estate

• Volkswagen Passat Estate

• SEAT Leon Estate

• Mercedes E-Class Estate

• Nissan X-Trail

• Land Rover Defender

• Tesla Model Y

• Dacia Duster

Best estate for dogs

An estate car is an obvious choice, but remember that estates come in different sizes too, so you won’t necessarily have to go too large.

Škoda Octavia Estate

If you’re in the market for something that's good value and made to carry your dog, the Škoda Octavia Estate should get the rosette for first place.

Inside, it's all tough, no-nonsense materials that don't mind claws, drool or a post-walk shake-off, but you won't feel like you're sitting in the bargain basement either.

As for driving, diesel is the way to go if you drive long distances to find the best dog-walking spots, but if you're more of a fan of local parks and reserves, consider the mild hybrid petrol, which switches off the engine when it can to save fuel.

Volkswagen Passat Estate

The Volkswagen Passat Estate is like the Octavia's bigger, posher cousin, so you get all the same practical DNA with a bit more polish.

That big boot? It'll swallow most dogs whole, and still have room for the weekly shop and a couple of suitcases.

As you'd expect, the Passat is a comfortable car for both drivers and passengers, with all the latest features – whether technological or safety – onboard.

SEAT Leon

The SEAT Leon Estate is proof that good things can also come in small packages, so if you've got a smaller pooch or pup, it hits a real sweet spot.

Despite being an estate based on a small family hatchback, there’s an impressive boot, which matches some larger SUVs. But unlike an SUV, the boot floor is quite low, so it’s ideal for smaller dogs.

It's a hoot to drive, with sharp handling and a range of engines to suit every kind of driver, so whether you're after economy or performance (if so, consider the CUPRA Leon Estate), there'll be a Leon for you.

Mercedes E-Class

If you and your dog enjoy the finer things in life – think heated seats and gourmet kibble – then the Mercedes E-Class Estate is the one for you. Think of it as the canine equivalent of riding in first class.

The boot is huge and the optional air suspension makes even the bumpiest country lanes feel like gliding over your dog's soft bed.

It's luxurious, but it doesn't skimp on safety or practicality, with ISOFIX points, safety assist systems, wipe-clean surfaces in the boot all making it an impressive family car too.

Best SUVs for dogs

A pet-friendly SUV is perfect if you like a bit more ground clearance and your dog is happy to jump up. A used SUV is always well suited to motorists with an outdoorsy lifestyle - ideal if you love a long walk.

Nissan X-Trail

The Nissan X-Trail is an SUV with a boot large enough for most dogs and a fair amount of luggage (four regular-size suitcases without an issue).

But better still for dog owners is that Nissan also sells an option package called Paw Pack, which includes a ramp to help dogs get into the boot, a boot liner and seat-back storage for leads and more.

You and your two-legged passengers will be comfortable, too, in the spacious cabin that can include an infotainment system including sat-nav and parking cameras, the 1.7 diesel engine is powerful enough to make the X-Trail feel nimble on the road.

Land Rover Defender

This is the off-road icon that's built like a tank and styled like a Range Rover – it's more than a car, it's a lifestyle choice, for you and your dog.

Boot space is vast (over 1,000 litres in certain models) and the whole interior is designed to survive the apocalypse – or at least a soggy hike through the woods.

Sure, it's a bit posher these days, but it hasn't lost its rugged charm. And with a five-star safety rating, the Defender is as good as it gets.

Tesla Model Y

Of course, the Tesla Model Y had to make the list. It has a dedicated Dog Mode that maintains the cabin temperature while you nip into the shops, so it would be wrong not to.

But it's not just about the (admittedly very useful) gimmicks – the Model Y's boot is huge, flat and easy to access, making it ideal for any type of dog.

No exhaust fumes, no gear changes and whisper-quiet running makes for a calmer ride for your dog, and the ultra-minimalist interior makes it ever-so-easy to clean.

Dacia Duster

The Dacia Duster is a budget-friendly crossover that doesn't mind a bit of mud – it's one of the cheapest SUVs you can get new or used, and many models even come with four-wheel drive.

The materials are on the basic side, but that's actually a plus here. They're easy to wipe down and cheap to replace if things get a little damaged.

Add in a decent boot, rugged suspension and efficient engines (including new hybrids) and you've got yourself a practical little machine for you and your dog.

Buy the best cars for dog owners:

Although the exact type of car that's best for you depends on what you want from it, and the size of the dog you have, we've learned that there are some key things that can make a difference.

We're talking about big boot, a comfortable ride and an interior that's easy enough to clean.

Now that you're ready to get a new car for you and your dog, browser our used estates and used SUVs for sale.

Learn more:

• Best cars for safety

• Best cars for off-roading