Australia’s Best Cars for Dog Owners – Features Pets Will Love

Australia’s Best Cars for Dog Owners – Features Pets Will Love

Whether you're heading to the beach, vet, or dog park, finding the right car that suits your four-legged friend is crucial. In 2025, more Aussie car buyers are factoring their pets into their purchase decisions. With the pet ownership rate in Australia sitting at over 60%, and dogs being the most common pet, there’s never been a better time to find a car that caters to both human and canine comfort.

In this guide, we’ll explore what makes a car “pet-friendly,” highlight top models in Australia that cater to dogs, and help you choose the best vehicle for your furry co-pilot.

Why Pet-Friendly Features Matter in a Car

Transporting dogs in a vehicle isn't just about tossing a towel in the boot and hoping for the best. You need to consider:

• Space and Comfort: Enough room for your dog to sit, lie down, and move comfortably.

• Low Boot Floor Height: Makes it easier for large or senior dogs to jump in and out.

• Flat Boot Space: Reduces the risk of your dog falling or tumbling while the car is moving.

• Window Ventilation & Rear A/C Vents: Keep the cabin cool and well-ventilated.

• Interior Materials: Easy-to-clean surfaces are a lifesaver.

• Anchorage Points: For dog harnesses, crates, or cargo barriers.

• Rear Privacy Glass & Sunshades: Protects your dog from harsh sunlight.

Now, let’s look at the best pet-friendly vehicles in Australia in 2025.

Top Pet-Friendly Cars for Aussie Dog Owners

1. Subaru Outback

Why It’s Great for Dogs:

• Huge cargo area with flat loading floor.

• Standard all-wheel drive – perfect for dog beach or trail adventures.

• Rear A/C vents and tinted windows.

• Optional cargo barrier and rubber mats.

Boot Space: ~522L
Floor Height: Low for easy entry
Price Range: From ~$48,000

2. Toyota RAV4 Hybrid

Why It’s Great for Dogs:

• Excellent boot space with a low loading lip.

• Very fuel-efficient, especially for long road trips with pets.

• Rear air vents and optional accessories like dog guards.

Boot Space: ~580L
Hybrid Bonus: Quiet drive, less noise stress for dogs
Price Range: From ~$45,000

3. Kia Sportage

Why It’s Great for Dogs:

• Flat-folding rear seats make for extended pet-friendly space.

• Rear vents and good headroom for larger crates.

• Optional cargo accessories available through Kia.

Boot Space: ~543L
Price Range: From ~$38,000

4. Hyundai Santa Fe (7-Seater)

Why It’s Great for Dogs:

• Third-row folds flat – great for crate placement or larger dogs.

• One of the best setups for families and their pets.

• Available with rear window shades.

Boot Space: Up to 782L (with third row folded)
Dog Bonus: Multiple tie-down points for crates/harnesses
Price Range: From ~$55,000

5. Mazda CX-5

Why It’s Great for Dogs:

• High-quality interior that’s still pet-friendly.

• Boot is spacious enough for medium-large dogs.

• Optional accessories include boot liners and rear protectors.

Boot Space: ~438L
Price Range: From ~$42,000

6. Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace

Why It’s Great for Dogs:

• Extended boot space ideal for large breeds.

• Quiet and stable ride – less stress for anxious dogs.

• Optional dog harness anchor kits and partitions.

Boot Space: Up to 700L
Price Range: From ~$52,000

7. Skoda Kodiaq

Why It’s Great for Dogs:

• Understated gem with smart cargo management.

• Clever touches like removable boot light, shopping bag hooks (double as leash points).

• Optional dog accessories available.

Boot Space: ~765L
Price Range: From ~$52,000

8. Ford Everest

Why It’s Great for Dogs:

• Rugged SUV with space to spare.

• 4WD capability for off-leash national parks and trails.

• Multiple boot configuration options.

Boot Space: ~898L (5-seat config)
Adventure Bonus: Built for Aussie terrain
Price Range: From ~$61,000

9. MG ZS EV

Why It’s Great for Dogs:

• Budget-friendly electric SUV with decent space.

• Smooth, quiet ride – ideal for pets.

• Flat boot area with optional accessories.

Boot Space: ~359L
EV Bonus: No engine rumble = calmer pups
Price Range: From ~$43,000

10. Honda CR-V (2025 New Gen)

Why It’s Great for Dogs:

• Impressive boot redesign in 2025 model.

• Smart layout with low loading lip.

• Plenty of interior space for dog crates.

Boot Space: ~580L
Price Range: From ~$47,000

Honorable Mentions – Budget & Used Options

If you're on a budget or buying second-hand, consider these:

• Subaru Forester (used): Great AWD and dog-friendly boot.

• Toyota Kluger (used): Massive cargo space and reliable.

• Hyundai Tucson: Practical layout and wide boot.

• Mitsubishi Outlander (used): Affordable and functional for pets.

Essential Accessories for Dog-Friendly Cars

Don’t forget to gear up with these essentials:

• Boot liners and dog hammocks

• Rear seat protectors

• Dog barriers or crates

• Water-resistant mats

• Window shades or tint

• Portable dog ramps (for older pets)

Safety Tips for Driving with Dogs

Safety isn’t just about strapping in the humans. Keep these in mind:

• Use a certified harness or crate. Avoid letting dogs roam free.

• Never let your dog ride in the front seat. Airbags can be dangerous.

• Keep heads inside the window. Dogs love it, but debris or insects can cause injury.

• Take breaks on long drives. Let your dog stretch, hydrate, and relieve itself.

Dog Breeds and Car Pairings

Some dogs need more space than others. Here's a quick breakdown:

Buying Tips for Dog Owners

When shopping for a dog-friendly car in 2025:

• Visit dealerships with your dog. Many allow it and offer dog-friendly tests.

• Check if the boot fits your crate. Always measure before buying.

• Opt for leather or synthetic seats. Easier to clean than cloth.

• Review accessories offered by the brand. Some OEMs like Subaru and Skoda offer excellent pet packs.

Final Thoughts – Choosing the Right Car for You & Your Pup

The perfect dog car isn’t about just boot space — it’s about a balance between comfort, safety, ease of access, and everyday practicality. From rugged off-roaders like the Ford Everest to eco-friendly electric picks like the MG ZS EV, there’s a vehicle out there tailored to your dog’s needs and your lifestyle.

When you shop with your dog in mind, you're not just buying a car. You’re buying peace of mind, road-trip joy, and comfort for your most loyal companion.