Top Cars for Pet Owners in Australia | Space & Comfort for Dogs

Australians love their pets—dogs in particular. With millions of households now owning at least one four-legged friend, choosing a car that accommodates pets has become just as important as fuel efficiency or technology. Whether you’re taking your Labrador to the beach, driving your Cavoodle to the vet, or road-tripping across the outback with your Border Collie, you need a car that makes the journey comfortable and safe for both humans and animals.

Not every vehicle suits pet owners. Low seating heights, cramped boots, or poor ventilation can make car rides stressful for your furry friend. On the other hand, some cars are almost purpose-built for pet life: spacious SUVs, wagons with wide tailgates, and hatchbacks with versatile seating.

This guide explores the top cars for pet owners in Australia, focusing on practicality, space, comfort, and pet-friendly features.

What Makes a Car Pet-Friendly?

Before diving into specific models, it’s important to understand what makes a car ideal for transporting dogs:

• Boot Space & Accessibility: A wide, flat boot makes it easy for dogs to hop in and out.
• Air Vents in the Back: Keeps pets cool on long trips, especially in Australia’s hot climate.
• Low Loading Height: Prevents strain on larger or older dogs.
• Interior Durability: Leather or washable seat covers are easier to maintain.
• Safety Options: Anchor points for harnesses, space for crates, and curtain airbags for extra protection.
• Practicality for Humans: Families need a car that balances pet needs with everyday driving.

With these points in mind, let’s look at the cars that stand out in 2025.

SUVs: The Top Choice for Pet Owners

Toyota RAV4

The Toyota RAV4 remains a best-seller in Australia, and for good reason. Its spacious boot (up to 580 litres in some variants) provides ample room for dogs. The low lip makes jumping in easier for older pets, and hybrid options help cut down fuel bills. With rear air vents and Toyota’s reputation for reliability, the RAV4 is a pet-friendly all-rounder.

Subaru Forester

Loved by adventurous Australians, the Subaru Forester offers one of the most pet-friendly interiors. The wide tailgate and large boot make it perfect for medium to large dogs. Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive also means you can take your pup off-road on beach tracks or bush trails. Add in waterproof cargo mats and rear-seat pet barriers, and you’ve got a dog owner’s dream.

Hyundai Tucson

The Tucson strikes a balance between stylish design and practicality. The boot is wide, and Hyundai offers pet accessories such as cargo liners. The rear air vents and panoramic sunroof also keep pets comfortable. Its affordability compared to some rivals makes it an attractive choice for pet-loving families.

Mazda CX-5

Mazda’s CX-5 combines comfort with a plush interior. While the boot space isn’t as massive as some, it’s still practical for small to medium dogs. The cabin refinement makes it a great choice for owners who want luxury touches without sacrificing pet-friendly functionality.

Kia Sportage

With bold styling and a practical boot, the Kia Sportage offers rear air vents, durable seat materials, and optional accessories like dog guards. Its long warranty (7 years in Australia) also provides peace of mind for families.

Wagons: Practicality and Space

Subaru Outback

The Subaru Outback is a standout for pet owners who want wagon practicality. The enormous boot space, flat loading floor, and wide opening tailgate make it perfect for dogs of all sizes. Like the Forester, the Outback is built for adventure, meaning weekend beach or snow trips are easy.

Skoda Octavia Wagon

Skoda has quietly built a reputation for being pet-friendly. The Octavia Wagon’s boot is not only huge but also cleverly designed with hooks and compartments. Skoda even offers optional dog nets and boot dividers straight from the factory, making it one of the most thoughtful cars for pet owners.

Volkswagen Passat Wagon

With its refined ride and cavernous interior, the Passat Wagon remains a strong choice. The boot space is excellent for crates or multiple dogs, and the easy-to-clean surfaces make maintenance simple.

Hatchbacks: Compact Cars for Small Pets

Not every pet owner wants or needs a big SUV. Hatchbacks can also be practical for smaller dogs, especially in urban areas.

Volkswagen Golf

The Golf remains one of Australia’s favourite hatchbacks. Its boot isn’t huge, but with seats folded down, it provides surprising versatility. Great for smaller dogs, it also delivers European refinement and safety.

Toyota Corolla Hatch

Practical and fuel-efficient, the Corolla Hatch is easy to live with. While not designed specifically for pets, its flat boot and reliability make it suitable for occasional dog trips.

Hyundai i30

Another affordable hatch, the Hyundai i30 is a good option for city dwellers with small breeds. Add a pet barrier or boot mat, and it becomes an easy day-to-day car for both owners and pets.

Electric & Hybrid Options for Pet Owners

More Australians are turning to EVs and hybrids, and pet owners are no exception. Quiet, smooth rides mean less stress for animals.

Tesla Model Y

The Tesla Model Y has a built-in Dog Mode, which keeps the cabin climate-controlled while displaying a message on the screen assuring passers-by that your pet is safe. With its flat boot and under-floor storage, it’s arguably the most pet-friendly EV on the market.

BYD Atto 3

This affordable EV SUV offers surprising interior space, a flat boot, and practicality for small to medium pets. As EV infrastructure grows in Australia, it’s becoming a more realistic choice for pet-friendly households.

Toyota RAV4 Hybrid

Mentioned earlier for practicality, the RAV4 Hybrid deserves a second nod for its fuel-saving credentials. For long family drives with dogs, fewer fuel stops mean more convenience.

Car Accessories Every Pet Owner Should Consider

Even the most pet-friendly car can benefit from the right accessories:

• Boot Liners & Mats: Protects against mud, sand, and fur.
• Pet Barriers: Keeps dogs safe in the boot and prevents them from distracting the driver.
• Harness Seat Belts: Secures dogs safely while driving.
• Pet Ramps: Perfect for older dogs who can’t jump into high SUVs.
• Portable Water Bowls & Storage: Essential for road trips.

Tips for Driving Safely with Pets

• Always secure your dog with a harness, crate, or barrier—never let them ride unrestrained.
• Avoid leaving pets in hot cars, even for short periods.
• Plan for breaks on long drives, giving dogs time to stretch and hydrate.
• Keep the car well-ventilated with air conditioning or windows slightly open.

Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right Car for You and Your Pet

When narrowing down your choice, ask yourself:

• How big is your dog?
• Do you take frequent road trips or just short local drives?
• Do you need AWD or 4WD for outdoor adventures?
• Is fuel economy or EV charging infrastructure important?
• How much budget can you allocate to accessories?

Matching your lifestyle to the right vehicle will make life easier for both you and your furry friend.

Conclusion: The Best Cars for Dogs in Australia

Australia’s love for pets means more car brands are paying attention to what dog owners need. From SUVs like the Subaru Forester and Toyota RAV4 to wagons like the Subaru Outback and even EVs like the Tesla Model Y, there’s a car to suit every pet-loving family.

The key is finding a vehicle that blends practicality with comfort—both for humans and for pets. With the right car and accessories, your dog will be just as excited for the next road trip as you are.