4 Tips for Choosing the Best Car for You and Your Pooch

Mar 30, 2016

Best Car for You and Your Pooch

Your dog is a part of the family. Whether you take your canine companion with you on extended road trips or quick visits to the local dog park, finding the right car to suit both you and your furry friend is a must. Before selecting your next vehicle, here are some dog-friendly car-buying tips to keep in mind.

You Need Ample Cargo Space

Dogs need a lot of room when traveling in a car, which is why a spacious cargo area is essential. You want to make sure your vehicle is spacious enough to haul a kennel, especially if you’ve been crate training your dog and need to bring it with you for the hotel room. Many crates are collapsible, but if your dog travels better inside the kennel, it needs to fit in the cargo area along with the rest of your luggage.

Whether your dog needs a crate or not, having a convenient rear liftgate will make it easier for your furry friend to hop in and out of the vehicle. An automatic liftgate makes it even easier to pack kennels, pet carriers, and other items.

Fold-Flat Seats Are Convenient

If you reserve the cargo area for luggage and allow your dog to ride in the rear seat, fold-flat seats come in handy. This feature allows you to create more room for your dog to sit and move around while keeping the actual seat upholstery clean and free from fur and scratches. Pet owners who don’t have fold-flat seats should cover them with a blanket or specialized seat cover designed for dogs.

SUVs and crossovers offer flexible rear seating features that are ideal for dogs, but keep in mind the vehicle’s ride height before making your purchase, as older dogs can have trouble getting in and out of a taller vehicle.

Best Car for You and Your Pooch

Dogs Love Fresh Air

When you picture a dog on a road trip, you probably think of him sticking his head out the window and basking in the wind and sun. Dogs love fresh air, and even if you don’t intend to keep the windows rolled down during your trip, the right vehicle can offer all the fresh air he needs to be content.

A sunroof, for instance, will give your dog a nice breeze while maximizing sunlight. A dual-zone climate control is another great feature that sets the A/C directly on your dog, preventing overheating. Overall, a nice airy cabin will give your canine friend plenty of opportunities to stretch out, which is important on long excursions.

Pet-Friendly Attachments Make Up for a Lack of Features

When your vehicle doesn’t exactly offer an array of pet-friendly features, consider adding a few attachments to make the car more functional. A pet divider between the front cabin and rear seats is a smart idea for preventing your dog from jumping in your lap while driving, and cargo ringlets and nets can help keep pet supplies and crates in place while driving.

The right kind of vehicle can mean new memories for you and your dog. Keep these tips in mind to get the best possible solution that meets both your needs.