9 Best Used Cars For Dog Owners

Finding the perfect car as a dog owner involves more than just aesthetics and fuel economy. You need a vehicle that can comfortably accommodate your furry friend, ensuring their safety and comfort during every ride. From spacious interiors to durable materials, the ideal car should cater to the unique needs of both you and your pet.

In this comprehensive guide, we explore the best used cars for dogs, focusing on the needs of dog owners and the features that make each vehicle ideal. Whether you're looking for the best used SUV for big dogs or the best used cars in general, this guide will help you make the right decision for your next vehicle.

1. Land Rover Discovery

The Land Rover Discovery is renowned for its off-road capabilities and spacious interior, making it a top contender for the best used SUV for big dogs and dog lovers. This vehicle provides ample cargo space and a durable interior that can withstand the wear and tear of pet travel.

Pros and Cons for Dog Owners

Pros:

• Ample cargo space for large dogs and their gear
• Durable materials that are easy to clean
• Excellent off-road capabilities for adventurous outings

Cons:

• Higher maintenance costs
• Lower fuel efficiency

Why It’s Great for Dog Owners?

The Land Rover Discovery is perfect for those who love outdoor adventures with their dogs. Its spacious interior and rugged build ensure that both you and your furry friend can enjoy every journey, whether it's a trip to the park or a weekend getaway. The Discovery's large windows also offer your dog plenty of opportunities to enjoy the view, reducing stress during travel.

2. Tesla Model Y

The Tesla Model Y is a modern electric SUV that offers innovative features, including a dedicated Dog Mode. This feature keeps the climate controlled for your pet when you're away from the vehicle, ensuring their comfort and safety. Additionally, the Tesla Model Y's quiet electric motor can make for a calmer ride for anxious pups.

Pros and Cons for Dog Owners

Pros:

• Dog Mode keeps the interior temperature comfortable for pets
• Spacious and modern interior
• Environmentally friendly

Cons:

• Expensive to repair
• Higher initial cost

Why It’s Great for Dog Owners?

The Tesla Model Y is ideal for tech-savvy dog owners who prioritize their pet's comfort and safety. With its Dog Mode and spacious interior, it's one of the best used cars for dogs. The large cargo area and fold-flat rear seats provide ample space for even the largest pooches, and the low floor makes it easy for pets to get in and out of the vehicle.

3. MINI Countryman

The MINI Countryman combines compact city-friendly dimensions with a surprisingly spacious interior. Its stylish design and practical features make it a great choice for dog owners who live in urban environments. Despite its smaller size, the Countryman offers ample room for small to medium-sized dogs and their accessories.

Pros and Cons for Dog Owners

Pros:

• Compact yet spacious
• Stylish and fun to drive
• Good fuel economy

Cons:

• Less cargo space compared to larger SUVs
• Higher cost for a compact vehicle

Why It’s Great for Dog Owners?

The MINI Countryman is perfect for city dwellers with dogs. Its compact size makes it easy to maneuver in tight spaces, while the spacious interior ensures your dog travels comfortably. The rear seats can be folded down to create a flat load area, making it easy to transport your pet's crate, bed, or other large items.

4. Volvo V60

The Volvo V60 is a premium wagon known for its safety and comfort. It offers high-quality materials and a spacious cargo area, making it a reliable choice for dog owners. The V60 is equipped with advanced safety features, such as automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assist, which can help keep both you and your pet safe on the road.

Pros and Cons for Dog Owners

Pros:

• Top-notch safety features
• Comfortable and luxurious interior
• Spacious cargo area

Cons:

• Higher price point
• More expensive to maintain

Why It’s Great for Dog Owners?

The Volvo V60 is perfect for those who value safety and comfort. Its spacious cargo area and high-quality interior materials make it one of the best used cars for dogs. The V60's low loading height makes it easy for dogs to hop in and out, and the rear seats can be folded flat to create a large, secure area for your pet.

5. Volkswagen Tiguan

The Volkswagen Tiguan is a reliable and spacious SUV with advanced safety features. Its roomy interior and durable build make it an excellent choice for dog owners. The Tiguan's high roofline and large windows provide a bright, airy environment for your pet, and the rear cargo area is easily accessible.

Pros and Cons for Dog Owners

Pros:

• Reliable and spacious
• Advanced safety features
• Good resale value

Cons:

• Less fuel efficient
• Higher repair costs

Why It’s Great for Dog Owners?

The Volkswagen Tiguan offers a comfortable ride and ample space for your dog. Its reliability and advanced safety features make it one of the best used SUVs for dogs. The rear seats can slide and recline to provide more space for your pet, and the durable interior materials are easy to clean.

6. Skoda Superb Estate

The Skoda Superb Estate is known for its massive cargo space and practicality. It offers an economical option for dog owners who need plenty of room for their pets and gear. The Superb Estate's large rear door and low loading height make it easy for dogs to enter and exit the vehicle.

Pros and Cons for Dog Owners

Pros:

• Huge cargo area
• Practical and economical
• Comfortable ride

Cons:

• Larger size can be difficult to park
• Less sporty design

Why It’s Great for Dog Owners?

The Skoda Superb Estate is ideal for those who need a lot of cargo space. Its practical design and economical operation make it a top choice among the best used cars for dogs. The Superb Estate's rear seats can be folded flat to create an enormous cargo area, perfect for transporting large dogs and their accessories.

7. Honda CR-V

The Honda CR-V is known for its reliability and practicality, making it a great choice for dog lovers. It offers a spacious interior and excellent resale value, making it a popular choice for dog owners. The CR-V's large cargo area and fold-flat rear seats provide plenty of space for your pet, and the durable materials are easy to clean.

Pros and Cons for Dog Owners

Pros:

• Reliable and practical
• Good resale value
• Spacious interior

Cons:

• Less luxurious interior
• Average performance

Why It’s Great for Dog Owners?

The Honda CR-V is a dependable and practical choice for dog lovers who own a pup. Its spacious interior and reliability make it one of the best used SUVs for big dogs. The CR-V's low loading height and wide rear door make it easy for pups to get in and out, and the interior is designed to be easy to clean and maintain.

8. Kia Soul

The Kia Soul stands out with its funky design and versatile interior. It offers good value for money and a practical layout for dog owners, including a liftgate for easy access. The Soul's boxy shape and high roofline provide plenty of headroom and a spacious feel, while the fold-flat rear seats create a large cargo area for your pooch.

Pros and Cons for Dog Owners

Pros:

• Versatile and spacious
• Affordable
• Unique styling

Cons:

• Unique styling may not appeal to everyone
• Less cargo space compared to larger SUVs

Why It’s Great for Dog Owners?

The Kia Soul is a versatile and affordable option for dog owners. Its unique design and practical features make it one of the best used cars for dogs. The Soul's low floor and large rear door make it easy for pups to enter and exit, and the durable interior materials are designed to withstand the wear and tear of pet travel.

9. Subaru Outback

The Subaru Outback is a rugged and reliable vehicle known for its spacious interior and off-road capabilities, perfect for dog lovers. It's a great choice for adventurous dog owners who need a vehicle that can handle rough terrain, such as the Subaru Forester. The Outback's high ground clearance and all-wheel drive make it perfect for outdoor excursions with your pet.

Pros and Cons for Dog Owners

Pros:

• Rugged and reliable
• Ample cargo space
• Good off-road capabilities

Cons:

• Lower fuel economy
• Higher repair costs

Why It’s Great for Dog Owners?

The Subaru Outback is perfect for those who love exploring the outdoors with their dogs. Its rugged design and spacious interior make it one of the best used SUVs for big dogs. The Outback's rear seats can be folded flat to create a large cargo area, and the durable materials are easy to clean after a muddy adventure with your pooch.

Conclusion

Choosing the right car for you and your furry friend is crucial for ensuring safe and comfortable travels. Whether you prioritize space, safety, or modern features, these nine vehicles offer some of the best used cars for dogs. From the rugged Subaru Outback to the tech-savvy Tesla Model Y, there's a perfect fit for every dog owner. Remember to consider your dog's specific needs and your lifestyle when making your decision, ensuring every journey is a joyful one for both of you.

Finding the best used SUV for big dogs or the best used cars for dogs involves considering factors like space, durability, and safety. Each of the vehicles listed here excels in these areas, making them excellent choices for dog owners who want to ensure their pets travel comfortably and safely. Whether you're taking a short trip to the vet or embarking on a cross-country adventure, the right vehicle can make all the difference for you and your dog.

FAQ’s:

1. What is the best car for dog owners?

The Subaru Outback and Honda CR-V are great choices for dog owners due to their spacious interiors, durability, and safety features.

2. What is the safest car for dogs?

The Volvo V60 is one of the safest cars for dogs, featuring advanced safety systems and a spacious, comfortable interior, much like a well-equipped minivan.

3. Which SUV is best for dog owners?

The Land Rover Discovery is the best used SUV for big dogs, offering ample space, durability, and off-road capabilities.

4. Are dogs safer in the front or back of the car?

Dogs are safer in the back of the car, away from airbags, and secured with a pet seatbelt, harness, or crate.