Best Used Cars for Dogs
Roomy and Easy-to-Clean Interiors
Picking the right car for your furry friend? It’s all about space and how easy it is to clean. Pet hair, dirt, and the occasional accident can be a hassle, so a roomy and easy-to-clean interior is a must.
Subaru Outback: This one’s a favorite for its tough interior, perfect for those off-road trips. The wagon-style rear is great for securing a dog carrier, and the wide rear hatch makes it easy for your dog to hop in and out (Mike Duman Auto Superstore).
Honda CR-V: The CR-V has a low loading height and big windows in the back, so your dog can enjoy the view. There’s plenty of space for a large dog kennel, reconfigurable rear stow space, and pockets for treats and toys.
Kia Soul: With its low profile, the Kia Soul is perfect for dogs that have trouble getting in and out of cars. It supports dog carriers and crates well and has a hatchback door for quick entry and exit. Leather seats make cleanup a breeze, and the cargo tray and organizer, along with a dual-level cargo floor, provide height adjustment.
| Car Model | Spacious Interior | Easy-to-Clean Features |
|---|---|---|
| Subaru Outback | Yes | Rugged, easy-to-clean |
| Honda CR-V | Yes | Low loading height, storage |
| Kia Soul | Yes | Leather seating, cargo tray |
Pet-Friendly Features
Besides space and easy cleanup, pet-friendly features are key when picking the best used cars for dogs. These features keep your pet comfy and safe on the road.
Subaru Outback: Known for its off-road capability, the Outback also has a wide rear hatch and wagon-style rear for dog carriers.
Honda CR-V: The CR-V’s reconfigurable rear stow space and storage pockets for treats and toys make it a pet-friendly ride. The large windows in the back give your dog a great view.
Kia Soul: The Soul’s hatchback door allows for quick entry and exit, and the dual-level cargo floor provides height adjustment. Leather seating options and the Kia Accessory cargo tray and organizer enhance its pet-friendly nature.
Volvo V60: This model offers a spacious cargo area with a built-in pet barrier, making it an excellent choice for dog owners (Bumble Auto).
Ford Escape: Known for its roomy interior, the Escape provides ample space for dog crates and carriers, along with pet-friendly features like fold-flat rear seats.
| Car Model | Pet-Friendly Features |
|---|---|
| Subaru Outback | Wide rear hatch, wagon-style rear |
| Honda CR-V | Reconfigurable stow space, large windows |
| Kia Soul | Hatchback door, dual-level cargo floor, leather seating |
| Volvo V60 | Spacious cargo area, built-in pet barrier |
| Ford Escape | Roomy interior, fold-flat rear seats |
For more budget-friendly options, check out our guides on good used cars for under 10000 and best used cars under 20000. Looking for specific features? Explore our articles on the best used cars for families or the best used cars for young families.
Reliable Used Car Brands
When hunting for the best used cars for dogs, you want something that won’t let you down. Here are some top-notch brands to consider:
Toyota: The Trusty Steed
Toyota is the go-to for reliability, holding its value, and lasting forever. Models like the RAV4, Corolla, 4Runner, and Tacoma are built to last. Perfect for dog owners who need a dependable ride for all their escapades.
| Model | Key Features | Reliability Rating |
|---|---|---|
| RAV4 | Roomy cargo, easy-to-clean | 4.8/5 |
| Corolla | Comfy interior, fuel-efficient | 4.7/5 |
| 4Runner | Tough, off-road ready | 4.6/5 |
| Tacoma | Sturdy, versatile | 4.6/5 |
Want more on Toyota’s reliability? Check here.
Honda: Engineering Marvels
Honda’s known for its top-notch engineering, low upkeep, and stellar reliability. Models like the Accord, Civic, and CR-V are solid picks for dog owners needing a trusty car.
| Model | Key Features | Reliability Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Accord | Spacious, smooth ride | 4.7/5 |
| Civic | Compact, fuel-saver | 4.6/5 |
| CR-V | Big cargo space, comfy | 4.7/5 |
For more on Honda’s reliability, visit here.
Mazda: Style Meets Dependability
Mazda cars are known for their sleek looks, reliable performance, and longevity. Models like the CX-5, Mazda3, MX-5, and Mazda2 are loved for their minimal issues and eye-catching design.
| Model | Key Features | Reliability Rating |
|---|---|---|
| CX-5 | Stylish, roomy cargo | 4.6/5 |
| Mazda3 | Sporty, fuel-efficient | 4.5/5 |
| MX-5 | Compact, fun to drive | 4.4/5 |
| Mazda2 | Budget-friendly, easy upkeep | 4.3/5 |
Learn more about Mazda’s reliability here.
Subaru: The Adventure Buddy
Subaru is all about ruggedness, durability, and all-wheel drive. Models like the Outback and Forester are ideal for dog owners who love off-road adventures and need a reliable ride for any terrain.
| Model | Key Features | Reliability Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Outback | Tough, versatile | 4.8/5 |
| Forester | Spacious, all-wheel drive | 4.7/5 |
For more on Subaru’s reliability, check here.
Hyundai: Quality on a Budget
Hyundai offers great value with solid warranties, advanced tech, and safety features. Models like the Tucson, Santa Fe, and Sonata are popular for their reliability and bang for the buck.
| Model | Key Features | Reliability Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Tucson | Spacious, safety tech | 4.6/5 |
| Santa Fe | Comfy, big cargo | 4.5/5 |
| Sonata | Stylish, fuel-efficient | 4.4/5 |
Discover more about Hyundai’s reliability here.
For more options that fit your needs, check out our articles on good used cars for under 10000, best used cars under 20000, and best used cars for families.
Keeping Your Dog Safe on the Road
Traveling with your dog? Making sure Rover is safe and comfy is a top priority. Here’s a rundown of what you need to know when picking the best used cars for dogs.
Dog Seat Belts
Dog seat belts keep your pet strapped in and limit their movement in the car. They hook up to the car’s seat belt system, making them easy to use and adjustable for most dogs. But remember, they’re not as secure as a dog crate in a crash (Barkio).
| Feature | Benefit | Limitation |
|---|---|---|
| Easy to Use | Quick to secure your dog | Less secure than crates |
| Adjustable | Fits most dogs | Limited protection in serious collisions |
Crates and Carriers
Crates and carriers offer the best protection in an accident. They keep your dog in one spot, reducing distractions. The downside? They need space and might not be great for dogs who hate being confined.
| Feature | Benefit | Limitation |
|---|---|---|
| High Protection | Most secure in accidents | Requires space |
| Prevents Distraction | Keeps dog confined | Not ideal for all dogs |
Elevated Dog Car Seats
Elevated dog car seats give smaller dogs a safe spot to sit and a view out the window. They’re good for small to medium dogs but not as secure as a crate in a serious crash (Barkio).
| Feature | Benefit | Limitation |
|---|---|---|
| Secure Area | Keeps small dogs safe | Less secure than crates |
| Elevated View | Allows window visibility | Limited to small/medium dogs |
Barriers in the Car
Barriers keep pets in the back seat or cargo area, stopping them from distracting the driver. But they don’t restrain the dog in an accident, so they offer less protection than other options.
| Feature | Benefit | Limitation |
|---|---|---|
| Prevents Distraction | Keeps dog in designated area | Does not restrain in accidents |
| Easy Installation | Simple to set up | Less secure |
Shockingly, almost half of pet owners choose the riskiest option when driving with their pets. About 47% let their pets roam freely in the car, and 9% even admit to taking photos of their pets while driving. Keeping your dog safe is crucial, and picking the right gear can make all the difference.
For more tips on picking the best used car for your needs, check out our guides on good used cars for under 10000, good used cars under 15000, and best used cars for families.
Dog-Friendly Vehicle Features
When hunting for the best used cars for dogs, it’s all about finding features that keep your furry pals safe and comfy. Here’s what to look for:
Secure Cargo Area and Rear Airbags
A solid cargo area is a must for safely transporting dogs. Think Subaru Outback—perfect for off-road fun with its rugged, easy-to-clean interior and wide rear hatch, making it a breeze for dogs to hop in and out (Mike Duman Auto Superstore). Rear airbags and reinforced doors add extra security for your pets during travel (Bumble Auto).
Rear Seat Design and Fold-Flat Floors
The rear seat design and fold-flat floors are game-changers for fitting dog carriers or kennels. The Honda CR-V, for instance, has a low loading height, big back windows for dogs to enjoy the view, reconfigurable rear stow space, and storage pockets for treats and toys (Mike Duman Auto Superstore). This setup makes it easy to create a cozy and secure spot for your pets.
Easy-to-Clean Interiors and Built-in Pet Barriers
For dog owners, easy-to-clean interiors are a lifesaver. Look for stain-resistant upholstery, removable and washable seat covers, and rubberized or waterproof flooring in the cargo area. Built-in pet barriers or dividers help keep the car clean and free from pet hair and odors. These features keep your car tidy and fresh, making trips more pleasant.
Budget-Friendly Options for Dog Owners
There are plenty of budget-friendly cars that cater to dog owners without costing a fortune. Models like the Kia Soul, Toyota RAV4, and Honda Fit offer spacious interiors and pet-friendly features without breaking the bank (Bumble Auto). These cars provide ample space and comfort for your pets, making them great choices for dog lovers on a budget. For more wallet-friendly options, check out our articles on good used cars for under 10000 and best used cars under 20000.
| Vehicle Model | Stain-Resistant Upholstery | Fold-Flat Floors | Built-in Pet Barriers | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Subaru Outback | Yes | Yes | No | $15,000 – $30,000 |
| Honda CR-V | Yes | Yes | No | $20,000 – $35,000 |
| Kia Soul | Yes | Yes | No | $10,000 – $20,000 |
| Toyota RAV4 | Yes | Yes | No | $15,000 – $30,000 |
| Honda Fit | Yes | Yes | No | $10,000 – $20,000 |
Checking out these dog-friendly vehicle features will help you find the perfect ride for you and your four-legged buddy. For more options and guides, visit our articles on the best used cars for families, best used cars under 25k, and good used cars for gas mileage.
Keeping Your Pet Safe on the Road
Traveling with your pet? Let’s make sure they’re safe and sound. Here are some practical tips on using strong cargo tie-downs and pet safety gear.
Strong Cargo Tie-Downs
Securing your dog during car rides is a must. Strength-rated cargo tie-downs are your best friend here. These are built to handle serious pressure, keeping your pet safe if you need to stop suddenly or in case of an accident. A solid choice is Raingler Cargo Nets, which can handle between 800 to 2,500 pounds per square inch of pressure (Outside Online). You can mount these nets to the B-pillars of your car, creating a safe zone for your dog in the back seat.
| Cargo Tie-Down | Pressure Capacity (PSI) |
|---|---|
| Raingler Cargo Nets | 800 – 2,500 |
Using these sturdy tie-downs gives you peace of mind, knowing your dog is secure. If your car has fold-flat floors, like the Dodge Journey, GMC Terrain, and Jeep Compass, it’s even easier to set up a comfy and safe spot for your pet.
Using Pet Safety Gear Right
Using pet safety gear correctly is another biggie for keeping your dog safe during car trips. Dog car seats, safety harnesses, and crates are designed to work with your car’s child-safety seat Latch system. If a car is good for child-safety seats, it’s usually good for pet safety gear too (Rev Auto Group).
| Equipment | Description |
|---|---|
| Dog Seat Belts | Connect to the vehicle’s Latch system, keeping the dog in place |
| Crates and Carriers | Provide a contained space, reducing movement during travel |
| Dog Car Seats | Elevated seats that attach to the vehicle’s Latch system for added security |
For extra comfort, add a memory foam mattress topper wrapped in a moving blanket to the back seat. This gives your dog a cozy spot to lie down during the drive. Also, if you have a truck with remote start and air-conditioning, you can keep your dog cool and comfy while you’re out of the vehicle.
By following these tips, you can make car trips safe and enjoyable for both you and your dog. For more tips on the best cars for dog owners, check out our articles on good used cars for under 10000 and best used cars for large families.
SUVs and Wagons for Dog Owners
Picking the right used car for your dog can be a bit tricky, but the right SUV or wagon can make all the difference. Here are three top picks that will keep your furry buddy comfy and safe on all your trips.
Subaru Outback for Off-Road Adventures
The Subaru Outback is a great choice for dog owners who love off-road adventures. Its rugged interior is easy to clean, so your dog can enjoy the ride without leaving a mess. The wagon-style rear is perfect for securing a dog carrier, and the wide rear hatch gives your dog plenty of space to hop in and out.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Interior | Tough and easy to clean |
| Rear Hatch | Wide for easy access |
| Space | Plenty for dog carriers |
Honda CR-V for Spacious Comfort
The Honda CR-V is another fantastic option for dog owners. Its low loading height makes it easy for dogs to get in and out, while the large windows in the back let them enjoy the view. The CR-V also offers lots of space for a big dog kennel, reconfigurable rear stow space, and storage pockets for treats and toys.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Loading Height | Low for easy access |
| Windows | Big for scenic views |
| Space | Lots for large kennels |
Kia Soul for Ease of Entry
The Kia Soul is perfect for dogs that struggle with getting in and out of vehicles. Its low profile supports dog carriers and crates well. The hatchback door allows for quick entry and exit, and the available leather seating makes cleanup a breeze. Plus, the Kia Soul offers a cargo tray and organizer, as well as a dual-level cargo floor for height adjustment.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Profile | Low for easy entry |
| Seating | Leather for easy cleanup |
| Cargo | Dual-level floor for height adjustment |
Choosing the right vehicle can make traveling with your dog a fun and stress-free experience. For more info on finding good used cars for under 10000 or best used cars under 20000, check out our other articles.
