Best Cars for Dogs 2023

You’ll want a 2023 SUV with a wide, easy-access hatch, like the Land Rover Discovery’s 1,411mm-wide, 854mm-high cargo area, or the Audi Q5 with its powered tailgate and air suspension that lowers for loading. Models like the Mercedes-Benz GLE offer 630L of space and a genuine dog pack, while the Honda Pilot fits multiple crates with built-in tether anchors. For electric ease, Tesla’s Dog Mode keeps the cabin safe and clean. Find out which luxury or high-performance picks also deliver smart pet-focused engineering.

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Notable Insights

• Land Rover Discovery offers a 1,411mm-wide cargo area and foldable seats for large dog comfort.
• Audi Q5 includes air suspension that lowers for easy dog entry and a powered tailgate.
• Mercedes-Benz GLE provides 630L cargo space and an optional genuine dog pack for pet owners.
• Jeep Grand Cherokee L features a high hip point and wide opening for effortless dog access.
• Tesla Model 3 has Dog Mode to maintain safe cabin temperature during parked stops.

Dog-Friendly Features That Matter Most

When you’re hauling dogs around, especially larger or more active breeds, the right car features can make all the difference in comfort, safety, and cleanup. Ample cargo space lets big dogs stretch out, like in the Land Rover Discovery’s 1,411mm-wide, 854mm-high boot. A powered tailgate, like the Audi Q5’s, or height-adjustable suspension, makes loading easier. Spacious and comfortable rear seats matter-Rivian R1S offers heated rear seats and plaid carpets for warmth and coziness. Look for durable pet accessories, like the Subaru Outback’s StarTex upholstery-waterproof and great for muddy paws. Tesla Model 3’s Dog Mode keeps the cabin safe and comfortable when parked, while Rivian’s app-controlled Pet Mode and interior camera let you monitor your pet remotely. These features aren’t luxuries-they’re practical tools for keeping your dog safe, calm, and clean on every trip.

Best SUVs for Dogs and Pet Owners

While space and comfort matter for any passenger, they’re non-negotiable when you’re packing in dogs, especially larger or high-energy breeds that need room to move. The Land Rover Discovery gives you plenty of space, with a 1,411mm-wide, 854mm-tall cargo area, fold-flat seats, and a split tailgate-perfect for big Dog like Great Danes. Audi Q5 owners appreciate the 550–610L boot, powered tailgate, and air suspension that lowers for easy dog access. Mercedes-Benz GLE offers 630L of cargo space, a dog pack, and PHEV options, ideal for eco-minded Dog Owners. Jeep Grand Cherokee L’s high hip point helps dogs jump in comfortably, while Honda Pilot fits eight people, multiple crates, and includes tether anchors-great for multi-dog families needing plenty of space and a practical cargo area.

Luxury SUVs Built for Dogs and Comfort

If you’re after a ride that treats your dog like first-class passengers, luxury SUVs now blend premium comfort with smart, pet-friendly engineering you can actually count on. The Land Rover Discovery gives you 1,411mm of boot width and 854mm height, plus foldable seats and optional pet packs-perfect for dogs and their owners who value space and protection. The Audi Q5 offers 550 to 610 litres of boot space, a powered tailgate, and air suspension that lowers for easy dog access. Mercedes-Benz GLE provides 630 litres, five or seven seats, and a genuine dog pack to handle mess and wear. Aston Martin DBX combines 632 litres with a low load sill and even a branded dog bed. Jaguar F-PACE delivers a 1,091mm-wide boot, rubberised floor, and four available pet packs. These Luxury SUVs are among the Best Cars for Dog travel, offering dogs and their owners plenty of room, smart features, and real-world practicality.

Dog-Friendly Estates and Sedans

Though SUVs dominate the dog-friendly scene, you’ll find some estates and sedans rise to the occasion with smart design and thoughtful features that make hauling your dog just as seamless. The Jaguar XF Sportbrake offers 563 litres of boot space, expandable to 1,342 litres with rear seats folded-perfect for large dogs needing extra space to stretch. Its luxury interior and factory-approved pet accessories help you find comfort without sacrificing style. The Tesla Model 3 proves not all dog-friendly cars are SUVs. With Dog Mode, it maintains a safe cabin temperature for dogs when parked, while its quiet, all-electric ride reduces stress during travel. Zero tailpipe emissions mean cleaner air, supporting better respiratory health. Both models show that practicality, safety, and care blend seamlessly in estates and sedans built with dogs in mind.

High-Performance SUVs for Active Dog Owners

You’ll find high-performance SUVs aren’t just about speed and power-they’re built to keep up with your active lifestyle and your dog’s needs, too. Owners love the Aston Martin DBX’s 542bhp V8 and 632-litre cargo space, with a low-loading aperture that keeps pets safe and comfortable. The Mercedes-Benz GLE 63 S 4MATIC+ packs a punch with its V8 and offers 630 litres of cargo room, plus an optional dog protection pack to keep pets secure. The Audi SQ5’s 336bhp engine and air suspension make entry easy, while the Land Rover Discovery’s 1,411mm-wide boot fits large breeds effortlessly-ideal for crew cab families. The Jaguar F-PACE boasts a wide 1,091mm aperture and rubberised floor, simplifying cleanups. These SUVs combine performance with smart design that keeps pets happy, safe, and ready for adventure.

Where to Buy Dog-Friendly Luxury Cars

While finding the right luxury car for your dog means balancing comfort, safety, and performance, knowing where to shop makes all the difference. Stratstone Vehicle Selection offers a curated inventory of new and used premium dog-friendly luxury cars, including Teslas, Jaguars, and Land Rover Discoverys with factory pet packs-ideal for small dogs and active breeds alike. Their Mercedes-Benz GLE and Aston Martin DBX models come with branded dog partitions, portable washers, and matching dog beds, blending luxury with practicality. For Cars for Dog Lovers, Autotrader’s 2023 list highlights the Audi Q3 and Jeep Grand Cherokee L, both available at certified dealerships with pet-focused features. Rivian dealerships offer the R1S with Pet Mode, app-based climate control, and an interior camera, a great option for tech-savvy owners. Whether it’s National Dog Day or just Tuesday, these dealerships make luxury pet travel seamless, safe, and stylish.

On a final note

You’ll love how these 2023 models make pet travel easier, with durable, water-resistant rear seats, spacious cargo areas over 35 inches long, and tether anchors tested by real owners. Top picks include the Subaru Outback for its easy-clean interior and the Kia Telluride with rear climate controls. High-traction AWD, low load floors, and quiet cabins support your dog’s comfort, health, and behavior on every drive-practical, proven, and pet-ready.