A CAR expert has revealed the most comfortable cars for dogs – and features that can help drivers avoid hefty fines.
Dogs come in all shapes and sizes – so when you get a new pet, you might need to upgrade your car to make sure they’re as comfy as possible.
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Searching for a family car can be hard because children or other family members need space and comfort, too.
If you’ve got a big dog, you will want a big car with a decent-sized boot so it can move around on any journey.
And dogs can also get travel sick, so buying a car that offers a smooth ride is a definite recommendation.
Make sure you also pick a car that doesn’t have a high boot lip, particularly if your dog is small.
And, importantly, dogs must be restrained in a car when their owners are driving.
Rule 57 of the Highway Code says: “When in a vehicle, make sure dogs, or other animals are suitably restrained so they cannot distract you while you are driving or injure you, or themselves if you stop quickly.”
And if a motorist causes an accident because they are distracted by their dog, they could face an eye-watering £5,000 fine for careless driving.
However, some cars have dog-friendly features that could make your trip safer and more comfortable for your pet.
Handily car experts at carbuyer have come up with a list of the best cars for dogs.
1. Skoda Superb Estate
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The Czech brand has your dog in mind and offers a ‘dog seatbelt’ compatible with all of its current models.
This clips onto the normal seatbelt mount and keeps your dog in place when you’re on the move.
And it’s available in different sizes to suit dogs of all breeds.
2. Land Rover Defender
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Land Rover offers its long-running 4×4 with a Pet Care and Access Pack which includes a ramp for easy entry and exit to the boot, a reversible boot liner, a metal grate to separate the boot compartment and even a built-in shower.
3. Mini Clubman estate
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Mini is the only car maker that has received the charity Dog Trust’s approval and is being classed as ‘dog friendly’.
While the smaller models don’t have enough room for your pet, the Clubman estate has plenty of space to accommodate your pooch.
The vertically-split boot lid should make it easy for your dog to get in and out, and MINI also offers a wide range of accessories to help keep everything clean.
The company said: “Our cars can accommodate just about any breed, from Sighthounds to Spaniels to Terriers, and everything in between. The MINI Countryman and MINI Clubman are our biggest models, with surprisingly generous room in the back.”
4. Tesla Model Y SUV
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Tesla allows pet owners to set the car at their dog’s preferred temperature, enabling you to safely leave them in the car while you nip out for short errands.
And a message is displayed on the touchscreen notifying passersby that your dog is being cared for.
5. Toyota Corolla Touring Sports
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The Toyota Corolla has long been considered a good choice for dog owners.
With a low-load lip, it’s easy for smaller or less mobile dogs to hop in the rear, and with a 581-litre cargo bay, there’s enough space for most dogs to stretch out.
