Practical cars for dog owners aren’t a one size fits all type of scenario. I have been thinking about buying a new car for a few months now. One of the things that are important for me to consider is the practicality of transporting my dogs.
My dogs are a huge part of my family life and we often go to dog adventure parks and on outings with them. Being able to fit them all in 1 car safely, along with my family is pretty important.
Practical Cars For Dog Owners
The highway code states that dogs should be suitably restrained so as to not distract you while driving. This can be done in whichever way is appropriate for you and your dog.
You can buy carriers, cages, dog guards and seat belts all to keep your dog under control whilst traveling in a vehicle. You need to consider how your own pet reacts and acts while in a car
There is a hefty fine if your dog is considered a distraction if you were to be stopped by the police. So it is something to really consider upon making a new car purchase
Space in your car
Cars come in all shapes and sizes
Boot space and rear seat space is the area your dog should be restrained
Whilst it isn’t against the law currently in the UK for your dog to travel in the front passenger seat. The danger aspect is far higher than in the rear of the car.
Types of Cars
Leisure activity vehicles are amongst the top spots for practical cars for transporting our canine friends. These are the types of vehicles which have large boot access where the whole tailgate comes up upon opening. An example is, Citroen Berlingo.
Sports utility vehicles (SUV) there are a variety of types based on budget and space requirements. A common SUV is the Nissan X-Trail which has space and comfort but also 4×4 capability for all-terrains.
An estate car. This is a regular salon car but with an extended boot space. This boot space is great for sectioning off your dog from the main part of the vehicle without compromising on space within the seating area.
4×4’s such as a Land Rover, Range Rover. They have large boot spaces and like the estate cars, the seating area isn’t compromised to accommodate for the extra large boot.
Multi-utility vehicle (MUV) such as a Toyota Innova, could also be referred to as a mini van. This is for its desirability amongst larger families as they typically have folding seats to the rear in the boot space.
The make and model of a car purchase come down to personal preference. We all typically prefer a certain type of car, usually based on how it looks and drives.
Personally, for me, I prefer to drive 4x4s. I sold my Range Rover a couple of years ago and have missed driving it ever since. Not that I regret selling it but for practicality and driving comfort no other car compares.
But now with my ever-growing fur family, I think my next car will be an estate car. The extra large boot area without compromising on the rear seating area.
Buying practical cars for dogs has so many elements to consider.
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Great advice
We had our 4 x 4 (Suzuki) before we purchased our dog but find it great for transporting him around. He is always fastened on to the seatbelt in the rear even on the shortest journeys and is quite happy to sit looking out of the window.