Best Cars for Dogs in 2025: Vehicles That Put Paws First
For nearly 70% of American households with pets, the car isn’t just transportation it’s a rolling dog park, vet shuttle, and family taxi. Automakers are catching on. In 2025, brands are designing vehicles with features that keep muddy paws, crates, and furry passengers in mind. From EVs with quiet rides to SUVs with washable interiors, here are the top five dog-friendly cars of 2025 that will make both tails and drivers wag.
Volkswagen ID. Buzz: Retro EV Meets Dog Shuttle
The ID. Buzz blends vintage style with practical, dog-friendly design. With 145.5 cubic feet of cargo space, sliding doors, and an easy 18-inch step-in height, it’s perfect for loading large breeds or multiple crates. Add whisper-quiet electric driving and wipe-clean surfaces, and it’s the ultimate calm ride for anxious pups.
Toyota Grand Highlander: Comfort for Big and Older Dogs
With 97.5 cubic feet of cargo space, a low 28-inch liftover, and rear vents that keep air circulating, the Grand Highlander is a top choice for families with large or senior dogs. The third-row legroom (33.5 inches) makes it practical for both kids and canines, no matter the trip.
Subaru Outback Wilderness: Trail-Tested, Dog-Approved
If muddy paws and outdoor adventures are part of your routine, the Outback Wilderness is built for it. Its 9.5-inch ground clearance, rugged StarTex upholstery, and up to 75.6 cubic feet of space mean you can hit the trails without worrying about the mess. Subaru also offers pet accessories that make cleanup a breeze.
Kia Telluride: Big SUV, Bigger Dog-Friendly Cabin
The Telluride continues to impress with 87 cubic feet of cargo space and 178.1 cubic feet of passenger volume. Its wide hatch and flat floors make it easy to load crates or let dogs sprawl out comfortably. It’s ideal for multi-dog households or road trips with the whole family.
BMW iX – Luxury Goes to the Dogs
Who says pets can’t travel in style? The BMW iX offers 77.9 cubic feet of cargo room, vegan-friendly interiors, a panoramic roof for sun-loving pups, and whisper-quiet EV driving. Its adaptive air suspension keeps the ride smooth perfect for keeping dogs relaxed on long drives.
Why These Cars Beat the Competition
Unlike standard SUVs, these vehicles feature lower lift-over heights, sliding doors, durable upholstery, and more thoughtful storage. Whether you’re tackling trails with a Subaru, opting for EV calm in the BMW iX or ID. Buzz, or choosing family-ready SUVs like the Telluride and Grand Highlander, these models prioritize both human and canine comfort.
Who Benefits Most?
- Best for active lifestyles: Subaru Outback Wilderness
- Best for big or older dogs: Toyota Grand Highlander
- Best for style & luxury: BMW iX
- Best for multi-dog households: Kia Telluride
- Best EV option: Volkswagen ID. Buzz
The Bigger Picture
Pet ownership is shaping the auto industry. These dog-first designs signal a new era where cars are judged not just by horsepower but by paw power with practical, durable, and pet-friendly features leading the way. Expect future models to go even further with pet climate zones, built-in crates, and safety systems designed specifically for four-legged passengers.
