(TestMiles) – With nearly 70 percent of U.S. households owning a pet, the car is more than transport it’s a mobile kennel, daycare, and grooming station all rolled into one. In 2025, automakers are making this a reality for dog owners, designing vehicles that prioritize space, comfort, and cleanliness. Here are the five most dog-friendly cars of the year.

Volkswagen ID. Buzz brings retro charm and electric practicality. With up to 145.5 cu ft of cargo behind folded seats, sliding doors, an 18-inch step-in height, and easy-clean surfaces, this EV doubles as a dog shuttle with whisper-quiet appeal.

Toyota Grand Highlander offers up to 97.5 cu ft of cargo and a low 28-inch liftover. Rear vents and 33.5 in of third-row legroom make it ideal for big or elderly dogs.

Subaru Outback Wilderness delivers rugged capability 32.6 cu ft behind the second row, 75.6 cu ft max, 9.5-in ground clearance, StarTex upholstery, and pet accessories for muddy paws.
Kia Telluride scores with 87 cu ft max cargo and 178.1 cu ft passenger volume, flat floors, and awide hatch perfect for crates or sprawling pets.

BMW iX (2025) brings luxury to pet travel: 77.9 cu ft cargo, a panoramic roof, air suspension, vegan-friendly interiors, flat floors, and quiet EV drive for calm pooches.

Compared to conventional SUVs and crossovers, these models offer better access (low liftover or sliding doors), cleaner and more durable materials, and more thoughtful space management. The ID. Buzz and iX excel in cargo capacity, the Outback Wilderness leads in trail readiness, while the Highlander and Telluride blend family-friendly proportions with pet accommodation.

Who is this for and who should skip it?

Dog owners hauling large breeds, crates, or muddy gear will appreciate the low entry points and easy-clean interiors. Buyers looking for off-road ruggedness will favour the Outback Wilderness. Luxury-inclined pet owners may go for the BMW iX. But those with tight parking needs might skip the ID. Buzz or Telluride, and folks needing extreme off-road performance should look beyond these options.

As pet ownership rises, automakers are responding with purpose-built features that blend human and canine needs. These tail-wags in design point to a new, practical era where cars anticipate muddy paws and wagging tails not just horsepower. Expect future models to offer even more accessible and durable interiors, dedicated pet climate zones, and integrated safety for four-legged passengers.