What to consider when choosing from the best cars for dogs
Choosing the right car is important to ensure your dog travels comfortably
We all know that dogs are very important family members and so when you are choosing a new vehicle, it is only natural to find yourself asking – what are the best cars for dogs? At Barking Mad, we believe that canines make eager and willing travel companions, as long as their needs have been taken into consideration. There is nothing better than setting out on a fun road trip, with your best friend in tow!
Motoring experts, the AA, have produced a list of of specific makes and models, which details some of the best cars for dogs. Below, we will look at the things you need to consider when choosing what sort of car to purchase. Barking Mad Dog Care are experts in dog travel, providing chauffeur driven holiday transport as part of their 5* rated dog sitting service and have compiled the list below from many years of experience.
1. The best car for your dog’s individual needs?
Not all cars are a good match for all dogs and it’s really important to think about your pooch’s individual requirements. Are they a larger or smaller breed? Are they elderly and would struggle to jump up into a high-backed car? Take some time to think about what will be important for your dog, in conjunction with the rest of the family’s requirements.
2. How much space will your dog require?
Your new wheels will need to provide enough boot or seat room for your furry best friend. Your dog should be able to sit, lie down, stand up and turn around comfortably. They won’t enjoy car journeys if they are confined to a really small space.
3. Ensure your chosen vehicle can be equipped to transport your dog safely and comfortably
The Highway Code which can be found at GOV.UK clearly states in rule 57,
‘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. A seat belt harness, pet carrier, dog cage or dog guard are ways of restraining animals in cars.’
Therefore, when choosing a car for transporting your precious pet, you must make sure that you can fit a dog guard or pet harness correctly, which should be able to restrain the weight of your dog in an accident. If you use a dog crate in your vehicle, it should be large enough to allow your pooch to stand up fully and turn around but not so large that they will slide around. It should also be securely fastened in place.
4. Make sure that your chosen car will offer the comfort your dog deserves
It’s not just humans that suffer from travel sickness, some dogs can be disposed to it too and so it’s important to choose a car which has good suspension and a steady ride.
Paula Boyden, Dogs Trust Veterinary Director says:
“It’s important that when you are travelling with your dog, that they are travelling in a safe and comfortable way. There are many ways in which this can be done, so the journey is a smooth experience for both dog owner and the dog themselves.”
5. Think about boot height when choosing a new car
If you plan to have your dog travelling in the boot of your new car, you will need to make sure that it isn’t too high off the ground. Repetitive jumping out onto hard ground can easily cause harm or injury if there is a big drop. Bear in mind that as your dog ages, this may become more of an issue. It is possible to buy a special folding ramp to deal with this issue though. If you plan on lifting your dog in and out, you need to make sure that this can be done easily too.
6. What dog-friendly trips and activities will you need your car for?
Are you making plans for a road trip or travel adventures with your dog? Make sure that your new car can keep up with your plans now or you may need to change it sooner than you anticipated! If you are planning on going camping with your dog, make sure there is enough room to accommodate all your essential gear, in addition to your pup. If you are thinking about a canine caravan holiday, check to make sure any prospective vehicle is a suitable tow car. You may like to read our blog post about ‘Including Your Dog in Your Travel Plans’ here.
At Barking Mad Dog Care, each of our dog sitting professionals’ vehicles is equipped with a safe and secure space for your dog to comfortably enjoy their journey. Their welfare really is our number one priority and our mission is to ensure that every part of their holiday is enjoyable and comfortable. We will accommodate your dog’s individual travel preferences wherever possible and as long as they are in accordance with The Highway Code. After all, we all love to travel in style! Our customers also love the convenience of our collection and drop off service, meaning they have one less thing to worry about when they are beginning and returning from their holidays.
