Opting for an SUV might seem like an obvious decision here, because this form factor’s wagon-like design can allow for a cavernous load area with the seats folded down. But a normal car may actually be more suitable for owners of smaller dogs, simply by virtue of their lower ride height, which will make it easier for the pup to jump inside.
You’ll need to take the appropriate precautions when your pups ride on a normal car’s rear seat, though: Most dogs tend to shed hair, so you would want to ensure that any cloth upholstery is covered-up, unless you prefer faux-fur trimmings on your seats. Likewise, dog nails can be quite destructive, and can easily rip cloth or thin leather without the pup even trying.
Related: Are SUVs good for dog owners?
Hatchbacks
This brings us neatly to the hatchback body type. It combines the loading versatility (if not the outright cargo space) of a wagon or SUV, can be configured to provide a (usually) flat surface for your dogs behind the front seats, and offers three access/exit points for your pooches.
Honda Jazz/FIT
While many small hatchbacks leave a “step”in the cargo bay when the rear seatbacks are folded down, a Honda Jazz instead offers a low, nearly-level, and stepless load platform with its “Magic Seats” dropped down. Combined with a low loading (entry) height, this makes a Jazz easily the best mode of transport for your dog in its size class.
There’s even enough headroom to make a Great Dane feel comfortable, and, thanks to the variety of cargo nets (to divide the loading area and the front cabin) and boot covers available for these cars, it’s easy to outfit the rear end of a Jazz or FIT into a plush pooch limo.
Related: Click here to see a detailed list of the best cars for dog owners.
Fastbacks
Essentially just a sleeker variation of the hatchback theme, the 5-door fastback body design has many of the virtues of conventional hatches, but with less vertical space in the rearmost section. However, you’ll still be able to fit quite a few medium-sized dogs between the front seats and that sloping rear window, or even just line the boot with a protective cover for smaller dogs – just be aware that your dogs may be exposed to direct sunlight, so be sure to give them plenty of water (and, if possible, shade).
Audi A5 or A7 Sportback
These sleek Audis combine the best elements of sporty looks and practicality in one car. Thanks to their size and folding rear seats, there’s a large cargo area for your pets, and Audi even offers some dog-friendly accessories to tailor your A5 or A7 Sportback’s cargo space for your four-legged friends’ needs.
Related: Cars with big boots for dogs.
Normal sedans
Don’t discount the humble sedan body for doggy duty, though: Thanks to a host of aftermarket accessories, you can safely accommodate you dog in even a normal sedan’s rear seating area. It won’t be as spacious as a hatchback, but one or two smaller-to-medium-sized dogs will fit quite comfortably nonetheless.
Consider something like this pet hammock to protect your car’s interior, keep your pup close to you, and prevent them from falling off the rear seat with such an easy-to-fit car seat cover. Or, if your dog is well-trained and calm, you could even strap them into a dedicated rear-seat harness!
