Best Cars for Dog Owners in 2027
The best car for a dog owner has a low, wide cargo opening, a flat load floor, durable and easy-to-clean surfaces, climate control that reaches the back, and enough space for a crate or two. Below are the 10 best vehicles for dog owners in 2027, ranked on cargo room, ease of loading, cleanability, and value, with real 2027 MSRPs and the practical details that matter when your back seat is a kennel.
*Published June 21, 2027 · Updated June 21, 2027*
The best car for dog owners in 2027 is the 2027 Subaru Outback — it pairs a low, wide cargo area, standard all-wheel drive, available durable rubberized interior options, and a dog-friendly height for easy loading, all starting around $30,000. For the best value, the 2027 Kia Soul offers a boxy, easy-to-clean cabin at a low price. Owners of big or multiple dogs should look at the 2027 Chevrolet Suburban for its enormous, flat cargo hold.
*Note: Prices vary significantly based on condition and market; these are representative of the model's typical market positioning.*
1. 2027 Subaru Outback 🏆 BEST OVERALL
The 2027 Subaru Outback is the quintessential dog car, and Subaru leans into it with available dog-friendly accessories and pet-safety partnerships. The cargo floor is low to the ground, so even older or large dogs can hop in without a ramp, and the opening is wide. Cargo space measures about 32.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding past 75 cubic feet with them folded. Starting MSRP is around $30,000.
Standard symmetrical all-wheel drive and good ground clearance mean you can reach a trailhead or muddy park, and available all-weather floor liners and a cargo tray make cleanup simple. The wagon shape keeps the load floor flat and crate-friendly, and a dog harness anchors easily to the rear tether points.
It ranks first because it combines easy loading, real cargo room, all-weather capability, and cleanability better than anything at its price. Car and Driver and Edmunds both note its pet-hauling reputation is well earned.
2. 2027 Honda CR-V
The 2027 Honda CR-V is a near-ideal dog hauler with about 39.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats — among the most in the compact-SUV class — and a low, wide opening. Starting MSRP is roughly $31,000, and the hybrid returns around 40 mpg combined.
The flat load floor accepts a large crate, and the rear cabin gets strong airflow so dogs stay cool. Honda's available cargo liner and the easy-fold rear seats make it simple to switch between dog duty and hauling gear. Reliability is a major plus for a vehicle that will see plenty of muddy paws.
It earns second place as the practical, efficient choice. For one or two medium dogs, the CR-V is hard to fault.
3. 2027 Chevrolet Suburban
For big dogs, multiple dogs, or breeders, the 2027 Chevrolet Suburban is the ultimate dog car. With the third row folded it offers a massive, flat cargo hold easily large enough for several full-size crates, and tri-zone climate control keeps the back cool. Starting MSRP is about $62,000.
The available power-folding seats and a near-level load floor make crate loading easy, and there is room for a dog ramp if needed. The diesel returns around 27 mpg highway, keeping running costs reasonable for such a large vehicle.
It ranks third as the maximum-capacity choice. When you transport a pack or a giant breed, nothing else offers this much room.
4. 2027 Kia Telluride
The 2027 Kia Telluride balances family and dog duty beautifully. With the third row down it offers about 46 cubic feet of cargo, plenty for crates and gear, and a flat floor that loads easily. Starting MSRP is roughly $38,000.
The Telluride's available cargo-area features and easy-clean cargo liner suit pet life, and the strong rear climate control keeps dogs comfortable. It tows up to 5,500 pounds if you also haul a trailer for outdoor adventures.
It earns fourth as the family-plus-dogs SUV. For households that need three rows and dog space, it does both.
5. 2027 Kia Soul 💎 BEST VALUE
The 2027 Kia Soul is the value pick for dog owners. Its boxy shape creates a tall, square cargo area with a low load floor, making it easy for smaller and medium dogs to enter, and the durable, wipe-clean interior shrugs off fur and dirt. Starting MSRP is just around $21,000.
Despite its compact footprint, the Soul offers about 24 cubic feet behind the rear seats, enough for a medium crate, and the upright tailgate opening is dog-friendly. Fuel economy near 30 mpg combined keeps daily costs low.
It takes the Best Value crown because no other vehicle offers this much dog-friendly utility for the money. For owners of one small-to-medium dog on a budget, it is the smart buy.
6. 2027 Volvo V60 Cross Country
The 2027 Volvo V60 Cross Country is the premium dog wagon. Its long, low, flat cargo area is purpose-built for pets, and Volvo offers a dedicated dog-cage accessory and a steel grille divider. Standard all-wheel drive handles weather, and the cabin is quiet and well-built. Starting MSRP is around $50,000.
The low load lip means easy loading for aging dogs, and the durable cargo liner accessory protects the floor. Volvo's safety reputation extends to optional pet-securing systems that keep a dog from becoming a projectile.
It ranks sixth as the luxury dog hauler. For owners who want a refined wagon designed with dogs in mind, the V60 fits.
7. 2027 Toyota RAV4
The 2027 Toyota RAV4 is a dependable dog SUV with about 37.5 cubic feet of cargo behind the rear seats and a wide, low opening. Starting MSRP is roughly $30,000, with the hybrid returning around 39 mpg combined.
The flat-folding seats and available cargo liner make it crate- and mess-friendly, and Toyota reliability means it will haul muddy dogs for years without complaint. Strong rear airflow keeps pets cool in summer.
It earns seventh as the rugged, reliable choice. For one or two medium dogs and a family that values longevity, the RAV4 delivers.
8. 2027 Hyundai Santa Fe
The 2027 Hyundai Santa Fe offers a boxy, spacious cargo area — about 40 cubic feet behind the second row — and a wide, square tailgate opening that is ideal for loading a large crate. Starting MSRP is around $35,000.
The upright design maximizes usable cargo height, the available cargo liner protects the floor, and rear climate vents keep dogs comfortable. A standard hands-free power tailgate makes loading easy when your hands are full of leashes and bowls.
It ranks eighth as the roomy, well-equipped option. For owners of a big dog who want a square, easy-load cargo bay, the Santa Fe shines.
9. 2027 Ford F-150
The 2027 Ford F-150 crew cab serves dog owners who want a truck. The roomy rear cabin can hold crates out of the weather, the optional fold-flat rear seats create a flat platform, and the bed handles muddy, wet dogs that you would rather not bring inside. Starting MSRP for the crew cab is around $45,000.
The available cabin work surfaces and durable materials handle pet life well, and the truck's capability suits owners who also tow or haul. For working dogs and outdoor lifestyles, a pickup is a natural fit.
It earns ninth as the truck choice for dog owners. When your dog goes where the work goes, the F-150 carries both.
10. 2027 Tesla Model Y
The 2027 Tesla Model Y rounds out the list with a low, flat cargo floor, a deep rear well for spills, and a built-in Dog Mode that keeps the climate running and displays a message so passersby know your pet is safe. Starting MSRP is around $45,000.
The roughly 30 cubic feet behind the second row fits a medium crate, the cabin surfaces wipe clean, and the EV's quiet ride keeps anxious dogs calmer. Strong range and the Supercharger network make road trips with pets easy.
It rounds out the list as the tech-forward dog car. Dog Mode alone makes it a favorite among pet owners who run errands with a dog aboard.
How to Choose
- Prioritize a low load floor so older or large dogs can climb in without a ramp — wagons and many SUVs beat tall trucks here.
- Look for a flat, square cargo area that fits your crate; measure your crate and compare it to the cargo dimensions before buying.
- Choose easy-clean materials — rubberized liners, wipe-down plastics, and washable cargo trays save hours over a car's life.
- Confirm rear climate vents and good airflow so dogs stay cool in summer; Dog Mode (Tesla) or remote start helps on hot days.
- Use rear tether anchors for a crash-tested harness or crate — a loose dog is dangerous in a crash and to the driver.
- Match capacity to your pack — one small dog is happy in a Kia Soul, while multiple large dogs need a Suburban or Telluride.
FAQ
What is the best car for dog owners in 2027? The 2027 Subaru Outback is widely considered the top choice, thanks to its low, wide cargo opening, flat load floor, and available durable rubberized interior. It starts around $30,000 and offers standard all-wheel drive, making it a practical and safe option for daily dog transport.
Are there affordable options for dog owners? Yes, the 2027 Kia Soul is a great budget-friendly pick, with a boxy, easy-to-clean cabin and a starting price typically under $20,000. Its compact size and low floor make loading smaller dogs simple, though it may be tight for multiple large crates.
What about owners with large or multiple dogs? For big or multiple dogs, the 2027 Chevrolet Suburban provides an enormous, flat cargo hold that can easily fit two large crates. Its high roof and wide opening make loading comfortable, but its starting price is usually above $55,000, and fuel economy is lower than smaller SUVs.
How important is a low cargo opening for dogs? A low, wide cargo opening is crucial for easy loading and unloading, especially for older dogs or breeds with joint issues. Most top dog-friendly vehicles, like the Outback and Kia Soul, have openings around 24-28 inches from the ground, reducing strain on both you and your pet.
What features help keep the car clean with dogs? Durable, easy-to-clean surfaces like rubberized cargo mats, leather or vinyl seats, and removable floor liners are key. Many 2027 models offer factory or dealer-installed pet packages with seat covers and cargo trays, typically costing $200-$500 extra, making post-ride cleanup much simpler.
Does climate control in the back matter for dogs? Yes, rear climate control vents are important to keep dogs comfortable, especially in hot or cold weather. Most minivans and large SUVs, like the Suburban, have dedicated rear controls, while smaller cars may only have floor vents—so check for overhead or seat-mounted vents if you frequently travel with pets.
Bottom Line
The 2027 Subaru Outback is our Best Overall pick for dog owners thanks to its low load floor, easy-clean cargo area, and all-weather capability. The 2027 Kia Soul is our Best Value choice, offering dog-friendly utility at a budget price. Owners of big or multiple dogs should choose the Chevrolet Suburban. Whatever you pick, measure your crate, add a durable liner, and secure your dog properly for every drive.
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Sources
- Car and Driver — 2027 SUV and wagon cargo comparisons
- Edmunds — 2027 cargo-volume and interior specifications
- MotorTrend — 2027 Subaru Outback and Honda CR-V reviews
- Kelley Blue Book (KBB) — 2027 pricing and utility ratings
- Consumer Reports — pet-hauling and cargo-access testing
- IIHS — 2027 safety ratings
- EPA fueleconomy.gov — 2027 fuel-economy and cargo-volume data
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