Some dogs are just too macho (and they don’t need to be boys) to ride around in a sad little subcompact car with an engine that sounds like a wheezing cat-on second thought dogs might actually enjoy that. As SUVs are the modern day station wagon there are countless dogs out there that use them as their everyday transportation.
You do realize that the car belongs to the dog in the dog’s mind, right? That is why many dogs will protect a car just like they will protect their owner. They will think this even if they are just protecting the SUV from a very unlucky grocery store employee who was helping you load bags.
Most modern day SUVs are called “crossovers” as they are based on car chassis instead of built on a truck chassis. To be honest the difference is minimal even where fuel economy is concerned (you usually only get (1-4 mpg better in a crossover). So here are five of the best dog SUVs on the market today based on sturdiness of interior materials, space and many other canine considerations.
BMW X5
(Starting at $47,450)-Granted, this is one expensive SUV but isn’t your loved ones worth it? Of course they are. Why else would you have rescued two dogs at the pound? What, did you think I was referring to your children? The BMW X5 is surprisingly sturdy on the inside, has plenty of room in the second row seats for a dog and a baby seat and the rear windows roll down all the way for added canine comfort. Not that your dog will care but you can rest easy knowing BMW will foot the bill for maintenance for 4 years or 50,000 miles.
(Starting at $21,500)-Robustly built with an interior made from plastics even the craziest canine could not destroy, the Toyota RAV4 is an excellent choice in the entry level SUV segment. It may be the least expensive Toyota SUV but that doesn’t mean it is wanting for space, build quality or fuel efficiency. As it was the first true “crossover” the RAV4 handles well and is low enough to the ground for older dogs. Affordable and fuel efficient, the Toyota RAV4 will leave you enough money to still buy dog toys at your local Pet store.
Subaru Forester
(Starting at $20,295)-Thanks to the robust interest in the new Forester SUV Subaru has been one of the few automobile manufacturers to not have any sales drop off during this economic depression. Why is that? Because not only is it a screaming deal it is also built with solid interior appointments and is continually ranked as one of the safest cars on the road. And doesn’t your dog deserve to be safe?
Kia Borrego
(Starting at $26,245)-This often overlooked seven seat SUV is perfect for a large family with dogs. This SUV is not too big and not too small. As Goldilocks once said, “this one is just right.” It makes the 7 seat Toyota Sequoia look like the positively enormous hippopotamus that it is. Powered by a strong 3.8 liter V6 or a 4.2 liter V8 (perfect for stop light drag races), the Kia Borrego is handsomely styled in a way that does not scream “mommy mobile.”
Audi Q5
(Starting at $37,350)-This may not be the logical choice but just look at this thing. Positively gorgeous from every angle with one of the best interiors in the business, the Q5 is also surprisingly fun to drive. That is not something you can say of many SUVs. And besides, if you really enjoy driving your car that means more rides for your dogs. And what dog would ever say no to a ride?
