- Choosing a dog friendly electric vehicle is a key consideration
- Key space considerations include large boots, flat floors, low load height
- Environmental factors include Dog Mode or remote pre-conditioning, good ventilation and tinted rear glass
Electric Vehicles With Space, Safety and Comfort for Your Four-Legged Friends
As more people switch to electric cars, a growing number of buyers are asking a key canine question: what are the best EVs for dogs? Whether you’ve got a spritely spaniel, a laidback lab, or an ageing rescue dog that needs easy access, choosing right electric car for the other member of our pack is a key question.
So what makes a dog-friendly EV? Big boot space, low loading heights, flat floors, good ventilation, and, ideally, built-in Dog Mode, or climate pre-conditioning. Here’s ElectricDrives’ guide to the best electric cars for dog owners in 2025.
What Makes an EV Good for Dogs?
- Before diving into the list, these are the features every dog owner should look for in an electric car:
- Large boot and flat loading floor – easier for pets to get in and out
- Low load height – essential for older or larger breeds
- Dog Mode or remote pre-conditioning – keeps pets safe for short periods
- Strong ventilation and tinted rear glass – helps manage temperature
- Durable or rubberised interior materials – ideal for muddy paws
Best Small to Medium EVs for Dog Owners (2025)
1. Kia Niro EV (e-Niro)
One of the most practical compact EVs on sale—and a favourite among dog owners.
- 475L boot with a wide opening and low entry
- Rear seats fold flat for maximum dog space
- Quiet ride helps keep nervous pets calm
- Optional Kia boot liner and dog guard available
2. Peugeot e-2008
Stylish, compact and surprisingly roomy.
- 434L boot, well-shaped for carriers or dog beds
- Rear air vents boost comfort on warm days
- Slightly higher load lip, but still accessible
3. MG4 EV
A budget EV that still works for dog-friendly driving.
- Flat-folding rear seats maximise space
- Best forsmall to medium dogs due to its 363L boot
- Great value, leaving budget for accessories like guards or mats
Best Medium Electric SUVs for Dogs
4. Tesla Model Y
A standout choice for dog owners thanks to Tesla’s tech.
- Huge 854L cargo area—one of the biggest in any EV
- Tesla’s famous Dog Mode keeps the cabin cool while displaying “My owner will be back soon”
- Wide tailgate and flat floor
- Additional frunk storage for leads, treats, and toys
5. Skoda Enyaq iV
Often hailed as one of the most dog-friendly electric SUVs is the Skoda Enyag.
- 585L boot, low loading height and wide opening
- Optional Skoda dog guard and heavy-duty rubber mats
- Quiet, smooth ride ideal for longer journeys
6. Hyundai Ioniq 5
A super-spacious EV with a lounge-like interior.
- Flat floor and generous rear access
- Low entry height—great for older dogs
- Remote pre-conditioning includes heat-pump efficiency
7. Ford Mustang Mach-E
More dog-friendly than the name suggests.
- 500L boot + front trunk (frunk)
- App-controlled cabin pre-conditioning (FordPass) works like Dog Mode
- Big tailgate aperture for easy loading
Best Large EVs and Estates for Dogs
8. Volvo EX30 / EX40 / EX90
Volvo’s focus on safety extends naturally to pets.
- Flat, square boot designs with secure load space
- Excellent optional rubber boot mats
- Climate control and pre-conditioning via app
- Calm, stable ride that nervous dogs appreciate
9. Audi Q4 e-tron / VW ID.4 / Cupra Tavascan
These MEB-platform electric SUVs share similar dog-friendly qualities.
- Large, flat load areas with good rear air vents
- Lots of accessories for pet transport
- Refined ride quality
10. BMW iX3 / iX1
Premium comfort for humans and dogs alike.
- Large tailgates and flexible boot space
- BMW offers brand-specific dog guards, mats, and ramps
- Plush, quiet cabins
Top Tips for Travelling With Dogs in an EV
- Boot liners and guards protect interior panels and keep dogs secure
- Ensure strong airflow and temperature control, even with Dog Mode enabled
- Use a ramp to protect older dogs’ joints, especially with taller SUVs
- Secure your dog using an ISOFIX-mounted harness or tie-down points in the boot
- Pack a frunk kit: water bowl, wipes, blankets, treats
What’s the Best EV for Dogs?
If you want maximum space and dedicated pet tech, the Tesla Model Y and Skoda Enyaq iV lead the (dog) pack. For compact value, the Kia Niro EV and MG4 EV offer strong practicality without breaking the bank. And if you want a premium, safety-led option, Volvo’s EX range is hard to beat.
With more brands now considering pets as part of everyday travel, 2025 is the strongest year yet for dog-friendly electric cars.
More information on Dog Mode, here on Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/r/TeslaModelY/comments/16kggr3/question_for_people_who_use_dog_mode/
More on Tesla Climate Controls, here: https://www.tesla.com/ownersmanual/modely/en_us/GUID-4F3599A1-20D9-4A49-B4A0-5261F957C096.html
More on the Skoda Enyaq and why its good for dogs, here: https://www.skoda.co.uk/news/details/no-bones-about-it-skoda-enyaq-named-best-in-show-for-dog-owners-by-autotrader-readers
