In June 2025, as more Indians choose to travel with their pets, especially dogs, the demand for pet friendly cars in India is rising fast. But how many vehicles actually meet the expectations of safety, space, and convenience for pet travel? We took a closer look at how pet-compatible today’s Indian cars really are.
Unlike previous years, Indian automakers in 2025 are starting to recognize the growing pet-loving demographic. While marketing highlights tech specs and mileage, there’s a growing segment that wants to know—is this a good car for dogs?
What Makes a Car Truly Pet-Friendly?
Not every car is automatically safe or comfortable for your furry friends. A pet friendly car in India should ideally check these boxes:
- Flat boot space with low loading height for easy entry and exit.
- Wide rear doors for hassle-free loading of crates or dog harnesses.
- Air conditioning vents that reach the backseat or boot space.
- Noise insulation, which reduces stress for animals during travel.
- Anchor points or ISOFIX mounts that allow seatbelt harnesses or pet restraints.
- Wipe-clean upholstery to manage fur, dirt, and accidents easily.
These features are non-negotiable if you’re serious about pet safety travel.
Top Pet-Friendly Cars in India Right Now (2025)
Here’s a quick breakdown of some of the best options across segments in 2025, after considering real-world usage with pets:
| Model | Segment | Why It Works for Pets | Pet-Friendly Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kia Carens | MUV | Flat floor, rear AC vents, large boot | 9/10 |
| Tata Nexon | Compact SUV | Safety features, easy seat belt harness access | 8/10 |
| Maruti XL6 | MPV | Flexible seats, good headroom, boot level comfort | 9/10 |
| Mahindra XUV700 | SUV for pets | Excellent boot space, smooth ride, rear AC | 9.5/10 |
| Hyundai Creta | SUV | Balanced ride quality, good noise control | 8.5/10 |
These aren’t just comfortable for humans—they offer solid convenience for your four-legged companions too.
Real Experiences from Indian Pet Parents
Dog parents across metros like Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Delhi have shared insights on popular pet travel models. Many note that while hatchbacks like the Swift or i10 are manageable for short drives, they fall short for longer journeys or larger breeds.
Pet owners who upgraded to vehicles like the XUV700 or XL6 reported noticeable improvements in ride comfort and pet safety travel. The addition of dedicated pet harnesses, crates, and even cooling mats has made these vehicles adaptable for weekend getaways or full-fledged road trips.
One Bangalore-based pet parent shared, “Our Labrador would get anxious in our older hatchback. The switch to a Nexon completely changed that—less rattling, more space, better airflow.”
Don’t Forget These Pet Travel Essentials
Even if you’ve picked the perfect car for dogs, safe travel still depends on how you prepare. Here’s a checklist of must-haves:
- Seatbelt harness or crate restraint
- Portable water bowl
- Cooling mat (especially in hot Indian summers)
- First-aid kit with pet essentials
- Extra towels or waterproof seat covers
- Calming sprays or treats (if your pet is nervous during travel)
These tools help make pet safety travel a smooth experience, especially in India’s diverse climate conditions.
Choosing the Best SUV for Pets
If your lifestyle includes frequent travel or if you own a large breed, investing in a spacious SUV for pets is the way to go. In 2025, Mahindra, Hyundai, and Kia continue to dominate this space.
The XUV700, in particular, offers over 700 litres of boot space with rear seats folded. It’s perfect for large crates or simply letting your pet stretch out. The ride quality is stable enough to reduce motion sickness, a common issue in dogs.
Tata’s Safari and MG Hector Plus also offer compelling features like foldable third-row seats, pet accessories, and rear-seat connectivity features to control temperature—making them practical, pet-oriented options.
Final Thoughts: More Brands Need to Get Pet-Ready
As India’s pet ownership grows, automakers will have no choice but to factor in pets while designing interiors and features. In June 2025, while some brands have stepped up, there’s still room for improvement in making all cars pet friendly cars in India.
Until then, it’s up to consumers to evaluate features critically and choose models that support both human and pet passengers equally.
FAQ
What is the best car for dogs in India?
SUVs like the Mahindra XUV700 and MPVs like the Maruti XL6 are ideal for dogs due to their large boot space, rear AC vents, and low noise levels.
Can I use a regular seatbelt for my dog?
No. Always use a pet-specific seatbelt harness or crate with anchor points to ensure pet safety travel.
Are hatchbacks good for pet travel?
Hatchbacks are fine for short trips or small dogs but lack space and features needed for longer journeys or larger breeds.
Which SUV for pets is the most recommended?
In 2025, the Mahindra XUV700 and Kia Carens top the list for their blend of comfort, safety, and flexibility.
Do Indian cars come with built-in pet accessories?
Some brands are beginning to offer pet-focused accessories like seat covers or crates, but most features still need aftermarket add-ons.
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