The UK is a nation of dog lovers. This has only grown in lockdown, as we either found a new four legged friend to help us pass the time or used our existing pooches as a good excuse to get out and stretch our legs.

Having the right car is vitally important if you have a dog. You want to ensure that there is space in the back for your dog to be comfortable, and that it’s easy to get for them to jump in and out. Plus, if they get covered in mud, you want somewhere they will not destroy your seats.

But which are the best cars for dog owners? Here is our pick for the top 7.

Skoda Superb Estate

The first thing you need from a car for dogs is one that will suit both you and your pooch. So the Skoda Superb Estate is an excellent choice. Not only is it an affordable choice, but it has a low boot opening so your dog can leap inside with little problem. The boot space is also large enough to have one or even two big dogs (think Labradors) comfortably inside.

Dacia Logan MCV Estate

An even more affordable option is the Dacia Logan MCV Estate. The low price means its no frills, but that won’t put off your dog. It has a large boot space despite the low price, so you won’t be sacrificing your dog. It’s good off the beaten track too, so trips to the countryside for walkies are definitely on the cards.

Land Rover Discovery Sport

At the other end of the scale is the quintessential British country vehicle. You must have taken a walk in the woods and seen someone unloading two dogs out of their Land Rover?

The price is a premium but then so it’s the quality. You’ll really appreciate the interior comfort features after a long cold walk in the countryside. Plus your dogs will be happy in the back and the big hatch door means they can leap in and out with ease.

BMW 5 Series Touring

A car for dogs should still make you happy, and the BMW 5 Series Touring option is no exception. It comes with all the smart technology you could want from a top quality car. Ergonomic interior design will give you added comfort and the drive itself is nothing to sniff at.

For your dogs, there’s a big old boot for them to lie down in. Plus the car’s suspension will mean they won’t get too restless as you go from the road to the track.

Volvo V60

Another classy choice is the Volvo V60. Hailing from Sweden, it’s designed for the cold and sometimes harsh exteriors of Scandinavia, meaning you’ll benefit big time from the built-in technology, even if you’re only driving to the local park.

If you opt for the diesel engine, you’ll save lots of money on fuel, giving you more money for you to spend on dog treats and chew toys. The boot space is more than ample too, so your dog will be as happy as you will be behind the wheel.

Vauxhall Astra Sports Tourer Estate

If you want to buy British then the Vauxhall Astra Sports Tourer Estate is a fantastic choice. It’s a great all-rounded, doing just enough in every area to keep you more than happy. It’s also at the lower end of the price scale, so you won’t be breaking the bank to give your dog what they need.

The low prices may mean you don’t care as much about the dogs dirtying the vehicle, but there’s plenty of room in the boot to keep them away from the upholstery. And the sports option means you get a suspension that won’t bump around too much.

Peugeot Rifter

If you have big dogs, a lot of dogs, or just want one that has more space than your pooch could ever want, the Peugeot Rifter is the choice for you. It won’t win any beauty competitions, but if your dog or dogs are the most important things in your life, you can’t go wrong!