How our pet obsessions are changing the design of cars

Carmakers are no longer just considering human comfort levels when looking for a sales edge. Here’s what they are offering for our furry friends.

Wade Carrick with his german shepherd Charlee and his Nissan, with its dog accessories.

Pampering your pets is the new battleground for carmakers.

Brands are now taking into account man’s best friend with a range of pet-focused packs and accessories.

Earlier this year Nissan announced its new Dog Pack, which is available on the Qashqai, X-Trail and Patrol SUVs, to join other carmakers now accommodating for dog owners.

Nissan says there has been strong interest in its product, as buyers are increasingly interested in whether a car is suitable for their family canine.

Having the right tie-down points and usability is just as important to pet owners as isofix points and boot space is to parents.

The Nissan pack includes a rear protection tray or mat, a boot lip protector and a travel set that includes an easy store bowl, a lead, waste bag holder and a sealable food bag.

It also includes an all-terrain dog bed and an over the seat cargo area organiser to help manage all your furry friend’s accoutrements.

This pack can be customised for small, medium or large dogs, with prices starting at $339.

Nissan says the pack is tailored to suit furry companions of all shapes and sizes.

“For so many of us, our pets are like a member of the family, and now it’s easier than ever to bring your dog along with you on your next road-trip, whether to the local park or to the other side of the country,” says Nissan Australia boss Adam Paterson.

Nissan Xtrail 2021

Wade Carrick recently bought a dog pack for his eight-month-old german shepherd Charlee.

“Having the day-to-day items such as the lead, drinking and food bowl with you always is so convenient, you can take your dog anywhere and if you stay longer somewhere you are taken care of,” Carrick says.

“I can go to a friend’s place and stay longer knowing Charlee is comfortable, so it takes the stress out of it.”

Buyers can also add a cargo bay barrier to make sure your best friend stays safe and secure and a ramp to help older and smaller dogs in and out of the car.

A recent study in the UK’s Vet Record found dogs jumping in and out of higher-riding cars and SUVs led to serious joint or bone injury.

In Australia, the Japanese brand isn’t the only carmaker that caters to your pup.

British adventure brand Land Rover has you covered with a range of accessories that can be added to your new car.

The Defender SUV can be optioned with a portable rinse system to clean off your pooch before it jumps into the car. There is also a spill resistant bowl, foldable pet carrier and a ramp along with a plush quilted cargo liner.

Skoda, too, has your four-legged friend in mind. Owners can option a back seat protector, a dog safety belt and a boot lid protector as well as cargo area covers.

Subaru is another brand that has plenty of accessories for your pet.

The outdoorsy Japanese brand has plenty of nifty items to choose from including rear seat protectors, a cargo area barrier and a boot lid and bumper protector.

Combine these items with standard all-wheel drive on all vehicles and the Subaru is your ticket to the road less travelled with your four-legged family.

The Skoda Octavia wagon is dog-friendly.

TOP OPTIONS FOR DOG OWNERS

SUBARU XV

The XV is somewhere between a hatchback and an SUV. It isn’t as high as traditional SUVs but gives owners more lift than hatches.

VW GOLF WAGON

Room for your pooch in the cargo area, but with compact exterior dimensions for city living.

LAND ROVER DEFENDER

The luxe 4WD will take you and your mate almost anywhere in comfort and style.

NISSAN NAVARA

All utes have tie-down points in the tray, but the Navara has a sliding glass window in the rear of the cabin so your best friend doesn’t feel all alone.

SKODA OCTAVIA WAGON

Mid-size wagon has plenty of room for pets and family, plus access to Skoda’s excellent range of accessories.