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BSM

    We're geared up for #DOGvember, are you?

    We love dogs at Bristol Street Motors - and we're on a mission to make journeys with your four-legged friends easier, safer, and more comfortable.

    From finding a dog-friendly car to choosing the right accessories - there's lots to consider. But don't worry, we've got you covered this #DOGvember!

    Throughout the month of November, we will be sharing our best tips, tricks, and pics to help you out. Keep an eye on our social media channels to stay in the loop...

    We're barking mad for dogs...

    According to the PSDA, 27% of UK adults own a dog, and there are an estimated 10.2 million pet dogs living in our nation's households.

    More families than ever before have welcomed dogs into their homes over the past few years. With this in mind, it seems that for many, there will now be someone new to consider when buying a car with our four-legged friends!

    What do I need to consider when looking for a dog-friendly car?

    Many factors, including the size and needs of your dog, will affect what you need to think about when choosing a new car.

    Research conducted by CarGurus has revealed the top features that dog owners say they look for when purchasing a car. These are:

    The key features we think you should consider are comfort, access, and materials.

    • Comfort

      Is there ample room for your dog to sit, lie, and stretch out - whilst leaving plenty of space for other passengers?

    • Access

      Most dogs will get into and out of your vehicle via the boot, so having a low base will make life much easier. However, even with a low base, some dogs may also require a ramp.

    • Materials

      You'll want to ensure the inside of your car has easy-to-clean surfaces and durable materials to withstand any wear, tear, and dirt. There are also accessories that can help protect the inside of your car, such as boot liners and mats.

    • Test it out

      Before you make your decision, it's always best to take a test drive, to check the vehicle is right for you and your dog. Simply let a member of our friendly sales team know, and we can organise this with your canine companion.

    What car accessories will be useful for my dog?

    There are a wide range of car accessories designed to make trips with dogs easier and safer. We've picked out some of the most useful accessories:

    • Dog seat belt/harness

      Just like a seat belt for adults, a dog seat belt or harness will ensure your dog is safely secured, and will also reduce the likelihood of distraction whilst driving. These belts are adjustable for optimal comfort.

    • Dog headrest guard

      Typically available in a mesh or tubular design, these guards help secure your dog in the boot or back seats, to prevent distraction. Most products are flexible to fit a variety of shapes and sizes of cars.

    • Dog hammock/seat cover

      A waterproof protective cover will protect your seats from hair, scratches, and dirt, whilst also securing your dog.

    • Collapsible dog travel bowl

      A great accessory whilst out and about, to easily contain food or water for your dog.

    • Dog travel crate

      You may prefer to carry smaller dogs in a soft crate which can be easily transported and stored in the car boot.

    • Back seat dog bed

      Easy to transport and equipped with attachments to secure its position, treat your pooch to more comfort, with the knowledge they are safely in place.

    • Dog car ramp/stairs

      Many dogs can struggle to get in and out of car boots, so a car ramp or stairway will be a huge help. These are usually foldable so can store conveniently in your boot.


    If you'd like to learn more about dog accessories available for your car, simply get in touch with your local Bristol Street Motor dealership, and a member of our team will be happy to help.

    Find a dealer

    Picture pawfect

    We'd love to see your pictures and videos if you're out in the car with your dog this November. Share them on social media and make us smile - be sure to use the hashtag #DOGvember!

    Top Cars for Dog Owners

    01/10/2022 10:37

    Top Cars for Dog Owners

    Are you looking for a car to cater for all members of the family, including the pooch? We’ve pulled together our top picks for small, medium, and large dogs to make every journey a breeze. Read on to learn more.