Is Honda CR-V good for dogs?

Yes. For many dog owners, the Honda CR-V is a solid choice thanks to its roomy cargo area, relatively easy loading, and practical features that make trips with pets more comfortable and convenient.

This article examines how the CR-V’s interior layout, cargo space, and available features support dogs, what to consider across trims, and practical tips to keep four-legged passengers safe and happy on the road.

Why the CR-V tends to work well for dogs

The CR-V’s design prioritizes usable space and easy loading, which translates well to accommodating dogs of various sizes. The following factors are especially relevant for pet ownership and road trips.

• Ample cargo space behind the rear seats, with roughly 39 cubic feet available, expanding to around 75–76 cubic feet when the rear seats are folded flat.


• A wide, unobstructed loading area with a relatively low cargo floor for easier scooping in and out of a crate or bed.


• Rear seats that fold flat (60/40 split in most trims) to create a continuous surface for crates, dog beds, or blankets.


• Rear climate control options and vents on many trims to help keep pets comfortable on hot or chilly days.


• Durable, easy-to-clean materials and available all-season floor mats that simplify cleanup after muddy paws.


• Convenient features such as a hands-free power tailgate and a wide hatch opening to reduce strain and make loading simpler.


• Available all-wheel drive and stable ride characteristics that contribute to confident handling in varying weather conditions.

Taken together, these design and feature choices make the CR-V a practical platform for dog owners who need space, easy access, and straightforward maintenance during everyday use and longer trips.

Design features that help pets in the CR-V

Beyond raw cargo capacity, several interior design traits help dogs stay comfortable and secure during travel. Here is a look at those aspects across typical CR-V configurations.

• Flat cargo floor and generous rear hatch opening simplify loading large dogs or crates without a steep lip.


• Split-folding rear seats enable a continuous surface when needed, or flexible configurations to accommodate crates and passengers.


• Front and rear climate control capabilities, including rear vents on many trims, help maintain a comfortable temperature for pets.


• Wide rear doors and tall ceiling clearance provide easier entry and exit for dogs, especially larger breeds.


• Durable, wipe-clean surfaces and optional rubber or all-season floor mats protect against shedding, spills, and water.


• Cargo-area tie-down hooks and practical anchor options help secure crates or travel accessories for safety during transit.

These features collectively support both pet comfort and owner convenience, reducing the effort required to keep dogs settled on the road.

Safe transport tips for dogs in the CR-V

To maximize safety and comfort, consider adopting best-practice habits that align with typical dog travel in any compact SUV, customized for the CR-V’s layout.

• Use a crash-tested crate or a dog harness tethered to a rear seat belt or cargo anchor to prevent movement during braking or sudden maneuvers.


• Secure crates or beds with the car’s tie-down points or strong anchors to minimize shifting in turns or stops.


• Provide a non-slip bed or mat and bring along water and a spill-proof bowl for longer trips.


• Keep interior temperatures comfortable and never leave a dog unattended in a parked car, even for short periods.


• Offer fresh air through windows or the climate system, and avoid direct drafts onto your pet for extended periods.


• Use a pet barrier or crate to prevent dogs from distracting the driver while maintaining visibility and airflow for all passengers.


• Regularly check on your dog during trips, especially on longer drives or when parking at rest stops.

With these practices, the CR-V can serve as a safe, reliable vehicle for dogs on daily commutes, weekend adventures, and longer road trips.

Choosing the right CR-V trim for dog owners

Different CR-V trims and powertrain options offer varying convenience features and space considerations. Here’s how to think about choosing a model that fits dog-related needs.

Gasoline vs Hybrid

Powertrain choice can affect cargo space slightly and the overall balance of efficiency and performance. In general, both gasoline and hybrid CR-V versions provide similar practical cargo configurations, with potential minor differences in interior layout or weight distribution depending on the year and trim. Consider your typical travel load, climate needs, and desired efficiency when choosing.

Trims and convenience features

Higher trims often add features that can improve pet travel, such as hands-free tailgate, rear climate controls or vents, and additional cargo protection options. Availability varies by model year, so verify the exact features on the specific vehicle you’re considering.

Summary

The Honda CR-V is widely regarded as a dog-friendly compact SUV due to its flexible cargo space, easy loading, and practical interior features that support pet comfort and owner convenience. While the exact cargo volume and features vary by year and trim, most CR-V configurations provide a roomy rear area, a flat loading surface, and accessible doors that make loading and unloading pets straightforward. For dog owners, pairing the CR-V with a crash-tested crate or a secure harness, protective floor mats, and thoughtful climate control can yield a comfortable, safe, and enjoyable travel experience for four-legged travelers. Always check current model-year specs and trims to confirm the presence of features most important to you and your dog.

What is the best car to buy if you have a dog?

The best car for dog owners depends on size and needs, but generally includes SUVs and wagons with spacious, easy-to-clean cargo areas, like the Subaru Outback, Honda CR-V, and Toyota RAV4. For larger dogs, look for models with ample rear space like the Kia Telluride or Chevrolet Traverse. For those prioritizing specific features like a low floor or ruggedness, the Kia Soul, Honda HRV, or Jeep Wrangler are also excellent choices.
 
This video reviews the top 11 best cars for dog owners in 2025, highlighting key features and benefits: 50sCitizenShipperYouTube · Oct 14, 2024
Best overall and compact 

• Subaru Outback: A popular choice for its rugged, trail-ready design, large cargo space, and ease of cleaning. 
• Toyota RAV4: Offers a wide cargo opening for easy crate access and good fuel economy. 
• Honda CR-V: Features a spacious interior and a wide tailgate, making it easy for dogs to get in and out. 
• Kia Soul: A subcompact SUV with a low load floor and large hatchback for easy access, plus a large cargo area. 

Best for large dogs

• Kia Telluride: A large, comfortable SUV with plenty of space for crates and dogs. 
• Chevrolet Traverse: A full-size SUV that provides up to 98.298.298.2 cubic feet of space with seats folded and offers tri-zone climate control for passenger comfort. 
• Honda Pilot: A 3-row SUV with enough space for multiple dogs, or a large crate if the third row is folded down. 

Best for specific features

• Honda HRV: Features "Magic Seats" that flip up, providing a low step-in height and a flat rear floor for easy entry and exit. 
• Jeep Wrangler: An adventure-ready SUV with easy-to-clean interiors and a design suitable for outdoor excursions. 
• Land Rover Discovery: Known for a split-folding tailgate that can be used as a ramp and offers optional pet packs with accessories like partitions and loadspace liners. 
• Ford Bronco: Offers a rear window that rolls down into the tailgate for excellent air access. 

You can also watch this video for recommendations on the best cars for big dogs: 39sConsumer ReportsYouTube · Jun 21, 2025

What are the negatives about Honda CR-V?

Negative aspects of the Honda CR-V include potential mechanical issues like sticky steering, fuel pump problems, and engine/transmission complaints in certain model years. Additionally, some models lack features found in competitors, such as a spare tire on hybrid versions, a 360-degree camera, and heated rear seats, and may face higher insurance costs due to high theft rates in some regions. 
Potential mechanical and performance issues

• Steering problems: Some owners report "sticky steering," which can cause over-correction while driving. 
• Engine and fuel pump issues: Certain model years have been associated with engine problems, such as excessive oil consumption or fuel pump failures. The 1.5L turbocharged engine in newer models may have long-term durability questions compared to larger, naturally aspirated engines. 
• Transmission shudder: Some previous model years have experienced a CVT shudder or hesitation. 
• Forward collision avoidance system issues: The system has been reported to have problems. 

Missing features and technology 

• Lack of desired features: Even higher trims may lack features like a 360-degree camera, ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, or a panoramic sunroof, which are available on some rivals. 
• No spare tire on hybrid: The hybrid models do not come with a spare tire. 
• Underpowered engine: The base 1.5L turbocharged engine can feel underpowered, especially in older models. 

Other considerations

• Higher price: The CR-V, particularly the hybrid version, can be expensive, sometimes exceeding the price of rivals. 
• High theft risk: The CR-V is a popular target for car thieves in many areas, which can result in higher insurance premiums. 
• Basic cabin: Some reviewers describe the cabin as basic compared to competitors. 

Which Honda is best for dogs?

A: The CR-V and Pilot are great for dogs thanks to roomy interiors, fold-flat seats for crates or beds, and rear vents that keep pets comfortable on drives. Q: Does the Honda Odyssey work well for pets? A: Yes! Features like CabinWatch®, tri-zone climate control, and low step-in height make it perfect.

Is Honda pet friendly?

Safety First: Hondas are renowned for their safety features. Keep your furry friend secure with a comfy dog harness and a tether attached to a designated anchor point in your car. Climate Control: No matter the season, ensure your pup stays comfortable.