If you’ve ever tried parallel parking in Hoboken while your dog barks at a leaf, you already know — owning a pet in New Jersey is a test of wills. Between muddy paws, flying fur, and sudden backseat acrobatics because someone thought they saw a squirrel, your car becomes more than just a way to get from Point A to the dog park.

The problem? Most vehicles weren’t exactly designed with a muddy Goldendoodle and a Costco run in mind. That’s why we’ve rounded up the best vehicles for pet owners in NJ — cars and SUVs that don’t just tolerate your pet, they embrace them. Some vehicles are great for pets. Others will make you question your life choices after one rainy hike and a wet Lab shake-off in the backseat. From spacious SUVs perfect for large breeds and hiking adventures, to compact cars for smaller four-legged passengers, to minivans that can handle a full pack (plus the humans), this list breaks down your best options.

So if you’re tired of choosing between pet comfort and human sanity, keep reading. The right ride is out there — and yes, it does have room for the dog bed, the water bowl, and that mysterious stick your pup insists on bringing everywhere. And if you’re lucky, maybe even a backseat free of fur. (But let’s not get crazy.)

What to Look for in a Pet-Friendly Vehicle

Being a pet owner in New Jersey means your car has to wear a lot of hats. One weekend, you’re cruising down the Parkway to Cape May with the backseat full of snacks and a snoring dog. The next, you’re climbing into South Mountain Reservation trails with muddy paws in tow. Your vehicle needs to be ready for it all.

Whether you’re hauling a crate, a couple of leashes, or just trying to give your Great Dane some decent sprawl space, the right features can make every ride smoother — for both of you. Here’s a brief rundown of what to emphasize as you search for the best vehicles for pets in NJ.

Key Pet-Friendly Features to Consider

  • Flat cargo area with fold-flat seats: Big dogs need room to stretch. Fold-flat seats create an open space in the back that’s ideal for large breeds, crates, or even just letting your pup lounge in comfort on the ride home from the dog park.
  • Rear air vents or tri-zone climate control: Summers in Jersey? Hot. Winters? Brutal. Rear climate vents help regulate temperatures for pets in the back, especially breeds that are sensitive to heat or cold. No more panting or shivering in silence.
  • Low cargo floor or power liftgate: If you’ve ever tried to lift a wiggly, 80-pound Lab into the back of an SUV, you know why this matters. A low cargo floor and/or hands-free liftgate make loading pets easy, even when your arms are full and your dog is being “helpful.”
  • Durable upholstery (like leatherette or easy-clean fabric): Pet hair, sand from the Shore, and a little drool (or a lot) are just part of the deal. Choose interior materials that wipe clean and hold up to claws, fur, and muddy adventures.
  • Tether points and LATCH anchors for crates or harnesses: Safety first — especially on the Turnpike. Look for vehicles with secure tie-downs and anchors so you can keep crates, travel harnesses, or pet barriers safely in place.

Best SUVs for Pet Owners in NJ

When your weekends involve hiking at Watchung Reservation, chasing waves in Asbury Park, or hitting the Parkway with your furry sidekick riding shotgun, an SUV just makes sense. These vehicles offer the space, flexibility, and comfort that pet owners need — whether you’re hauling crates, coolers, or just a very excited dog.

Here are some top picks that can handle all your pet-friendly adventures in NJ — from mud-caked paws in Morristown to a slobbering stare-off at the Monmouth rest stop.

Ford Explorer: The Pet-Toting Powerhouse

Ford%20explorer.pngIf you’re a New Jersey pet owner who spends weekends hiking the Delaware Water Gap, cruising to dog-friendly beaches in Asbury Park, or hauling crates of chew toys across Route 80, the Ford Explorer just gets it. This SUV isn’t trying to be flashy — it’s trying to be useful. And lucky for you, it crushes both.

The Explorer offers a cavernous interior that turns into a dog lounge with the push of a button. Fold down the second and third rows, and you get up to 85.8 cubic feet of space — enough for a crate, a dog bed, an entire agility set, and probably still room left for your golden retriever’s emotional support stick. The flat cargo floor means no awkward “hop up” struggles or tail-swatting chaos as your 80-pound bestie attempts to launch themselves into the backseat. No wonder why we added the Explorer to Nielsen Editorial’s list of best vehicles for pet owners in NJ.

Speaking of A/C, the Explorer’s rear vents and under-seat airflow aren’t just for kids or backseat passengers who whine. They’re for your bulldog who refuses to move if it’s over 72 degrees. And for those moments when you’re juggling a leash, a backpack, and a muddy dog that’s spinning in circles, the available hands-free power liftgate is nothing short of life-changing.

In short, the Explorer was made for Jersey drivers with messy dogs and messy schedules. It’s rugged, roomy, climate-controlled, and blessedly easy to clean. Whether you’re doing the school drop-off, heading to the Shore, or navigating the tight corners of a Montclair parking garage with a German Shepherd panting in the back, the Explorer handles it all.
 

Find a new Ford Explorer for sale in NJ.

Nissan Rogue: The Compact King of Comfort

Nissan%20Rogue.pngFor New Jersey pet owners who rack up serious miles, the Nissan Rogue makes the journey smoother for everyone, paws included. It’s one of those rare vehicles that balances commuter-friendly efficiency with surprisingly pet-forward features, all wrapped in a sleek, easy-to-park package.

Let’s start with the gas mileage. The Rogue’s excellent fuel economy (up to 37 mpg highway) means you’re making fewer gas station stops — leaving more time and money for the important things, like bully sticks and overpriced dog puppuccinos. Whether you’re cruising to a dog-friendly brewery in Jersey City or navigating back roads near Sussex County, this crossover sips fuel and keeps the ride quiet and steady, even when your passenger has his head out the window and his tongue flapping like a windsock.

Comfort-wise, the Rogue delivers rear climate vents as standard on every trim. That’s a big deal when your backseat is occupied by a heat-sensitive husky or a pug who demands cold air like it’s written into their adoption contract. You’ll never again have to explain to your dog why only you get the A/C.

And then there’s the clever Divide-N-Hide® cargo system, which is the lifesaver of pet-hauling features. Need to separate muddy gear from a travel crate? Easy. Want to turn the cargo space into a makeshift nap lounge for your pup with a view of the parking lot at Wawa? Done. It’s a modular, flip-and-fold setup that makes you look like you’ve got your life together. The Rogue is a perfect fit for Nielsen Editorial’s list of best vehicles for pet owners in NJ!

Find a new Nissan Rogue for sale in NJ.

Jeep Grand Cherokee: For Dogs Who Hike Hard and Shed Harder

Jeep%20Grand%20Cherokee.webpIf your idea of a good weekend involves dirt trails, a wet nose in the wind, and absolutely no paved roads in sight, the Jeep Grand Cherokee is your ride — or more accurately, your pup’s rugged chariot. Whether you’re heading deep into the Ramapo Mountains or pitching a tent near Stokes State Forest, this SUV brings serious off-road chops with a side of comfort.

The Grand Cherokee has earned its reputation as one of the most capable off-road SUVs on the road — or off it. With available 4x4 systems, multiple drive modes, and ground clearance that laughs in the face of unplowed trailheads, it’s built to go wherever your muddy mutt wants to explore. And when it comes to space, the cabin offers more than enough room for crates, backpacks, coolers, and that suspiciously large stick your dog insists on bringing home like it’s a trophy.

After a long hike, nobody likes a sweaty dog. Luckily, the Grand Cherokee offers available ventilated rear seats, which are a total game-changer, and why we added the Grand Cherokee to Nielsen Editorial’s list of best vehicles for pet owners in NJ. It’s one of the few SUVs that actively cools your dog down without you having to sacrifice front-seat A/C. If you’ve ever returned to your car after a summer hike with a panting Lab and a hot backseat, you know how clutch that feature really is.

The Jeep Grand Cherokee is built for the pet owner who treats the weekend like a mission: one muddy, unforgettable adventure at a time. It’s rugged enough to climb a mountain and refined enough to pull up to brunch without looking like you just came from a mud wrestling match — which, to be fair, you probably did.

Find a new Jeep Grand Cherokee for sale in NJ.

Best Compact Cars for Smaller Pets

Not every pet needs an SUV with stadium seating and a tailgate party setup. For New Jersey drivers with small dogs, cats, or other pint-sized copilots, a compact car can be the perfect fit — especially when you’re trying to parallel park in Hoboken or squeeze into a “space” that technically exists between two recycling bins.

So, whether you’re headed to the groomer in Montclair, dashing through traffic in Newark, or letting your Frenchie ride shotgun on a Starbucks run, these compact cars prove you don’t need a big vehicle to live large — especially when your passenger fits in a tote bag and judges your music choices.

Hyundai Elantra: Big Value for Small Paws

Hyundai%20Elantra.pngIf you’ve got a smaller pet and a tighter budget, the Hyundai Elantra delivers way more than you’d expect from a compact sedan. This car can be your four-legged co-pilot’s personal chariot, complete with smooth handling, surprising space, and just enough tech to distract you from the fact that your dog is loudly judging your parking job.

The Elantra is smart, fuel-efficient, and incredibly easy to maneuver — perfect for quick vet visits or city drives where parking feels like a full-contact sport. Whether you’re navigating Bloomfield traffic or pulling a three-point turn in a Hoboken alley that definitely wasn’t meant for vehicles post-2005, the Elantra keeps it light, agile, and drama-free.

Despite its compact size, the Elantra offers a surprisingly roomy trunk with up to 14.2 cubic feet of space — easily enough to fit pet carriers, bags of kibble, or that oversized crate your cat insists is “too small” but refuses to leave anyway. And when your furry passenger rides in style, they do it with comfort: starting at the SEL trim, the Elantra includes rear air vents, a godsend for hot summer drives on Route 280, making the Elantra a great addition to Nielsen Editorial’s list of best vehicles for pet owners in NJ!

The bottom line: The Hyundai Elantra is a compact hero for pet lovers who don’t need an SUV, but still want a car that can keep up with real life (and really cute pets). It’s affordable, reliable, and just the right size for tiny dogs with huge personalities (and zero respect for personal space).

Find a new Hyundai Elantra for sale in NJ.


Kia K4: Tiny Passenger, Big Personality, Compact Perfection

Kia%20K4.pngIf you’re a pet owner with a small dog, a slightly chaotic schedule, and a strong dislike for street parking drama, the all-new Kia K4 was practically designed with you in mind. It’s smart, surprisingly spacious, and stylish enough to look good while still covered in fur. Whether you're running late for a vet appointment in Morristown or dodging delivery vans in Jersey City, the K4 gets you and your furry sidekick where you need to go, minus the bulk of an SUV.

Despite its compact footprint, the K4 offers one of the largest trunks in its class at 15.7 cubic feet, which is more than enough for a small crate, carrier, tote bag full of treats, and probably that squeaky toy your dog pretends not to like but refuses to leave behind, securing the K4 a spot on Nielsen Editorial’s list of best vehicles for pet owners in NJ.

Inside, the K4 keeps things clean, practical, and refreshingly pet-proof. Its interior materials are made for real life (aka hair, drool, muddy paws, and the occasional surprise snack someone stashed under the seat). Think easy-to-wipe surfaces that don't hold a grudge when your chihuahua decides to shake off mid-ride like it’s their post-bath Broadway debut.

Safety is top-notch too, with standard driver-assistance features including forward collision avoidance, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and even available adaptive cruise control. That means fewer close calls when your dog randomly barks at a trash can and you flinch like you’re in a horror movie.

Find a new Kia K4 for sale in NJ.

Nissan Sentra: Tail-Wagging Comfort in a Parallel-Parking Pro

Nissan%20Sentra%20PNG.pngNot every pet parent needs an SUV the size of a school bus — especially if your furry co-pilot weighs under 20 pounds and prefers riding in a lap over a crate. That’s where the Nissan Sentra shines. It’s like a Hoboken apartment that somehow fits a sectional couch — deceptively roomy and smarter than it looks.

Perfect for navigating the tight turns and tighter parking spots of downtown Morristown or Bloomfield Avenue, the Sentra is a breeze to drive even when your dog insists on narrating the entire journey. The wide-opening rear doors make it easy for small or elderly pets to hop in without needing a dramatic lift assist, and the low step-in height means no Olympic-level jumps required — just a simple hop and they’re in.

Inside, the cabin is quiet enough to keep anxious pups from acting like you’re driving through a thunderstorm—even when you're just stuck behind a garbage truck on Route 46. Plus, with Nissan’s Safety Shield® 360 standard on every trim, you’ll have added peace of mind whether you’re dodging jughandles or taking a last-minute detour to the dog park.

And don’t let its compact status fool you. The trunk has more than enough space for a pet carrier, bags of treats, and that emergency towel you forgot you needed until your dog found “just one” puddle at the park in Boonton.

Whether you’re commuting, running errands, or chauffeuring your pup to their next playdate, the Nissan Sentra is proof you don’t need a massive ride to keep your dog happy and your wallet intact. It’s efficient, comfortable, and pet-parent approved. The Sentra was an undeniable addition to Nielsen Editorial’s list of best vehicles for pet owners in NJ.

Find a new Nissan Sentra for sale in NJ.

Best Minivans and Larger Family Vehicles for Multiple Pets

When your backseat crew includes more than one furry passenger, you need a vehicle built for real-life logistics, not just glossy showroom lighting. These minivans and full-size SUVs offer the kind of space, flexibility, and rear climate control that make everyday chaos feel (mostly) manageable.

Here are some top picks for multi-pet (and multi-kid) New Jersey families who need a vehicle that can haul everyone, survive the furstorm, and still make it to the Shore with sanity mostly intact.

Chrysler Pacifica: The Pet-Proof Minivan Built for Chaos and Command

Chrysler%20Pacifica%20Hybrid.jpgThe Chrysler Pacifica is like a mobile command center disguised as a minivan. This vehicle carries and organizes your crew — pets included. With Chrysler’s iconic Stow ’n Go® seating, the second and third rows fold completely into the floor, unlocking up to 140.5 cubic feet of flat space. That means you can configure a sprawling “crate lounge” for multiple dogs, or stack carriers and cargo without turning your interior into a funhouse for fur.

Need to suck up fur, sand, or mystery crumbs from sweet potato snacks your dog insists on sharing? Some higher trims offer the Stow ’n Vac® built-in vacuum, powered by RIDGID — making the Pacifica a perfect fit for Nielsen Editorial’s list of best vehicles for pet owners in NJ.

Comfort is top-notch, with tri-zone climate control and rear sunshades keeping everyone cool (or at least calmer than a mutt in the backseat without A/C). And with available heated or ventilated second-row seats, you can avoid that mid-ride sobbing from your bulldog about how “Leg Day” should have included air conditioning, too.

The Pacifica’s interior storage is next-level. Hidden cubbies, bins under the floor, and Stow ’n Go compartments give you more cargo options than a dog has toys. It’s like a Tetris game where your frisbees, crates, and kid snacks all fit — if only you had the patience to organize it every day.

Safety isn’t an afterthought either: the Pacifica includes forward collision alerts, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot warning, and available adaptive cruise control to help you stay alert even when Fido’s barking at a mailbox like it’s a chew toy.

Find a new Chrysler Pacifica for sale in NJ.

Chevrolet Traverse: The Three-Row Hero for Multi-Pet Families

Chevy%20Traverse.pngIf your crew includes multiple pets (and maybe a couple of kids, too), the Chevrolet Traverse gives you the kind of space that makes every trip feel more manageable — even the ones where someone’s barking, someone’s crying, and someone’s covered in fur (possibly all the same passenger).

As one of the roomiest three-row SUVs on the market, the Traverse offers up to 97.6 cubic feet of cargo space with the second and third rows folded down. That’s enough to haul crates, strollers, a weekend’s worth of gear, and the oversized dog bed your doodle refuses to leave behind like it’s a family heirloom.

Flexible seating is the name of the game, with SmartSlide® second-row seats that make third-row access a breeze — even if you’re holding a leash, a juice box, and your last shred of patience. No one should have to play musical chairs just to let the cat out. And with available second-row captain’s chairs, everyone gets a little extra personal space (yes, even the dog who insists on riding like royalty).

Comfort comes standard, thanks to tri-zone climate control that keeps pets cool in the back while you stay toasty up front. It’s a climate peace treaty between your Labrador, your toddler, and your mother-in-law. Higher trims offer heated second-row seats and leather or leatherette upholstery that’s easy to wipe clean when the post-park shake-off hits full force.

The hands-free liftgate is a lifesaver when you’ve got a leash in one hand and a coffee in the other — and someone’s trying to wiggle out of their harness mid-load. Bonus points if you manage it all without spilling your latte or losing your dignity.

If you’re looking for space, comfort, and the kind of utility that keeps family trips running smoothly, the Chevy Traverse delivers in a big way. It’s strong, stylish, and a great addition to Nielsen Editorial’s list of best vehicles for pet owners in NJ.

Find a new Chevrolet Traverse for sale in NJ.

Dodge%20Durango.pngDodge Durango: Muscle-SUV Meets Pet-Carriage Magic

If your idea of a relaxing weekend includes hauling crates, coolers, kids, and at least one soggy tennis ball, the Dodge Durango is the SUV that gets you. It’s the muscle car of three-row family haulers — perfect for New Jersey drivers who need towing power, flexible cargo space, and enough room for a backseat crew that sheds more than it sits still.

Behind the bold exterior is a surprisingly spacious interior with up to 85.1 cubic feet of cargo room when you fold down the second and third rows. The flat-load cargo floor is especially useful when your pups need space to stretch or sprawl after a muddy hike.

The wide rear opening is made for big dogs who prefer to hop in on their own terms — usually tail-first, while staring you down for making them wait. And if your hands are full (because they always are), the available power liftgate takes care of the heavy lifting, so you don’t have to balance leashes, gear, and iced coffee like you’re in a circus act. The Durango is a no-brainer for Nielsen Editorial’s list of best vehicles for pet owners in NJ.

Comfort is dialed in for everyone, with tri-zone climate control and available rear heated or ventilated seats to keep your furry passengers from panting through traffic on Route 280. In the Durango, even the dogs ride like VIPs.

Safety features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control help keep you steady when your dog barks at a trash can like it’s the end of days. Between the Durango’s power and protection, you can focus on the road — even if your backseat is a full-time distraction.

For New Jersey families that bring everyone along (kids, pets, gear, and then some), the Dodge Durango delivers muscle, room, and a surprising dose of comfort. It’s rugged enough for weekend getaways, refined enough for daily carpools, and roomy enough to make the “who gets which seat” debate just a little less dramatic.

Find a new Dodge Durango for sale in NJ.

Accessories and Upgrades for Pet Travel

Want to go the extra mile for your furry co-pilot? A few smart upgrades can seriously elevate your pet’s ride (and save your sanity) when tackling New Jersey’s finest traffic jams, toll booths, and surprise construction zones that last longer than your last relationship.

Start with all-weather floor mats and cargo liners to protect your interior from the usual suspects: muddy paws, beach sand, fur explosions, and the occasional mystery smell that somehow gets worse in direct sunlight.

Then add pet barriers and harness anchors — because the only thing more distracting than NJ drivers is a 70-pound dog deciding they want to ride shotgun mid-turnpike merge. Whether you’re dodging jughandles considering an impromptu diner stop, keeping your pet safely in their zone makes every drive safer.

If your pup turns into a panting mess after five minutes in the sun, rear sunshades or factory-quality window tint can make a huge difference. Not only do they help cool down the cabin, but they also reduce the odds of your dog barking at every passing jogger, cyclist, or postal worker.

Bonus upgrade? A portable pet water bowl or travel fountain. Because there's nothing quite like a drooling Labrador trying to drink from your cupholder iced coffee during Shore traffic. And if you want to feel really prepared, keep a roll of poop bags, a towel, and some pet wipes stashed in your cargo bin.

Whether you’re headed to the Poconos or just making the high-stakes 5-minute drive to the vet in Montclair, these small additions can turn your car from a fur-covered battlefield into a mobile lounge for the four-legged elite. Trust us: your nose, your seats, and your stress levels will thank you.

Find the Best Pet-Friendly Vehicles

From nimble compact cars made for zipping to last-minute vet visits (with just enough space for a crate and a stress-yawn), to full-sized SUVs and minivans that can swallow crates, strollers, snacks, and an emotional support possum (hey, we don’t judge), Nielsen Auto Group offers vehicles that work for every kind of pet parent. Think of it as matchmaking—but with cargo liners and rear climate control.

Visit any Nielsen Auto Group location in New Jersey to test drive your pet-friendly vehicle of choice. The Nielsen team can help you sniff out the right vehicle for your lifestyle, your cargo, and your canine copilot. Because “pet-friendly” isn’t just a checkbox — it’s a way of life.

Find a Nielsen Auto Group dealership near you.

Helpful Links when Searching for the Best Vehicles for Pet Owners in NJ

New Ford Explorer for Sale in NJ

Used Ford Explorer for Sale in NJ

New Nissan Rogue for Sale in NJ

Used Nissan Rogue for Sale in NJ

New Jeep Grand Cherokee for Sale in NJ

Used Jeep Grand Cherokee for Sale in NJ

New Hyundai Elantra for Sale in NJ

Used Hyundai Elantra for Sale in NJ

New Kia K4 for Sale in NJ

Used Kia K4 for Sale in NJ

New Nissan Sentra for Sale in NJ

Used Nissan Sentra for Sale in NJ

New Chrysler Pacifica for Sale in NJ 

Used Chrysler Pacifica for Sale in NJ 

New Chevy Traverse for Sale in NJ

Used Chevy Trailblazer for Sale in NJ

New Dodge Durango for Sale in NJ

Used Dodge Durango for Sale in NJ

Nielsen Editorial is a division of Nielsen Automotive Group. All content is for editorial purposes only. Any reference to pricing, vehicle features, availability, programs, specials, etc., are for editorial purposes only and are non-binding. Dealerships (Nielsen and others) are not bound by or obligated to any claims, monetary or otherwise, within these articles. Articles are for reference purposes only. For specific questions about new cars in New Jersey, used cars in New Jersey, or other automotive, vehicle, or financial-related questions, contact the Nielsen Automotive Group directly.

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