From muddy pawprints to lingering odours, the presence of pets has left many British motorists digging deep into their wallets.
According to new research from used car marketplace Motorway, 83% of dog owners have adapted their vehicles to make them more pup-friendly, with many spending up to £500 in a single year.
Over £6k spent on dog-friendly cars
Over a dog’s lifetime, that could add up to an eye-watering £6,500.
More than half (57%) of owners admitted to forking out for cleaning or repairs, with one in five replacing damaged interiors such as seatbelts or upholstery.
Among the most common complaints were fur-covered seats (35%) and the distinctive smell of wet dog (34%). Pets are also now one of the main reasons people have their cars professionally cleaned.
Car upgrades for canines
Meanwhile, almost three-quarters (74%) of drivers have even sold or upgraded their vehicles specifically to suit their canine companions.
Simple measures, such as waterproof covers, scratch guards and odour control, can make journeys more comfortable for dogs while helping owners preserve their car’s long-term value.
Have you splashed out on car upgrades for your dog?