Drivies! Book a test drive with your dog on International Dog Day, with Subaru UK & Ireland

• Subaru UK & Ireland celebrates International Dog Day on 26 August and invites owners to arrange a test drive accompanied by their dog  
• With new all-electric Subaru E-Outback and Uncharted models soon to be launched, research by Subaru UK & Ireland* suggests canines may prefer EVs
• Study shows dogs are a factor in 80% of purchasers’ choice of car, yet most don’t take their dogs when trying out a new model

25 August 2026 – Dog owners are invited to celebrate International Dog Day by booking a Subaru test drive with their fur-friends, courtesy of Subaru UK & Ireland’s ongoing campaign that recognises the importance of canines in car purchase decisions.

Research by Subaru UK & Ireland shows that 80% of dog owners say their pet is a factor in their choice of car, and yet less than one in four have taken their dog with them on a test drive.

Canines’ opinions on mobility may become more significant: with four out of five people confirming their dog enjoys going in the car, the Subaru research also shows pups may prefer electric vehicles. More than two thirds of owners reported their pooch travelled better in a quiet, smooth EV, although a third reported no difference compared to a petrol engine.

Drivers and their dogs can soon enjoy the option of all-electric Subaru cars alongside existing petrol-engine models. The new electric E-Outback and Uncharted arrive in dealerships shortly with customer deliveries commencing 2027, giving hounds and their handlers the chance to decide which powertrain they prefer.

For decades Subaru has been the choice for drivers who want confidence beyond the tarmac, from muddy tracks and forest trails to remote walking spots. The new E-Outback and Uncharted bring that same Subaru spirit into the electric era, combining smooth, quiet EV driving with rugged capability, permanent Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, and the reassurance dog owners need when the best walks start where the road gets interesting.

A Subaru test drive of the current Forester and Crosstrek petrol models includes the opportunity for owners and their dogs to check out the space in boot and back seat. Car buyers can consider ease of access and try out accessories such as pet ramps.  Subaru demonstrators are equipped with safety accessories, including dog guards and harness solutions: owners are reminded of the legal requirement for dogs to travel in crates or behind a dog guard in the boot, or in a tethered harness in the cabin with passenger airbag turned off if riding up front.

“With around 13 million dogs in the UK and around a third of households including a canine friend**, we know how important it is that cars fit in with dog-owners’ lifestyles,” said Lorraine Bishton, Managing Director of Subaru UK & Ireland. “We are a nation of dog lovers, and Subaru’s ‘safe, tough and fun’ cars including new electric E-Outback and Uncharted, are ideal for dog owners wanting practicality, durability and go-anywhere cars.”

A dog-friendly test drive should be requested with a Subaru UK & Ireland dealer in advance: full details are available at www.subaru.co.uk

Established in 2004, International Dog Day is celebrated annually on 26 August, recognising canines’  contribution to the world from working and therapy dogs to family pets. It also promotes better care of dogs, ownership considerations, and encourages responsible choices such as adoption of homeless animals.

ENDS

Note to Editors:
*Based on research of UK dog owners who own a vehicle, conducted for Subaru UK & Ireland by Ragdoll Research. Base: 2,000, surveyed February 2026

**2026 research carried out by UK Pet Food to estimate the UK's pet population. The research is independently conducted annually by Kantar with approximately 9,000 UK adults.

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PR contact:
PR@subaru.co.uk

About Subaru:
Every Subaru vehicle is built with people in mind. All models incorporate exceptional protection, with a host of advanced safety features fitted as standard. Subaru is known for its outstanding capabilities, both on and off-road and in all conditions, thanks to innovative technology, permanent All-Wheel Drive (AWD) and ever-dependable, rugged reliability.
The Subaru range includes the Forester and Crosstrek, with new all-electric models E-Outback and Uncharted to join the line-up.

Since 1954, Subaru has been making cars for everyday life and every challenge. Whether it’s a hiking holiday or the school run, capability, safety and reliability are engineered into every Subaru.