Will Fido Take The Lead In Choosing Your Next Car?

EXPERTS all say, to avoid disappointment, it’s important to thoroughly research a prospective new car purchase. However, with so many resources available it’s easy to forget the one closest to home: Fido.

And it’s not just buyers who should be more in tune with their faithful companion. The experts at WeLoveAnyCar.com point out that car dealers also often forget the influence the family pet can have in the buying process.

The car buying website’s latest survey recorded that 77 per cent of car owners with dogs said their choice of car was dependent on the best fit for their pet.

With dog ownership on the rise, if a car doesn't meet the mutt's approval it will stay on the forecourt. As such, dealers are advised to cater for the dog as well as the rest of the family.

A spokesman for WeLoveAnyCar.com said, "The fact is over 20 per cent of car owners will have dogs. Today's car market can be rough and dealers should take the lead and lay out the welcome mat for the mutt."

To help dealers seal the deal WeLoveAnyCar.com has compiled 10 Tips To Attract Dog Owner Car Sales:

1 Hang up a 'Dogs Welcome' sign

2 Supply water for dogs

3 Feature dogs in adverts

4 Make sure all salesmen are 'dog aware'5 Offer to let the dog sit in the car

6 Learn the dog's name

7 Offer dog snacks

8 Stroke and pet dogs

9 Never show displeasure with a mutt

10 Accept that wipes and mops are worth a sale

By Press Association reporters