1 Mar 2026
New research from Omoda Jaecoo shows Aussie pets are calling the shots at home.
3 in 4 Aussie pet owners say their pet influences many of their day-to-day decisions
62% say their pet’s needs are equal to or come before their own or their family’s
65% say pet-friendly features will influence their next car purchase
In Australia, it’s not unusual for a pet to dictate the week's agenda. Beach or bushwalk? Depends if it’s dog-friendly. Dinner plans? Only if there’s an outdoor table. Holiday booking? Better check the pet policy first.
New research by Omoda Jaecoo Australia shows just how much power the modern pet has. A staggering 75% of Aussie pet owners say their pet influences many of their day-to-day decisions, from how they structure their day, to where, how and how long they spend their time. Travel plans (28%), weekend plans (24%) and social plans with friends and family (20%) are among the biggest life events pets influence.
And for many households, it goes even further. An eye-opening 62% say their pet’s needs are equal to, or come before, their own or their family’s. It’s a powerful reflection of how pets have moved from backyard companions to fully-fledged family members, complete with priority status.
This devotion isn’t just emotional, but reflected in household budgets, too. A huge 85% of Australians say their pet influences where they spend their money, with pet food (33%), vet bills (22%) and toys (19%) ranking as the top expenses.
Paws at the Wheel: Pets Are Driving Aussie Car Decisions
As pets become more embedded in everyday life, transport is emerging as the next frontier. 65% say pet-friendly features will influence their next car purchase. When asked what matters most, easy-to-clean interiors ranked highest (51%), followed by good air conditioning and ventilation for pets (38%) and a spacious boot or back seat (34%).
The Growing Need for Pet-Ready Cars
Despite wanting to include pets in every adventure, many Australians are holding back. A significant 72% of dog owners admit they’ve avoided taking their dog in their own or a friend’s car because they’re worried about dirt or damage.
The clean-up is real too. 21% of Aussie pet owners say they regularly spend money on cleaning or detailing their car because of their pet - nearly double those spending on dog walkers or daycare (11%). For many, the mess is becoming part of the cost of companionship.
Jaecoo J5 EV: Designed for Life With Pets
Recognising this shift, Omoda Jaecoo has launched the Jaecoo J5 Electric SUV with modern pet owners in mind. Designed to support active, pet-inclusive lifestyles, the J5 EV features durable, easy-to-clean interiors, advanced climate control, a spacious rear cabin and boot configuration suited to carriers, crates, and outdoor gear, and comes with a range of pet-friendly accessories.
The J5 EV offers a compelling package with 402km of driving range and can be charged from 30%-80% in 28 minutes via a DC fast charger, with special launch pricing of $36,990 driveaway with free metallic paint.
Dr Will Maginness, veterinarian and animal wellbeing advocate, said: “Pets today are fully integrated into Australian family life, and vehicles need to reflect that shift. When animals are travelling more frequently, whether it is a quick cafe run or a weekend away, their comfort and safety in the car become increasingly important. Features we see in vehicles like the J5 EV, such as climate control and antibacterial, easy to clean seats, all contribute to a calmer and safer experience for pets. Ultimately, when pets are comfortable and relaxed, owners are too, making journeys more enjoyable for everyone in the car.”
For media personality Evelyn Ellis, her two sausage dogs aren’t just pets - they’re part of every plan.“Mustard and Pickles absolutely run the show, and our weekends revolve around them. If it’s not dog-friendly it’s probably not happening. They come to the beach, on road trips, everywhere. Any car I drive has to handle real life with them, which is why the J5 EV makes sense. I need proper climate control to keep them comfortable, pet-friendly seats that can handle wear-and-tear, and a spacious cabin so everyone actually fits. Comfort for them is non-negotiable.”
As Australian households evolve, pets are no longer just along for the ride. They are shaping the journey.