Vacation time has arrived, and you are thinking of taking the whole family for an unforgettable adventure, including the dog!
But wait, can you travel with a dog in your car?
Is that kind of thing even allowed, and if it is, what is the proper way of doing it?
Before you get all stressed out, I am here to help you pick out the best dog car seat you can find that is both crash-tested, comfortable, and safe for your four-legged friend!
Yes, dogs need to be secured in their car seat or a carrier, so you should know all about picking the right type!
So let's get started so both you and your pup have a safe trip!
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$ — PetSafe Happy Ride Deluxe Booster Seat for Dogs ~ 3 pounds - Includes a comfortable fleece lining and removable material that can be machine-washed, great for car sick dogs. Not suitable for vehicles that don't have vertical upright seats. Suitable for: Dogs up to 25 lbs.
$ — K&H Pet Products Bucket Booster Pet Seat ~ 3.14 pounds - Elevated view, comfortable padding, and safe with collar or harness straps, it can be installed to the front or back seat. Has not been crash-tested. Suitable for: No weight limit stated.
$ — GENORTH Dog Car Seat Pet Seats ~ 2.12 pounds - A superb budget deal with a stylish design. Includes PVC frame that keeps the construction stable during the ride and a fuzzy blanket to keep the puppy warm. Not suitable for overly active dogs. Suitable for: dogs up to 11 pounds.
$ — Pet Gear Lookout Booster Car Seat ~ 4.5 pounds - No assembly, ideal for larger dogs or two smaller dogs, includes ropes that attach to the walking harness. Bulky design. Suitable for: Dogs up to 25 pounds.
$ — Utotol Dog Car Seat ~ 3.7 pounds - Can be used both as a dog car seat and as an indoor pet bed, plush padding. The leash attachment is low-quality. Suitable for: Dogs under 30 pounds.
$ — Snoozer Lookout II Pet Car Booster Seat ~ weight not specified pounds - easily to clean with removable fabric cover and pillow and includes a storage case for snacks, toys, and other necessities. Not comfortable for many pets. Suitable for: Dogs up to 35 pounds.
$ — Amazon Basics Pet Car Booster Bucket Seat ~ 2.6 pounds - Ideal for small dogs, the seat cover can be taken off for a machine wash, can be attached to the car seat belt. A bit flimsy. Suitable for: Dogs up to 25 pounds.
$ — FAREYY Dog Car Seat for Small Dogs or Cats ~ 3.59 pounds - A versatile car seat ideal for both cats and dogs, a waterproof cover that is machine-washable, can be installed in all vehicles. The leash is somewhat low-quality. Suitable for: 35-pound dogs.
$ — Devoted Doggy Deluxe Dog Car Seat ~ 3 pounds - The best compact car seat ideal for small dogs and cats, easily installed in every car seat, and elevated for a better view. Not ideal for pets with longer legs. Suitable for: pets up to 15 lbs.
My Top Dog Car Seats for a Safe Ride
As the number one car seat for dogs, we have picked out the PetSafe Happy Ride booster car seat!
This one checks out all the necessary boxes when it comes to a safe and comfy ride.
Plus, it's budget-friendly, so it's one more reason why you should check it out.
The bucket booster seat is available in three sizes for starters, so you can easily pick out the one that works best with your pup.
The bucket seat elevates your dog so they can look out the window and enjoy their ride even more.
When preparing for a long trip, the last thing that comes to your mind will be whether the dog is car sick or not!
For this reason, the doggie booster seat includes three stabilizing attachment points that offer a stress-relief ride for the little ones.
The design folds flat for easy storage, so you can always keep it in your car.
This kind of design works best for smaller dogs with a maximum weight capacity of 25 lbs.
Lastly, we need to mention how easy it is to install the seat in your car!
With adjustment straps, the booster seat is attached to the headrest or the back seat in under a minute!
- Great for dogs who are inclined to car sickness
- Easy to attach to the passenger seat
- Comfortable lining
- Not suitable for car seats that are not entirely vertical
This is another great model that elevates your dog closer to the car window so they can have a better view.
It's also great if your dog gets stressed out during the ride and needs something that will occupy them.
If you don't like the dog seat in the front due to the higher risk of airbags, then you can just as well install this one in the back seat!
It's suitable for both installations so that owners can customize their preferred location of the dog car seat.
All owners need a sound mind when it comes to car restraint for their pets.
That's why this dog car seat is secured via the car seat belt that is located underneath the removable cushion on the booster seat.
During longer rides, accidents can happen if you don't make pit stops frequently!
You know what type of "accidents" I mean when I say that the dog booster seat is easily cleaned, so you can always have a clean and odor-free car.
For added safety, you can attach the dog harness to one of the security leashes on the car seat.
The only issue with it is that it's not crash-tested, so if you are searching for an alternative, I would suggest PetSafe Happy Ride Deluxe Booster Seat for Dogs.
- Affordable
- Adjustable straps
- Suitable for back and front seats
- Suitable for anxious dogs
- Machine washable cover
- Not crash-tested
The Genorth dog car seat is our best pick when it comes to a reasonable budget deal!
It's stylish yet incorporates all the safety features you should look for in these seats.
One of the best benefits that this dog car seat offers is easy clean-up.
It's lined with waterproof fabric, so even if your pup has an accident during the ride, you can quickly get rid of the odor and restore the new environment of your car!
In addition, the sides of the seat are reinforced with a PVC bar, so it can never collapse if your pet gets fussy during the ride.
Plus, the breakable mesh makes sure your puppy has optimal air circulation.
This dog car seat also includes a free blanket so it can keep your pet warm at all times!
Dog owners need to focus on the ride, so this car seat will safely restrain your pet from jumping and making sudden movements that can interfere with your driving.
It includes an adjustable dog's harness constructed from a metal buckle that is far more durable than a plastic one!
Overall, this is a great budget-friendly dog car seat you can attach to the rear seat and keep an eye on your furry four-legged friend.
It's also suitable for Yorkies, Chihuahuas, and other smaller pets!
- Affordable price
- Includes a fuzzy blanket
- Metal frame
- Not so sturdy for active puppies
I cannot stress how tricky installation has made any task harder than its support!
If you are looking for a straightforward but effective way to secure the pet in the dog booster seat, look no further than the Pet Gear booster seat.
No assembly is required with this booster seat! You should only attach it to the car's seat belt system, and you are done!
Plus, the dog seat is available in five different color options. So you can choose the best one that matches your car's interior.
To keep the pet safe and secure in the back or the front seat, the theaters of the seat are attached to the dog's harness so you can rest assured they stay put during the ride.
In addition, the foam material inside of the booster seat has proved to be comfortable for plenty of users.
You know you have made the proper choice when your doggie sleeps through the entire ride!
However, the entire design of the car seat is rather bulky if you are purchasing it for smaller dogs.
It will take up too much space, so your best pick would be Devoted Doggy Deluxe Dog Car Seat if you need something compact.
- No assembly required
- Suitable for two pets
- The theaters attach to the safety harness
- Has not been car crash tested
- Bulky for smaller dogs
Is there anything better than plush padding that offers your pup the best snug feel during the ride?
I bet you didn't know about all the benefits this dog car seat provides, so let's check them out.
For starters, the filling inside of the dog car seat is super fluffy, so if your dog has a similar bed at home, it will be easier for him to transition to this car seat!
In addition, the sides of the seat are raised so your pup can have head support during the snooze.
One of the unique features that this seat offers is the rubber anti-slip bottom!
Not only does it keep the dog safe, but it will also ensure it stays in place if you hit the brake suddenly!
This dog seat can be installed on the front or back, so the choice is up to you!
Plus, it has convenient storage pocket bags on both sides so you can keep some of your dog's accessories nearby, such as the dog's leash, brush, or treats!
If this is your first dog car seat, you will love the versatility as you can also use it as an indoor pet bed!
It works both for cats and dogs so your furry friends can comfortably relax in their new bed.
- Works for large and small dogs
- Rubber anti-slip bottom
- It can be used as an indoor pet bed
- The leash attachment is poor quality
Getting the right kind of harness for a giant dog is challenging enough, let alone picking a suitable car seat for them.
Luckily, we have included one of the best dog car seats for big dogs, so you won't have to roam around the internet trying to find a good one!
Snoozer just loves to surprise pet owners with stylish yet safe dog car seats that will fit perfectly in everyone's vehicle.
You have to admit that you don't see this kind of color selection and design everywhere, so if you are picky about the interior, this could be your best pick!
Dog booster seats are excellent if your pup is anxious during the ride, as this kind of design elevates them and allows them to look at the window!
Also, on the front of the car seat, you will find hidden storage where you can put dog toys, a leash, or a few treats you can save for the end of the ride and thank them for being such a good sport!
However, some pet owners have complained about the comfortability of this dog seat.
Even though it has plush padding, it seems to compress when the dog lays down, leaving no support whatsoever!
- Includes a storage drawer
- Removable pillow
- Suitable for large dogs and other pets
- Pricy
- Not so comfortable
Does your Beagle need a proper restraining device while in a car?
Check out this Amazon Basics pet booster, a perfect pick for small dogs.
It is suitable for toy breeds such as Poodles and Chihuahuas and Boston Terriers, and Beagles.
You already know how much we love the "bucket seat style."
Such dog car seats allow them to sit in their car seat comfortably, but they also lift them to have a better view of the road.
In addition, the puppy car seat is excellent for those who struggle with road anxiety and tend to get nauseous during the trip.
The sides of the booster seat are pretty tall, and it includes an adjustable pet's harness leash, so it's less possible for your dog to hop out of the seat and disturb your driving.
You will also appreciate that the seat cover is machine-washable so that you can get rid of dog hair in no time!
This car seat fits in all cars due to its compact design so that you can install it on the back passenger's side or in the front seat.
Plus, it can be easily installed with the car's seat existing seat belts!
- The seat cover is machine washable
- Attaches to the walking harness easily
- It can be installed on the car harness
- Adjustable straps
- A bit flimsy
The Fareyy dog car seat is the next one on our list, and it is by far the most comfortable for transporting dogs!
The exterior is lined with waterproof fabric, so it's super easy to clean it up while the inside is filled with fluffy cotton that will make pets feel like they are sleeping on a cloud!
Notice how I said pets and not dogs specifically?
Yes! This car seat is suitable for both cats and dogs, so you don't have to purchase a separate car seat for each of them.
But, of course, you will have to do so if you plan on transporting them both at the same time.
But, it's good to know that it's safe and suitable for both of your furry friends.
The car seat uses an adjustable nylon strap buckle on which you can adjust the length and have the perfect fit for your pet.
The non-slip rubber also keeps the seat in place, so they don't jump out of the seat and distract your driving.
The straps can be installed in any car seat, so they keep your pup in place during the ride.
Plus, the car seat can go in the front, back, or even in the middle rear seat!
- High-quality design
- Adjustable seat belt
- Suitable for small dogs and bigger ones
- Great for cats as well
- The leash can sometimes break off
Are you on a hunt for a super-compact car seat?
Of course, we worry about pet safety, but sometimes the size of your car simply does not allow for excessively big dog seats.
No need to worry!
This car seat fits perfectly into smaller vehicles and is best suited for small dogs and cats!
The Devoted Doggy Deluxe car seat is best installed on the front seat of the car.
It includes two adjustable strappings that can be fixated on the headrest and therefore prevent any sudden movements.
The booster seat for the dog also features an adjustable leash clip you can attach to the dog harnesses and ensure he stays put during the travel.
The entire design is collapsable, so it folds nicely and allows you to keep the seat in your vehicle without taking too much space.
In addition, it has a durable metal frame, unlike some of the other car seats that use plastic framing that breaks off quickly.
In addition, it can be lifted to your pet's liking so they can enjoy the window-view and not distract your driving.
Your pet will love this bucket booster seat!
Not only is it lined with soft materials, but it's also spacious enough so they can find a comfortable position to sit in!
- Affordable
- Collapsible design
- Attaches to the dog’s torso harness or leash
- Suitable for other pets
- Not great for dogs with long legs
What to Look for? The Buyer's Guide
1. Safety Features
Check if the car seat includes adjustable leash attachments so your dog can have both a safe and comfortable ride.
In addition, we suggest you purchase Pet Safety certified harnesses to make sure your pup is safe during the ride.
2. Easy to Clean
Accidents can happen all the time when you are transporting pets in the car.
Before you know it, you start to smell a strange odor, and you know what you have to deal with hours of cleaning the car!
For this reason, it's best to check for waterproof materials in car seats and removable covers!
3. Size
Surprise, surprise, dogs come in all different sizes and shapes! So if you think one car seat will be enough for multiple breeds, think again!
First, you need to pay attention to the size of the dog car seats and find a suitable size for your large or small puppy!
Tips for Using Dog Car Seats
1. Attach the straps to the harness
By attaching it this way; you prevent a possible choking hazard of leashes!
Unfortunately, some dogs are anxious during car rides, and connecting the straps to the leash can make the situation a whole lot worse!
2. Let them get to know the seat first
Dog car seats are a whole new universe for puppies, so you must introduce them to the system at home before you take them for a drive in the car.
Use treats to make them feel comfortable; it always works like a charm!
3. Never leave your dog alone in the car!
You would not leave a baby alone in the car, would you?
The same goes for pets! Never, ever leave them untenanted.
The car temperature can often be unbearable for their fragile bodies, and it only takes a few minutes for them to get in danger!
FAQs
Should you get a car seat for your dog?
Yes, you should get a car seat for your dog!
Just like the owner, the pet has to be adequately restrained during the ride for their safety and the driver's safety.
According to veterinary experts and the NHTSA reports, up to 25% of accidents occur due to pets distracting the driver.
What is the safest way for a dog to travel in a car?
The safest way to travel in a car is by being correctly restrained in the dog car seat or a carrier.
By securing the dog in their car seat, you ultimately will lessen the chance of severe injuries in case of an accident.
Also, as these car seats include a dog seat belt, the pet won't bother the driver and can focus on the road ahead!
How can I make my dog's car seat more comfortable?
Long trips can be nerve-wracking for dogs that are not used to car rides.
For this reason, you must make their experience more comfortable and pleasurable.
One way to make the car seat more comfortable is by picking the one with a padded seat belt.
It won't irritate their skin, and it will offer a cozier feel.
Another trick is to bring an extra blanket and lay it in the car seat or bring their favorite chew toy, so they have something to play with during the road trip.
Is a dog allowed in the front seat of a car?
Currently, there is no rule about whether a dog should ride in the front or the back seat of the car.
However, you should be aware of the incredible force of the airbag if you decide on installing the dog car seats in the passenger seat.
How long can a dog travel in a car?
Pets need brakes if you are taking them for a car ride.
Usually, you should take frequent pit stops every two hours if you have a long road ahead of you.
In this way, the dog can stretch his legs or go to the bathroom.
If you are traveling at night, your pet may as well sleep through the entire ride, so you won't have to take breaks unless it is needed.
Final Winner
It's time we pick out our top winner!
One of the best dog car seats has got to be the PetSafe Happy Ride Deluxe Booster Seat for Dogs.
It's lightweight, compact, and suitable for smaller pups!
The elevated design will keep them entertained while they look through the window so you can focus on your driving.
- Window seat: Boost your dog to the perfect height to look out the car window
- Available in 3 sizes: Check the size chart to find the perfect size for your pup; The largest size booster seat comfortably holds 1 or 2 dogs weighing up to 25 pounds
- Safe travel: Connect your car seat belt and use the safety tether to keep a restless pet secure
- Stress relief: Give nervous or carsick dogs a smooth, enjoyable ride with three stabilizing attachment points
- Comfort: The polyester oxford shell and soft fleece liner offer a comfy ride.Quick setup: Use the adjustable straps to install on any bucket or bench seat with headrests; Easy to remove; Folds flat for storage.Easy cleaning: Remove the liner and machine-wash to keep the seat fresh and clean; Store additional pet gear in the zippered pocket.U.S based customer care: Let our pet product experts help
Conclusion
No matter if you are taking a quick stop at the grocery store or a weekend getaway, your four-legged friend needs to be in a proper restraining device.
But, of course, you know the phrase-the more, the merrier, so bringing your puppy on a road trip can always be a good idea.
Just make sure they are as safe as possible with one of these nine best dog car seats we just reviewed!
Hey there, I’m Ruby Smith, founder of Pet So Fun, and I’m here to provide you with useful information about your precious pet. All pets deserve the best care, don’t they? But not all pet owners have access to the right products and tips for their pets. And the central core of my work here is to change that.