If your dog loves jumping in the car with you and going for an adventure, then a dog car seat could be a great way to make those trips a bit more comfortable for them. Some dogs can find car rides uncomfortable, potentially losing their balance, or distracting you as they try to look out of the window. Using a dog car seat is the perfect way to provide a safe and secure place for your dog to enjoy their road trip.
We reviewed dozens of dog car seats in order to find the best of the best. During our search, we looked at features such as the comfort and design of each seat. We also considered whether or not the car seat offered a booster option for smaller dogs, and if it doubled up as a carrier.
As our Top Pick, we selected the Snoozer Lookout Dog Car Seat. This offers a range of features including a cozy simulated sheepskin interior, and is secured using your car’s seat belt. The booster allows your dog to look out of the window in comfort.
In This Article
The 5 Top-Rated Dog Car Seats
Editor's Picks | Brand | Rating |
---|---|---|
Best Dog Car Seat Overall | Snoozer Lookout Dog Car Seat | 4.6 |
Best Dog Car Seat and Carrier in One | WOpet Car Seat and Carrier | 4.5 |
Best Budget Dog Car Seat | GENORTH Dog Car Seat | 4.0 |
Best Dog Car Seat for Small Dogs | K&H Pet Products Bucket Booster Dog Car Seat | 4.8 |
Best Dog Car Seat for Medium to Large Dogs | Petsfit Dog Car Seat | 4.6 |
*Ratings are from Amazon at the time of publication and can change
Best Dog Car Seat Overall: Snoozer Lookout Dog Car Seat
Our Top Pick from all the dog car seats we reviewed is the Snoozer Lookout Dog Car Seat. This is available in 2 sizes, suitable for small and medium dogs. The soft and snuggly interior is made from cozy simulated sheepskin, and provides a warm spot for your dog to feel safe on your car journeys. This seat secures to your car using the seat belt, and you can then attach your dog’s harness to the tether included.
Reviewers love the fact that this seat includes a storage rack where you can store your dog’s food and water. They also mentioned how comfortable their dogs seemed while riding in this car seat – and of course that’s always our number one priority!
Snoozer Lookout Dog Car Seat Key Features:
- Available in small and medium sizes
- 8 colors
- Includes storage rack for food and water
Best Dog Car Seat and Carrier in One: WOpet Car Seat and Carrier
We selected the WOpet Car Seat and Carrier as the best option if you’re looking for a dog car seat and carrier combined in one. This gives you the option of safely converting your dog’s car seat into an airline approved carrier. The mesh lid of this dog car seat can be left open while your dog travels in the car, secured to the interior tether. When you leave your car, simply unstrap the car seat, zip closed the lid, and use the carry handles.
The interior of this dog car seat is softly padded, and includes openings on either side, as well as the mesh lid. There’s multiple storage pockets on the front and both sides of this car seat, so there’s plenty of room to stow your dog’s food and water, along with their favorite blankets and toys.
WOpet Car Seat and Carrier Key Features:
- Suitable for dogs up to 15 pounds
- Waterproof nylon outer
- Includes carry handles
Best Budget Dog Car Seat: GENORTH Dog Car Seat
If you’re looking for a dog car seat on a budget, the GENORTH Dog Car Seat offers amazing value for money. The sturdy PVC frame of this dog car seat provides a secure travelling environment for your dog, keeping them safe while on the road. This car seat secures to your vehicle using both the seat belt, and additional straps which fasten around the head rest, offering increased stability.
Use the integrated tether to attach to your dog’s harness while travelling. The large pocket on the front is perfect for storing your dog’s supplies while on the road, and the waterproof fabric will protect your car’s interior from any accidental spills.
GENORTH Dog Car Seat Key Features:
- 4 colors available
- Includes free blanket
- Suitable for dogs up to 13 pounds
Best Dog Car Seat for Small Dogs: K&H Pet Products Bucket Booster Dog Car Seat
As for the best dog car seat for small dogs, we recommend the K&H Pet Products Bucket Booster Dog Car Seat. This softly padded seat provides a safely elevated spot for your small dog to enjoy looking out of the window. The removable cover is washable, meaning it’s easy to keep this seat clean.
This dog car seat includes an adjustable security leash, so your dog can travel in comfort and safety. It’s also easy to add another leash if you have 2 small dogs who enjoy travelling together. Simply secure the car seat using your car’s seat belt. Reviewers mention that their small dogs love travelling in this car seat, with the booster platform meaning dogs can enjoy looking out of the window.
K&H Pet Products Bucket Booster Dog Car Seat Key Features:
- Available in 3 colors
- One year warranty
- Washable cover
Best Dog Car Seat for Medium to Large Dogs: Petsfit Dog Car Booster Seat
Our choice for the best dog car seat for medium to large dogs is the Petsfit Dog Car Booster Seat. If you’ve got a large dog, the chances are they’re not going to fit in a standard sized dog car seat! This seat solves that problem by sitting over 2 car seats, increasing the amount of room available for your dog.
With 2 large storage pockets on the front, there’s plenty of room to store your dog’s essentials. This seat is secured to your car using both the seat belt, and an adjustable strap which goes around the head rests. This system helps to increase stability, which is important for your larger dog to travel in comfort.
Petsfit Dog Car Booster Seat Key Features:
- Removable and washable liner
- Includes 1 safety leash
- Available in 2 colors
Who Should Buy a Dog Car Seat
If you’re looking for a way to make your dog more comfortable on car journeys, investing in a dog car seat is a great idea. Some dogs can find going in the car a stressful experience – they might suffer from motion sickness or move around the car and become a distraction for the driver. And of course, another consideration is that in case of an accident, a loose dog in the car is at a higher risk of injuring themselves.
Dog car seats provide a safe and secure place for your dog to sit during car journeys, and you can tether your dog within the seat for added safety. We would always recommend using a harness, and never attach the tether to your dog’s collar. Some dog car seats also act as a booster, providing extra height so your dog can enjoy looking out of the window.
If you’re interested in keeping your dog secured while you’re not in a moving vehicle, then you may want to try The Best Dog And Puppy Playpens.
Important Features to Consider
A dog car seat should have a few important features if it’s to provide the best combination of comfort and security for your dog while travelling. Here’s what to consider when selecting a dog car seat for your pooch:
- Sizing. Make sure you select the right size of dog car seat! If it’s too big, your pup won’t benefit from the security of sitting within it, and if it’s too small they might try to jump out. Most manufacturers provide a weight guideline that each seat is suitable for. If you have more than one dog, you might consider getting a larger seat so they can sit together.
- Booster option. Some dog car seats add height, which will help your smaller pup look out of the window. This is a great option for small to medium sized dogs, but larger dogs won’t necessarily need this option.
- Attachment options. Most dog car seats have a section designed for the seat belt of your car to slot through. Some offer an additional attachment option of straps attaching to the head rests. For heavier dogs, choose a car seat with both options as this adds security.
- Conversion to a carrier. If you travel a lot with a small dog, and perhaps also take them on flights, look for a dog car seat which converts into a carrier. This way you can keep all your dog’s items with you and simply convert your dog car seat into a carrier to continue your journey. If you are flying, make sure the carrier is aircraft approved.
- Washable covers. We all know some of our lovely dogs can get a bit stinky, so it’s a great idea to choose a dog car seat with removable and washable covers if this is the case for you!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a dog car seat and how does it work?
Dog car seats are designed to provide a safe and secure place for your dog to sit in the car. Most dog seats are secured using the seat belt, and some have additional straps to attach to a headrest. You can secure your dog into the seat by attaching their harness to the seat belt, or integrated tether. Some dog car seats are also called dog booster seats, and these provide extra padding so your small dog can look out of the window in comfort and safety.
How do you use a dog car seat?
Dog car seats are secured using a range of different methods, and it’s best to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when installing your dog’s car seat for the first time. Some brands attach to the seat belt in your car, while others use a strap that tightens around the back of the seat. Once the seat is installed, most dog car seats also have a security leash within them, which clips onto your dog’s harness once they’re sitting in the seat.
How do I make my dog more comfortable in the car?
Using a dog car seat is a great start! Choose one which is suitable for your dog’s size, and consider one with a booster option if your dog is small but still loves to look out of the window. Getting your dog used to wearing a harness in the car is also a good idea, as it’s much safer to secure your dog in their seat using a harness, not their collar.
Where should a dog sit in the car?
While it’s quite tempting for your dog to sit on the passenger seat next to you, the safest place for your dog to sit is on the rear seat.
Other Dog Car Seats We Reviewed
We looked at 20 other dog car seats. Even though they didn’t make our 5 best dog car seats, they’re the best of the rest and each is still a great option for your dog. The information you’ll need to compare each one is included with the listing.
- Dog Car Seat and Carrier in One
- Car Seats for Small Dogs
- Car Seats for Medium to Large Dogs
- Booster Dog Car Seats
Dog Car Seat and Carrier in One
Aknerri Dog Booster Car Seat Travel Carrier
This simple dog car seat secures to your car seat using a webbing strap, which then converts to a handy shoulder strap for carrying your dog in the carrier out of the car.
Key Features:
- Choice of 2 colors
- Folds flat for easy storage
- Soft padded inner mat
Cost: $20
AmazonBasics Portable Carrier and Car Seat
This soft-sided dog car seat incorporates mesh sides so it’s easy for your dog to enjoy the view.
Key Features:
- Suitable for small to medium dogs
- Double straps to secure to car seat
- Fold flat when not in use
Cost: $23
The clever design of this carrier uses mesh sides to provide a 360 degree view for your pooch. The sturdy handle makes it easy to carry your dog to and from the car.
Key Features:
- Available in 3 colors
- Zipperless, push button entry
- Includes washable fleece pad
Cost: $40
Purrpy Premium Car Seat Carrier
This stylish carrier resembles a classic holdall, but provides comfort and security for your small dog while travelling
Key Features:
- Airline approved
- 4 colors available
- Fits dogs up to 9 pounds
Cost: $27
This dog car seat cleverly converts into a backpack to carry your small dog in safety and style.
Key Features:
- Available in 2 colors
- Built in tether
- Suitable for dogs up to 30 pounds
Car Seats for Small Dogs
Devoted Doggy Deluxe Dog Car Seat
This sturdy seat secures to your car using two separate straps for extra security.
Key Features:
- Available in 2 colors
- Soft padded fleece interior
- Fits dogs up to 15 pounds
Cost: $40
This soft striped dog car seat can also be used as a cozy bed for your dog at home.
Key Features:
- 4 colors available
- Secured using 2 straps
- Includes removable mat
Cost: $56
Fancydeli Deluxe Puppy Car Seat
This study puppy car seat provides a safe spot for your small dog, with fabric sides that can be rolled up to reveal a mesh inner.
Key Features:
- Suitable for dogs up to 15 pounds
- Choose from 5 colors
- Reinforced with PVC bars
Cost: $22
PetSafe Solvit Tagalong Dog Booster Seat
This dog car seat can be attached at various heights by securing it to the head rest, meaning you can find the perfect position for your small dog.
Key Features:
- Choose from 2 colors
- Comfy fleece lining
- Washable inner
Cost: $21
This luxurious dog car seat might cost a lot more than average, but it’s packed full of features designed to keep your small dog comfortable and safe in the car.
Key Features:
- High front and back pillows
- Water resistant, washable fabric
- Includes 2 security tethers
Car Seats for Medium to Large Dogs
Amorus Waterproof Dog Car Seat
This waterproof dog car seat is made of a high quality rip-stop fabric, and attaches to your car’s seat belt and head rest.
Key Features:
- Hand wash
- Quick release buckles
- Anti-slip base
Cost: $26
This dog car seat provides a comfortable, padded area for your large to medium dog.
Key Features:
- Available in 5 colors
- Machine washable cover
- Adjustable elastic straps
Cost: $44
Pet Gear Lookout Booster Car Seat
This dog car seat provides a booster option for larger dogs, and secures easily to your car seat using the seat belt.
Key Features:
- Choose from 3 colors
- Integrated security tether
- Machine washable
Cost: $54
This super sturdy dog car seat is suitable for large dogs up to 110 pounds. The clever design also means you have a fleece liner for winter and a smooth liner for summer.
Key Features:
- Available in 2 colors
- 2 large storage pockets
- Includes soft fleece liner
Cost: $80
This dog car seat also includes a booster which lifts your dog 7 inches higher, allowing for the perfect window view.
Key Features:
- Folds flat for storage
- Compartment for storing toys
- Reversible liner
Booster Dog Car Seats
Coolbebe 2-in-1 Booster Dog Car Seat
The sturdy side supports on this booster seat make it suitable for dogs up to 30 pounds.
Key Features:
- Converts into a seat cover
- Double safety straps
- Waterproof and anti-scratch fabric
Cost: $22
Henkelion Booster Dog Car Seat
This booster seat is made from a reinforced, heavy fabric designed to withstand plenty of wear and tear.
Key Features:
- Available in 5 colors
- Adjustable safety straps
- Suitable for small to medium dogs
Cost: $21
This booster seat is suitable for dogs up to 20 pounds, and uses double straps around the base and head rest of your seat for added security.
Key Features:
- Removable liner
- Available in 6 colors
- Includes storage pockets
This stylish grey booster dog car seat secures using your seat belt, and includes an adjustable tether for your dog.
Key Features:
- Soft fleece liner
- For dogs up to 25 pounds
- Folds down when not in use
Cost: $46
This plush dog car seat uses a deeply cushioned plush base to lift your dog up. Suitable for dogs up to 30 pounds.
Key Features:
- Washable cover
- Double security straps
- Highly cushioned sides
Cost: $54