Does the thought of your furry co-pilot bouncing around in the car make you a little nervous? You love taking your dog on adventures, but keeping them safe and comfortable during car rides can feel like a real challenge. It’s hard to know which dog car seat is truly the best fit for your pup and your vehicle. You worry about distractions for you, and you definitely worry about your dog’s safety if you ever stop suddenly.
Choosing the right seat involves figuring out sizes, materials, and how securely it actually fastens down. It can quickly become overwhelming trying to compare all the different styles out there! But don’t worry, we’ve done the heavy lifting for you.
This post breaks down everything you need to know about dog car seats. We will explore the best features to look for, common mistakes to avoid, and how to find a seat that keeps your best friend secure and happy on every journey. Get ready to make your next car ride stress-free!
Top Dog Car Seat Recommendations
Bestseller No. 1
BurgeonNest Dog Car Seat for Small Dogs, Soft Pet Car Travel Home Bed Under 25 lbs, Fully Detachable and Washable Cat Booster Carseats with Storage Pockets and Clip-On Leash Portable Carrier,Black
- Sturdy Oxford Fabric : BurgeonNest dog booster car seat is made of odorless, sturdy oxford fabric with thicker coating, and reinforced with double stitches, there is no more stitching tore, ripped in the washer. And dog bed for car is very comfy and fluffy , good for your pet when lying on it, good for your pet's joints.
- Soft Comfort and Adjustable Belts: Plush fabric and sponge filling help your pup stay calm and comfy on the road. And we choose sturdy belt and nylon strap with buckles for this pet car seat, which you can adjust the length to keep puppy in one place without jumping out. So your dog is secured enough in travel and you don't need worry your pet would distract you while driving.
- Fully Detachable and Washable: Different from other dog car bed, ours is built in sliding zippers, and the stuffing is packed in separate bags, which is easy to take out and cleaned.Just pop the filling back in after washing for effortless reuse and lasting durability.
- Adaptable for multiple uses -- 2 Storage Pockets and 2 Sided Cushions: There are large capacity storage bags on both sides of small dog car seat. It's very convenient for you to put pet daily necessities to save space. The cushion is two-sided. One side is fluff, the other side is Oxford fabric.Very suitable for dog carriers & travel products or indoor pet bed for all season use.
- Easy to Install: Adjustable buckle design, the car seat for dogs can be installed easily. Just fix the buckle to the top and back of the seat and adjust the length of straps. You can install it in both the front and back seat of your car as you like. And it fits most kinds of car seats and car types.
Bestseller No. 2
JOEJOY Elevated Dog Car Seat for Small/Medium Dogs up to 35 lbs, Memory Foam Booster Seat with Detachable Washable Cover, Travel-Safe Car Bed with Safety Belts & Storage Pockets, Grey
- 【Elevated Comfort for Your Furry Friend】: With its elevated design, this pet car seat raises your pet 5 inches above the car seat, allowing them to enjoy a better view of the outside world while reducing car anxiety. Whether it’s a short trip to the vet or a longer road trip, your dog will love the added comfort and feel more at ease in the car.
- 【Comfort with Dual-Sided Design】: The two-sided design of this dog car seat features soft, short plush fabric on one side and breathable, comfort-enhancing faux leather on the other. This dual-material design ensures your furry friend stays cool in the summer and warm in the winter, providing year-round comfort. The high-density memory foam filling delivers superior support, minimizing the impact of road bumps and vibrations for a smoother, more enjoyable ride for your pet.
- 【Safe and Secure】: This pet car seat features a built-in adjustable safety belts to secure your dog’s harness, preventing them from jumping out the window. The non-slip bottom and headrest strap keep the seat stable and secure, ensuring your pet stays safe and comfortable throughout the journey.
- 【Ideal Size for Small and Medium dogs】: Measuring 19.0 in (L)X 18.0 in (W) X 18.5 in (H), the puppy car seat can accommodate all types of small and medium dogs up to 35 pounds, or two small dogs up to 15 pounds. Fits front or back seats of most cars and SUVs (not recommended for pickup trucks). Always measure your pet before purchase for the perfect fit.
- 【Easy Installation and Maintenance】: Setting up your JOEJOY dog booster seat is a breeze. Simply thread the car seat belt through the designated holes on the bottom and secure the top strap to the car headrest. Adjust the straps to the right length, and the car seat is ready to go! The removable cover is easy to unzip, making it simple to wash and keep your dog’s car seat clean.
Bestseller No. 3
Dog Car Seat for Small & Medium Dogs – Waterproof Microfiber Leather Pet Car Seat with Washable Pee Pad, Scratch & Fur Resistant, Foldable Dog Bed for Home & Travel, Non-Slip Design, Matte Gray
- Premium Microfiber Leather – Stylish & Durable: Crafted from high-quality microfiber leather, this dog car seat features a scratch-resistant, waterproof surface with reinforced stitching for lasting durability. It’s elegant, low-odor, and easy to wipe clean — perfect for pet owners who value both style and practicality
- Comfort & Structural Support: The dog seat for cars features thick, plush padding and a strong inner frame that provide excellent comfort and support for your dog, keeping them secure and relaxed on bumpy rides. External size 21.7" x 19.7" x 6.3", and the interior space measures 15.7” x 13.8”, ideal for small and medium dogs up to 35 lbs
- Easy to Clean – Washable Pee Pad Included: The pet car seat comes with a washable pee pad to protect the seat from spills and accidents. The padding is removable and machine washable, and the leather surface can be easily wiped clean. The premium microfiber leather is fur-resistant, preventing hair from embedding in the seat and creating an odor-free travel environment for your furry friend.
- 2-in-1 Convertible Design – Car Seat & Dog Bed: The dog seat can fold down the backrest to instantly convert it into a cozy dog bed. Great for home, outdoor, hotel, or travel use — giving your pet a familiar and comfortable resting space anywhere you go.
- Easy Installation & Safety Protection: The pet safety car seat is equipped with a secure seat belt system and a metal safety leash/tether. This dog car seat keeps your dog safely in place. The non-slip bottom and adjustable straps ensure a universal fit for most cars, SUVs, and trucks.
Bestseller No. 4
JOEJOY Dog Car Seats for Small Medium Dogs Under 35lbs, Dog Booster Seat with Detachable Washable Cover and Cushion, Memory Foam Pet Car Seat with Safety Belt and Storage Pockets (Black)
- 【Elevated Design, Perfect View】: Boost your pet up by 5 inches, so they can enjoy the scenery outside the window. Whether it's a quick errand or a long road trip, this dog booster seat keeps your pup entertained and reduces their anxiety, making every trip a breeze. The high-density memory foam filling delivers superior support, minimizing the impact of road bumps and vibrations for a smoother, more enjoyable ride for your pet. Your dog will love the added comfort and feel more at ease in the car.
- 【Secure and Stable Design】: This pet car seat features a built-in adjustable safety belts to secure your dog’s harness, preventing them from jumping out the window. This design prevents the seat from shifting, ensuring a safe and comfortable journey for your furry friend.
- 【Ideal Size for Small and Medium dogs】: This dog car seat measures 19 in (L) X 18 in (W) X 18.5 in (H), providing ample space for up to two small puppies or one medium-sized dog weighing under 35 lbs. It fits in the front or back seats of cars, SUVs and trucks. WARM TIP: Please measure your pet before purchasing. Refer to the provided picture for specific size details.
- 【Comfort with Dual-Sided Design】: The two-sided design of this dog car seat features soft, short plush fabric on one side and breathable, comfort-enhancing faux leather on the other. This dual-material design ensures your furry friend stays cool in the summer and warm in the winter, providing year-round comfort.
- 【Multi-scene Use 】: The JOEJOY dog car bed is not only perfect for car rides but also doubles as a cozy bed for your dog. Its portable design allows you to easily bring it anywhere-whether it's in the car, at home, or outdoors. It features large capacity storage side pockets on both sides, providing a convenient spot to store doggy snacks, puppy kibble, and other essentials.
Bestseller No. 5
Dog Car Seat for Small/Medium Dogs, Memory Foam Dog Booster Seat, Travel Safety Per Car Seat with Washable Removable Cover, Storage Pockets for Dogs up to 35 lbs(Gray)
- 【Optimal Size】: This dog car seat measures 17 in (L) X 17 in (W) X 19 in (H), providing ample space for up to two small puppies or one medium-sized dog weighing under 35 lbs. Suitable for breeds like Yorkshire Terriers, Chihuahuas, Pomeranians, Dachshunds, Shih Tzus, cats, puppies, and more. Refer to the provided picture for specific size details.
- 【Perfect View, Happy Pup】Boost your pet up by 6 inches, so they can enjoy the scenery outside the window. Whether it’s a quick errand or a long road trip, this dog booster seat keeps your pup entertained and reduces their anxiety, making every trip a breeze.
- 【Comfortable and Skin-Friendly】: Made from premium crystal velvet fabric, this dog car seat is incredibly soft and skin-friendly. The luxurious material ensures your pet stays comfortable and relaxed, whether on the road or at home.
- 【Secure and Stable Design】: Our dog car bed features a built-in pet leash and uses both bottom and top seat fixings to keep the seat stable and your pet secure. This design prevents the seat from shifting, ensuring a safe and comfortable journey for your furry friend.
- 【Multi-scene Use and Easy Maintenance】: This dog car seat is not only suitable for use in cars but can also be used at home, outdoors, in a tent, or anywhere you can imagine. It features large capacity storage side pockets on both sides, providing a convenient spot to store doggy snacks, puppy kibble, and other essentials. No installation required – our dog booster seat is ready to use right out of the box. It comes vacuum-packed and fully expands to its optimal shape within 24 hours. The dog booster seat is fully removable and washable. Open the bottom zipper, take out the sponge, and clean the cover, ensuring your pet always has a clean and comfortable space.
Bestseller No. 6
Upgrade Dog Booster Seat for Small Dogs,Small Dog Car Seat with Sturdy Metal Frame and Waterproof Leather Material for Small Pets up 20 lbs,Portable Travel Carrier with Storage Pocket
- 🐾【Safety-First Elevated Design】 Give your pup the joy of window views while preventing motion sickness! Our booster seat's features (1) Collapsible steel frame with 2 anti-slip anchor straps(2) Dual-layer locking buckle for seat stability(3)Hidden storage pockets hold treats/poop bags. Foldable to 3" thick for trunk storage.
- 🐾【Stress-Free Installation in 30 Sec】 No more struggling with complicated setups! The buckles attach to ANY car headrest (sedans/SUVs/trucks). Adjustable straps fit all seat sizes. Attach the two straps around the headrest, fix the buckle to the back of the seat.You can refer to the included instructions when installing. If it is still not clear enough, you can consult us.
- 🐾【Soft and Durable Material】Our dog booster car seat is crafted from cat scratching cloth.It is not only waterproof, but also effectively prevents pets from scratching. Stains can be wiped off with a cloth and it is durable.The plush rim is filled with soft material for your furry friend to rest their paws.
- 🐾【Size for Small Dogs Car Seat】Recommended for small dogs up to 20 lbs.Our dog booster car seat size is 18 X 13 X 9 inches designed for small dogs or cats such as Chihuahuas, Yorkshire Terriers, Havanese, and Shih Tzus.To ensure the perfect fit for your furry friend, please measure your pets before making your purchase.
- 🐾【Multifunctional Design】This foldable small dog car seat can not only provide a comfortable riding experience for your pet, but can also be used as dog carrying bag for easy your travel. Due to its foldable design, you can easily fold it when not in use, saving space and conveniently storing it in the car or at home.
Bestseller No. 7
Babyboat Dog Car Seat for Small & Medium Pet Adjustable Height Dog Booster Car Seat with 2 Cushion Up to 30lbs Pet Detachable Travel Pet Bed with Remove Cover, Storage Pockets - Black
- Premium Materials: Crafted with premium velvet fabric and high-resilience foam of the babyboat dog car seat offers premium softness and supportive. Sturdy and durable safety seat belts and non-slip button help keep your pet secure for a comfortable ride.
- Ideal Size for Dogs and Cats: The Babyboat black dog car seat measures 20" (L) × 19" (W) × 16" (H), making it suitable for most small to medium-sized pets up to 30 lbs. It fits securely in both the front and back seats. Please measure your pet before purchasing to ensure the best fit.
- Pet-Friendly Design: 2", 5.6" and 7.6" cushion height combinations allow your pet to enjoy a comfortable viewing and lounging position for any occasion, making it ideal for both travel and indoor use. The extended fabric coverage helps protect your car seats by preventing accidental scratches from your pet.
- Multi-Purpose Use: Designed with two height cushions, the pet car seat easily adapts to multiple scenarios. When used as a booster car seat, you can choose different cushion combinations to fit pets of various sizes, ensuring your pet travels safely and comfortably. It can also be used as a cozy dog bed for both home and outdoor use.
- Warm Tipes: Babyboat dog booster car seat NO assembly required of complicated, since the item is vacuum-packed, please gently pat it after opening the package and allow 48 hours for it to fully expand and become fluffy again.
Bestseller No. 8
PETSFIT Dog Car Seats for Small Dogs – Patented Safety Buckles – Safety Tether – Foldable Travel Dog Booster Car Seat Reduces Anxiety & Road Trips – Stable Frame, Soft Cushion, Fits Front/Back Seat
- 𝐏𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐒𝐚𝐟𝐞𝐭𝐲 𝐁𝐮𝐜𝐤𝐥𝐞 - 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞, 𝐒𝐞𝐜𝐮𝐫𝐞 𝐃𝐨𝐠 𝐂𝐚𝐫 𝐒𝐞𝐚𝐭 Equipped with PETSFIT patented safety buckles (No. US 12274237B2) and a stable internal support frame, this small dog car seat keeps your pet safely in place on sharp turns and sudden stops. The adjustable tether attaches to your dog's harness to prevent jumping, providing safer car travel every day
- 𝐁𝐨𝐨𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐕𝐢𝐞𝐰 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐀𝐧𝐱𝐢𝐨𝐮𝐬 𝐒𝐦𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐃𝐨𝐠𝐬 - 𝟐 𝐋𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥 𝐇𝐞𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐃𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐠𝐧 Our 2-level dog booster car seat elevates your small dog by up to 3.15", helping anxious dogs feel calmer during car rides. The raised view lets them see out windows and the road, reduces whining, and improves comfort. Ideal for small dogs, puppies, cats, and travel anxiety situations across front and back seats
- 𝐅𝐨𝐥𝐝𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 & 𝐋𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐰𝐞𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 - 𝐏𝐞𝐫𝐟𝐞𝐜𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐯𝐞𝐥 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐀𝐭-𝐡𝐨𝐦𝐞 𝐔𝐬𝐞 The foldable, lightweight design makes storage simple—use the puppy car seat at home as a dog bed, take it to the vet, office, or pack it for road trips. Easy to carry and move between cars, this small dog travel seat gives your pet a consistent, familiar space that reduces stress in new environments
- 𝐅𝐢𝐭𝐬 𝐌𝐨𝐬𝐭 𝐂𝐚𝐫𝐬 - 𝐅𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐭 & 𝐁𝐚𝐜𝐤 𝐒𝐞𝐚𝐭 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐛𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲 Designed to fit sedans, SUVs, trucks, and crossovers, this pet car seat installs in minutes using your vehicle's seatbelt. The non-collapse frame and patented buckle system keep the car seat for dogs stable on rough roads. Perfect for everyday commuting, long road trips, and multi-dog families needing reliable car safety
- 𝐄𝐚𝐬𝐲-𝐂𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐧 𝐒𝐮𝐫𝐟𝐚𝐜𝐞 & 𝐒𝐨𝐟𝐭 𝐂𝐮𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐨𝐧 - 𝐄𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐲𝐝𝐚𝐲 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐏𝐞𝐭𝐬 Sized at 16"L x 13"W x 11"H, this cat car seat features wipe-clean Oxford fabric that keeps the dog carseat fresh with minimal effort. The plush lining and a cozy front pillow add extra comfort for your pup during every ride. Soft enough for naps and stylish sufficient for gifting – an ideal dog gift for pet parents
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Finding the Best Dog Car Seat
Taking your dog on a car ride is fun. But safety is important. A dog car seat keeps your furry friend secure. It also keeps your car clean. This guide helps you pick the right seat.
Key Features to Look For
Good car seats have important features. These make travel safer and easier.
Safety Straps and Harnesses
- Look for strong tethers. These connect the seat to your car’s seatbelt system.
- A built-in leash or clip is a must. This stops your dog from jumping around.
Size and Weight Limits
Measure your dog! A seat too small will be uncomfortable. A seat too big might not secure properly.
- Check the weight limit listed by the manufacturer.
- Consider if your dog likes to stretch out or curl up.
Installation Ease
You want a seat that installs fast. Nobody likes struggling before a trip.
- Look for simple buckle systems or strong straps that wrap around the headrest.
- Read reviews about how easy setup is.
Important Materials Matter
The material affects comfort and cleaning.
Comfort and Padding
Your dog needs a soft place to rest.
- Thick, supportive foam is great. It helps absorb bumps during the ride.
- Breathable fabrics prevent overheating, especially in summer.
Durability and Cleaning
Dogs sometimes track in mud or drool. Easy cleaning saves you time.
- Choose waterproof or water-resistant liners.
- Removable, machine-washable covers are a huge plus. Strong stitching prevents rips.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all seats are made equal. Some designs work better than others.
Quality Boosters
- A sturdy frame prevents the seat from collapsing.
- Non-slip bottoms keep the seat firmly in place, even during sharp turns.
- Extra pockets let you store treats or toys.
Quality Reducers
- Thin, flimsy fabric wears out quickly.
- Seats that slide easily reduce safety.
- Strong chemical smells when new suggest lower quality materials were used.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about where and how you drive.
For Small Dogs (Boosters)
Booster seats lift small dogs up. This lets them see out the window, which reduces anxiety.
- These are usually best for the back seat or sometimes the front (if the airbag is off).
For Larger Dogs (Hammocks/Covers)
If your dog rides in the cargo area, a hammock style seat cover is better. It protects the entire back area.
- Hammocks prevent dogs from falling into the footwell space.
A good car seat makes travel stress-free for everyone. Check reviews and match the features to your dog’s size and your car’s needs.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Dog Car Seats
Q: Do I need a dog car seat for my small dog?
A: Yes. Small dogs need protection from sudden stops. A seat keeps them secure and off the floor.
Q: Are dog car seats safe for the front seat?
A: Usually, the back seat is safer. If you must use the front seat, you must turn off the passenger airbag. Airbags deploy with great force.
Q: How do I choose the right size?
A: Measure your dog when sitting and lying down. Then, compare those measurements to the seat’s internal dimensions. Always check the weight limit too.
Q: What is the main difference between a booster seat and a crate?
A: A booster seat lifts a small dog up and secures them with a harness. A crate is a fully enclosed, hard-sided carrier.
Q: How often should I clean the car seat?
A: You should spot clean spills right away. Fully wash the removable covers every few weeks, or whenever they look dirty.
Q: Will a car seat protect my dog in a real crash?
A: Car seats are designed to restrain your dog during sudden braking or minor accidents. They offer restraint, but they are not crash-tested like human car seats.
Q: What if my dog gets carsick in the seat?
A: If motion sickness happens, try using a booster seat so they can see outside. Also, make sure the seat is firmly installed so there is less unexpected movement.
Q: Are all car seats easy to install?
A: No. Some use complex clips. Look for seats that use simple LATCH systems or strong, straightforward seatbelt wraps for easier installation.
Q: What material is best for hot weather?
A: Look for breathable mesh or cooling fabric covers. Avoid dark vinyl, which can get very hot in direct sun.
Q: Can I use this seat for my new puppy?
A: Yes, but ensure the puppy is small enough for the seat’s safety restraints. You need to train the puppy to like the seat before long trips.