Top 5 Rated Dog Car Seats: Safety Review Guide

Does your furry best friend turn your car rides into a chaotic, furry free-for-all? You love taking your dog along, but the constant worry about their safety and your own distraction can spoil the fun. Finding the perfect Rated Dog Car Seat feels like a mission impossible, doesn’t it? There are so many brands, sizes, and features, making it tough to know what truly keeps your pup safe and comfortable.

You want peace of mind on the road. You worry about sudden stops or sharp turns, and you definitely don’t want muddy paws all over your upholstery. This guide cuts through the confusion. We will break down exactly what makes a dog car seat “rated” for safety and help you match the best fit to your dog’s size and your car’s needs.

Keep reading to discover the top features to look for, avoid common mistakes, and finally choose a seat that makes every trip smoother and safer. Let’s buckle up and find the perfect ride for your loyal companion!

Top Rated Dog Car Seat Recommendations

No. 1

Crash-Tested Small Dog Car Seat (Test with FMVSS 213b - U.S. Child Restraint System) - 5 Star Safety Rated - Enclosed Dog Car Seats for Small Dogs, Cat, Pet Up To 15lbs - Built for Ultimate Protection

CRASH-TESTED : Our dog car seat has been independently crash-tested in the USA by the Center for Pet Safety (CPS) for pets weighing up to 25 lbs. It has received a 5-star safety rating for withstanding a crash force of at least 750lbs (Test with the U.S. child restraint system standard FMVSS 213b). The test results show nearly no movement during crashes, making it one of the safest dog car seats for small dogs and cats in the world.
SAFEST DESIGN : 99% of dog booster car seat or car seat for dogs on the market are not crash-tested, their open structure and inner leash often fail to protect your pets safely during car accidents. In most cases, the inner leash of their dog carseat will break and your dogs could be thrown around during accidents. In contrast, our crash-tested dog car seat relies on the seatbelt and the car seat itself to absorb crash forces, rather than depending on the inner safety tether that most companies use. This design allows us to withstand crash forces of at least 750 lbs, placing us in the top 1% of dog car seats that can truly safeguard your pets.
TOP COVER PROTECTION: Unlike most dog boosters with an open structure, our enclosed dog car seat features a top cover design that prevents dogs and cats from being thrown around or hitting the side door or front seat during car accidents, helping to keep them safely inside the car. In crash tests conducted by the Center for Pet Safety, none of the dog boosters with open structures passed, as the tested dogs were thrown around in the car, either due to inadequate inner safety tethers or being ejected because of the open design.
HOME PET BED : It not only can be used as a cat car seat or dog bed for car, but also a comfortable cat bed at home for small dogs and cats. They can walk in and out of the carrier when the front mesh is open.
HAND CARRY PET CARRIER (For Short Trips Only) : You can use it as a portable dog carrier for small dogs and cats during short-term vet visits, overnight camping trips, or for traveling between home and the car. However, this carrier is not intended for daily carrying use as a standard pet carrier; it is primarily designed for car safety. While it is heavier and may be less convenient to carry compared to non-crash-tested options. Nevertheless, its robust design allows it to withstand crash forces of at least 750 lbs during car accidents, ensuring your pet's safety in vehicles.

No. 2

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.

No. 3

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.

No. 4

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.

No. 5

Lamicall Dog Car Seat Cover for Back Seat - [Upgraded Anti-Ripped] Back Seat Extender for Dogs Hard Bottom, Waterproof Dog Hammock for Car with Mesh Window, Pet Backseat Protector SUV & Small Truck L

Keep Your Dog Comfy: This back seat extender for dogs expands to 52.7" wide and 24.8" deep, ensuring full cover the rear seat to prevent your furry best friend from slipping through seat gaps. It creates a stable, expanded space perfect for SUVs and small trucks, letting your pet to enjoy its ride in a safer environment. (Note: Not compatible with captain's chairs or bucket seats.）
Anti-Ripped & 430 lbs Max Load: This dog car seat cover hard bottom is built with seamless construction for even weight distribution, so it can resists tearing even on bumpy roads. combined with upgraded 5mm wave-textured PP board supports up to 430 lbs, its enough for two large dogs to stretch or rest comfortably on long trips. Ideal for big breeds, senior dogs, or multi-dog households.
100% Waterproof & Easy to Clean: The back seat pet cover for dogs features a 7-layer premium layers, the surface is made of high-density oxford fabric which scratch-resistant, wipe-clean. And first waterproof layer paires with a PVC layer that advanced dual waterproof to block all liquid seepage. Soft PP cotton interior cushions bumps for a smoother ride, while non-slip dots grip seats firmly. Machine washable for easy care. (Tip: Remove PP board and need use a laundry bag.)
Pet & Car-Friendly Design: The dog car seat cover for back seat features a mesh window for airflow and visual contact, easing your furry passenger's travel anxiety. The side non-slip zipper not only makes it easier for pets to get on and off but also protects your car door interior. With one large and two small storage pockets for toys and treats, plus an included dog seatbelt, it ensures a secure trip for you and your pet.
Quick Install & Easy Storage: No tools needed! Just insert the boards→tuck anchors into the rear seat crevices→clip and tighten at seat headrests→anchor at the handle above the rear door and zipper up. The foldable design of this dog seat cover comes with a storage bag for easy portability. Fits just right in your car, Ready for any trip.

No. 6

JOEJOY Dog Car Seat for Large Medium Sized Dogs Under 55 lbs, Dog Booster Seat for 2 Small Dogs with Detachable Washable Cover, Memory Foam Pet Car Seat with 2 Safety Belts and Storage Pockets

【Elevated Design, Perfect View】：Boost your pet up by 4 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 dog car seats for small dogs feature 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, the non-slip bottom and headrest strap keep the seat stable and secure. ensuring a safe and comfortable journey for your furry friend.
【Optimal Size】：This large dog car seat measures 30 in (L) X 19 in (W) X 14 in (H), providing ample space for medium to large dogs or two small dogs, fitting seamlessly into the back seat or trunk of your car. It's not just a car seat; it also doubles as a travel dog bed and sofa cushion and more. 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.

No. 7

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

No. 8

Dog Car Seat for Small/Medium Dogs,Pet Dog Booster Car Seat Puppy 15-35 lbs with Soft 4+2in Detachable Pads Detachable Elevated Cushion and Washable Cover Safety Belt Storage Pockets Easy to Install

Elevated View for Safety & Comfort--Our dog car booster seat lifts your pet 6 inches (4" + 2" detachable pads) with a dual-thickness design (5cm + 10cm, customizable) to suit different height needs. The car seat allows your furry friend to enjoy the view outside while reducing travel anxiety.The built-in adjustable safety strap securely fastens to your dog’s harness, preventing jumps or falls. A non-slip base and headrest strap keep the seat stable, ensuring safety and comfort throughout the journey. Whether it’s a quick vet visit or a long road trip, your pup will love the extra coziness and feel more at ease in the car.
Dog Car Seat Perfect for Small & Medium Sized Dogs--Dog car seats designed for pets under 35 lbs (or two small dogs under 15 lbs each), this dog booster seat fits most cars, SUVs, and trucks (front or back seats). Dimensions: 19.7"L × 19.7"W × 18.9"H. Pro tip: Measure your pet’s weight before purchase for the best fit! (Note: Regularly check the strap’s security and adjust the pad layers based on your pet’s size.)
3-Second Setup, Thoughtful Details--No tools needed—just thread the small dog car seat belt through the base loops and secure the headrest strap! The dual-thickness pads (5cm + 10cm) offer customizable height options. The removable cover features a smooth, high-quality zipper (durable and pet-safe), plus eco-friendly, odor-free materials—safe even if chewed or licked.
Waterproof & Easy to Clean, Reinforced Edges--The expanded liner of the pet car seat uses high-resilience foam for superior support, preventing sagging even with frequent use. Non-collapsing edges ensure stability when your pet steps on them. The waterproof liner of the puppy car seat resists spills and stains, while the machine-washable cover (inner foam not washable) makes cleanup effortless.
Shock-Absorbing Comfort for Smoother Rides--The plush short-pile fabric and high-density egg-crate foam cushion bumps, reducing road vibrations. A non-slip, thickened base + adjustable headrest strap prevent sliding during sudden stops. The memory foam filling provides optimal support, ensuring a calmer, happier ride for your pet.

Choosing the Best Rated Dog Car Seat: Your Ultimate Buying Guide

Taking your dog on a car ride should be fun and safe for everyone. A good dog car seat keeps your furry friend secure. It also keeps your car clean. This guide helps you pick the best one.

Key Features to Look For

When shopping, look closely at what the car seat offers. These features make a big difference in safety and comfort.

Safety First: Harness and Straps

Tether System: A strong tether connects to your dog’s harness. This stops them from jumping around. Look for adjustable tethers.
Seatbelt Loops: The seat itself must secure tightly to your car seat using the car’s seatbelt. A loose seat is dangerous.
Weight Limits: Always check the maximum weight the seat supports. Do not overload it.

Comfort and Size

Padding: Thick, soft padding means a happier dog. Memory foam is often a top choice.
Size Matters: Measure your dog while sitting. The seat must let them sit up comfortably, turn around, or lie down.
View: Many dogs like to see out the window. Elevated seats offer a better view, which can reduce car anxiety.

Important Materials for Durability and Cleanliness

The materials used determine how long the seat lasts and how easy it is to clean.

Outer Shell and Fabric

Waterproof Lining: Accidents happen. A waterproof or water-resistant liner protects your car seats underneath.
Durable Fabric: Look for tough, chew-resistant fabric like heavy-duty Oxford cloth or canvas. Cheap fabrics tear easily.
Breathability: On hot days, you need breathable mesh or vents. This prevents your dog from overheating.

Inner Structure

Sturdy Frame: The internal frame should be strong, often made of metal or high-density plastic. A weak frame collapses in a sudden stop.
Non-Slip Bottom: A rubberized bottom keeps the booster seat from sliding on leather or vinyl car seats.

Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality

Not all dog seats are made equal. A few details show you the quality level.

Quality Boosters

Easy Installation: High-quality seats install quickly using simple clips or buckles. Complex setups often lead to improper installation.
Removable Covers: If the cover zips off easily for washing, it improves the user experience greatly.
Extra Storage: Pockets for treats, leashes, or waste bags are very useful additions.

Quality Reducers

Flimsy Zippers: Cheap plastic zippers break quickly when used often.
Strong Chemical Smell: New seats should not have an overpowering chemical odor. This suggests low-quality materials were used.
Poor Stitching: Inspect the seams. Loose or uneven stitching shows the product might fall apart under stress.

User Experience and Use Cases

Think about where and how you will use the seat most often.

Daily Commuters

If you drive daily, prioritize easy cleaning and quick installation. A simple booster seat works well here. These seats keep small dogs secure on short trips.

Long Road Trips

For long drives, comfort is key. Look for extra cushioning and perhaps a built-in water dispenser holder. A seat that converts into a portable carrier is a bonus for stops along the way.

Anxious Dogs

Dogs that get nervous in the car benefit from enclosed or bucket-style seats. These create a cozy “den” feeling. Ensure the tether is short enough to keep them feeling snug but not restricted.

Top 10 Rated Dog Car Seat FAQs

Q: What is the main purpose of a dog car seat?

A: Its main purpose is to keep your dog safely secured during travel. It stops them from distracting the driver or getting injured in a sudden stop.

Q: Are dog car seats safe for large dogs?

A: Most traditional booster seats are designed for small to medium dogs. Large dogs need specialized, heavy-duty car safety harnesses or cargo barriers instead.

Q: How do I clean a dog car seat?

A: Most good seats have removable, machine-washable covers. Always check the care tag first. Spot clean spills immediately.

Q: Do I still need a harness if I use a car seat?

A: Yes, you absolutely do. The harness connects to the seat’s tether system. The seat restrains the booster, and the harness restrains the dog.

Q: Can I use a dog car seat in the front seat?

A: It is strongly recommended to place the car seat in the back seat. The front seat has active airbags that can seriously harm a small dog during deployment.

Q: What is the difference between a booster seat and a hammock?

A: A booster seat is a raised bucket that secures to the seat. A hammock stretches across the entire back seat, protecting the seats from dirt and acting as a barrier.

Q: How do I know the seat is properly installed?

A: The seat should not slide or shift when you push hard on it. All straps and tethers should be snug and correctly buckled into the car’s seatbelt system.

Q: Will this seat fit my SUV?

A: Most standard booster seats fit well in SUVs. Always measure the width of your back seat to ensure a snug fit for the base.

Q: Should I buy a heated car seat for my dog?

A: Heated seats are usually only necessary for very cold climates or for older dogs with stiff joints. Most dogs stay warm enough with regular padding.

Q: How long should the tether strap be?

A: The tether should be just long enough for your dog to sit or lie down comfortably. It should not be so long that your dog can stand up and reach the front seat.