A Product Guide for Travelling with a Dog in the Car

The best way for a dog to travel in the car is to be comfortably restrained or secured. Whether you’re taking your dog in the car for a 5-minute trip to the local park or heading out on a week-long road trip across the country, keeping your dog safe and secure in your vehicle should be a priority.

The safest place in the car for a dog is to sit restrained or secured in the back seat, alternatively, if you have a station wagon or SUV it’s also safe for them to be in the boot. If you are in an accident, your dog can seriously get injured or worse by the airbags when riding in the front, and especially when sitting on your lap while driving. Wherever you decide they ride, it is important that your dog is secure to ensure they are less likely to distract you while driving, get injured or killed in a car crash, or become a dangerous projectile in the crash.

There are a number of dog car travel solutions to keep your dog safe and comfortable, so we have put together a guide to help you choose the best way to travel with your dog in the car.

Dog Car Crates and Carriers
Using a dog crate, carrier, or cage when travelling in the car with your pet is a great option to keep them safe and secure. The familiarity and dark or enclosed space of their crate or dog carrier often helps them to feel calm. Like anything, training is key but once a dog is crate trained, they will see it as their safe space.

Dog car crates and carriers come in a variety of sizes, so is a great option for small, medium, or large-sized dogs, or whether you have a car, van, ute, or SUV. You’ve also got many material options from plastic, soft material, or wire crates. Choose one that is fit for your vehicle, but, most importantly, choose the correct size crate for your dog. A good rule of thumb is to make sure the dog crate is just big enough to allow your dog to both stand up and turn around comfortably.

Make sure the dog carrier or crate is secured to the inside of your car using straps or for smaller crates you can use the car’s seat belts. It is also a good idea to make your dog comfortable when travelling in the car in a crate by adding their bed or favourite blanket.

Dog Car Restraint
A dog car restraint or dog seat belt is a great solution if you are sick of your pet jumping into the front seat or being unsettled on car trips. These products are designed to click into the seat belt socket in your car and are a quick and easy way to restrain dogs of all sizes. They are available in a wide range of designs but generally are made to let your dog sit or lay down comfortably. These products are best used in conjunction with your dog’s harness, not attached to a collar.

Dog Car Seat or Booster Seat
A dog car seat or booster seat is a great option for small breed dogs or puppies as not only elevates them so they can have a better view out the car window but also keeps them safe and secure while you are driving. These products also help keep your car’s upholstery clean and free from scratches. Dog car seats are generally designed to hang over your car’s headrests and then you simply strap your dog into the car seat by the built-in safety attachment or seat belt. To ensure your dog is comfortable, be sure to use your dog's harness to attach them to the car seat and a collar.

Dog Harness for the Car
If you are using a dog car restraint, dog seat belt, or car seat, make sure you use it in conjunction with a dog harness. The harness will attach easily keeping your pet anchored in case of sudden braking and will be much more comfortable and safe than a collar. They are suitable for dogs of all ages and sizes and come in a range of designs. Although not all dog car harnesses are made equally, so it is best to do your research and if available it is always best to invest in a crash-tested car harness for the added peace of mind that your pet will be secured in the case of an accident.

Using a harness when travelling in the car also has the added benefit of being multi-functional, as many car harnesses make good walking harnesses so you can unstrap your pet from the car, attach a leash and get straight into your walk or adventures.

Dog car seat cover
Dog car seat covers or car hammocks for dogs are a good way to protect your car seats against the mud and sharp claws of your pet. They generally attach to your car's front and back headrests and are made from water-resistant durable material. These products don't restrain your dog, so it’s best they are used in conjunction with dog car harnesses or dog seat belts to offer comfort and safety for your pet while protecting your car's interior.

Dog Ramp
For large breed dogs, senior pets, or dogs with short legs, it can be a challenge jumping up into the boot of the car, especially if you drive a large 4wd or ute. If you struggle to lift them a dog ramp for the car is a great option, especially if your pet has joint issues or arthritis. Pet ramps are also used with dogs with short legs who prefer their independence. A dog ramp is a better option than steps because it is easier and a lot more comfortable on their joints. Pet ramps are designed to fold up so they are easy to carry and to stash away in the boot of your car. They vary in weight, material, and the amount of weight they can hold. Choose one that is most suitable for your dog and vehicle.

Some dogs love travelling in the car, while others do not so much. Keep them comfortable by bringing their bed, blanket, and dog toy. Other dogs struggle and get car sick. Some simple tips to help your dog with car sickness is to:

• Make sure they don’t eat immediately before they travel in the car
• Keep a window open so they can get some fresh air
• Use some calming products or a travel spray
• If you are planning on travelling with your dog long distance, read our blog with tips on taking your dog on a road trip.

Remember the most important thing is to keep your dog safe, secure, and comfortable when travelling in the car. If you need further assistance on dog car travel items, reach out to our friendly customer experience team.