We Brits love our pets, and as pet ownership continues to soar, choosing a good pet car seat to keep our best friends safe and comfortable is becoming ever more important. With safety as the number one priority, pet owners can use a dog barrier to keep their pets in their own space. Still, others prefer to welcome their pets into the main part of the car, so they are looking for car seats that will not only secure their pets in place but also provide them with a cosy environment for the journey. Beyond safety, considerations like reducing travel anxiety, especially for smaller dogs who can’t easily see out of the car window, play a significant role in selecting the ideal pet car seat. From compact designs tailored for toy breeds to spacious options for those bigger boys and girls, the market offers a multitude of choices to cater to every dog’s unique needs.
Safety should always be at the top of the list for any reliable car seat for pets. A robust harness system and sturdy construction to crash-test standards give you peace of mind that your pet remains secure and protected during sudden stops or accidents. Comfort is just as important – let’s face it, if the seat isn’t comfy, your pet isn’t going to want to stay in it. Plush padding, breathable materials, and ample room for movement will help make the journey enjoyable. Additionally, smaller dogs may experience heightened travel anxiety or even travel sickness due to their limited view, so designs incorporating elevated platforms or booster seats, allowing them to enjoy the scenery can make them feel more at ease during travel.
Understanding that not all dogs are created equal, manufacturers have developed a range of pet car seats tailored to different breeds and sizes. While compact and cosy options are ideal for toy breeds, providing them with a snug and secure space, larger breeds benefit from spacious seats that accommodate their size and weight comfortably. It’s also worth considering things like ease of installation, portability, and durability when choosing to help make things easy for you. And it’s worth ensuring you have a suitable dog seat belt which will attach to your car’s seat belt anchor or headrest.
Whether it’s your daily commute or a cross-country adventure, it’s worth investing in the best pet car seat to keep your pet safe and give you peace of mind.
Best pet car seats at a glance:
Editor’s choice: Wuglo Extra Stable Dog Car Seat – Buy now from Amazon UK
Best for small dogs: GoBuyer Waterproof Pet Dog Car Seat – Buy now from Amazon UK
Best for big dogs: Sheripet Dog Car Seat Bed – Buy now from Amazon UK
Best pet car seats
Editor's choice
Pros
- Easy to fit and remove
- Secure
Cons
- Zips can be pulled down by the dog
Best for small dogs
Pros
- Perfect for small dogs
- Folds away when not in use
Cons
- Doesn't sit completely flat on some front seats
Best for converting to a seat cover
Pros
- Quick fitting
- Easy to clean
Cons
- No padding in the base
Best luxurious finish
Pros
- Ultra-comfy
- Easy to clean
Cons
- The sides could be sturdier
Best dual-purpose seat
Pros
- Dual-purpose
- Good view and ventilation
Cons
- Cover push button can be stiff to use
Best for giving small dogs a boost
Pros
- Gives your pet a better view
- Foldable for easy storage
Cons
- Dog can't see out of the sides when lying down
Best for big dogs
Pros
- Perfect for big dogs
- High-density sponge base
Cons
- Slight chemical smell when new
Frequently asked questions:
What is the safest car seat for a dog? It really depends on what kind of dog you have, how it behaves in your car and what type of vehicle you have. Some pets are the epitome of good behaviour and only need minimal securing, but those less well-behaved might need something a bit more substantial, perhaps even a dog crate. It’s usually preferable to keep your dog in the rear of your vehicle.
What is the best restraint for a dog in a car? Again, it comes down to your own situation and personal preferences. A smaller dog might be quite safe and happy with a single seat belt secured to its collar, but other dogs may need a suitable harness to keep them safe and in place so that they don’t cause a distraction.
What is the best dog booster car seat? The one that is most comfortable and gives your pet the best view, not to mention giving them that confidence boost as well.
Are dog car seats safe in the UK? It’s a legal requirement that dogs are secured while travelling and a dog car seat is probably one of the best ways of doing this. It ensures that your dog is restrained and reduces the risk of injury in the event of an accident.
Alex Boyd is a Commercial Content Writer for Parkers, specialising in power tools and pressure washers. In his spare time, he enjoys DIY, travel, gardening and music.
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