Road tripping? Make sure you invest in the best dog car seat for your four-pawed bestie. Car seats for dogs keep them safe, secure, and comfortable during car rides, reducing accident risks, motion sickness, and travel anxiety, whilst encouraging good behavior on the road. 

They also mean fewer distractions for the driver and a cleaner car, keeping hair contained! Whether you want something for a small dog, a big dog, or even multiple dogs, keep reading for the best dog car seats on the market. Before you head off on your travels, be sure to check out our top tips for traveling with dogs on long car rides, too! 

Dog Car Seat Buying Guide

When looking for a car seat for your dog, the most important things to consider are the size and weight capacity of the seat. It should be big enough for your dog to be comfortable in, without giving them excess space to move around. 

It should also be made from comfortable, breathable materials that are durable and easy to clean, with high visibility, quick access, and safety tethers for security. Other things you may want to consider include ease of installment, portability, style, and handy extra features like storage pockets. 

Top Picks

Top Pick – PetSafe Happy Ride Car Seat 

Runner-Up – Kurgo Small Skybox Rear Dog Booster Seat 

Best Double Seat – Snoozer Lookout II Dog Car Seat

Best Budget Double – PetsFit Dog Car Booster Seat With 2 Clip-On Safety Leashes

Best Crate Seat – Happy Ride Collapsible Travel Crate

Best Bed Seat – Top Paw 2-in-1 Convertible Vehicle Booster Tote Seat

Best For Large Dogs – K&H Pet Products Buckle n’ Go Pet Seat

Best Heated Car Seat – K&H Bucket Heated Knockdown Dog Booster Seat

Best Budget Pick – FRISCO Travel Dog Bucket Booster Seat

Top Pick: PetSafe Happy Ride Car Seat 

The PetSafe Happy Ride Car Seat is our top pick for its high-quality construction. It’s 17 x 17 x 22 inches in size and supports up to 30 lbs in weight. 

Key features:

17 x 17 x 22 inches

Supports up to 30 lbs

Comes in brown or navy

Fits most cars, trucks, and SUVs

9-inch high raise platform 

Removable cushion and fleece liner

Machine washable liner

Safety tether

What we like:

The 9-inch-high raised platform allows even the smallest of dogs to see out the window. It has a comfy cushion and fleece liner which is removable and machine washable, as well as an in-built safety tether to keep your dog still. It’s also available to buy in brown and navy and fits inside most cars, trucks, and SUVs.

What to consider:

It’s on the pricey side, but it’s reflected in the quality of the materials. It’s also not ideal for large dogs (or medium dogs on the larger side).

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Petsafe Happy Ride® Dog Safety Seat

The PetSafe Happy Ride Dog Safety Seat keeps your pup secure and comfortable while traveling. With an elevated design for better views, durable construction, and a safety tether, it ensures safe car rides. Easy to install and clean, it’s perfect for small to medium dogs who love road trips!

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Runner-Up: Kurgo Small Skybox Rear Dog Booster Seat 

The Kurgo Small Skybox Rear Dog Booster Seat is our runner-up pick. It’s specifically designed for the back seat of the car and holds up to 30 lbs in weight. 

Key features:

15 x 8 x 12 inches

Holds up to 30 lbs 

Green and grey rear seat 

High-walled elevated design

Doubles as a travel bed 

Soft plush material 

Padded interior

Installs via seatbelt

Integrated tether

Storage pockets

Collapsible 

What we like:

It’s super comfy with a soft plush texture and padded interior, high walls for privacy, and just enough boost to let your dog see what’s going on outside if they want to. It also doubles up as a pet bed for trips away and folds up for storage afterward.

Installation is a breeze with the universal rear webbing that fits any car seat and an integrated tether to attach your dog’s harness. It also has storage pockets for road trip supplies.

What to consider:

The cover isn’t removable or machine washable, so we recommend spot cleaning and vacuuming hair fallout to maintain it. 

Kurgo Skybox Rear Seat Booster

The Kurgo Skybox Rear Seat Booster gives your small dog a safe, elevated spot to enjoy car rides. Designed for the back seat, it secures easily with adjustable straps and includes a tether for added safety. Durable, waterproof, and collapsible for storage, it’s perfect for road-tripping pups!

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Best Double Seat: Snoozer Lookout II Dog Car Seat

If you’ve got two pups to travel with, check out the Snoozer Lookout II Dog Car Seat. It comes in four colors; black, denim blue, brown, and khaki, as well as three sizes for different dogs.

Key features:

Comes in small (17 x 15 x 19″), medium (17 x 22 x 19″), large (17 x 30 x 19″)

Small holds 18 lbs, medium holds 25 lbs, large holds 34 lbs

Available in four colors

Elevated design 

Soft plush sherpa lining

Sturdy zipper

Internal safety strap 

Water, fade, mildew, and UV-resistant 

Machine washable cover 

Storage drawer 

What we like:

It’s a beautifully made car seat, with a soft plush sherpa lining, and a storage drawer for leashes, treats, and more. It’s raised and sturdy, with a secure zipper and an internal safety strap for harnesses and collars. The fabric is also waterproof and resistant to fade, mildew, and UV damage for regular, long-term use, and the cover is machine washable for effortless upkeep. 

What to consider:

It’s quite a luxurious product, so it may not be suitable for buyers on a budget. 

Snoozer® Lookout® II Dog Car Seat

The Snoozer® Lookout® II Dog Car Seat provides a cozy, secure ride for your pup. With a plush interior, elevated design for better views, and a built-in storage drawer, it’s perfect for road trips. Includes a safety strap for added security, ensuring comfort and protection on every journey!

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Best Budget Double: PetsFit Dog Car Booster Seat With 2 Clip-On Safety Leashes

If you’re looking for something a little cheaper, check out the PetsFit Dog Car Booster Seat With 2 Clip-On Safety Leashes. It holds up to 45 lbs and comes in black and grey. 

Key features:

23 x 16 x 13 inches

Holds 45 lbs 

Comes in black and grey 

Waterproof 600 D Oxford cloth

Soft fleece lining

Comfy pillow

Two elevated modes

Patented universal buckles

Safety leash tethers 

Adjustable lengths

Collapsible 

Side pockets 

What we like:

With two elevated modes to enjoy the view and relieve motion sickness, you can pick what best suits your dog and your car. It’s also fitted with two specially designed, patented buckles that are made to secure onto any car’s seat belt, with adjustable internal safety tethers for a personalized fit. 

It’s made from high-quality, waterproof 600 D Oxford fabric with a soft fleece lining and a comfy pillow to keep your dog supported at all times. It’s also collapsible with useful side pockets for days out. 

What to consider:

It’s not suitable for large breeds. 

Petsfit Dog Car Booster Seat with 2 Clip-On Safety Leashes

The Petsfit Dog Car Booster Seat keeps your pup safe and comfy on the road. Designed for small dogs, it features two safety clips, an elevated view, and a soft, washable liner. Easy to install and foldable for storage, it’s a great travel essential for stress-free car rides!

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Best Crate Seat: Happy Ride Collapsible Travel Crate

The Happy Ride Collapsible Travel Crate doubles up as a portable crate with a high-quality leather handle. An award-winning product; it’s spacious and comfy without taking up too much room, designed to fit perfectly on one seat with a 60 lb capacity. 

Key features:

27 x 19 x 28 Inches

Holds up to 60 lbs

Navy and grey design

Doubles up as a portable crate

Spacious and comfortable

Mesh front and sides

Leather handle

Pop-up metal frame

Two zipper doors

Hand window 

Comfy pad and fleece cover

Two storage pockets

Chew-proof design

Secures via headrest and seatbelt

Waterproof and machine washable

2022 Pet Innovation Award winner

What we like:

The mesh front and sides provide 360-degree ventilation and visibility whilst the pop-up metal frame keeps it stable. It secures onto your car’s headrest and seat belt, which stays hidden between the fabric panels, out of temptation’s way. 

It has two easy-access zipper doors, two storage pockets, and a hand window for treats and petting, as well as a comfy sitting pad with a removable machine-washable fleece cover. The outer shell is also collapsible for storage and machine washing, and the whole thing is waterproof for stress-free outdoor transportation. 

PS: This one also works great for your kitties! Check out our PetSafe Happy Ride Carrier review over on TechnoMeow to see it in action. Here’s a sneak peek:

What to consider:

It’s on the pricey side, but worth it for the two-in-one design if you’re looking for something that covers all aspects of travel with your dog. 

Petsafe Happy Ride® Collapsible Travel Crate

The PetSafe Happy Ride Collapsible Travel Crate offers a secure, comfortable space for your dog during car rides. Its lightweight, foldable design makes it easy to store, while mesh panels provide ventilation and visibility. With a sturdy frame and safety straps, it ensures a stress-free and safe travel experience!

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Best Bed Seat: Top Paw 2-in-1 Convertible Vehicle Booster Tote Seat

If you’re looking for something your dog can also use as a bed on overnight trips, check out the Top Paw 2-in-1 Convertible Vehicle Booster Tote Seat. 

Key features:

19 x 17 x 16 inches

Holds up to 30 lbs

Grey design

Doubles as a booster and a bed

High-quality nylon zippers

Safety tether

Seat belt loop

Water-repellent 

Machine washable

Storage pockets

What we like:

It features high-quality nylon zippers that seamlessly transform the seat into a comfy bed, with a stylish grey design made from water-resistant, machine-washable fabric. It holds up to 30 lbs in weight and secures to your car seat using the seat belt loop, with an in-built safety tether and handy storage pockets. 

What to consider:

It’s not suitable for large dogs. 

Top Paw® 2-in-1 Convertible Vehicle Booster Tote Seat

The Top Paw 2-in-1 Convertible Vehicle Booster & Tote Seat is a versatile travel solution for small dogs. It functions as both a secure car booster seat and a convenient carry tote. With a safety tether, durable design, and cozy interior, it keeps your pup comfortable and secure on the go!

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Best For Large Dogs: K&H Pet Products Buckle n’ Go Pet Seat

The K&H Pet Products Buckle n’ Go Pet Seat is our top pick for owners of large breeds, as it’s 21 x 19 x 19 inches and has no weight limit.

Key features:

21 x 19 x 19 inches

No weight limit

Black and tan 

Open-top box design 

Mesh sides 

Leash tether 

Seat belt buckle

Headrest loops

Fold-up frame 

One-year limited warranty 

What we like:

The open-top box design provides security for large dogs who don’t like enclosed spaces with enough room to be comfy. It’s also excellent for heavy shedders, keeping loose hair inside the seat, and the mesh sides keep it breathable and visible if they want to lay down. 

The leash tether keeps them safe, and it’s super easy to install and uninstall, with a seat belt buckle and front and back straps that can loop around your car’s headrests, as well as a foldable frame that collapses flat for easy storage.

What to consider:

The seat belt buckle may not be compatible with cars that have non-standard proprietary belt locks, such as some Honda models.

K&H Pet Products Buckle n’ Go Pet Seat

The K&H Pet Products Buckle N’ Go Pet Seat provides a secure and comfortable travel space for your dog. Designed for back seat safety, it features durable sides, mesh panels for ventilation, and adjustable straps for easy installation. Keeps your pup protected while allowing them to enjoy the ride!

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Best Heated Car Seat: K&H Bucket Heated Knockdown Dog Booster Seat

The K&H Bucket Heated Knockdown Dog Booster Seat is our top heated pick for dogs who feel the cold. If you live in a cold climate or often travel during winter, it’s a great investment for long journeys, especially for seniors and sensitive pups. 

Key features:

Comes in small (18 x 18 x 16”) and large (22 x 20 x 16”) 

Elevated two-toned grey design 

Durable heavier denier fabric 

Plush fleece interior 

Washable soft quilted cover 

Curved back for a better fit

Buckles in with seatbelt 

Includes two safety tethers

Removable heating pad

Accessible entrance

Collapsible 

Comes with USB for heater 

What we like:

The removable heater comes with a USB charger, and it fits snugly inside the car seat to warm up your pup on their travels. The seat itself is made with durable heavier denier fabric for long-lasting performance, with a plush fleece interior for cozy journeys, and a soft quilted cover that’s removable and machine washable. 

It buckles in using the car’s seat belt for easy installation and comes with two safety tethers for your dog’s collar or harness. It’s also collapsible for storage and truly made with comfort in mind, with a contoured back for better support, and an elevated design for a better view. The curved back also ensures a tight fit for more peace of mind, and the accessible entrance makes it suitable for dogs of all ages and abilities.

What to consider:

Although the cover is removable and machine washable, the brand recommends only machine washing it occasionally on cooler cycles and hand or spot cleaning it more often than not. 

K&H Pet Products Bucket Heated Knockdown Dog Booster Seat, Gray, Large

The K&H Pet Products Bucket Booster Heated Pet Seat keeps your pup warm and secure during car rides. Featuring a built-in heating element, an elevated design for better views, and a safety tether, it ensures comfort and protection. Perfect for chilly trips, it’s a cozy travel solution for small dogs!

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Best Budget Pick: FRISCO Travel Dog Bucket Booster Seat

The FRISCO Travel Dog Bucket Booster Seat is our top pick for buyers on a budget. It’s from beloved pet retailer Chewy’s own brand, so you know you can count on them for good quality and even better value.

 

Key features:

Regular (14 x 14 x 16”) or large sizes (14 x 14 x 22”)

Comes in black and grey with teal

Sturdy and secure 

High-quality Oxford cloth

Comfy foam filling 

Adjustable harness tether 

Hidden seatbelt path 

Storage pockets 

What we like:

It’s made from high-quality Oxford cloth with a comfortable, supportive foam filling to keep your pup comfy on long journeys. The hidden seatbelt path keeps it safely in place, and the adjustable harness tether keeps your dog secure on the road. It also has storage spaces on the front and sides to keep all of your pup’s travel supplies on hand. 

What to consider:

Unfortunately, the cover isn’t removable so it takes a little more care to clean. 

Frisco Travel Dog Bucket Booster Seat, Gray/Teal, Regular

The Frisco Dog Bucket Booster Seat provides a safe and elevated ride for your pup. With a sturdy yet cozy design, it secures easily to your car seat and includes an adjustable tether for added safety. The soft, removable cover ensures easy cleaning, making travel comfortable and hassle-free!

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FAQs 

Are dog car seats better than harnesses?

Both products are effective at keeping dogs safe in the car, but car seats tend to be more comfortable and keep the car cleaner. However, a harness may suit you more if you’re looking for a cheaper option or something for a larger dog. 

What size car seat should I get for my dog? 

Your dog’s car seat should be big enough for them to be comfortable, but not so big that they can move around too much in the event of an accident. Follow the size charts that accompany the products online and check the weight capacity, too. 

How do I get my dog comfortable with their car seat?

If your dog is unsure or anxious about their car seat, introduce it gradually and try to associate it with something positive. Don’t rush it, as they may develop a fear of being in the car. 

Final Thoughts

Looking for the best car seat for your dog? We’ve got you covered! Let us know your thoughts on our top picks below and if your pup suffers from car anxiety, be sure to check out our list of the best dog chews for anxiety, too.