Bringing your dog along for the ride can make any journey more enjoyable — whether a quick trip to the park or a cross-country road trip. But before you buckle your seatbelt and head out, it’s important to think about dog car safety.

Car accidents, distractions, and heatstroke are just a few of the risks dogs face in vehicles. Fortunately, a few simple precautions can help ensure every car ride is safe and enjoyable for your four-legged companion. In this comprehensive guide to car safety for dogs, we’ll break down everything you need to know — from choosing the right restraint system to managing heat risks and road trip essentials.

Why Dog Car Safety Is So Important

According to the American Automobile Association (AAA), an unrestrained dog in a crash at 30 mph can be thrown with with 2,400 pounds of force. Meaning, your dog will continue to move forward at the speed of the car, even when the car suddenly stops or slows down due to a crash. That not only puts your dog at serious risk but also endangers the driver and other passengers.

Here’s why car safety for dogs should always be a priority:

• Dogs can distract the driver by climbing into the front seat or moving around

• Unrestrained dogs can be injured or killed during a sudden stop or collision

• Open windows and truck beds pose serious ejection risks

• Heatstroke in parked cars is a life-threatening emergency

Making safety part of your routine protects your dog and everyone in the vehicle.

Best Dog Car Safety Equipment

The foundation of dog car safety starts with the right equipment. Just like humans wear seat belts, dogs need proper restraints when riding in a vehicle.

Crash-Tested Dog Seat Belts and Harnesses

Harness-style seat belts are among the safest and most convenient ways to secure your dog. Look for models that are crash-tested and specifically designed for vehicle travel. My personal favorite is Kurgo. Never use a seat belt with a regular collar — this can cause serious injury.

Key features to look for:

• Crash-test certification (Center for Pet Safety is the gold standard)

• Chest padding for comfort

• Strong, adjustable straps

• Easy integration with your car’s seat belt system

Other top brands include Sleepypod Clickit and Ruffwear Load Up.

Dog Travel Crates and Carriers

For both small and large breeds, a travel crate provides an enclosed, secure space during the drive. A crash-tested crate offers excellent protection in the event of an accident.

Ideal crates for car safety for dogs should be:

• Hard-sided and impact-resistant

• Properly ventilated

• Secured to the vehicle using tie-downs or a seat belt

Brands like Gunner Kennels, Variocage, and Impact Crates have received high safety ratings in crash simulations.

Car Barriers for Dogs

Dog barriers help prevent your pet from climbing into the front seat, reducing distractions. While barriers don’t provide crash protection, they are useful when used alongside a harness or crate.

Options include:

• Backseat mesh or metal barriers

• Cargo area dividers for SUVs

• Hammock-style seat covers with built-in barrier panels

We personally use a hammock-style seat cover with a hard bottom to extend the surface area of the back seat, provide a sturdy base for Rue, and keep the seat leather protected from her claws. We also have a car bed on top of the hammock.

Where Should Your Dog Ride in the Car?

The safest location for your dog in a vehicle is in the back seat. This keeps them away from airbags, which can cause serious injuries in a crash.

Avoid letting your dog:

• Sit in the front seat

• Ride on your lap

• Travel unrestrained in the truck bed

• Lean far out of open windows

If you’re using an SUV or hatchback, secure a crate or barrier in the cargo area behind the second row.

Never Leave Your Dog Unattended in a Parked Car

Even with the windows cracked, parked cars can become dangerously hot within minutes. On a 70-degree day, the inside of a car can reach over 100 degrees in less than half an hour. Dogs are highly susceptible to heatstroke, which can be fatal.

Many states and municipalities have laws against leaving pets unattended in vehicles. Some allow passersby or authorities to intervene to rescue an animal in danger.

If you can’t bring your dog with you into a store or restaurant, it’s best to leave them safely at home.

Preparing for Road Trips: Dog Car Safety Tips for Long Drives

If you’re planning a longer drive or road trip with your dog, consider these safety tips to make travel smoother and safer.

Pack a Dog Travel Safety Kit

Be sure to include:

• Food and water (plus travel-safe bowls)

• Leash, collar, and ID tags (and an extra walk set)

• Waste bags and paper towels

• Dog-safe cleaning supplies

• A first aid kit with vet contact info

• Any needed medications

• Your dog’s vaccination records

A familiar toy or blanket can provide comfort and reduce travel anxiety. I’ve linked everything in our Amazon Storefront that I have in my car at all times.

Plan Frequent Breaks

Take breaks every 2–3 hours to allow your dog to stretch, relieve themselves, and hydrate. Use rest stops, parks, or pet-friendly trails for exercise.

Apps like BringFido or AllTrails can help you find dog-friendly pit stops along your route.

Keep Your Vehicle Comfortable

• Use seat covers or hammocks to protect upholstery and provide comfort

• Use sunshades on windows to keep temperatures down

• Consider a small fan or cooling mat during hot weather

• Keep water readily available, especially in warmer climates

Dealing with Dog Anxiety and Motion Sickness in the Car

Not all dogs love the car right away. If your dog is nervous or gets carsick, here are a few tips to ease the process and improve dog car safety:

Gradual Training

Start with short drives and slowly increase the duration. Reward calm behavior with treats or praise. Keep initial trips low-stress, avoiding busy highways or unfamiliar destinations at first.

Natural Calming Aids

Consider:

• Pheromone sprays like Adaptil

• Calming chews or supplements (check with your vet)

• Anxiety wraps or vests (like a ThunderShirt)

Prescription Medications

For severe anxiety or nausea, your veterinarian can recommend anti-anxiety medications or anti-nausea drugs that make travel safer and more comfortable. I personally give Rue Cerenia (great for inflammation!)  if I know we’ll be going on a windy drive.

Dog Car Safety for Puppies and Senior Dogs

Young puppies and senior dogs may require special considerations for car safety.

Puppies

• Use a properly sized, secure crate or small harness

• Bring familiar bedding or a toy for comfort

• Take more frequent potty breaks

Senior Dogs

• Use a ramp or step to help them into the car

• Add orthopedic bedding in a crate or seat

• Watch for signs of joint discomfort or heat sensitivity

• Limit very long drives if your dog has medical issues

Recommended Dog Car Safety Accessories

Here’s a checklist of must-have gear to keep your dog safe and comfortable on the road:

Is It Illegal to Drive with an Unrestrained Dog?

Laws regarding dog car safety vary depending on where you live. Some states and cities have regulations that require dogs to be restrained in vehicles, while others have general animal welfare laws that can apply.

For example:

• New Jersey: Unrestrained pets in a vehicle can result in fines under animal cruelty laws.

• Hawaii: It’s illegal to drive with a pet on your lap.

• California: Dogs riding in a truck bed must be safely restrained.

Always check your local and state laws before traveling with your pet.

What to Do if You’re in a Car Accident with Your Dog

No one wants to think about being in a crash, but being prepared can make a difference.

If you’re in an accident and your dog is with you:

• Check for injuries to yourself and your dog

• Keep your dog restrained to prevent them from fleeing in fear

• Contact emergency services and mention there is a pet in the vehicle

• Visit a veterinarian immediately, even if injuries are not obvious

• Keep your dog’s medical records and microchip number handy

It’s also a good idea to have a photo of your dog on your phone in case you become separated.

Wrapping Up Dog Car Safety

Whether you’re headed to the vet, a weekend getaway, or a cross-country road trip, practicing car safety for dogs should be part of your routine. It only takes a few extra minutes to secure your dog properly, but that small step can prevent serious injuries — or even save a life.

Dog car safety is more than just a convenience — it’s a responsibility. And with the right gear and preparation, every ride can be a safe and positive experience for both you and your pup.