Traveling with your dog by car — whether for a quick trip to the vet or a long road trip — can be a fun and rewarding experience. But it also comes with responsibilities. Ensuring your dog is safe, comfortable, and secure in the vehicle isn’t just a matter of convenience — it’s about preventing accidents, minimizing stress, and following the law in some regions.
In this article, you’ll learn the best practices for safely transporting your dog in a car, including the types of restraints available, preparation tips, and common mistakes to avoid.
Why car safety matters for dogs
Many pet parents let their dogs ride freely in the car, often with their heads out the window or even sitting in their laps. While it may look cute, this behavior can be extremely dangerous. An unrestrained dog can:
- Be thrown forward in the event of sudden braking or a crash
- Distract the driver, increasing the risk of an accident
- Jump out of an open window or door
- Be seriously injured by airbags if sitting in the front seat
- Escape in a panic during an accident or stop
In fact, in some countries and U.S. states, driving with an unrestrained pet is against the law. Proper safety measures are essential for everyone’s protection.
Choose the right restraint system
There are several safe and effective ways to secure your dog in the car. The best choice depends on your dog’s size, breed, behavior, and the type of vehicle you drive.
1. Travel crates:
Ideal for small to medium dogs or any dog that feels safe in a crate.
- Choose a crash-tested crate made for cars
- Secure the crate so it doesn’t slide around
- Provide soft bedding and ventilation
- Great for long trips, anxious dogs, or crate-trained pets
2. Harness seat belts:
A dog car harness clips into the seat belt system and keeps your dog seated or lying safely.
- Must be crash-tested and properly sized
- Use with a safety tether that attaches to the seat belt
- Never attach a seat belt to a regular walking harness or collar
- Allows your dog more movement than a crate but still provides protection
3. Dog car seats or booster seats:
Best for small breeds who like to see out the window.
- Elevates the dog while keeping them safely restrained
- Often includes a built-in tether for added security
- Should be used with a harness, not a collar
- Helps prevent motion sickness by stabilizing their view
4. Pet barriers:
For large breeds traveling in SUVs or wagons.
- Install between the back seat and trunk space
- Keeps dogs from jumping into the front
- Doesn’t protect from impact unless paired with a crate
- Good for dogs who need more room to lie down
Never let your dog ride in the front seat
The front seat is not safe for dogs due to the risk of airbag deployment. Airbags are designed for adults and can injure or kill a dog, even in a minor collision. Always place your dog in the back seat or trunk area (with protection).
Prepare your dog for car travel
If your dog is new to car rides or has had negative experiences, help them build positive associations with short, low-stress trips.
- Start with short rides around the block
- Use praise, treats, or toys to create good feelings
- Let them explore the car while it’s parked to get familiar with the space
- Never force a scared dog into the vehicle — go slow and steady
Plan for long trips
When taking your dog on longer journeys:
- Feed them 2–3 hours before traveling to reduce nausea
- Bring water, a bowl, and familiar items like toys or a blanket
- Schedule breaks every 2–3 hours for potty time, water, and stretching
- Never leave your dog in a parked car, even for a few minutes — the temperature can rise or fall dangerously fast
If your dog gets carsick, speak to your vet. They may recommend:
- Ginger supplements
- Prescription anti-nausea medication
- Behavioral desensitization
Keep the car comfortable and safe
Your dog’s comfort can impact their behavior on the road. To help:
- Keep windows partially open for airflow (not enough for escape)
- Use sunshades to block direct sunlight
- Play calm music to reduce anxiety
- Avoid sudden turns or loud sounds
- Make sure the surface they’re sitting or lying on is non-slip and padded
If your dog pants, whines, or drools excessively, they may be too hot, anxious, or uncomfortable. Pause the trip if needed.
Tips for traveling with multiple dogs
- Restrain each dog individually to prevent tangling or fighting
- Avoid placing dogs too close if they don’t normally sleep or rest near each other
- Ensure there’s enough space for all dogs to lie down comfortably
- Pack individual water bowls, treats, and toys to reduce competition
Traveling with more than one dog increases the risk of distraction, so prepare extra carefully.
After the trip
When you arrive:
- Let your dog explore the new space calmly
- Offer water and a bathroom break immediately
- Monitor their behavior for signs of stress or motion sickness
- Reward them for good behavior during the ride
If the trip ends at a potentially stressful place (like the vet), follow up with praise and playtime afterward to balance the experience.
Mistakes to avoid
- Letting your dog roam freely inside the car
- Tying your dog’s leash to a seat (risk of choking)
- Allowing your dog to ride in your lap or hang out the window
- Transporting in the bed of a pickup truck (extremely dangerous and often illegal)
- Using a restraint that’s not crash-tested or properly fitted
Your dog’s safety is just as important as anyone else’s in the vehicle.
A safe trip means a happy ride
When your dog is safely secured and feels comfortable in the car, travel becomes a positive experience for both of you. Whether it’s a drive to the park, a weekend getaway, or a routine vet visit, proper preparation turns car rides into calm, enjoyable journeys.
With the right gear, a little training, and a lot of love, you and your dog will be ready to hit the road — safely and happily.