The 9 Best Dog Car Seats of 2023

Use these picks to keep your dog comfortable and secure on your next road trip.

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Travel + Leisure / Alli Waataja

If you’re preparing to go on a long road trip with your dog or just looking for an easier way to bring them along for quick errands around town, you need to ensure your pet is securely contained not only for their safety, but for yours as well. Just as you wouldn't think twice about putting on your seat belt or selecting the safest car seat for a child, the same holds true when seeking the best dog car seat. In fact, the majority of the products we’re recommending also have crash-tested safety certifications from the Center for Pet Safety, an independent organization that evaluates products to determine how safe they are both for the pets and humans in a vehicle.

"One of the things pet owners have to be very much aware of is the pet products industry is highly unregulated," Lindsey A. Wolko, founder of the Center for Pet Safety, explains. "A lot of brands will go back after they get the pretty crash test and say yes, we passed, we self certify. And then they change their stitch count, they change materials, they change buckles, they change all sorts of things." CPS ensures the products they certify continue to meet safety requirements by regularly testing the products over time and comparing the results to the original product that passed the crash test.

We chose the Diggs Passenger Travel Carrier as our top pick due to its safety features, stylish design, and convenient versatility. In fact, while writing this article, I personally purchased this CPS-certified carrier to replace both my current car booster seat and travel carrier so that my dog and I stay safe while traveling together. That said, every dog is unique in temperament and size, so your pet travel needs may require a different type of product. Whether they’re a Maltese or a Mastiff, here are the best dog car seats to keep your best friend safe and comfortable on your next ride.

Diggs

This CPS-certified carrier includes seat belt clips and a buckle strap for the car, and a removable pee pad bed, too.

It only has top and side mesh panels for ventilation which also reduce a pet's visibility.

This crash-tested, CPS-certified dog carrier packs in smart features for safely and conveniently traveling with your pet. Dr. Mary Press, owner of Twin Cities Veterinary Hospital in Corte Madera, Calif., recommends using a carrier for car travel with a small dog. "That's what I do with my dog, especially when I'm going to fly with her," she said. "I always put her in a carrier." This is the best option for toy breeds that are too small to fit in a CPS-certified harness, and this carrier can be safely strapped in with seat belt clips and a buckle strap. It also features a removable bed that you can cover with pee pads and easily swap out using the side zippered panel, which is helpful for a road trip.

This carrier has useful features when outside of the car, too, including a removable crossbody strap, a trolley sleeve, and three zippered pockets. While the latter equals great storage for travel, this does mean there are only two mesh panels for air flow, one on the top and one on the side. That does offer more privacy, which can be more comforting for some dogs, but may cause other pets to be more nervous if they are used to better visibility.

Available in four colors, the chic, pliable carrier is recommended for animals under 18 pounds so make sure your pet can fit inside comfortably, and check any airline requirement dimensions carefully if planning to use it on a flight as well.

Price at time of publish: $185

The Details: 20 x 10.8 x 11.5 inches | 18 pound limit | Nylon

Amazon

This multipurpose Sleepypod is a comfortable pet bed for home, a travel carrier, and a crash-tested car seat.

It only fits dogs under 15 pounds and can't be used for plane travel.

The Sleepypod mobile pet carrier is a great car-travel option for anxious pets, as it's designed with a removable dome top that converts it from a CPS-certified pet car seat and carrier to a comfortable pet bed your dog can get used to as a safe space before hitting the road. The carrier has a secure hook and loop system for attaching it to a seat belt when it functions as a car seat and, going beyond the crash-tested certification from the CPS, Sleepypod actually replaces or provides a replacement discount on any brand of pet carrier or safety harness that's been damaged in an auto accident.

Sleepypod makes several travel carrier options (all CPS-certified), but the brand's namesake is this unique circular mobile pet bed, which comes in a mini size (13 x 5 inches) for pets 7 pounds or less and the standard size for pets 15 pounds or less, and it's available in five colors. It comes with an ultra-plush shearling bedding that can be removed and machine washed, has an easy-to-clean nylon exterior, and has padding on both the carry handle and the removable shoulder strap for your comfort while traveling (though it is too tall to fit under airplane seats).

Price at time of publish: $225 for standard

The Details: 17 x 6.5 inches | 15 pound limit | Luggage grade ballistic nylon

Rover

This is the only CPS-certified car harness for large dogs up to 110 pounds, and it does double duty as a walking harness.

It may not fit some breeds depending on their body type.

Large dogs, especially, should be strapped into a seat belt via a harness (or contained in a crate) to prevent them from distracting the driver, or from seriously injuring themselves, a passenger, or the driver in a car crash. "I've seen dogs that aren't strapped in hit the windshield and break ribs, or worse," warns Dr. Mary Press. "It's a good idea to strap your dog in."

Sleepypod's Clickit Terrain Plus Harness is the only car harness the CPS has certified for dogs up to 110 pounds, which is the maximum size they test as of now. For giant breeds such as Mastiffs, Newfoundlands, Great Pyrenees, or any dog over 110 pounds, Lindsey A. Wolko says they still recommend you use the Sleepypod Clickit Terrain Plus Harness, just understand the risks. "It is the safest harness we have tested to date for that class," she said.

Available in seven colors and four size options (small, medium, large, and x-large), this cushioned harness is a more affordable option for large dogs than a crate. It also works as both a walking harness with a double D-ring for the leash and as a car safety harness that's secured by running the car's seat belt through it. In fact, it's important to acclimate your dog to the harness before using it in a car, so taking your dog on walks while wearing it will get them used to the feel of it.

Price at time of publish: $138 for extra-large

The Details: 20.5 to 25.5 inches (small); 25.5 to 28 inches (medium); 28 to 31 inches (large); 31 to 41.5 inches (extra-large) | 18 (small) - 110 pounds (extra-large) limit | Nylon exterior and neoprene lining

Amazon

It has a soft, machine-washable cover, and includes a removable USB-powered heating pad.

This should only be used for dogs that fit the CPS-certified harnesses (at least 18 pounds) and secured so the harness can be directly connected to the car's seat belt.

First, a disclaimer regarding pet booster seat safety: the CPS has tested booster seats, console seats, and other pet travel seats that attach to the seat or seat belt and have a tether that attaches to the dog's collar or harness, and they have yet to certify a single product in this category. "If you are connecting the dog's harness to the travel seat and you are in a crash, there's a higher probability that, number one, that dog could become a projectile," warns Wolko. "Having a 10-pound dog fly into the side of your head can cause some pretty significant damage. The dogs can also be ejected from the vehicle."

The safest way for a dog to use a booster seat such as the plush K&H Heated Bucket Booster Pet Seat is to secure the seat using car seat connectors or seat belt extenders, so that you can put your dog in a CPS-certified harness attached directly to the car's seat belt. Once safely secured in the back seat, this booster seat does elevate your dog so they can see out the window, which may help with car sickness and nervousness. It has a soft, machine washable cover in case your pet has an accident and comes with a removable USB-powered heating pad for cold days, plus the entire thing is collapsible for more convenient storage.

Price at time of publish: $156 for small

The Details: 18 x 18 x 16 inches (small); 22 x 20 x 16 inches (large) | 15 pounds (small); 50 pounds (large) limit | Heavy-denier fabric exterior and fleece interior

Paravel

This stylish carrier features recycled mesh panels on three sides and the top for better ventilation on hot days.

It's expensive considering you may need to use a separate pet carrier for air travel.

With its vegan leather accents, striped handles, and embroidered or hand-painted monogram options, Paravel's Cabana Pet Carrier is easily the most stylish CPS-certified dog car seat in this list, while also being the most expensive non-crate selection. We love all the convenient travel features, from its stain-repellent canvas material made from upcycled plastic bottles to the fact that it can be folded flat for stowing away when not in use. We’ve selected this as the best option for hot weather because it has sizable recycled mesh panels for good airflow — on the top, both sides, and one end.

Coming in four colorways, this bag also features several zippered and open pockets for stashing essentials, a removable crossbody strap, a trolley sleeve, and a washable recycled fleece liner, But, if you’re planning to use this for car rides and for flights, it may push the limits provided by some carriers so always double-check before booking.

Price at time of publish: $295

The Details: 11 x 11 x 20.5 inches | 20 pound limit | Canvas

Gunner

This heavy-duty CPS-certified crate is a safe way to travel with larger dogs up to 75 pounds.

In order to meet CPS-certification standards, Gunner kennels require the additional purchase of strength-rated anchor straps.

Depending on your dog's temperament and size and the type of vehicle you drive, you may need a heavy-duty crate such as the CPS-certified Gunner G1 Kennel. This crate comes in four sizes, but we selected intermediate here because a crate or harness are the safest options for transporting a large dog in a vehicle, while you can use a pet carrier for small or mid-sized dogs. Made of double-walled rotomolded plastic with a door that's reinforced with an aluminum frame, this is a tough crate that keeps your dog safe and comfortable by keeping out the cold or heat. There are vents that are designed to keep out rain, sleet, and snow; a removable drain plug for easy cleaning; a wide base and rubber feet for staying put; and extra safety latches to ensure sneaky dogs can't make a break for it.

It's worth noting that "heavy duty" also means just plain heavy, so be prepared that it weighs 75 pounds empty if you need to carry it with a dog inside. The extra cost of proper safety testing means that Gunner kennels, and all CPS-certified crates, are expensive. It also requires the additional cost of strength-rated anchor straps (sold separately by Gunner) in order to be safely secured in the back of an SUV, van, or truck. That said, Gunner kennels do come with a lifetime manufacturer's warranty.

Price at time of publish: $700 for intermediate

The Details: 24.5 x 18.6 x 19 inches (small), 29.5 x 20.5 x 23.5 inches (medium), 34 x 23 x 28.5 (intermediate), 40.25 x 28 x 33.25 (large) | 110 pounds (large) limit | Double-walled rotomolded plastic

Away

It's made from a sturdy, water-resistant nylon that holds its shape and includes smart travel features like a waterproof side pocket with drainage holes for stashing a collapsible water bowl.

The sherpa bedding is not machine washable.

If you use Away luggage, you may want to pair your suitcase with the brand's well-designed pet carrier, our top choice for air travel. Not only does it have a sleek look, the Away pet carrier is CPS-certified and incorporates an easy-to-use latch system for attaching to your car's seat belt when on the road. We like that it's made from a sturdy, water-resistant nylon that holds its shape better than many other carriers. But keep in mind that the removable sherpa lining is not machine washable, so budget time to hand wash and air dry before using again after any accidents.

As you’d expect from Away, there's a trolley sleeve, a removable shoulder strap, and multiple pockets for easier travel days. One of our favorite features is the side pocket with waterproof lining and drainage holes, designed specifically for storing a collapsible water bowl.

There's a mesh top panel and back panel, along with a mesh window on one end that has a retractable, magnetic screen you can roll up or cover. This mesh offers ventilation but isn't see-through, which can be good or bad depending on your pet's travel preferences. However, this means that it won't be totally obvious you have a dog in the bag after you leave the car when heading on your next adventure.

Price at time of publish: $225

The Details: 18.7 x 10.8 x 10.75 inches | 18 pound limit | Nylon and leather

Rover

This is the least expensive CPS-certified product for safely traveling in a vehicle with a medium to large dog, and can also be used on walks.

Dogs must be well acclimated to harnesses before wearing them secured to a car seat belt to prevent injury to the dog and distraction to the driver.

One of the safest options for traveling with a dog larger than 18 pounds in a vehicle is to secure them directly to the car's seat belt with a crash-tested harness. The CPS currently only has two certified harnesses, and both are from Sleepypod. Sleepypod's Clickit Sport Plus is less expensive than Sleepypod's Clickit Terrain Plus, which is a heavier duty harness with features made especially for working and service dogs, such as shock-absorbing sleeves, patches on the harness shoulders that can be swapped for service patches, and compatibility with Sleepypod's Terrain Pack (sold separately) for carrying gear.

Available in seven colors and four sizes, the Clickit Sport harness is a safe and comfortable option for more casual use, and can also be worn as an everyday walking harness in addition to a car safety device. The padded vest is made from luggage-grade nylon with a neoprene lining, so it's cushy and durable. It has reflective strips for nighttime walks, a double D-ring for attaching a leash, and is easy to put on and take off.

Lindsey A. Wolko does note that harnesses are more temperament specific than carriers or crates, and that it's especially important to do acclamation training so that your dog is used to the harness before taking a long road trip. If they aren't used to a harness that directly attaches to the car's seat belt, they may injure themselves or distract the driver, which could cause an accident.

Price at time of publish: $104 for small

The Details: 16.5 to 22 inches (small); 22.5 to 28 inches (medium); 28.5 to 34 (large); 34.5 to 40 inches (x-large) | 18 to 90 pound limit | Nylon exterior and neoprene lining

Amazon

This secure bench car seat cover is waterproof, machine washable, and has an attractive design with leather accents.

This cover should be used along with a CPS-certified harness attached to the car's seat belt for safety while driving.

If you’re traveling in a vehicle with a dog in one of the CPS-certified harnesses we’ve recommended above, it's a good idea to purchase a car seat cover to protect your upholstery from scratches or messes. It also doubles as a comfortable blanket for your pet on long car rides. We’re recommending the PetSafe Happy Ride Quilted Bench Car Seat Cover because it has smart, practical features while still looking nice enough to leave in the car when you have human riders. There are a few options to choose from, including a bucket seat cover (for an individual seat) or a hammock-style cover that prevents your dog from dropping into the space behind the front seats. We like the bench style because it's big enough for large dogs and you don't have to remove it every time you have guests in the backseats.

Made of a machine-washable, quilted cotton twill with brass and leather accents, this seat cover has adjustable headrest straps, seat anchors, and rubberized non-slip backing to ensure it stays in place. It's waterproof with waterproof zippers for the seat belt slits, so even after muddy or rainy adventures with your dog you don't have to worry about a filthy car. It also comes in three colors (gray, black, and green) and two sizes (extra wide and standard) so be sure to measure your vehicle to find the best fit.

Price at time of publish: $100 (extra wide)

The Details: 56 x 46 inches (standard); 60 x 46 inches (extra wide) | Cotton and leather

For the safety and comfort of your pet, it's important that your dog meets the weight requirements for harnesses, crates, and carriers, and that you measure animals properly to ensure harnesses aren't too tight or loose and that they can stand up and move around in a crate or carrier. The size of your dog also determines the safest type of car seat they should use. Lindsey A. Wolko and Dr. Mary Press both recommend carriers for small dogs (including toy breeds) and harnesses and crates for medium to large dogs.

Don't forget to measure your car's seat depth and the back of your car, SUV, or truck to make sure whatever crate, carrier, or seat cover you choose fits your specific vehicle.

When it comes to dog car safety, you want to think about a few key areas. First, the pet needs to be contained in a way that they can't distract the driver, which could cause an accident. In fact, some cities require dogs to be restrained in specific ways while traveling in a car, so check local laws to avoid fines.

Prioritize CPS-certified, crash-tested products that can protect your dog should you get in an accident. Features for these include carriers that have durable latches or loops made for connecting it to the car's seat belt (carriers that are not crash-tested should be placed on the floor of the vehicle), harnesses with loops for keeping the dog directly connected to the car's seat belt, and heavy-duty crates made of rotomolded plastic or aluminum that can be strapped into the back of a van or truck.

What you absolutely do not want to do is use an extension tether to attach your dog to a car seat or even the seat belt. These are not crash-tested and can either boomerang or break in an accident, causing your dog to become a projectile, seriously injuring your pet and any human passengers.

Whether it's dog hair, bodily fluids from anxious or sick pups, or mud and water on a rainy day, when you travel with your dog, things are bound to get messy — especially on a long road trip. Choose products with removable beds and blankets, machine-washable fabrics, and waterproof or wipeable materials to make your life easier.

You also want to make sure these products are durable enough to withstand chews and scratches, lots of rounds in the washing machine, and, of course, car accidents. Choose products made from tough materials like luggage-grade nylon and rotomolded plastic.

There are many factors to consider here, including whether the seat has been properly crash-tested, whether it's positioned in the safest part of the car, and whether it's the right fit for the size and temperament of your dog. In this article, we focus on CPS-certified products, as they are rigorously tested by an independent third party to ensure their safety on a continuing basis.

Notably, you’ll see we leave out a lot of traditional pet travel seats in the booster seat category, commonly used for small dogs. "The booster seats, in general, increase the risk to the pet owner, especially if you're using a non-CPS-certified harness product to secure the dog," says Wolko. "We strongly recommend that pet owners fully contain the pet if it's a small dog and forgo the travel seats until we have a combination [seat and harness] we can confidently say yes, you're safer in this product."

While the 30-mph crash simulations the CPS performs are "extreme in nature," you want to be prepared for the worst when it comes to the safety of you and your pet. Wolko calls the CPS-certified pet carriers they recommend for small dogs and cats "elite performers," so we’ve included several of these in lieu of pet booster seats.

According to Dr. Mary Press, if the dog is strapped into the seatbelt (such as with a harness), they should be on the backseat, and if they are in a standard carrier, they should be on the floor of the backseat. The exception here is that CPS-certified carriers are crash-tested for use on the backseat, as they are designed to be strapped in with the car's seat belt and won't be crushed by the seat belt in an accident. It's important that you don't put a dog in the front passenger seat because of the air bag, and you don't want them seated in between the front seats or on the floor between SUV captain's chairs as they could become a projectile and injure themselves or a passenger.

"When you have the larger breeds, and let's say you have a child in the child's seat, in the backseat of the vehicle," explains Wolko. "You don't want to put the dog directly behind that child. You want to move the crate over to the opposite side, so they’re kind of catty-corner to each other. The same thing with a dog in a harness."

Dogs can make a mess, especially if they’re a carsick-prone or anxious traveler, so it's important to factor in the materials and design of a dog car product to determine if it's easy to clean. Look for materials like nylon (you can wipe down), waterproof and water-resistant fabrics, and easy-to-remove bedding that's machine-washable.

For this story, T+L contributor and dog owner Tara Block researched the best car seats for canines, speaking with experts on pet safety to recommend the safest and most comfortable carriers, harnesses, and seats for pets of all sizes. While researching dog car seats, we spoke with Lindsey A. Wolko, and Dr. Mary Press.

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