10 Best Dog Car Seats Reviewed & Rated in 2024
Brian Price
Man’s best friend deserves a place by our side wherever we go. But traveling with a loose dog roaming around the car can be a little messy, especially for larger families. Strap your pup in with the rest of your loved ones with one of these amazing doggy car seats! They’re all fitted to be comfortable, secure, and convenient for your family’s use. We know pets basically count as a family member, so make sure yours can go with you when you’re on fun, fabulous outings this year!
In a Hurry? The test winner after 200 hrs of research
Interior is simulated cozy lamb’s wool
Available in medium and small
Exterior fabric has a nice quilted pattern
Durable and high-quality construction
The liner is removable and machine-washable
10 Best Dog Car Seats Reviewed
1. Snoozer Lookout
Interior is simulated cozy lamb’s wool
Available in medium and small
Exterior fabric has a nice quilted pattern
Durable and high-quality construction
The liner is removable and machine-washable
May not well for excitable pets
Was a bit smaller than some expected
Treating your dog like a member of your family is making sure to keep them safe at all times even in the car. This is dog seat for the car that allows your dog to have the best seat in the place. It also allows your dog to be able to easily see out the window at all times making it a win for them and a win for you. It is the perfect raised dog seat for those car rides.
Read moreComfort
This car seat is one of the most well-made and comfortable seats we've seen! Wool keeps your pooch cozy, and the interior liner gives it a little more padding for extra comfort.
Ease of Use
Available in both small and medium sizes, this doggy seat can house many different breeds. Additionally, the simulated lamb interior will not only keep pups comfy (it looks and feels so plush!) but it will also help to keep them cozy.
Materials
Made with lamb's wool and machine washable, this car seat is the perfect way to keep your pooch safe while cruising. The best part is that it is nice and cozy, so your pup can snuggle up while you drive.
2. K&H Bucket Booster
Fleece lining can be machine washed
Will fit in the back or front seat of the car
The foam cushion is removable and thick
Has two security leashes that are adjustable
Front of the seat has a cutout dip
Some people did not like the shape of the front
May not be the best seat for excitable dogs
Providing your dog with a safe place to sit that keeps them comfortable and restrained at the same time can be a challenge. Well, that challenge was met with this elevate dog seat created just for the car. It is designed like a booster but features a contoured back and plush lining that keeps them comfortable and safe.
Read moreComfort
It fits in front or back seats depending on your preference and features two adjustable security leashes so your furry little friend can’t scamper around during the drive. Plus, a removable washable cover makes life easier on pet moms and dads all over.
Ease of Use
Unlike most other doggie car seats, the Bucket Booster has a front cut-out to make it easy for the dog to get in and out. While some buyers found it to be a problem, it is highly beneficial for the dog in getting in themselves.
Materials
Does your doggy diva like to know what’s going on around them? This elevated seat allows them to see outside as you cruise down the highway. It also fits in the front of back seat, depending on your preference.
3. Kurgo Skybox Booster
Many color combinations are available
Includes an adjustable tether for the seat belt
Comes with a lifetime warranty
It hangs from the car seat
Has zippered pockets and metal supports
May not have enough cushioning on the bottom
Was smaller than some buyers expected
Dogs love to sit on their owner's lap when taking a joy ride in the car. That position allows them to feel safe by their owners and be able to look out the window. There is a car seat for your dog that is able to give them that feeling and also be able to see out the window. This booster is easy to install and secures to either a front or rear seat for their riding pleasure.
Read moreComfort
Metal supports allow structural integrity and an elevated seat so your buddy can check out what’s going on outside. Plus a waterproof exterior helps guard against messes.
Ease of Use
Equipped to comfortably seat dogs up to 30 lbs (though 20 lbs is the recommended maximum due to size), the Kurgo Booster keeps your precious pup buckled up safely with an easily adjustable seat belt tether that hooks up to most harnesses.
Materials
We love the many colors that this puppy car seat comes in! they are really bright and beautiful colors that look great in a vehicle. Try to match your car’s interior or the dog’s sweater or leash.
4. Devoted Doggy Metal Frame
Has a strong frame constructed of metal
The frame is collapsible for storing
Includes a clip-on leash for safety
Features zippered pockets for storage
Has two straps that go around the car seat
May be too deep for very small dogs to enjoy
Straps were not long enough for some buyers’ car seats
Taking your pet on a ride is wonderful, but then you are left with all that hair everywhere in the car. Giving them a car seat to be able to sit in is the complete answer to that struggle plus gives them such a better view. It keeps all their hair in one spot making it easy to clean up and plus keep them comfortable for the entire ride.
Read moreComfort
This booster seat gives them a little elevation and a whole lot of comfort. A collapsible metal frame keeps structural integrity intact while a plush interior liner keeps Spot warm and cozy.
Ease of Use
One strap fits around the back of the seat and one strap fits around the headrest. And just like that, your pup is securely buckled in.
Materials
Like the manufacturer stated in the product description, most dog seats are made of strong cardboard. This one though is made of long-lasting durable metal and collapses for storage.
5. Pet Gear Lookout Booster
Includes a comfortable pillow
Offered in three nice basic colors
The cover is soft, machine-washable, and removable
Tether attaches to dog’s harness or collar
Easily connects to the car seat
The tether broke easily for a few buyers
Some did not like the feel of the fabric
It is great being able to take your dog along in the car, but it is also important that they are safe and you are not distracted when you drive by them being in the vehicle. This booster gives your buddy a safe place to stay during the ride plus is a super cozy place for them to rest and uses your car’s safety belt to secure.
Read moreComfort
Even though some buyers did not like the fabric of this car seat for dogs, we think it is very beneficial. The microsuede material will be cool in the summer and warm in the winter, unlike some other fabrics commonly used on dog seats.
Ease of Use
A tether can be attached to your pet’s harness to keep them securely in place and sturdy foam keeps them feeling nice and pampered.
Materials
Microsuede: ooh lala. If you want to spoil your pooch, here’s your chance. This booster seat features a removable plush pillow.
6. Solvit Jumbo Deluxe
Provides an elevated view out the window
Includes a strength-tested safety tether
Comes with easy instructions for assembly
Does not need a headrest for placing in vehicle
Seat core does not trap odors
Was difficult to put together for some buyers
The size was a problem for a few people
Cradle your dog while you drive with this deluxe pet seat. It has been created with some great technology that provides an internal structure that keeps the seat comfortable and secure. It can easily be installed in just a few minutes and everyone in the car will be happy, safe, and secure for your road trip.
Read moreComfort
This seat is best fit for dogs up to 30 lbs and has been tested for up to 2,000 lbs on the safety tether. With such a soft, spacey interior, we don’t think they’ll ever want to leave!
Ease of Use
This car seat is quick and easy to assemble thanks to plastic panels and it helps to keep your pooch securely fastened where they can’t distract you while you drive.
Materials
Unlike any other dog seat we have seen, this one comes in several durable plastic pieces and must be put together. That is great for when it is not in use because it could be stored so easily and compactly.
7. Sleepypod Mobile
Mobile dog car seat that converts into bed and pet carries
Travelers anywhere that your dog needs to go
Constructed from durable polyester and nylon materials
Accommodates dog that weighs up to 15 pounds
Easy clean, can even be machine washed on cold and tumble dried
Zipper that connects the dome is not a heavy-duty model
Product is heavy in weight
When you are searching for that perfect pet bed, a carrier and a pet car seat all in one you have found the right product. This is a product that has been designed to give your pet the personal space that they need whether on a trip, at the doctor’s office, or traveling in the car. It is designed to make sure that is safe and comfortable at all times.
Read moreComfort
The design is able to accommodate any dog that is 15 pounds or less. It provides the ultimate comfort with ultra-plush foam that is very luxurious. The carrier and car seat are able to make them feel comfortable enough to allow them to relax and feel secure in most environments. They are able to view what is going on around them without taking away from their privacy.
Ease of Use
The adjustable dome is easy to use. It allows you to be able to adjust the dome whether opened or closed to make your dog feel the most secure with their surroundings. It can also be removed altogether when riding in the car. This is great for letting them see out the window, but yet still remaining in their secured seat.
Materials
It has been constructed from a 100 % polyester material that makes it very durable. Not only is it very durable, but it also makes it easy to clean. We all know dogs shred their hair and from time to time have an accident. This dog seat can be vacuumed clean or tossed in the washing machine on a cold cycle with gentle settings, then placed in the dryer on low for a tumble dry.
8. Stella and Bear Cozy
Height is adjustable for window viewing
Has a collapsible metal frame
Use on the back or front seat
Is warm for winter and cool for summer
Is large enough to add blanket and pillows
Dogs might be able to flip this seat over
Collapsed in used for a few people
Super easy to clean and is built to last. This is the dog car seat that is easy to clean because it is machine washable. So anytime that your furry friend has an accident just place the liner in the washing machine and it will be fresh and clean for the next time. It washes up great and totally allows you to be able to provide the most secure and well-built pet seat for your dog.
Read moreComfort
The makers of this terrific car seat threw in a collapsible pet dish and a cozy soft blanket. Both of these will come in handy for long trips in the vehicle. The exterior of the seat is water-resistant, and the height of the item is adjustable for the pet to see out the window. It has a collapsible metal frame and is great for dogs up to twenty-five pounds in weight. Use on the back or front seat, as it is warm for winter and cool for summer. This amazing dog seat is large enough to add a blanket and pillows for long rides.
Ease of Use
This luxury booster seat comes equipped with a collapsible silicone dish, clip-on leash, and plush blanket. If you have a small-to-mid-sized dog, they’ll be living in the lap of luxury on your car rides.
Materials
A fleece liner and strong metal frame gives support for your pooch and your vehicle.
9. Petsfit Booster Lookout
The liner is soft, plush, machine washable, and removable
Includes a plush side and a cooler side
Has an attached leash for securing the dog
Has pockets on the sides for treats, toys, or poop bags
An installation video is available from the manufacturer
Edges may be hard
Could be difficult to put the cover on and take off
Often when you have one dog you may have two. So how do you travel with them both? You use this dog car seat that has been constructed for two. It is a booster seat that has been designed for two dogs. It includes two tethers to secure them both on road trips and a removable plush liner that keeps them super comfortable the whole time.
Read moreComfort
You can flip the cover of this doggie car seat for the various weather conditions. When it is cold, use the plush thick side, and when it is hotter, flip it to the smoother, thinner side.
Ease of Use
This Petsfit dog seat is able to handle a little more weight than a lot of its competitors. With the ability to comfortably and safely seat up to 45 lbs, it’s great for medium-sized or slightly larger dogs.
Materials
Machine washable and thick for comfort, this car seat has it all. Side pockets can store toys and treats and there’s one simple leash inside to secure your pet while you drive. The liner is soft, plush, machine washable, and removable. The plush side is used for cold weather and the other side is used for warmer weather. It secures well in the car seat with the seat belt of the car and the headrest, and an installation video is available from the manufacturer for clear instructions.
10. PupSaver Crash-Tested
Rear facing dog car seat
Crash tested dog car seat, meets FMVSS guidelines
Features five point security harness system
Easily installs using car seat belt system
Constructed from durable nylon and filled with poly soft materials
Small in size accommodates dog up to 20 pounds best
Only works and crash tested in rear facing position
We all talk about keeping your dog secure and safe in a pet car seat, but this seat has actually been tested to make sure that it will keep your dog protected as much as possible upon any impact. It provides a protective barrier that is able to keep them from making contact with any hard surfaces that may be in the vehicle.
Read moreComfort
The dog car seat is able to comfortably fit any breed of dog weighing up to 30 pounds. The seat is totally secured with a five point harness system that leaves the seat feeling secure and comfortable for your dog during the entire trip. The plush design is also a total plus in their book.
Ease of Use
The plastic clips that make up the harness system that keeps the car seat secure in the car are easy to install. It is a rear facing design that installs much like a car seat for a child. It attaches to the seat belt already provided by the car and integrated the harness system to keep them comfortable and secure.
Materials
This crash tested dog car seat is constructed from a blend of durable nylon that has been completely filled with a poly material. Poly filled dog car seats are able to provide the support that they need while also keeping them comfortable for even the longest trips. The materials come together to create one of the safest and most comfortable rear facing dog car seats on the market.
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Comfort
Each of these car seats should be very comfortable for the dog no matter what the size. Most of them come in a choice of sizes, so it should not be hard to get an adequate fit. The linings of most is a soft fleece material or one of a faux suede. These are mostly machine-washable and easy to put on and take off the frames. Cushioning is provided with these and the necessary straps to secure them for a comfortable ride. The included pockets add a level of comfort because they can hold the pet’s treats and toys. Some of the beds are large enough for the dog to lay down for longer rides, while all will accommodate them in a sitting position. All dogs should like the soft linings and the individual space to call their own in the car.
Ease of Use
While some of the seats must be assembled before use, most have either a durable permanent frame or one that collapses and folds. Once the seat is in the shape for putting in the car, they all strap in easily with the included straps for either the front or the back seats. The ones that can fit in the front seat have the additional strap that goes around the headrest of the vehicle’s seat. Ones that are suitable for the back seat just attach to the seatbelt of the car. Once the straps are secured, it is just a matter of putting the dog in and securing him or her with the security attachment. This hooks on to the collar or harness of the dog to keep them in the seat at all times while the car is in motion. It is just that easy to install and use these pet car seats to enjoy them.
Materials
Materials are important in order to keep your pup comfy and happy. Whether it is made of soft, fleece materials for your pup to cuddle up in, or durable polyester for easy cleaning, materials can make or break a product. We always ensure the products we choose are made with durable and safe materials.
Comfort Ease of Use Materials 
Only the best-rated and the most-reviewed items of a category are included in our buying guide pages. We highlight the best of the best, so you can view right away only what buyers are happy with and leaving positive remarks about. We peruse the consumer feedback and the item descriptions from the makers to give you a comprehensive guide that provides you with the data you need to make the smartest purchase for you and your loved ones.
We noticed that almost all of these car seats for pets come in either one size suitable for small and medium dogs or there is a choice for small, medium, and sometimes large seats. The larger ones will be too big and tall for the smallest of dogs, and the medium sizes may not fit a large dog well either.
Other Factors to Consider
Support
Only the best-rated and the most-reviewed items of a category are included in our buying guide pages. We highlight the best of the best, so you can view right away only what buyers are happy with and leaving positive remarks about. We peruse the consumer feedback and the item descriptions from the makers to give you a comprehensive guide that provides you with the data you need to make the smartest purchase for you and your loved ones. The dog car seat in this buying guide that has the most reviews is the Snoozer Lookout Car Seat. For the best rating, there is the K&H Pet Products Bucket Booster Pet Seat. A close second is the Cozy Boost Dog Booster Seat with Clip on Leash + Plush Blanket + Collapsible Dish. These have quite high ratings from the customers who purchased them.
Frequently Asked Questions
q: What are the benefits of putting a dog in a car seat rather than just letting them sit on the seat in the car?
Small dogs cannot see out of the windows well, so with them trying to see makes the ride dangerous. The car motion can be dangerous for them too. A car seat elevates the animal, so it can see the view outside the car. The clip secures them to the seat, so they will not be free and loose in the car. It is safer because the seat keeps them contained and controlled while you can calmly drive the car without any problems from your pet.
q: Do these seats come in different sizes for various sizes of dogs?
Yes, most offerings have at least two sizes for their products. The majority of them come in small or medium sizes, which will accommodate most dogs that want to ride in the car. If you have ever noticed, it is usually the owners of small or tiny dogs that bring them for rides the most. They are easier to handle and are more apt to cuddle and behave than larger dogs. These are the dogs that are more likely to have a dog bed in the house and be used to having a certain amount of space to be in. Car seats for these smaller or medium-sized dogs are therefore offered more often than for the larger breeds.
q: How do I know which size to choose?
There are not many sizes for dog car seats, just like for dog beds. The choices are small, medium, and large, so whichever your pup fits the best will be the one to pick. This depends on the breed and adult size of your dog. Make sure to get one big enough for the adult size of your dog because it will not remain the small puppy size. You do not want to have to purchase another one when the pup grows up.
q: Is it too late to start an older dog with a car seat?
We did notice that some people commented that their dogs were too excited to sit still in a dog car seat. This was probably because they were older and had not been trained to sit still in such a seat. if the older dog is a calm dog that ideally has a pet bed in the home that it likes to get in, then it may work out in the car as well with the car seat. you never know until you try. It would be unfair for anyone to tell you that it would or would not work out until you try it yourself.
q: How do you clean these car seats?
Most, if not all, of the products listed, are machine washable and dryable. Some may have to be air-dried to prevent shrinking. A few could be ideally washed by hand that are made of polyester material. if the accident can be taken care of with a damp cloth and water, then that is the best way to clean. For bi-weekly or monthly cleaning of the seat liner, most can be machine washed for easy care.
q: Are these seats too hot to use in the summer?
No, a few of them had thinner liners that could be great for all year long use. The thicker fleece linings may be a problem in really hot climates and for very warm days, but overall the fabrics should not be too hot for the dogs. Just remember to never leave them in a hot car or leave them alone in the vehicle for the best safety.
Sources
- , Traveling With Dogs: What to Look for in a Dog Car Seat, Online Article
- , Traveling With Your Pet, Online Article
- , Driving with pets - does your dog need to wear a seatbelt?, Online Article
