Taking your dog on road trips is fun for both of you but just like a human child, you cannot just leave him in the backseat unsecured. He does not have the ability to protect himself in case of an abrupt stop or accident and can also be a major distraction while you are driving. This can be a danger to you as well as anyone else in the car with you.
In case you have not figured it out yet, the only safe way to take your fur buddy with you on road trips is to have him restrained with a car seat, dog harness, or crate. So, we decided to take a look at some of the best dog car seats for large dogs on the market to help you narrow down your choices.
While researching the best car seat for large dogs, we only found 2 that fit dogs up to 60 pounds while the others fit dogs up to 45 pounds. However, the harnesses we found can accommodate pups up to 120 pounds or more. We will review them all here but we really recommend the harnesses because they offer the best car safety for your pooch.
The EzyDog Drive Safety Travel Dog Car Harness is our overall top pick out of the 30 car seats for large dogs that we evaluated. We feel this is the best safety device for large dogs because it is safety crash-tested in the USA (FMVSS 213), Europe (ECE Regulation 21), and Australia (ADR42/04). It is approved for dogs of all sizes, ages, and breeds with its crosslink technology, an ergonomically molded chest plate, and a one-piece vehicle-grade safety belt webbing material.
If you would rather have a car seat, the MIXJOY Pet Front Booster Seat, Dog Booster Seat is our top pick in the car seat category. The five layers of oxford cloth coated in PVC coating is strong and you can use it as a booster-style seat or a car seat cover that attaches to the seat belt of your car.
We understand that everyone has their own particular needs. Whether you have a smaller vehicle or if you are searching for a particular product that fits best for your style, we prepared a shortlist of the top 7 car seats for large dogs that address different conditions, needs, and styles.
But first, we address the need for a dog car seat, why large dogs like car seats, and the difference between dog seat belts or harnesses and car seats. We will also go over the rules of thumb to consider when shopping for a car seat for your dog. Or, if you are in a hurry, go directly to our list, which is followed by a few of the most common questions from dog parents about dog car seats.
Dog Car Seat For a Safe, Calm & Anxiety-Free Drive
Just like a child, your fur baby is part of your family and you want to make sure they are safe and secure while riding in the car. For the safest ride paw-sible, a dog car seat is essential. But these can be difficult to find for large dogs.
Some of these car seats are also called booster seats since they are elevated for shorter pooches to see out the window while having a strap that hooks to your pup’s harness or leash. This keeps him safe while allowing him the benefit of seeing all the exciting things outside.
The materials a dog car seat is made of range from a firm and sturdy carrier to soft cushiony bedding to keep your fur baby comfy. There are many choices with so many pawesome dog product manufacturers out there so it can be hard to decide which is best for your fur buddy.
Some of the main features you may find are the clips to hook onto your dog’s harness or leash, pillows for comfort, breathable material and side panels, and some type of non-slip material on the bottom. You can also find ones that fold down to be a flat and portable size for easy storage.
No matter what, you cannot drive around with your dog unrestrained because it is not only dangerous for him but it can also be dangerous for you and others in the vehicle. Even if you have your dog in a crate or carrier, it is best to have it secured to a seatbelt to make sure it does not move around if you have to slam on the brakes.
According to the ASPCA, a 50-pound dog can be thrown with 1,500 pounds of force in a 35 mph vehicle accident. This can cause life-threatening injuries to your dog, yourself, and your passengers. Also, a study done in 2013 found that drivers with dogs in the car are much more likely to get into an accident.
Why Large Dogs Love Car Seats?
Having a car seat gives your large fur baby a more secure feeling so he is not being tossed all over the car as you drive. Nobody likes the feeling of sliding around when you drive around corners or being thrown when you slam on the brakes suddenly. Being securely enclosed and hooked up allows your dog to relax and enjoy the ride.
Another thing that helps him enjoy the ride is being boosted up enough to see out the window. Just like a kid, dogs like to see what is going on around them. He cannot do that if he is restrained in a crate or kennel that is lower than the window.
Even large dogs need a boost to get up there to the window. A booster seat is typically about 10 inches high to get your pup up where he needs to be while still keeping him secure and safe with a belt. Conventional car seats are fine but letting your dog see out the window can ease driving anxiety.
Dog Harness Seatbelts or a Dog Car Seat, What’s the Difference?
Both seatbelts and car seats for dogs are made to keep your pooch safe while he is riding in a vehicle. A dog seat belt is a full-body safety harness with a leash attachment that attaches to your vehicle’s seat belt to keep your pup safe in one spot. They are made of high-quality materials that distribute the force evenly in the case of an accident, so there is less pull on his neck.
However, a car seat is more enclosed and cozy, giving your pup a more secure feeling. Some dogs do not like that feeling of being loose and free in a vehicle and would rather be in a small space that feels more like his crate or kennel.
11 Rules Of Thumb When Buying a Car Seat For Your Large Dog
Before you start shopping for a car seat for your large dog, there are several things you need to consider. For example, you will need to know your dog’s size and weight so you get a car seat that can accommodate him safely. You also have to make sure it fits inside your vehicle or you have wasted your money.
Security features are also very important because that is the whole point of buying a seat. Make sure it has enough padding and comfortable material as well as being durable enough for your dog. Also, you do not want something huge and bulky so try to find one that is portable or collapsible. You will also want it to be easy to clean and to have a good warranty.
- Your Dog’s Size & Weight Capacity: Every car seat has a specific set of guidelines on what they can handle. You will need to find one that can hold your dog’s weight as well as his size. Not just the size he is now but if he happens to get bigger or gain some weight.
- Vehicle Compatibility & Installation: Not all car seats fit all vehicles. Some are only made for certain cars with headrests or shoulder belts. Others have specific requirements that your vehicle may not have. Make sure the seat will fit in your car and is easy enough for you to install.
- Security Features: The whole point of getting a car seat for your large dog is to keep him safe. Read more about the one you are considering to make sure it has been road-tested and crash-tested for safety. It needs to have an adjustable leash to attach to your pup’s harness as well.
- Materials & Padding: Even if you have the best seat with the highest safety record, if it is not comfortable for your fur baby, he is not going to sit in it properly. You do not want your pup to whine or cry the whole time you are driving. You want him to be comfy and safe at the same time. Look for extra padding and breathable materials.
- Durability: Most dog car seats are not cheap so make sure the one you get is durable enough to last a while. It should be made with high-quality materials and strong hardware.
- Collapsible, Portability, & Easy To Carry: Nobody wants to have to lug around a huge and bulky car seat that weighs 50 pounds every time you want to take your pup on a road trip. If you plan to take your dog for rides and cannot leave the seat in the vehicle permanently, make sure you get one that is collapsible or portable and easy to carry.
- Ease of Cleaning: Dogs can be really messy, especially when you go to the dog park, take him to the beach, or go camping. So, make sure your pup’s car seat is easy to clean. Getting one with a removable cover that can be machine washed is best. But it is also good to have one that you can just hose off as needed.
- Warranty: Almost all car seats for large dogs are covered by at least a 30-day warranty. However, the longer the warranty, the more the company believes in their product.
Our 2024 Review For 7 Best Car Seat For Large Dogs
After reviewing more than 30 car seats for large dogs using our specific guidelines, we chose the top 7 we think have the best features. However, because there are so few car seats for large dogs, we separated them into those that are good for dog breeds up to 45 pounds, those that can handle dogs 40 to 60 pounds, and we also listed a couple of dog harnesses for those extra large breeds.
EzyDog Drive Safety Travel Dog Car Harness – Crash Tested US
- Category: dog car harness for large dogs
- Car Seat Dimensions: 11 to 42 inches around chest
- Weight Capacity: 15 pounds to over 65 pounds
- Vehicle Compatibility & Installation:
- Security Features: Aluminum alloy buckle, crash test certified
- Materials & Padding: Seat belt webbing with an aluminum alloy chest plate
- Durability: Extremely durable
- Collapsible, Portability & Easy To Carry: Small and light and fits in a pocket
- Ease of Cleaning: Hand wash
- Warranty: One year
- Best for: Our top pick overall
This is the most secure car seat for large dogs even though it is actually a harness. You can use this on any big dog over 65 pounds, and it is crash-tested in the USA (FMVSS 213), Europe (ECE Regulation 21), and Australia (ADR42/04) to be safe for all dogs in any vehicle. The crosslink technology uses one-piece automobile-grade seat belt webbing for strength and an ergonomically molded chest plate that is durable and padded.
The dual ST buckles provide a secure closure that is pawfect as well as easy to use. You only have to fit it to your pooch once, and then you can take it on and off with the SR buckle in seconds. The aluminum alloy is both light and strong, so your fur buddy is safer than ever before. Take a trip wherever you want to go without worry with this harness.
What We Like:
- Crash certified USA (FMVSS 213) Europe (ECE Regulation 21) Australia (ADR42/04)
- Safe for dogs of all sizes
- Made of alloy and seatbelt webbing
What Dogs Love about it?
- It is comfortable and light.
What We Don’t like:
- It is expensive
MIXJOY Pet Front Seat Cover
- Category: dog car seat, for 40lbs- 60lbs dog breeds
- Car Seat Dimensions: 18.5L x 18.5W x 27H inches
- Weight Capacity: 60 pounds
- Vehicle Compatibility & Installation: Fits almost any vehicle
- Security Features: Leash strap connects to seat belt latch and two connecting straps
- Materials & Padding: PVC rubber on the bottom and 630D oxford on top
- Durability: Very durable
- Collapsible, Portability & Easy To Carry: Soft and collapsible
- Ease of Cleaning: Hand wash
- Warranty: 30 days
- Best for: car seat
This Mixjoy dog car seat for large dogs is made with five layers making it waterproof, anti-slip, and scratchproof. It is 630D oxford cloth with PVC coating on top of 100g soft cotton and 210D soft oxford cloth with PVC non-slip rubber mesh on the bottom. This durable construction means it will last a long time.
It is a dual usage car seat that can be a booster-style seat or a car seat cover with a safety belt attachment that hooks to your pup’s harness or leash. The top hooks behind a headrest while the base is held in place by a strap that goes around the seatback. The strap clicks into your vehicle’s seat belt latch for complete security.
What We Like:
- It has five layers of padding for comfort and durability
- It can be used as a booster seat or seat cover
- Holds dogs up to 60 pounds
What Dogs Love about it?
- He can see out the window.
What We Don’t like:
- It is not machine washable.
Flow.Month Pet Front Seat Cover Pet Booster Seat
- Category: dog car seat for 40lbs- 60lbs dog breeds
- Car Seat Dimensions: 18L x 18D x 23H inches
- Weight Capacity: Up to 60 pounds
- Vehicle Compatibility & Installation: Fits most cars and SUVs
- Security Features: Attaches to any seat belt buckle, has an adjustable leash strap
- Materials & Padding: Oxford vinyl with PVC lamination
- Durability: Very durable
- Collapsible, Portability & Easy To Carry: Soft collapsible light carrier
- Ease of Cleaning: Wash by hand
- Warranty: 30 days
- Best for: Most affordable
For your large dog up to 60 pounds, this Flow.month car seat can be spread out into a car seat cover that attaches to a headrest as well as your vehicle’s seat belt for extra security. You can also use it closed up like a car seat with the sides that help make your pup feel more secure and safe.
The adjustable leash strap can be changed from 16.5 inches to 30 inches and it has a metal clip on each end. Although the material is waterproof, no car seat is completely waterproof because there is a hole in the bottom to attach to the seatbelt. The bottom also has a non-slip backing to keep your pup from sliding around.
What We Like:
- It is the least expensive car seat on the list
- Changes from a seat cover to a bucket seat with ease
- Adjustable leash strap hooks directly into the seat belt latch
- It can hold dogs up to 60 pounds
What Dogs Love about it?
- They have plenty of freedom to move around.
What We Don’t like:
- It is not machine washable.
Solvit PetSafe Happy Ride Deluxe Car Harness for Dogs
- Category: dog car harness for large dogs
- Car Seat Dimensions: 9 inches to 32 inches chest and 9 inches to 40 inches chest
- Weight Capacity: 6 to 120 pounds
- Vehicle Compatibility & Installation: Works in all vehicles
- Security Features: Crash test certified
- Materials & Padding: Synthetic polyester and added padding
- Durability: Extremely durable
- Collapsible, Portability & Easy To Carry: Small, light, and will even fit in your pocket
- Ease of Cleaning: Hand wash
- Warranty: Up to 30 days
- Best for: Most portable & easy to carry
No matter how big your fur baby is, this harness by PetSafe will keep your dog safe and secure on the go. It comes in 4 sizes too. The small fits pups up to 25 pounds, the medium is for dogs up to 55 pounds, the large is good for pups up to 85 pounds, and the extra-large can accommodate a dog up to 120 pounds.
The padded harness has breathable mesh and several attachment points as well as a seat belt attachment that keeps your fur buddy in one spot during your ride. It is also easy to clean by rinsing it with warm water. No need to worry about setting up a car seat. Just let your dog wear it.
What We Like:
- Protects pups up to 120 pounds
- You do not have to set it up every time you go somewhere
- It is crash test certified
What Dogs Love about it?
- He can enjoy his freedom in the car
What We Don’t like:
- Not machine washable
BOCHAO Dog Car Seat
- Category: dog car seat for dogs up to 45lbs
- Car Seat Dimensions: 22L x 21W x 13H inches
- Weight Capacity: Up to 40 pounds
- Vehicle Compatibility & Installation: Fits in almost any vehicle
- Security Features: Belt attachment hooks to harness or leash
- Materials & Padding: Oxford cloth with foam filling
- Durability: Very durable
- Collapsible, Portability & Easy To Carry: Folds up in its own carrying bag
- Ease of Cleaning: Machine washable
- Warranty: 30 days
- Best for: easy-to-clean
The Bochao car seat for large dogs is soft and comfortable with padding and stuffing, soft but durable oxford cloth, and a secure belt attachment that hooks directly to the car seat. It fits just about any vehicle and sets up quickly. You can even use it as a dog bed inside the house.
One of the best features is the fact that it is machine washable. You can take it apart and wash it for a deep cleaning as needed. Additionally, you can stuff it into its convenient carrying bag when you are not using it. Also, it is warm and comfy to make your pooch feel secure and happy while traveling.
What We Like:
- You can machine wash it for a thorough cleaning
- No need to worry about spills since you can wash it anytime
- Fits in its own carrying case for easy storage
What Dogs Love about it?
- It is soft and cozy
What We Don’t like:
- Only for dogs up to 40 pounds
Petsfit Dog Car Seat
- Category: dog car seat for dogs up to 45lbs
- Car Seat Dimensions: 30L x 16W x 14H inches
- Weight Capacity: Up to 45 pounds
- Vehicle Compatibility & Installation: Easy to install in almost all vehicles
- Security Features: 2 adjustable safety leashes, hooks to car seat belt
- Materials & Padding: Plush for winter, oxford for summer
- Durability: Very durable
- Collapsible, Portability & Easy To Carry: Folds up flat with a carrying handle
- Ease of Cleaning: Cover can be removed for machine washing
- Warranty: 30 days
- Best for: Extra Features
This car seat for large dogs has the most features like a removable cover, a reversible cushion for winter and summer, a durable seat buckle, 2 safety leashes, and it folds up with a carrying handle. In addition to all that, it also has two large pockets in the front that can hold treats, toys, or whatever else you need.
The cover can be machine washed and dried for deep cleaning, the frame has 6 supporting plates for strong support on the bottom, and the dog car seat booster design has safety belts to fix the seat to prevent it from sliding in the car. When you are done in the car, bring the seat inside for a pawesome dog bed.
What We Like:
- Has 2 safety leashes for double protection
- The reversible cushion is good for winter and summer
- It can be machine washed and dried
What Dogs Love about it?
- It is very comfy during the summer and winter
What We Don’t like:
- Only good for dogs up to 45 pounds
Margot Dog Car Booster Seat
- Category: dog car seat for dogs up to 45lbs
- Car Seat Dimensions: 22L x 20W x 23H inches
- Weight Capacity: Up to 45 pounds
- Vehicle Compatibility & Installation: Fits in just about any vehicle
- Security Features: Extra strong seat belt leash clips to vehicle seat belt
- Materials & Padding: Overstuffed bed with reversible cushion
- Durability: Very durable
- Collapsible, Portability & Easy To Carry: Rolls up to fit in its own small carrying case
- Ease of Cleaning: Removable cushion for machine washing
- Warranty: 30 days
- Best for: car seat with bolsters
The Margot car seat for large dogs is made with a soft and luxurious fabric that is also water-resistant and durable for pups that like to scratch and dig. It is super stuffed with extra fluffy polyfill, has a reversible cushion, and is easy to clean in the washing machine.
The safety belt clicks right into the vehicle latch so you know it is secure too so your fur buddy is safe and sound while you drive. The anti-slip bottom keeps your pup from sliding around too so he feels calmer and has less anxiety on long road trips. It is also a comfy bed for home too.
What We Like:
- The cushion is reversible and machine washable
- The bed bolsters are overstuffed for safety and comfort
- The material is durable enough for diggers and scratchers
What Dogs Love about it?
- The stuffed bolsters are comfy.
What We Don’t like:
- Only for pups up to 45 pounds
Common Questions From Dog Parents
Can dogs ride in the front seat of a car?
Your dog (just like your child) should never ride in the front seat of the car because they can be gravely injured by the airbag if it deploys. It can also be distracting if your pooch is right next to you. It is best to keep your fur baby secured in the back seat.
Are dog car seats or restraints required by law?
No, most states do not have a law that requires your dog to be restrained in the car but some do. For example, Rhode Island requires dogs to be secured in a crate, harness, or some other way while driving. It is always a good idea to check the law with the motor vehicle department to be sure.
What type of dog car seat is right for me?
When you are chew-sing a car seat for your large dog, you will need to consider his weight, size, shape, and behavior. Some fur babies are anxious in the car and may need to be secured better than others.
The Final Woof
The EzyDog Drive Safety Travel Dog Car Harness is our overall top pick out of the 30 dog car seats for large dogs that we evaluated. It may not be perfect for all dogs, but we feel this is the best car harness for large dogs because it is safety crash-tested in the USA (FMVSS 213), Europe (ECE Regulation 21), and Australia (ADR42/04).
The EzyDog Drive Safety Travel Dog Car Harness is approved for dogs of all sizes, ages, and breeds with its crosslink technology, an ergonomically molded chest plate, and a one-piece vehicle-grade safety belt webbing material. The dual ST buckles are extra secure as well as fast, and easy to use. And it can be removed and put in a pocket or pack when not in use.
If you are still wanting a dog car seat for your large dog, the MIXJOY Pet Front Seat Booster Seat is our top pick in the car seat category. The five layers of oxford cloth coated in PVC coating make it strong as well as comfortable for pups up to 60 pounds. You can use it as a booster-style seat or a car seat cover that attaches to the seat belt of your car.
We truly recommend the EzyDog harness though, because of its safety features and ability to handle fur babies of all sizes. Also, it is the only one we found that is crash tested and approved in the US, Europe, and Australia.
