These Harnesses and Dog Beds for Cars Keep Your Pup Safe When on the Move

Every dog loves its dog bed (if you’ve weaned them off the couch, that is). It is important for them to have a place that is their own, a place where they can be comfortable without being shooed away every time someone wants to sit down. When it comes to hitting the road and taking your dog on an adventure in the car, the same thing stands. Many dogs get nervous in the car, spend the whole ride sliding all over the place or try to sit on your lap before you leave the driveway. (Weird how every dog thinks it’s a lap dog once you get on four wheels.) This means a pleasant, cozy spot for them to feel safe is imperative to having a successful road trip with your best friend. Luckily, dog beds for cars do exist and they’re just as comfortable as their bed at home, but they do something even more important: they keep your dog safe.

We dug around to find a few of the best dog beds for cars and round them up here so that you can be sure your pooch and you are at ease every time you go for a drive. Some of them zip close and are good for any journey and some are actually just a simple harness that lets the more adventurous pup sit comfortably next to their favorite human. Either way, pack your dog’s adventure gear, leash and dog jacket; this adventure is about to get exciting.

What to Look For

Seatbelt Contact Points: Each dog bed attaches (or doesn’t attach) to your car’s seatbelt differently. In some cases, the dog beds are made to fit into your car like a car seat, where they’ll likely remain for a while thanks to a more intensive installation process. Others are more traditional dog carriers that will nestle into your seat like a backpack would. Be cognizant of the size of your dog when buying to make sure you get a dog bed that fits your car and riders’ needs.

Versatility: Some beds on our list stay in your car more permanently, while others can be toted around like luggage. This will likely depend on the type of dog you have, but be sure to determine what exactly you’ll be using the bed for — do you want to leave it in the car or do you need the bed to be mobile?

The Best Dog Beds for Cars

Amazon

Best Bucket Dog Car Seat

Kurgo Rover Booster Dog Car Seat with Seat Belt Tether

• $60.00 at Amazon
  $66.00 (9% off)

This elevated bucket seat is ideal for smaller dogs (~20 pounds) that are more inclined to stay alert and be able to see out the window — whether they’re always on duty or tend to get a little carsick. It easily attaches to the seatbelt and has a built-in tether to attach to the pup’s harness or collar.

Amazon

Best Rear Facing Dog Bed for Cars

PupSaver Booster Car Seat

• $190.00 at Amazon

If your small dog is always getting in your grill while you drive, get this rear-facing dog seat. It is crash-tested and, being rear-facing, already has a bit of extra protection. It anchors in just like a child’s car seat and can easily be removed and used as a dog bed at your destination.

Wild One

Best Looking Pet Carrier

Wild One Travel Carrier

• $125.00 at wildone.com

One of the best looking dog carriers we’ve seen, this airline-approved travel carrier keeps your pup comfortable and secure in the car or on a plane. It has a dual-use leash/shoulder strap and breathable mesh walls, ensuring Fido is always comfy.

Walmart

Best for Miniature Dogs (or Cats)

Sleepypod Mobile Pet Bed

• $220.00 at Walmart

For owners of miniature dogs, or maybe even a feline friend, this mobile pet bed from Sleepypod is the answer. One of our designers at GP swears by it, thanks to its luggage-grade, ballistic nylon construction and extra-plush bedding.

Orvis

Best for Dogs Who Don't Want to Be Tied Down

Orvis Grip-Tight Windowed Hammock Seat Protector

• $219.00 at Orvis

If you want your big boy to have a bit more freedom but still be comfortable and have an added layer of protection (for them and your car), you’ll want the Hammock Seat Protector from Orvis. It gives your dog the co-pilot view while also making the backseat a place to make their own. Plus, you can just clean the hammock, not your entire backseat.

Away

Best Upscale Dog Carrier

Away Pet Carrier

• $225.00 at Away

For the more posh travelers among us, or the folks who like to take their dog on planes, trains and automobiles, get the pet carrier from Away, one of our favorite luggage brands. If you already have luggage from Away, this bag seamlessly fits in with your suitcase, but it is also easy to attach to a seatbelt. It also has a removable liner and is water-resistant.

Gunner

Best Hard-Sided Travel Kennel

Gunner G1 Kennel

• $599.00 at gunner.com

If you’ve got a truck or would rather just keep your dog in a kennel for travel, the American-made G1 from Gunner is the top pick. It is 5-star crash-tested by the Center for Pet Safety and is double-walled rotomolded for extra safety and durability. Basically, you’ll never need another one (it has a lifetime warranty, to boot).

Amazon

Best Dog Harness for Cars

Sleepypod ClickIt Sport Crash-Tested Dog Harness

• $117.00 at Amazon

Sometimes, all your dog wants is a harness. If they like to sit up straight in the passenger seat or won’t stay put in a dog bed, this is the best harness for taking them in the car. It is nearly impossible for them to slip out of and can easily attach to a seatbelt. If you’re worried about safety, you can rest assured; it has been certified for dogs up to 75lbs by the Center for Pet Safety.

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