Dog Car Seat
A dog car seat is a padded booster or bed that holds a small dog in one place during car rides, often raised so the dog can see out of the window. This collection offers cotton, nylon and waterproof Oxford fabric seats sized for small dogs, several with weight limits of 10 or 12 kg, plus a carrier handbag for the trip from car to door. For a full travel setup, browse our dog travel gear.
How to choose the right dog car seat
- Dog weight: Check the weight limit first. The striped cotton seat suits dogs under 12 kg and the cushioned seat bed dogs up to 10 kg.
- Seat size: Compare the seat dimensions with your dog lying curled up, and with the space on your car seat.
- Material and cleaning: Waterproof Oxford fabric helps with muddy paws, and removable or machine washable designs make cleanup easier.
- Comfort: Cushioned bases and warm linings make long drives calmer, especially for small dogs who like to nap.
- Safety attachment: Always connect your dog's harness to a short tether or seat belt, never to a collar, so your dog stays inside the seat.
Sizing and fit
Measure your dog lying down, from nose to base of tail, and weigh your dog. Compare this with the dimensions and weight limits on each product page, for example 55 x 50 x 35 cm or 45 x 55 x 40 cm. If your dog is between two sizes, pick the larger seat so there is room to turn around.
Popular picks in this collection
- Dog Car Seats: a waterproof seat bed in Oxford fabric, machine washable and light at 0.6 kg, in five colors.
- Striped Cotton Car Seat for Small Dogs: soft cotton in two sizes for dogs under 12 kg.
- Dog Car Seat Bed for Small Dogs, Cushioned: a nylon seat bed for small dogs up to 10 kg.
- Portable Small Dog Car Seat, Grey or Khaki: removable and washable, with a waterproof outer fabric.
- Dog Handbag Carrier: a cotton carrier in two sizes for carrying your dog to and from the car.
Pairs well with
Secure your dog with a dog car seat belt clipped to a comfortable dog harness. Protect your upholstery with a dog car seat cover, and see our dog carriers for trains and flights. Before a road trip, read how to travel with a dog.
Dog Car Seat FAQ
Do small dogs need a car seat?
A dog car seat keeps a small dog in one place instead of moving around the car, which is calmer for the dog and less distracting for the driver. A raised seat also lets many small dogs look outside, which can make trips feel easier.
Where should a dog car seat go?
The back seat is the usual place for a dog car seat, since front airbags can be dangerous for pets. Fix the seat firmly to the car seat and attach your dog's harness to the tether.
Should I attach a dog car seat tether to a collar?
No, attach the tether to a harness, not a collar. A harness spreads pressure across the chest if the car stops suddenly, while a collar puts it all on the neck.
How do I clean a dog car seat?
Many dog car seats have removable or washable parts; some are machine washable and others hand wash only. Check the care notes on each product page before washing.