Ensuring the safety and comfort of your small canine companion during car rides is paramount for any responsible pet owner. In our quest to find the perfect balance between safety and style, we’ve curated a list of the “Top 5 Dog Car Seats for Small Dogs.” These innovative and stylish solutions not only provide a secure environment for your furry friend but also add a touch of flair to your car interior. Join us as we explore the best options available to keep your small dog safe and stylish on the road.
When it comes to road trips with your furry friend, safety is of the utmost importance. A dog car seat can provide a secure and comfortable spot for your pup while you’re on the move. Not only does it keep them from distracting the driver or getting hurt in the event of an accident, but it also keeps them contained and prevents them from jumping around the car. In this article, we will explore the different types of dog car seats available and the features to look for when making a purchase.
What Is A Car Dog Seat?
Table of Contents
A dog car seat is typically a basket or bed that can be plugged into the seatbelts of a car or fastened itself around the back of the seat.
It allows your dog to sit inside the seat whilst remaining safely belted in. The dog can then be harnessed and secured to the dog car seat.
This means the seat itself is braced using its seatbelts, and the dog is braced to the car seat from its harness.
According to new UK law, if you drive with an unsecured pet, it can cost you a £5,000 penalty for ‘careless driving’, so you must keep your dog buckled up.
If you don’t use a dog car seat, a loose dog essentially becomes a projectile in the event of even a small crash.
Also, dogs running wild in the car can damage your seats and belongings and make you unaware of what is going on in front of you on the road. Owning a dog car seat cover or hammock can help protect your interior and help you personalize your car style. For some smaller dogs owning the perfect small dog booster seat will support your dog’s comfort and safety, plus the booster seat will allow your dog to see out of the window.
5 Incredible Dog Car Seats For Small Dogs
Now let’s take a quick look at the most suitable dog car seat for small dogs that have been tested and are available in the market.
Snoozer Lookout I – Dog Car Seat
It is designed to be highly comfortable for your dog on any car journey due to its extra-thick padding. This amazing car seat supports dogs that weigh up to 25lbs and is great for well-behaved dogs.
The interior is made with a Sherpa lining along with pretending lamb wool to help keep your dog nice and snug and warm in the winter but comfortable all year round.
The Snoozer comes in many different colours and small/medium sizes. With the different colours and sizes come different materials, so it is always suggested to check the product description before buying.
With the many colours to choose from helping you personalise the car seat to match your car and interior, this seat has many more pros than cons.
Pros
- Great for letting dogs see out the window
- Extremely Comfortable
- Well Made and Great Value for Money
Cons
- Longer, Thinner dogs will struggle to fit on this seat.
Kurgo Heather Dog Car Seat
On our list of Some Perfect Small Dog Car Booster Seats is the Kurgo Heather. Supporting dogs up to 30lbs in weight, the Kurgo Heather can be installed easily using the car seat belt. This enables you to move the seat wherever you like in the car, even the middle seat. The Heather allows your small dog to sit up and view the world passing by and keeps your dog comfortable. This seat is also waterproof and very sturdy.
There is a limited range of the Kurgo Heather as it is only available in two colours; Orange or Blue. The seat’s body is black and simple to wipe and clean when required.
When taking your dog out on a journey, this seat is a great choice as it is so simple to clean should your dog like getting wet and muddy.
Pros
- Strong Sturdy Design
- It can be used in the front
- Installation is Easy
Cons
- Bit Small and Cramped for 30lb dog
PetSafe Happy Ride Booster Seat (Deluxe)
Finally, the Solvit Tagalong Dog Car Booster Seat is a luxury seat that helps keep your dog lifted and protected. Fully lined with a comfortable and easy-clean fleece that will help keep your dog protected, comfortable and warm.
The Solvit Tagalong comes in three sizes, from Large to Jumbo, and can house more than one dog at a time. Keep a constant check on your dog seat as some customers have reported damage in a short period and low use.
Pros
- Houses more than one dog
- Easy Clean
- Lightweight
Cons
- Has been said that the Solvit does damage quite easily through wear and tear
Amazon Basics Pet Car Booster Bucket Seat
This bucket-shaped booster seat by Amazon Basics is designed specifically for smaller dogs and is perfect for those frightened of the car or prone to car sickness. It is 18.5 x 17.7 x 15.7 inches and weighs 2.6 pounds.
There is an opening at the bottom of the seat to thread the car’s seat belt through and secure it to the car. There are two adjustable tether straps for safety, and the exterior is made of durable oxford fabric. The interior is a comfy quilted flannel plush top, removable and washable.
Pros
- Bucket – seat style with removable cushion
- Soft flannel interior with polyester exterior
- Machine washable and dryer safe
Cons
- The safety tether is poorly attached
- Flimsy foam shell that collapses easily
- Low-quality materials rip easily
Snoozer Lookout II
Although much more expensive than other dog seats, the Snoozer Lookout II has extra nifty features that most other car seats don’t have. The price does let this car seat down. However, it is a fantastic car seat that comes complete with a small tray so you can feed your dog whilst on the road.
Made from more of the same materials as the Snoozer I, the Snoozer II is just as comfortable, just as safe and just as beautiful.
Available in both small and medium sizes and a whole host of colour schemes to suit you and your car, this seat is a great seat for those long car journeys.
Pros
- Multiple Colours to help match your car interior
- Extremely Comfortable
- Great for Long Car Journeys
- Simple to Install
- Tray for Food / Treats
Cons
- More Expensive than the Snoozer I
- Limited Stock Available
How to Choose the Perfect Small Dog Car Seat?
Choosing one of the Most Suitable Small Dog Booster Seats should involve the same amount of looking as you would for your child. There are several things to look out for to help you find the perfect dog car booster seat.
Measurements: Always check the measurements of the seat and your dog. Ensuring there is enough space for your dog to sit comfortably on short or long journeys.
Simple to Use: Taking the seat out and re-installing should be an easy task and not damage the seat.
Keeping Clean: Taking your dog on a walk will result in dirty dog paws. These are then put on the seat and eventually can start to smell. Being easy to clean is an absolute must.
Fitting: Most dog booster seats require your car to have a headrest to hook the seat onto. Always check fitting instructions for your dog car booster seat and check they fit your car.
Use: If you are a regular long-distance traveller, a more expensive luxury car seat is necessary. If you take smaller trips now and then, a cheaper model will be more suited.
Material: Keep your eye on your dog once they start using a car booster seat, as they can get quite itchy and uncomfortable. Depending on the materials used, your dog will not travel well and cause distress when driving.
Should I Install My Dog Car Seat in the Front or Back?
Dogs, like children, are suggested to be seated in the back of the car. This will prevent damage if airbags deploy in an accident. Great placement of any dog car booster seat is behind the driver’s seat so you can check on your dog in the mirror. The perfect place is in the middle, but most cars don’t have a headrest in the middle seat, which can be difficult.
Dogs can be placed in the front passenger seat; however, it is not advised. If you choose to put your dog in the front of the car, make sure the seat is pushed right back. This helps prevent the airbag from hitting your dog in the face if the airbags go off and protect them.
Driving in Style: Ensuring Safe Journeys for Your Pint-sized Pal
In the world of pet travel, safety and style harmoniously coexist with our top picks for dog car seats designed exclusively for small breeds. As we conclude our journey through the “Top 5 Dog Car Seats for Small Dogs – Safe & Stylish,” it’s evident that these carefully selected options prioritize your furry friend’s well-being without compromising on aesthetics. So, whether you’re planning a short drive or a long road trip, invest in one of these seats to make every journey an enjoyable and secure experience for your petite companion. After all, safe travels should never be at the expense of style!
In conclusion, investing in a dog car seat is an essential aspect of ensuring the safety and comfort of your furry companion during car rides. With the various options available in the market, you can find the perfect fit for your dog’s size and your car’s specifications. Remember to always use a harness and secure your dog properly in the seat to prevent any accidents. Happy travels!
Also Check:
