The Best Car Seat For Small Dogs

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Finding ways to involve your small dog in everyday activities is even more enjoyable if they're comfortable riding in the car. Some dogs adapt quickly, while others might need a little extra time to adjust to the speed and movement. But setting up a car seat for your tiny pup could give them the courage to get excited about long and short road trips. To help you out, we've rounded up a few of our favorite car seats for small dogs to use on your next adventure.

What to Look For

In researching car seats for small dogs, we found that the best ones are comfortable, durable, and washable. Based on these requirements, our top pick is the car seat from SWIHELP. This low-profile car seat has breathable mesh sides and a durable steel frame. The entire thing folds down for easy storage in your trunk or under the seat. We also love the car seat from BurgeonNest because it’s padded on all sides to keep your pup comfortable on long or short trips in the car. Every cover is machine washable, so you can clean up accidents quickly and efficiently. Keep reading to discover your new favorite car seat for small dogs.

SWIHELP Foldable Dog Car Seat

SWIHELP Foldable Dog Car Seat

Compact carrier

This foldable car seat is easy to install and can be stored under the seat until you need it.
Best Overall

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While we all want to spoil our pets, we can also overrun our lives with too many dog-related products. This minimalistic car seat won’t take over your backseat, and it folds down when you aren’t traveling with your dog. The metal frame locks together to create a sturdy seat where your dog can ride. And you can adjust the basket height once it has been latched around the seat and headrest in your vehicle. Plus, the mesh sides will keep your pup cool and comfortable no matter the temperature.

Pros:

  • We appreciate that the non-slip base is also waterproof.
  • You can easily adjust the car seat to fit different types of vehicles.

Cons:

  • There isn’t any padding along the top edge.

BurgeonNest Washable Car Seat for Small Dogs

BurgeonNest Washable Car Seat for Small Dogs

Fresh and clean

The removable covers on this dog car seat make cleaning up after accidents and car sickness a breeze.
Runner Up

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Setting up a car seat for your dog shouldn’t lead to your car smelling like a dog. BurgeonNest’s puffy car seat is designed for dogs under 25 pounds and has a removable cover to keep your vehicle smelling fresh. The base pillow is double-sided, so your pet can sit on the warm or cool side. And there are large pockets on either side to store poop bags, treats, and your dog’s leash. After strapping in the car seat, it will sit flat on the seat to keep movement at a minimum for your little pup.

Pros:

  • The main car seat cover and pillowcase are machine washable.
  • Your dog will love resting their head on the padded edges.

Cons:

  • The harness attachment is too long to keep curious dogs from jumping out of the seat.

Henkelion Small Dog Car Seat with Seat Belt

Henkelion Small Dog Car Seat with Seat Belt

All strapped in

Keep your dog safely in their seat when you buckle their harness to this sturdy car seat.
Best With Harness Attachment

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If your puppy or small dog gets interested in exploring the car on road trips, you’ll want to invest in a car seat with a seat belt. This one from Henkelion fills an entire seat in your car and sports a waterproof base to trap spills along the way. What’s more, the basket latches securely around the headrest, and the sturdy sides won’t collapse on top of your pup. Last but certainly not least, the adjustable seat belt keeps your dog safe in their seat on every ride.

Pros:

  • There is enough space inside this car seat to add a comfortable blanket or pillow.
  • It prevents dog hair from spreading throughout your entire vehicle.

Cons:

  • Teething puppies will likely be able to chew through the plastic clips.

TR Pet Small Dog Car Seat

TR Pet Small Dog Car Seat

Pampered pooch

This padded car seat will give your dog the ride of their life and protect your seats at the same time.
Most Comfortable

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It’s hard for most dogs to refuse a comfortable bed, especially if it means they can lounge around in the car. TR Pet’s car seat doubles as a plush bed that your dog won’t turn down. The simple stripe pattern will complement almost any car interior, and there’s even a back pad to protect the upholstery from dirt and hair. After attaching the seat to your car, you latch your dog using the seat belt clip. This keeps them secure if you have to take sharp or unexpected turns.

Pros:

  • The durable material is bite-resistant to prevent puppies from destroying the seat.
  • The bed-like seat will give your dog a familiar and comfortable place to rest if they feel anxious.

Cons:

  • This car seat is too big to raise above the vehicle seat.

HIFUAR Pet Car Booster Seat

HIFUAR Pet Car Booster Seat

Part of the action

Your pup won't ever feel left out when their riding up front in this center console car seat.
Best For Center Console

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Small dogs tend to like being in the center of everything so they can see what’s happening. With this car seat, they can sit between the two front seats and watch the world go by. You can either strap the seat around the center console or attach it to the two armrests if your vehicle has them. It stays secure at every turn, and the non-slip base ensures it never budges. Plus, your dog has a padded cushion to rest their head on longer trips.

Pros:

  • The car seat cover is double-sided, so you can pick between the two materials to keep your pet comfortable.
  • The padded pillow is detachable if you want to give your dog more space to move.

Cons:

  • This car seat can only hold dogs that weigh eight pounds or less.

Does my dog have to ride in a car seat?

While it isn’t a requirement, we do recommend it. Setting up a car seat for your pet will keep you and your dog safe. Dogs with anxiety will want to sit on your lap or be near you while you drive, which could end in a horrific accident. So, keeping your pet latched into a comfortable car seat is the best option for both of you.

How should I attach the seatbelt to my dog’s car seat?

If your car seat includes a seatbelt attachment, you should connect it to your dog’s harness. Clipping it to your dog’s collar could result in pain or injury if you have to stop suddenly on the road. You can also purchase a separate seatbelt for your dog to use if your car seat doesn’t come with one.

About the Author

Danielle is a proud dog mom of the friendliest golden retriever named Juniper. Even on bad days, Juniper has that uncanny ability to cheer her up. As a big-time dog lover, Danielle wants every person to know the joy that comes with having a four-legged friend in their lives. You can count on Danielle to find the best products for you and your pet.

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