The 5 Best Car Seats for BIG Dogs
- Christian Glason
- Dec 24, 2024
- 6 min read
Updated: Jan 3
On the hunt for the best car seat for your big dog? Safety and comfort are non-negotiable when it comes to traveling with your furry companion. In this guide, we’ll break down the top car seats designed for larger dogs and help you find the perfect fit for your next adventure.
Top Car Seats for Large Dogs
Selecting the appropriate pet car seat guarantees your dog’s safety and comfort while traveling. Here’s a quick rundown of the top picks you’ll read about:
Best for Safety: Sleepypod Clickit Sport
Best for Style: FunnyFuzzy Urban Voyager Dog Car Seat
Best for Durability: Gunner G1
Best for Those Who Demand The Best: Variocage Double Crash-Tested Dog Crate
Best Hammock Style Option: 4Knines Dog Car Seat Cover for Back Seat with Hammock
These dog car seats are carefully selected to meet various needs and preferences, allowing you and your furry friend to travel stylishly and safely.
Sleepypod Clickit Sport Car Harness - Best for Safety
Price: $104
Our Ratings
Price: 3/5
Design: 5/5
Safety: 5/5
Comfort: 4/5
✅ Why It’s the Best:
Exceptional Safety Standards: Crash-tested and certified by the Center for Pet Safety for peace of mind.
Durable Construction: Made with tough ballistic nylon for long-lasting use.
Comfort-Focused Design: Padded components and an infinity loop system to reduce strain during collisions.
❌ What to Consider:
Pricey for a Harness: At $104, it’s more expensive than most standard harnesses.
Weight Limit: Only accommodates dogs under 90 pounds.
Limited Use Outside Vehicles: Not ideal for walking or other activities compared to multi-use harnesses.
The Verdict
The Sleepypod Clickit Sport is like the seatbelt of dog harnesses—essential, reliable, and built to protect. It stands out with its advanced safety design, including an infinity loop system that evenly distributes force during impact, minimizing the risk of injury. While the price may deter budget-conscious buyers, its crash-test certification and high-quality materials make it worth the cost for safety-conscious pet owners. If safety is your top priority, this harness is an investment in your dog’s well-being.
FunnyFuzzy Urban Voyager Dog Car Seat - Best for Style
Price: $148
View on FunnyFuzzy
Our Ratings:
Price: 4/5
Design: 4/5
Safety: 4/5
Comfort: 5/5
✅ Why It’s the Best:
Sleek and Stylish Design: Made with faux leather for a luxurious and modern look.
Built-In Comfort: Features a cozy booster bed ideal for long car rides.
Low Maintenance: Easy-to-clean materials help keep your car’s interior pristine.
❌ What to Consider:
Size Limitations: May not fit well in smaller vehicles.
Limited Variety: Only available in a small range of bold colors, which might not be for everyone.
Safety Trade-Offs: Not as secure as crash-tested alternatives.
The Verdict
The FunnyFuzzy Urban Voyager is the designer handbag of dog car seats—stylish, functional, and perfect for those who love to travel in luxury. Its faux leather construction and cozy booster bed combine comfort with elegance, making it a treat for both dogs and owners. While it lacks the advanced safety features of other options and may not suit compact cars, it’s an excellent choice for those who prioritize aesthetics and comfort on the road.
Gunner G1 - Best for Durability
Price: $550
Our Ratings:
Price: 3/5
Design: 5/5
Safety: 5/5
Comfort: 4/5
✅ Why It’s the Best:
Exceptional Build Quality: Double-wall construction and heavy-duty materials make it virtually indestructible.
Spacious Design: Accommodates dogs up to 110 lbs, perfect for large breeds.
Unmatched Safety: Crash-tested and built to protect your dog in extreme conditions.
❌ What to Consider:
High Price Point: At $550, it’s a significant investment.
Heavy and Bulky: Difficult to transport for frequent trips.
Limited Ventilation Options: While sturdy, the design may not provide optimal airflow for dogs in hot climates.
The Verdict
The Gunner G1 is the armored truck of dog kennels—designed to handle anything life throws its way. Its double-wall construction and crash-tested safety make it one of the most durable options on the market, ideal for owners of large or active dogs. While its hefty price tag and weight may deter casual users, its long-term reliability and robust protection are well worth the investment for those who demand the best.
Variocage Double Crash-Tested Dog Crate - Best for Those Who Demand The Best
Price: Starting at $700+
View on Variocage
Our Ratings:
Price: 2/5
Design: 4/5
Safety: 5/5
Comfort: 2/5
✅ Why It’s the Best:
Crash-Tested: Certified for top safety in accidents, providing peace of mind for pet owners.
Adjustable Design: Customizable depth allows it to fit various vehicles and dog sizes perfectly.
Emergency Escape Hatch: Includes a rear door for quick and easy access in case of emergencies.
Durable Build: Made from high-quality steel for long-lasting strength and stability.
❌ What to Consider:
High Price: As one of the most expensive options, it may not be suitable for budget-conscious buyers.
Time-Intensive Installation: Takes about an hour to install properly, making it inconvenient for those who need a quick setup or frequent removal.
Best for Long-Term Use: Its heavy and precise design means it’s ideal for permanent installation but impractical for those needing flexibility or frequent adjustments.
The Verdict
The Variocage is the gold standard for dog travel crates, combining unmatched safety with thoughtful design. Its crumple zone absorbs impact like a car’s safety system, while adjustable sizing ensures a perfect fit in your vehicle. Features like an escape hatch and secure locking make it both practical and reliable. While it’s heavier and more expensive than other options, its premium protection and peace of mind make it a worthwhile investment for dedicated pet owners.
4Knines Dog Car Seat Cover for Back Seat with Hammock - Best Hammock-Style Option
Price: Starts at $59.99
Our Rating:
Price: 4/5
Design: 4/5
Safety: 3/5
Comfort: 5/5
✅ Why It’s the Best:
Protects Your Car: Heavy-duty, waterproof fabric shields your seats from scratches, spills, and shedding—perfect for messy or active dogs.
User-Friendly Design: Quick to install with adjustable straps, and machine-washable for easy upkeep.
Maximizes Dog Comfort: Spacious hammock-style design offers a secure, cozy space for large dogs to relax on the go.
❌ What to Consider:
Lacks Restraint Features: While it protects your car, it doesn’t include built-in safety tethers or crash-tested elements to secure your dog.
Limited Containment: Active or excitable dogs can still move around or jump out of the hammock, potentially causing distractions.
Requires Compatible Vehicles: Best suited for larger cars or SUVs; may not fit smaller vehicles or oddly shaped back seats well.
The Verdict
The 4Knines Dog Seat Cover with Hammock is a reliable and practical option for pet owners who want to protect their car’s interior while offering a comfortable ride for large dogs. Its durable, waterproof design and ease of cleaning make it a top choice for messy or active pets. However, it lacks built-in restraints for added safety, making it best suited for calm, well-behaved dogs. Think of it as the raincoat of car accessories—functional, protective, and perfect for everyday use, but not designed for extreme conditions.
Key Features to Consider When Choosing a Car Seat for Big Dogs
Selecting the perfect dog car seat involves several crucial features. Size is paramount; compare your dog’s measurements with the manufacturer’s size chart to ensure a proper fit for enhanced safety and comfort.
Durability is also essential. Choose car seats made from high-quality materials like ballistic nylon or waterproof fabric to withstand travel wear and tear. Secure attachment to your vehicle’s seat belt prevents shifting during sudden stops, enhancing safety.
Ease of maintenance is also important. Removable and washable seat liners simplify cleaning, especially during shedding seasons. Features like built-in tethers that connect to your dog’s harness help minimize movement, enhancing safety.
How to Measure Your Dog for the Perfect Fit
Selecting the correct size for a dog car seat is essential for safety and comfort. Begin by measuring your dog’s height from the ground to the highest point of their back to determine necessary vertical space.
Measure around your dog’s neck at the widest point and their chest right behind the front legs to find the correct size for a harness or car seat. Also, measure from the neck at the collar to the base of the tail to get your dog’s full length.
Compare these measurements with the manufacturer’s size chart to ensure a proper fit. A well-fitted car seat enhances both safety and comfort during the ride.
Summary
Choosing the right car seat for your big dog is about balancing safety, comfort, and convenience. Whether you prioritize premium safety with the Variocage, rugged durability with the Gunner G1, or stylish comfort with the FunnyFuzzy Urban Voyager, there’s a perfect option for your needs. Keep these tips in mind, and you’ll be ready to hit the road with confidence and peace of mind. Happy Travels!
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