How do you secure a dog in a car?

While dogs love poking their heads out of car windows, doing so puts your furry friend at risk of injury from stones and litter in the road and could land you a sizeable fine for careless or dangerous driving if they're not adequately secured.

Master the essential rules for safely securing a dog in a car to protect them, the driver and your passengers. This guide explains how to secure your dog safely in your car and follow UK laws.

EASY AS HACK

A booster seat lets a small dog enjoy the view out the window while safely restrained.

what is the uk law on having your dog in the car?

The UK has no specific law on having a dog in the car. However, the police and courts will consider Rule 57 of the Highway Code when deciding if you have committed an offence.

A police officer may enforce this rule about animals in vehicles if an unrestrained dog in the car distracts the driver or causes injury during a sudden stop, leading to the offence of careless or dangerous driving.

Owners who break the rules may face a hefty fine of up to £5,000 and possibly even a court appearance, depending on their level of responsibility for the incident and the harm caused.

As well as the Highway Code, you have a duty of care under the Animal Welfare Act (England and Wales) 2006 to provide for your pet’s travel needs.^[1] It’s essential to use adequate and approved restraints. You must ensure your animal is healthy and comfortable and has enough water and ventilation.

Highway Code rule 57 suggests “a seat belt harness, pet carrier, dog cage or dog guard” as suitable ways of restraining animals in cars. Visit the Highway Code^[2]  to learn more.

what to do when securing your dog in a car

A seat belt harness or pet carrier, crate or boot gate will protect your dog on a short trip to the vet or longer journeys. Follow our tips on securing a dog in the car so they are safe, comfortable and calm.

make sure your dog is comfortable

When choosing a restraint for your dog, ensure it provides adequate protection to keep them safe should you brake and that they can travel comfortably.

Always carry water so your dog stays hydrated. You might want to practise and take some treats along to encourage them into the harness, carrier, cage or guard if the experience is new to them.

ensure you have a suitable restraint

Ensure the restraint you choose is suitable, safe and secure for the car journey to avoid distractions or your dog escaping. 

choose the right place

The first step is to choose where to have your dog in the car. Dog’s Trust recommends that canine companions travel on the back seat with a secured harness or securely in the boot behind a dog guard or in a crate.^[3]

Although the RSPCA says dogs can travel on a passenger seat, they must be suitably restrained, and you must deactivate the airbag on their side.^[3]

Wherever your dog is secured, you must ensure they are comfortable. For example, can you keep them cool or warm enough if they are in the boot? During a long trip, can they turn, stand and lie down?

Adding a favourite blanket, chew, or toy can help them stay calm. Take frequent toilet and water breaks ^[4]

what not to do when securing your dog in a car

When securing your dog in a car, do not:

open windows

If your dog is in the passenger seat or the back seat, don’t completely open the windows so your dog can hang out of it. It’s dangerous. If they escaped, it could result in horrific injuries. If you need the window open so your dog doesn’t overheat, leave them open slightly.

leave your dog in the vehicle

Never leave your dog unattended in a parked vehicle unless you are dashing out for five minutes. On a warm day, dogs can quickly develop heatstroke and die even with access to water.^[5]

use a suitable restraint

There are many ways to secure a dog in a car. Choose the best one for your dog depending on its size, the number of dogs you have, whether they like travelling, and the type of vehicle.

Check out our list of the types of dog restraints, what they do and how they differ.

dog restraint options

1. Dog seatbelt harness

This secures directly to the car seatbelt system while your dog wears a harness.

• • Differences: Check for quality, safety testing, and attachment methods
  • Perfect for: Medium-large canines who sit quietly
  • Tips: Make sure it fits correctly, is the right size, and is safety tested.6 Many are cushioned around the chest for comfort and can convert into a walking harness.

2. Pet carriers and dog cages/crates

Restrain your dog within a robust box.

• • Differences: Made from plastic, metal or fabric, they are available in various sizes and mounting locations on the car
  • Perfect for: Every dog size, but ideal if yours is nervous about travelling
  • Tips: One of the safest options for containing your dog safely, especially when secured to the back seat or fitted to the boot.^[4]

3. Car dog guards or boot barriers

Create a barrier between the boot and passenger compartment ^[7]

• • Differences: Available in various materials. Some are made from mesh and attach to headrests. Others have sliding side extensions.
  • Perfect for: Medium-large, energetic or multiple dogs.
  • Tips: It is unsuitable for small dogs or puppies needing a crate. Choose one that fits your car’s width and headrest design and doesn’t move about. Combine with restraints like harnesses or a crate if your dog is excitable.^[8]

4. Dog booster seats

Elevate small dogs so they can see out of the window

• • Differences: Not a full restraint system and unsuitable for cars with side or internal seat airbags. Some models use ISOFIX anchors for extra stability.^[10]
  • Perfect for: Small dogs or puppies, especially those prone to car sickness.
  • Tips: Always pair with a suitable harness and tether to keep your dog secure.

why is it essential to restrain a dog in the car?

It is essential to restrain a dog in the car because even the best-behaved dog can distract the driver. Unrestrained dogs can cause mayhem by climbing on seats or trying to get on your lap.

If you need to brake suddenly, they could cause an accident and injure themselves and the car’s occupants – even on a short journey. Even careful drivers can have a bump or need to stop the vehicle quickly.

FAQs 

what is classed as a suitable restraint?

A suitable restraint is a seat belt harness, pet carrier or dog cage are suitable ways of restraining animals.

when should i car train my dog?

You should car train your dog if you travel a lot, it’s a good idea to familiarise them with your vehicle as soon as possible.

how can i help my dog with car sickness?

To help your dog with car sickness, it’s best to check with your vet for advice. However, you can prepare your car for any journey by ensuring they are comfortable and well-ventilated.