Many dog owners often travel with their dogs in the car. Sometimes it’s a long road trip, other times it’s a simple trip to the park. No matter the distance, however, it’s important your dog is secured safely in your car in case of an accident. Here are some essential car safety tips for dogs:

1. Keep Them in the Back Seat Only

Many owners think it’s fine for their dog to ride in the passenger seat. This is actually a very unsafe place for your dog to be. In case of an accident, your dog has a much higher risk of injury in the front passenger seat. It also can be a distraction for you as the driver.

If you insist on keeping your dog in the front seat or it’s the only option, make sure your dog is properly restrained. Properly restraining your dog will keep them safe and will help you concentrate on the road.

2. Use a Harness or Safety Belt

Making sure your dog is secured in the backseat but has some room to move around is another safety tip. Use a tether, a safety belt, or a car harness for dogs* to keep your dog in place *(Amazon Affiliate Link).

If your dog is restless, this is a helpful tool to keep them confined to the backseat. This can also help reduce car sickness in dogs in some cases. Be aware that even though your dog is restrained with the tether or safety belt, they are not fully protected in the event of a crash.

3. Small Dogs May Need Booster Seats

Booster seats for small dogs are a great way for your dog to be secured in the backseat but also allow them a view out the window. This can help eliminate distracted driving while calming down a dog who wants to see out the window.

4. Travel With a Crate or Carrier

Some dogs struggle with anxiety on car rides. If this is your dog, try traveling with a dog crate or carrier. There are some things to consider when choosing the right dog carrier, like your dog’s size and height.

A dog crate will also be a safe place for your dog to rest while in the car. Keep some of their favorite toys or cozy blanket in the crate with them for comfort. Making the crate a safe space for your dog is one of the dog crate training tips.

There are dog crates available with extra padding that can help protect your pup in the case of an accident. Be sure to secure the dog crate into the seat with seatbelts and other restraints. This will help keep your dog calm on car rides and also help keep your dog safe in the event of a crash.

5. Keep Essentials With You

Make sure you have your dog’s necessities with you at all times. This is one of the best tips for traveling with dogs. Carrying food and water is important in case your trip takes longer than expected or you make a pit stop somewhere. Keeping your dog well hydrated is especially important if the weather is warm.

Make sure you also have a dog first aid kit with you in the car. If your dog gets cut or is stung by an insect, it’s important to have an antibiotic cream and bandages with you. This is one of the most important things to keep in a first aid kit for your dog.

6. Childproof the Doors and Windows

Making sure the childproof locks are on for doors your dog has access to is important in case they figure out how to open the door or accidentally open the door. Dogs can be masterful escape artists so be sure you have all potential exits covered.

It’s also important to childproof the windows so they can’t accidentally fall out. While dogs love having the breeze blowing on them, your window should not be open enough that they can jump out. Make sure the lock is on their windows so they can’t accidentally open the window further.

These are just a few essential car safety tips for dogs. Whether you’re RVing with your dog or just taking a quick trip in the car, keeping your furry friends safe while you travel is important and will ensure many more road trips together in the future.

*Greenfield Puppies is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. Greenfield Puppies may earn a commission for purchases made through Amazon affiliate links on our site.