Dogs deserve comfort on car journeys too.
Whether you are driving to the vet, heading on holiday, or taking daily trips to the park, the right car dog bed keeps your pup comfortable and your car protected.
Here are the best dog beds designed specifically for car travel, tested on journeys with our six dogs.
Quick Picks: Best Dog Beds for Cars
| Bed | Type | Best For | Price | Rating | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kurgo Loft Hammock | Back Seat Cover | Best Overall | $$ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | View Kurgo Loft Hammock |
| PetSafe Happy Ride | Booster Seat | Small Dogs | $$ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | View PetSafe Happy Ride |
| K&H Pet Cot | Elevated/SUV | Boot Space | $$ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | View K&H Pet Cot |
| Snoozer Lookout | Console Seat | Tiny Dogs | $$ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | View Snoozer Lookout |
| AmazonBasics Car Seat Cover | Back Seat Cover | Budget | $ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | View AmazonBasics Cover |
Our top pick: Kurgo Loft Hammock because it converts between hammock and bench cover, protects seats thoroughly, and includes a padded sleeping surface.
Types of Dog Beds for Cars
Back Seat Hammocks
Hammock style covers stretch between front and back seats, creating a suspended sleeping area.
Pros:
- Prevents dogs falling into footwell
- Protects entire back seat
- Creates dedicated dog space
- Often includes padding
Cons:
- Blocks back seat for passengers
- Takes time to install and remove
- May restrict dog's view
Best for: Regular car travel, protecting car interiors, dogs who roam on back seat.
Booster Seats
Elevated seats that allow small dogs to see out of windows while secured.
Pros:
- Dogs can see out windows (reduces anxiety)
- Secure harness attachment
- Comfortable padded interior
- Compact when not in use
Cons:
- Only suitable for small dogs
- Takes up passenger seat space
- Requires harness for safety
Best for: Small dogs up to 25 lbs who want to look out windows.
Boot and SUV Beds
Beds designed to fit in boot space of SUVs, estates, and hatchbacks.
Pros:
- Large sleeping area
- Good for big dogs
- Does not affect passenger space
- Often waterproof
Cons:
- Only works with suitable vehicles
- Dogs isolated from passengers
- Need boot divider for safety
Best for: Large dogs, SUV owners, dogs who travel frequently.
Seat Covers with Padding
Simple covers that protect seats while providing comfortable surface.
Pros:
- Easy to install and remove
- Protects seats from hair and dirt
- Affordable
- Washable
Cons:
- Less secure than hammocks
- Minimal cushioning usually
- Dogs can still fall into footwell
Best for: Short trips, occasional travel, budget buyers.
Travel Beds (Portable)
Regular dog beds designed to be portable and used in cars.
Pros:
- Familiar bed from home
- True comfort
- Multi use (car, hotel, visits)
- No installation needed
Cons:
- May slide around
- Does not protect seats
- Not designed for car safety
Best for: Dogs anxious about travel, long trips, multi purpose use.
Best Dog Beds for Cars: Detailed Reviews
1. Kurgo Loft Dog Hammock
Best Overall Car Dog Bed
Kurgo makes premium dog travel gear and the Loft Hammock is their flagship product.
What makes it great:
The hammock creates a secure sleeping area while protecting your entire back seat. The quilted microfibre surface provides genuine comfort rather than just seat protection. Converts easily between hammock mode (suspended) and bench mode (flat on seat).
Specifications:
- Coverage: Full back seat
- Material: Quilted microfibre
- Features: Converts hammock to bench
- Fit: Universal fit most cars
- Extras: Seat anchors and headrest straps
Pros:
- Dual mode (hammock or bench)
- Comfortable quilted surface
- Excellent seat protection
- Easy installation
- Durable construction
- Machine washable
Cons:
- Premium price
- Blocks back seat for passengers
- Large dogs may be cramped
Best for: Regular car travellers, seat protection, medium dogs.
Our rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
2. PetSafe Happy Ride Booster Seat
Best for Small Dogs
Small dogs often get anxious when they cannot see out of car windows. Booster seats solve this problem.
What makes it great:
Elevates small dogs to window height, dramatically reducing travel anxiety for many dogs. Internal harness attachment keeps dogs secure. Plush interior provides genuine comfort for the journey.
Specifications:
- Weight limit: Up to 25 lbs
- Material: Padded fleece lining
- Safety: Internal tether for harness
- Fit: Secures to seat with strap
- Size: 17" x 15" x 7"
Pros:
- Dogs can see out windows
- Reduces travel anxiety
- Secure harness attachment
- Comfortable padding
- Compact storage
Cons:
- Only for small dogs
- Takes up seat space
- Requires harness use
Best for: Small dogs who get car sick or anxious, dogs who want to see outside.
Our rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
3. K&H Portable Pet Cot
Best for SUV Boot Space
Elevated cot design works brilliantly in boot space, keeping dogs comfortable and contained.
What makes it great:
The elevated design keeps dogs off potentially hot or cold boot floors. Mesh fabric provides airflow for dogs who overheat. Folds flat for storage when not in use.
Specifications:
- Design: Elevated cot
- Material: Mesh fabric, steel frame
- Sizes: Multiple options
- Folds: Flat for storage
- Use: Boot space, camping, outdoor
Pros:
- Keeps dogs off boot floor
- Good airflow
- Folds flat
- Multi use (car, camping, garden)
- Easy to clean
Cons:
- No cushioning
- Requires boot space
- Assembly needed first time
Best for: SUV owners, large dogs, dogs who overheat in cars.
Our rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
4. Snoozer Lookout Car Seat
Best for Tiny Dogs
For very small dogs who want the console position or front seat with maximum security.
What makes it great:
Creates a secure, elevated nest that clips to seatbelt or rests on console. Dogs feel secure while staying close to their owner. High sides prevent dogs from jumping out.
Specifications:
- Weight limit: Up to 15 lbs
- Material: Various fabric options
- Safety: Seatbelt attachment
- Positions: Console, front seat, back seat
- Interior: Sherpa lined
Pros:
- Multiple position options
- Very secure high sides
- Dogs stay close to owner
- Sherpa comfort lining
- Quality construction
Cons:
- Only for very small dogs
- Premium price
- Takes time to adjust straps
Best for: Tiny dogs under 15 lbs, dogs who want to be near owner.
Our rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
5. AmazonBasics Waterproof Car Seat Cover
Best Budget Option
Simple, effective seat protection at an affordable price.
What makes it great:
Covers and protects back seat from dirt, hair, and scratches without complicated installation. Waterproof backing handles wet dogs after walks or swimming. Hammock mode available.
Specifications:
- Coverage: Back seat
- Material: Polyester with waterproof backing
- Features: Hammock or bench mode
- Fit: Universal
- Care: Machine washable
Pros:
- Very affordable
- Waterproof
- Easy install
- Machine washable
- Dual mode
Cons:
- Minimal padding
- Less durable than premium
- Basic design
Best for: Budget buyers, occasional travel, wet dogs after walks.
Our rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Car Dog Beds: Comparison Table
| Bed | Type | Size Limit | Waterproof | Price | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kurgo Loft | Hammock | Large dogs | Water resistant | $$ | View Kurgo Loft |
| PetSafe Booster | Booster | Up to 25 lbs | No | $$ | View PetSafe Booster |
| K&H Cot | Elevated | Large dogs | Yes (mesh) | $$ | View K&H Cot |
| Snoozer Lookout | Console | Up to 15 lbs | No | $$ | View Snoozer Lookout |
| AmazonBasics | Cover | All sizes | Yes | $ | View AmazonBasics Cover |
Safety Considerations
Restraint Is Essential
No matter which bed you choose, dogs should be secured in moving vehicles:
Why restraint matters:
- Protects dog in accidents
- Prevents driver distraction
- Required by law in some areas
- Stops dogs from jumping out
Restraint options:
- Harness attached to seatbelt clip
- Travel crate secured in boot
- Boot divider/barrier
- Booster seat with internal tether
Airbag Awareness
Front passenger seats have airbags that can injure dogs:
Recommendations:
- Back seat is safest for dogs
- If front seat necessary, move seat fully back
- Never put dogs on driver's lap
- Small booster seats should be in back when possible
Temperature Management
Cars heat up quickly and dangerously:
Hot weather:
- Never leave dogs in parked cars
- Use sunshades
- Ensure adequate airflow
- Consider cooling mats for long journeys
Cold weather:
- Provide warm bedding
- Start car to warm up before loading dog
- Consider heated travel pad
Choosing the Right Car Bed
Consider Your Vehicle
Saloon/Sedan: Back seat hammocks or booster seats work best.
SUV/Estate: Boot beds or hammocks. More options available.
Small car: Space is limited. Booster seats or simple covers.
Truck: Back seat options similar to saloons, or secured crate in bed.
Consider Your Dog
Small dogs (under 25 lbs): Booster seats let them see outside, reducing anxiety.
Medium dogs (25 to 60 lbs): Hammocks or boot beds provide enough space.
Large dogs (60+ lbs): Boot space in SUV or full back seat hammock.
Anxious travellers: Familiar bed from home or enclosed booster for security.
Dogs who overheat: Elevated mesh beds or ensure good airflow.
Consider Your Travel Style
Daily short trips: Quick install options, seat covers.
Long journeys: Maximum comfort, proper padding, space to stretch.
With passengers: Options that allow seat sharing or fold away easily.
Outdoor adventures: Waterproof, durable, easy to clean.
Tips for Comfortable Car Travel
Before the Journey
Toilet break before loading dog.
Avoid feeding immediately before travel (reduces car sickness).
Exercise helps dogs settle.
Bring familiar blanket or toy for comfort.
During Travel
Regular breaks on long journeys (every 2 hours).
Fresh water available.
Never leave dogs unattended in vehicles.
Keep car well ventilated.
Calm music or talking can help anxious dogs.
For Car Sick Dogs
Empty stomach before travel.
Lower windows slightly for fresh air.
Keep car cool.
Consider vet approved anti nausea medication.
Booster seats (seeing outside) often helps.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do dogs need special beds for cars?
+What is the safest way for a dog to travel in a car?
+Can I use a regular dog bed in my car?
+How do I stop my dog being sick in the car?
+Should dogs be in the front or back of a car?
+The Bottom Line
The right car dog bed makes travel more comfortable for your dog and protects your vehicle. Choose based on your dog's size, your vehicle type, and how often you travel.
Our recommendations:
Best overall: Kurgo Loft Hammock for versatility and comfort.
Small dogs: PetSafe Booster Seat for window views and security.
SUV owners: K&H Portable Cot for boot space comfort.
Tiny dogs: Snoozer Lookout for staying close to owner.
Budget: AmazonBasics Cover for simple seat protection.
Safe travels with your pup.
Check our top pick: Kurgo Loft Hammock on Amazon
Related Articles:
- Best Dog Beds 2025: Complete Guide
- Best Waterproof Dog Beds
- Best Dog Beds for Small Dogs
- Best Elevated Dog Beds
Top reviews
We’ve paused the on-page review box for now because we were getting too many spam submissions. If you’d like to share your experience, please send it through our contact form and I’ll add it manually. Thanks for understanding — genuine feedback really helps other dog owners. John Henry
