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10 Best Dog Car Seat 2026 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

JOEJOY Elevated Dog Car Seat for Small/Medium Dogs up to 35 lbs, Memory Foam Booster Seat with Detachable Washable Cover, Travel-Safe Car Bed with Safety Belts & Storage Pockets, Grey

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,404
Size
Safety Features
Material

Most important from
769 reviews

Size
Easy to install and fits a 20lb puppy perfectly. Soft and comfortable.
Safety Features
This car seat makes my dog feel secure, she curls up and goes to sleep in it.
Material
Easy to install and fits a 20lb puppy perfectly. Soft and comfortable.
Installation
Easy to install and fits a 20lb puppy perfectly. Soft and comfortable.

The JOEJOY Elevated Dog Car Seat is designed for small to medium dogs up to 35 lbs and offers several convenient features. The size is suitable for most small and medium dog breeds, and it can fit in both the front and back seats of cars, SUVs, and trucks. At 19 inches in every dimension, it provides ample space for comfort without being overly bulky. The elevated design raises pets 5 inches above the car seat, helping to reduce car anxiety by giving them a better view during trips. The high-density memory foam filling offers excellent support and comfort, mitigating the impact of road bumps for your pet’s smoother ride.

The dual-sided design, combining soft plush and breathable faux leather, ensures a comfortable experience in all seasons. Safety is a top priority with built-in adjustable safety belts and a non-slip bottom, ensuring pets remain secure during travel. The installation process is straightforward, involving threading the seat belt through designated holes and securing it with headrest straps. Maintenance is made easy with a detachable, machine-washable cover. Additionally, the seat doubles as a cozy bed for home or outdoor use, adding to its versatility.

Storage pockets on the sides are handy for keeping treats, toys, and other essentials. While it's highly portable and lightweight at just 3.77 lbs, the seat may be less stable for very active dogs. Some users might find the 19-inch height slightly cumbersome in smaller vehicles. These minor drawbacks aside, the JOEJOY Elevated Dog Car Seat could be a great choice for pet owners looking for a comfortable, safe, and versatile car seat solution for their small to medium-sized dogs.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,404
Size
Safety Features
Material

Most important from
769 reviews

Size
Easy to install and fits a 20lb puppy perfectly. Soft and comfortable.
Safety Features
This car seat makes my dog feel secure, she curls up and goes to sleep in it.
Material
Easy to install and fits a 20lb puppy perfectly. Soft and comfortable.
Installation
Easy to install and fits a 20lb puppy perfectly. Soft and comfortable.
#2

Lealchum Dog Car Seat Up to 55lb,2 Clip-On Safety Adjustable Leashs Car Dog Bed for 2 Small Dogs,Fully Detachable and Washable Pet Car Seat with 2 Storage Pockets,Easy to Install(Black/Grey, Large)

Rating
9.7
Size
Safety Features
Material

Most important from
907 reviews

Size
The sturdy construction supports medium to large dogs up to 55 pounds comfortably without feeling cramped.
Safety Features
The integrated safety features, including seat belt channels and clip-on leashes, provide peace of mind by securely restraining dogs during travel.
Material
The plush cushioning and velvet material create a cozy, restful space that helps pets sleep comfortably even on long drives.
Installation
Installation is quick and straightforward, with adjustable straps that attach firmly to the car’s headrest for stability.
Height
The elevated design lets smaller dogs sit higher to enjoy the view, helping them feel more relaxed and calm in the car.

The Lealchum Dog Car Seat is designed to accommodate medium to large dogs, or two small dogs, with sturdy dimensions of 30 x 18 x 16 inches. Its plush velvet material combined with memory foam offers a soft and comfortable ride for pets, which is especially helpful on longer journeys to reduce pet fatigue and anxiety. Safety is well addressed through features like a safety belt channel, non-slip fabric on the bottom, an adjustable shoulder strap that attaches to the car’s headrest, and two clip-on safety leashes to keep pets securely in place.

Installation is straightforward, involving just three simple steps, and the seat is fully detachable and machine washable, making maintenance easy. The car seat also includes two storage pockets, adding some convenience for pet owners. Weighing under 6 pounds, it is reasonably portable, doubling as a pet bed for home or travel use. On the downside, it lacks a warranty, which might be a concern for some buyers. The height (16 inches) is suitable for most car rear seats but might not fit smaller cars or tight spaces perfectly.

It supports dogs up to 55 pounds, although very large breeds might find it a bit snug. This dog car seat is a stylish, comfortable, and safe choice for pet owners seeking an easy-to-install, washable, and versatile solution for medium to large dogs.

Rating
9.7
Size
Safety Features
Material

Most important from
907 reviews

Size
The sturdy construction supports medium to large dogs up to 55 pounds comfortably without feeling cramped.
Safety Features
The integrated safety features, including seat belt channels and clip-on leashes, provide peace of mind by securely restraining dogs during travel.
Material
The plush cushioning and velvet material create a cozy, restful space that helps pets sleep comfortably even on long drives.
Installation
Installation is quick and straightforward, with adjustable straps that attach firmly to the car’s headrest for stability.
Height
The elevated design lets smaller dogs sit higher to enjoy the view, helping them feel more relaxed and calm in the car.
#3

Snoozer Lookout I Car Seat - Dog Car Seats for Small Dogs, Puppy Booster Bed for Small & Medium Sized Pets Up to 25 Lbs, Elevated, Washable - Medium, Black Quilted

Rating
8.8
Size
Safety Features
Height

Most important from
3276 reviews

Size
Our dog seems to enjoy the booster seat much more than her kennel, as she is relaxed, enjoys the view, and has ample space to lay down and nap.
Safety Features
The booster seat secures with the car seat belt and has an adjustable harness, making it a safer and more comfortable option.
Height
This car seat is roomy and allows dogs to sit high enough to look out the window, with enough space to lay down for long trips.

The Snoozer Lookout I Dog Booster Car Seat is designed for small dogs under 25 pounds. It stands out for its safety and comfort features, including a harness strap that connects to the car's seat belt system, ensuring your pet stays secure during the drive. This can be particularly beneficial for dogs that experience car sickness or anxiety, as the elevated seat allows them to see out the window, potentially reducing these issues.

The car seat is made from durable poly-cotton fabric, with a plush Sherpa interior for added comfort. The cover is removable and machine washable, making it easy to clean and maintain over time. It is built with firm foam that helps the seat retain its shape and provides support for your dog.

However, the size of the car seat (19”H x 22”W x 17”L exterior) means it might not be suitable for larger vehicles or those with limited backseat space. Its portability is worth noting, as it weighs only 4 pounds, but it is primarily designed for permanent installation rather than frequent moving. This dog car seat is best suited for small dogs and owners looking for a long-lasting, comfortable, and safe travel solution for their pet.

Rating
8.8
Size
Safety Features
Height

Most important from
3276 reviews

Size
Our dog seems to enjoy the booster seat much more than her kennel, as she is relaxed, enjoys the view, and has ample space to lay down and nap.
Safety Features
The booster seat secures with the car seat belt and has an adjustable harness, making it a safer and more comfortable option.
Height
This car seat is roomy and allows dogs to sit high enough to look out the window, with enough space to lay down for long trips.

Buying Guide for the Best Dog Car Seat

Choosing the right dog car seat is essential for ensuring your pet's safety and comfort during car rides. A good dog car seat can help prevent distractions while driving and protect your dog in case of sudden stops or accidents. When selecting a dog car seat, consider your dog's size, behavior, and your car's interior. Here are some key specifications to help you make an informed decision.
SizeThe size of the dog car seat is crucial because it needs to accommodate your dog comfortably. Measure your dog’s length and height to ensure the seat is spacious enough for them to sit, lie down, and turn around. Small dog car seats are suitable for dogs up to 15 pounds, medium seats for dogs between 15-30 pounds, and large seats for dogs over 30 pounds. Choose a size that allows your dog to move comfortably without being too cramped or too loose.
Safety FeaturesSafety features are important to keep your dog secure during the ride. Look for car seats with sturdy harness attachments, seat belts, and non-slip bases. These features help prevent your dog from moving around too much or being thrown in case of sudden stops. If your dog is very active or anxious, opt for a car seat with additional safety straps and a more secure harness system.
MaterialThe material of the dog car seat affects both comfort and durability. Common materials include plush fabrics, waterproof materials, and breathable mesh. Plush fabrics are comfortable and cozy, ideal for long trips or colder climates. Waterproof materials are easy to clean and great for dogs that might get wet or dirty. Breathable mesh is suitable for warmer climates to keep your dog cool. Choose a material based on your dog's comfort needs and your cleaning preferences.
InstallationEase of installation is important for convenience and safety. Some dog car seats are designed to be easily installed with adjustable straps that fit around the car seat, while others may require more complex setups. If you frequently move the car seat between vehicles, look for one that is easy to install and remove. Ensure that the installation method is compatible with your car's seat design.
HeightThe height of the dog car seat can affect your dog's ability to see out of the window, which can reduce anxiety and motion sickness. Elevated car seats allow smaller dogs to have a better view, making the ride more enjoyable for them. If your dog enjoys looking out the window, choose a car seat with an elevated design. For larger dogs, a lower seat might be more appropriate to ensure stability and comfort.
PortabilityPortability is a consideration if you plan to use the dog car seat in multiple vehicles or for travel. Some car seats are designed to be lightweight and foldable, making them easy to carry and store. If you travel frequently or need to move the seat often, look for a portable design that doesn’t compromise on safety and comfort.

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