What is the safest car for a dog?
There isn’t a single “safest” car for dogs. The safest approach combines a roomy rear area with a crash-tested restraint, such as a crate or tethered harness, used correctly.
In practice, owners should prioritize a vehicle with a large rear cabin or cargo space and set up a protected travel area away from front airbags. This article outlines the key factors, restraint options, and practical steps to help you choose a car and a setup that minimizes risk during crashes or sudden stops, while keeping your dog comfortable on long trips.
Key factors that influence dog safety in cars
Space and layout
The following factors determine how well a space can accommodate a crate or barrier and how securely a dog can ride during normal driving and in a crash.
- Rear cabin or cargo space with a flat, non-slip floor so a crate or barrier sits securely.
- Room to prevent the dog from hitting the back of the front seats or the windshield in a collision.
- Low step-in height and wide doors to ease loading and unloading, reducing stress for dogs and owners.
Having ample space is crucial: it reduces movement during a crash and helps the dog settle calmly for the trip.
Restraint systems
This list covers the main restraint options and what to look for in each to maximize protection.
- Crash-tested crates or carriers that remain securely in place during normal driving and in a crash.
- Crash-tested dog harnesses that attach to the car’s seat belt system or anchor points, distributing forces safely.
- Barriers that create a dedicated dog space and prevent intrusion into the driver’s area.
The right restraint should be properly fitted, used on every trip, and checked for wear and fit regularly to stay effective.
Safety considerations in the cabin
This list highlights best practices inside the car to reduce risk and stress for both dog and driver.
- Avoid placing dogs in the front seat where airbags can cause serious injury.
- Maintain comfortable temperature and ventilation; avoid extreme heat or cold inside the cabin.
- Gradually acclimate your dog to car trips to minimize anxiety and improve behavior on travel days.
Cabin safety basics help prevent distractions and improve your dog’s overall travel experience.
Choosing a vehicle: what to look for
When evaluating a car, look for interior space and attachment options that make safe restraints easy to use and reliable.
- Large rear seating or a flat cargo area that can accommodate a crate or barrier setup securely.
- Multiple, accessible attachment points for restraints and secure mounting of crates or barriers.
- Easy loading with wide doors and a low floor height, especially important for larger or senior dogs.
- Consistent climate control and visibility that help keep the dog comfortable on longer trips.
Vehicle size and layout matter as much as brand or model: the key is how well the interior supports a safe, dog-friendly travel setup.
Best-practice travel setup
These practical steps help you implement a consistently safe travel routine for your dog.
- Choose a crash-tested crate or a harness that has been evaluated for crash safety and ensures a secure fit.
- Place the dog in the rear seat or cargo area and secure the crate or harness before each trip.
- Practice loading, unloading, and acclimating your dog to the setup to minimize stress on travel days.
- Take regular breaks on long journeys for hydration, bathroom needs, and a stroll to reduce fatigue and restlessness.
Consistency in setup and routine helps maintain safety and comfort for your dog on every journey.
Summary
The safest way to travel with a dog centers on space, proper restraint, and a calm, protected cabin environment. There is no universal “safest car” for every dog; instead, choose a vehicle with a roomy rear area or cargo space and use a crash-tested crate or a well-fitted harness secured to the car. Prioritize rear seating, barrier options, and a safe loading process, then practice and refine the routine to keep trips safe and stress-free for both dog and driver.
Bottom line: focus on space, reliable restraints, and gradual acclimation to travel to maximize safety on every journey with your canine companion.
What is safest for a dog in a car?
Look for crash-tested harnesses that work with your vehicle's seat belt and keep your dog sitting upright versus lying down. If using a crate or carrier, choose one that's big enough to allow your pet to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
What is the 7 second rule for dogs?
The "7-second rule" for dogs is a safety test to determine if the ground is too hot for a dog's paws. To use it, place the back of your hand on the surface you'll be walking on, such as asphalt, for seven seconds. If you can't comfortably keep your hand there, it's too hot for your dog, and you should not walk them on it to avoid burns.
You can watch this video to learn what the 7-second rule is and how to apply it: 26sPoppy's Pets with budget home and gardenYouTube · Jul 19, 2022
Why the 7-second rule is important
- Prevents burns: Pavement can get extremely hot and cause painful burns to a dog's paw pads, especially during hot weather.
- Applies to cold too: The rule also works in reverse for cold surfaces in winter. If a surface is too cold for your hand, it can hurt your dog's paws and cause frostbite or irritation from salt.
How to use the 7-second rule
- Place the back of your bare hand on the ground where you plan to walk your dog.
- Press down and hold for seven seconds.
- If the surface is too hot or cold for you to keep your hand there, it is not safe for your dog's paws.
If the ground is too hot
- Do not walk: Avoid the surface and find a cooler alternative like grass or shaded areas.
- Walk at cooler times: Schedule walks for early morning or late evening.
- Use protection: Consider using dog booties to protect their paws.
- Provide water: Make sure your dog has plenty of water before and after walks.
Are dogs better in boot or back seat?
Back seat or cargo area is safest and always, always tether your dog. They become dangerous projectiles in the event of a crash, killing themselves or you as they fly by. Sorry, I know that's harsh, but please, always tether your pup.
What's the most dog friendly car?
The best car for dog owners depends on size and needs, but generally includes SUVs and wagons with spacious, easy-to-clean cargo areas, like the Subaru Outback, Honda CR-V, and Toyota RAV4. For larger dogs, look for models with ample rear space like the Kia Telluride or Chevrolet Traverse. For those prioritizing specific features like a low floor or ruggedness, the Kia Soul, Honda HRV, or Jeep Wrangler are also excellent choices.
This video reviews the top 11 best cars for dog owners in 2025, highlighting key features and benefits: 50sCitizenShipperYouTube · Oct 14, 2024
Best overall and compact
- Subaru Outback: A popular choice for its rugged, trail-ready design, large cargo space, and ease of cleaning.
- Toyota RAV4: Offers a wide cargo opening for easy crate access and good fuel economy.
- Honda CR-V: Features a spacious interior and a wide tailgate, making it easy for dogs to get in and out.
- Kia Soul: A subcompact SUV with a low load floor and large hatchback for easy access, plus a large cargo area.
Best for large dogs
- Kia Telluride: A large, comfortable SUV with plenty of space for crates and dogs.
- Chevrolet Traverse: A full-size SUV that provides up to 98.298.298.2 cubic feet of space with seats folded and offers tri-zone climate control for passenger comfort.
- Honda Pilot: A 3-row SUV with enough space for multiple dogs, or a large crate if the third row is folded down.
Best for specific features
- Honda HRV: Features "Magic Seats" that flip up, providing a low step-in height and a flat rear floor for easy entry and exit.
- Jeep Wrangler: An adventure-ready SUV with easy-to-clean interiors and a design suitable for outdoor excursions.
- Land Rover Discovery: Known for a split-folding tailgate that can be used as a ramp and offers optional pet packs with accessories like partitions and loadspace liners.
- Ford Bronco: Offers a rear window that rolls down into the tailgate for excellent air access.
You can also watch this video for recommendations on the best cars for big dogs: 39sConsumer ReportsYouTube · Jun 21, 2025
