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Different types of car dog beds suit different sized dogs, so you’ll need to find one that’s the right fit for yours. Generally, you’ll have more options if you have a small dog — but there’s a growing range of choices for bigger dogs too.
🚨 Never Travel With Your Dog in the Front Seat
Airbags can kill young children riding in the front seat, and the same risks apply to dogs. Always keep your dog in the back seat.
📋 In This Guide
Options by Dog Size
🐾 What Works for Your Dog
Small Dogs
Small dogs have the most options: a car dog bed that fits the back seat, a back seat hammock, or a travel crate in the trunk. If you go with a bed or hammock, get a dog car seatbelt too — attached to a harness, not a collar. Small dogs are also great candidates for a booster seat if they like to look out the window.
Medium & Large Dogs
Best options are a back seat hammock, a back seat travel bed, or a travel crate in the trunk. A dog car ramp may also be useful depending on your dog and vehicle height. A dog car seatbelt attached to a harness is recommended regardless of which option you choose.
Bigger Senior Dogs
For older dogs with reduced mobility, a bed that attaches to the back seat with a car seatbelt (harness, not collar), or a travel crate in the trunk works well. Add a dog ramp to make getting in and out easier on ageing joints.
Best Car Dog Beds for Australians
Small Dog Booster Seat
For small dogs who like to see what’s going on, a multifunctional booster seat is a great option.
Car Crate: Variocage
A high-quality travel crate is the safest option for any dog in a car — it won’t take up back seats and keeps your dog fully secure. The brand Variocage is a top choice (crash-tested at RISE Research Institute of Sweden). Find Australian retailers with a quick Google search for “Variocage”, or find them on Amazon with free shipping for Prime members.
Image credit: 4×4 North America | View on Amazon →
Best Reviewed Beds
🏆 Personal Pick
Back Seat Hammock
This is what I use for my 25kg dog and I’m really happy with it. Covers the full back seat and keeps fur and mud contained. Pair it with a dog seatbelt attached to your dog’s harness for a complete setup.
From $41.99
HALF HAMMOCK
Half Back Seat Hammock
Covers half the back seat rather than the full width — useful if you need seating space for passengers as well as your dog. Good quality from a trusted brand.
From $91.81
