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Different types of car dog beds are good for different sized dogs. So, you will need to find a bed that is the right size for your dog.
Generally speaking, you’ll have more options to pick from if you have a small dog. But luckily there’s also a growing number of choices for bigger dogs.
In this article, I’ll share with you my favourite picks for car dog beds of different sizes.
Before we start, please note that you should never travel with your dog in the passenger seat.
You know how children age 12 and under should be in the back seat in cars? Air bags can kill young children riding in the front seat, and the same airbag risks apply to dogs.
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ToggleCar dog beds for small dogs
If you have a small dog, you have the following options when it comes to car dog beds:
- a car dog bed that fits the back seat,
- a back seat hammock, or
- a travel crate that fits the trunk of your car.
If you go with a car dog bed or back seat hammock, you also want to get a dog car seatbelt to keep your pet safe (attached to a harness, not to a collar).
Multifunctional dog car booster seat
When it comes to travel crates, look for a high-quality brand and make sure that it’s secured safely in the back of your car (you don’t want it moving around while you drive).
Car dog beds for medium and large dogs
If you have a bigger dog, your best options for a dog car bed are:
- a back seat hammock, or
- a back seat travel bed, or
- a travel crate that fits the trunk of your car, and
- a dog ramp for cars
The back seat hammock will be the cheaper option and it’s what I use for my 25kg dog. You also want to get a dog car seatbelt to keep your pet safe (attached to a harness, not a collar), and potentially a dog car ramp depending on your dog and height of your car (I lift my dog in and out of the car).
Dog car crates
A high-quality travel crate is quite the investment, but it’s also the safest option for traveling with your dog, and it won’t take up the back seats of your car.
The brand “Variocage” is a great choice for car crates (crash tested at RISE Research Institute of Sweden) and a quick Google query for “Variocage” will provide you with a list of Australian retailers.
Alternatively you can also find them on Amazon with free shipping for Prime members.
Car dog beds for bigger senior dogs
If you have an older dog, who is becoming slightly less mobile, I recommend getting:
- a bed that attaches to the back seats including a car seatbelt for dogs (attached to a harness, not a collar), or
- a travel crate that fits the trunk of your car, and maybe
- a dog ramp for cars.
This will allow your dog easier access into the car while also keeping them comfortable.
Best reviewed dog car beds for Australians
Now let’s look at some of the best reviewed beds for cars for Australian dogs.
Back seat hammock
As mentioned above, this is what I use for my 25kg dog and I’m really happy with it. I also have this dog seatbelt attached to his harness.
Half dog back seat hammock
And that’s a wrap.
I hope this article on car dog beds was useful for you.
If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact me.
And of course if I missed anything, feel free to let me know as well.
Happy travels!