Do Dog Car Seats Minimise Distractions Whilst You Drive?

If you’re a dog owner, you know that your furry friend loves to go everywhere with you – even on car rides. But as much as your pup may enjoy sticking its head out the window and taking in all the sights and smells, it’s not always safe. 

That’s where dog car seats come in. Dog car seats are designed to keep your pup secure and comfortable while you’re driving and can even help minimise distractions so you can focus on the road. 

Car seats are one of the safest options and whilst some dogs may need some time to get used to them, it’s undeniable that they can protect both the driver as well as their pet in a vehicle. 

So iif you’re looking for a way to make driving with your dog a little safer, read on to learn more about the benefits of using a dog car seat!

Why Do Some Dogs Get Excited in the Car 

There are tons of reasons Fido may become giddy when you pick up the car keys; below are just a few:

• Age – Young dogs that have not learned impulse control tend to get excited at just about everything, including going for a walk or meeting new people.
• Overstimulation – If your dog can see out of the window, there’s a lot going on, increasing excitement. 
• You’re excited too – If you’re one of the many people who talk to your dog (I’m guilty!), you may be giving off excitable vibes, which your dog will pick up on. 
• Positive association – Dogs are clever creatures so will soon pick up on the fact that a trip in the car results in a visit to the beach, dog park etc., 

Different Types of Car Seat 

There are two different types of car seats for dogs a basket style or dog bed style. The basket style usually attaches to the seat’s headrest and hangs in an elevated position enabling your pup to watch what’s going on outside. 

These are usually a box design with a soft, cosy lining, but as you can imagine, they are designed for smaller breeds. 

The bed-style doggy car seats are precisely as they sound, basically a dog bed that attaches to the seats via straps; these can accommodate larger breeds and, as a bonus, double up as a travel bed. So whether your looking for the UK’s best car seat for dogs or just a suitable option to keep them safe and restrained, they are definitely worth considering to minmise distractions in the vehicle. 

How Do They Minimise Distractions?

Car seats minimise distractions in a couple of ways. First and foremost, they confine your dog so they are not roaming around the car, trying to climb into your lap or snuffling around under the seats for crumbs. 

They also give you peace of mind, so you are not constantly turning or checking in the mirror to see what your pup is getting up to. 

Are there any other benefits to using a dog car seat? 

Dog car seats don’t just keep dogs safe when travelling and prevent distractions; they also have several other benefits, including; 

Keeps your car upholstery clean –

Having a proper car seat for your pup will save them jumping all over your newly valeted back seats with muddy paws, saving on cleaning costs. It will also reduce that damp dog odour that can sometimes linger when your dog’s been in the car. 

Lets your dog look outside – 

Elevating your pooch to window level a dog car seat lets Fido see what’s going on in the world, offering mental stimulation. 

Reduces motion sickness – 

There’s nothing worse than your dog getting carsick! Giving them limited options to move about may make them less stressed, which will reduce the feeling of nausea. 

It gives a sense of security – 

Being confined in a small cosy place can sometimes alleviate anxiety in your canine companion; this may reduce unwanted behaviours such as excess panting, barking or whining.

How to Install a Dog Car Seat 

Installing a car seat shouldn’t be difficult; it should come with clear instructions and there are plenty of resources online like this Video from Kurgo, which shows how to install a dog car seat.

 FAQ’S 

How can I calm my dog when driving?

You can do a few things to help your dog’s anxiety on car rides. As mentioned above, seats can give your pooch a feeling of security and help prevent motion sickness, which can cause stress. 

You can also take your dog a walk to tire them out before journeys, take along their favourite blanket/toy, or you could try calming aids like the Thundershirt. 

Can you drive with a dog in the front seat? 

Yes, you can have your dog in the front seat, although you will need to disable the airbag and push the seat as far back as possible. 

Is it illegal to have a dog unrestrained in a car? 

It isn’t illegal in the UK, so you won’t get pulled over for your dog being unrestrained; however, if you have an accident and your pet isn’t restrained, you could be liable to a hefty fine of up to £5,000 for careless driving, so it’s really not worth the risk. 

Conclusion

While it is tempting to let your furry friend sit on your lap or stick their head out the window, doing so can be dangerous for both you and your dog. 

Not only are they a distraction, but they can be injured if an accident occurs. A safe alternative is to use a dog car seat. They keep your pet restrained and safe while in the car. They also provide a comfortable place to rest, which can reduce distractions. 

If you don’t use a dog car seat, it’s time to get one! 

Many people might think that their pet will just ride shotgun without being securely fastened in. But UK law says otherwise and could land you a £5k penalty fee for careless driving should you have an accident, so keep dogs securely fastened when going on road trips!!!

If you’re looking for a way to keep your dog safe while driving, consider using a dog car seat. Have you ever used one of these seats? What was your experience like?