The Safest Way for Dogs to Ride in Cars: How to Secure Your Dog in the Car

Dog seatbelt fox close up car leash

When driving or taking car rides with dogs, it is important to keep them safe and secure. Many dogs enjoy taking trips and riding in the car, and it is extremely common for dog owners to take their dogs along with them whenever they can. However, many dog owners fail to take the necessary precautions to keep their dog safe and protected while in the car.

When it comes to keeping your dog safe in the car, there are many helpful and innovative accessories on the market today. With endless car safety options available for dogs and dog owners, it can be difficult to determine the safest way for your dog to ride in the car with you.

So, let’s take a closer look at the different safety measures you can take and the best accessories to use to secure your dog and keep your pup safe during car rides.

Sesame Pug in waterproof biothane Seatbelt leash car dog lead

How To Keep Your Dog Safe in the Car: 5 Easy Tips

  1. Keep Your Dog off Your Lap

If you have a small dog, it can be tempting to allow your dog to sit or stand on your lap while you drive. However, this can be very dangerous for both you and your dog. Not only is it distracting to have your dog on your lap while you drive, but your dog could also block your view of the road, your mirrors, and your view of other vehicles and objects around you. Additionally, in the event of an accident or the sudden need to slam on the brakes, your dog could get stuck under your pedals or very seriously injured.

  1. Don’t Let Your Dog in the Front Seat of the Car

When you let your dog sit in the front seat or the passenger seat of the car, you are putting them at risk of being seriously injured by the airbags. Airbags are meant to protect humans, not dogs. With that being said, the best and safest place for your dog is in the back seat of the car. 

  1. Install a Barrier

Dog guards and barriers are great for dogs who like to move around or climb all over you while you’re driving or riding in the car. They also prevent your dog from being launched or thrown forward in the event of an accident. Whether you drive a car, SUV, hatchback, or van, there are several types of dog guards and barriers that can be installed to keep your pup safe.

  1. Put Your Dog in a Travel Crate

If your dog typically likes their crate, securing your pup in a travel crate can be a great option for keeping your dog safe in the car. Travel crates can also help keep your dog calmer, prevent motion sickness, and make the ride more comfortable and enjoyable for your pup. If you choose to use a dog crate in the car to secure your pup, be sure to look for a travel crate that has padding for added protection.

  1. Use a Dog Leash Seat Belt to Buckle Your Pup Up!

The all-time safest way for dogs to ride in cars is to buckle them up! To buckle your dog up, you’ll need a car dog leash that has a seat belt buckle. Dog leash seat belts can help keep your dog safe and secure while driving and in the event of a crash. They also keep your dog from moving around the car, prevent your dog from jumping out of the car before you are ready to go, and are great for anxious dogs and dogs that are still in training. 

waterproof seat belt buckle (detail)

At Mimi Green, our dog leash seat belts are waterproof, easy to clean, durable, and colorful. And with Mimi Green’s dog leash seat belts,

there’s no need to attach a different leash when you reach your destination either; just unbuckle and go!

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Pro Tips for Car Rides with Dogs

Here are some additional tips for keeping your dog safe and happy in the car:

  • Schedule frequent breaks and stops
  • Start with shorter car rides until your dog gets acclimated 
  • Lock all windows and doors
  • Never let your dog ride in the bed of a truck
  • Never let your dog hang out the windows
  • Don’t leave your dog in the car unattended
  • Don’t feed your dog while driving
  • Keep the car well ventilated
  • Use anxiety medicine for anxious dogs
  • Ask your vet about options for car-sick dogs
fox in waterproof seatbelt leash car dog lead heeler

Car Rides with Dogs Are Safer with Mimi Green’s Seat Belt Buckle Leash!

Mimi Green offers seat belt buckle leashes in a variety of patterns, designs, materials, and colors. Whether you’re looking for a way to keep your dog secure on a long road trip or just to run a few short errands, Mimi Green’s seat belt buckle leashes can help keep you and your pup safer in the car. 

So, if you take a lot of car rides with your dog, be sure to invest in a dog seat belt from Mimi Green and support a small, woman-owned business where all products and accessories are designed and handmade in the USA! 

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