Best Dog Car Booster Seats for Small Dogs
September 2, 2021 | by TravelingCreatures.com
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Picture this: you are sitting on the floor of your car, cold, and unable to glance out the window that looms 2 feet above your head.
Sounds pretty cruel, right? Unfortunately, this is the reality for many traveling small pets. Gladly, there is an alternative: pet booster seats.
Benefits of a Dog Booster Seat:
For many dogs and cats, car rides can be scary: especially if they only happen every so often, and tend to result in getting a shot (yikes!). Whether you are traveling long-distance, or to the vet, providing your pup with their very own elevated car seat is important in comforting your pet.
With that said, let's explore some of the benefits of owning a pet booster seat:
-Ensures their safety: (and yours!) Many unrestrained pets tend to leap around, in and out of your lap, up to the window, into the trunk: all of this causing stress to them and to you. Restraining your pet distracts you less as a driver, allowing you to keep focused on the road while also giving your pet the opportunity to relax
-Reduces anxiety: Allowing your pet to roam freely in your vehicle can be quite scary for them, especially since there is no clear structure for them. Doing so may increase their anxiety surrounding car rides altogether. By restraining your pet, you are providing them with a sense of reassurance and confidence on car rides.
-Increases awareness of surroundings: Purchasing a pet booster seat along with a restraint will not only ensure your pet's safety, but they may actually begin to enjoy car rides! Something as simple as giving your pet a view of the outside world can also help ease their anxiety.
-Lessens motion sickness: By restraining your pet, specifically in a booster seat, you can take the first step in reducing their car sickness. Minimizing your pet's change in position can reduce their motion sickness, making for a more enjoyable (and clean!) car ride together.
*Some of the symptoms of motion-sickness to look out for include:
-Vomiting
-Excessive lip-licking
-Excessive Panting
-Shaking
-Constant Yawning
Key Features to Consider:
1.) The shape of your back seat:
-Will this seat conform to my car seat?
2.) The number/location of attachment points:
Do I feel this dog booster seat is secure enough in the event of a crash?
3.) Material:
Do I want something machine-washable?
Do I want something resistant to dirt and pet hair?
4.) Size:
Will my pet fit comfortably in it (weight considered)?
Will it fit my car seat/vehicle?
There are many paw-sibilities available on the market, but let's check out some of the best:
Top 6 Booster Seats for Small Dogs:
1. K&H Elevated Bucket Booster Pet Seat
The K&H Elevated Pet Booster Seat is compatible with any car seat belt. Simply remove the base padding to connect your seat belt to the booster seat. This seat comes with a removable, machine-washable fleece and is available in two sizes: small and large. The small size is ideal for one small pet, and the large for two small pets, or one medium pet. Dimensions: 20" L x 14.5" W x 15.5" H.
Our Thoughts:
-Machine-washable inner pad +
-Easy to install +
-Curved back ensures a better fit to your car seat +
-Booster attaches via seat belt +
-Pet attachment extends under their booster cushion (seat may lift up if your pet leaps/is projected forward) -
Traveling Creatures Rating: 7/10
2. Petsafe Jumbo Booster Seat for Dogs
Although on the larger end of the spectrum, the Petsafe Booster seat has many likable features. This booster seat supports dogs weighing up to 30 lbs and is built with a strong, yet lightweight plastic frame that clips together. The booster seat is secured using your car's seatbelt led through the bottom part of the seat belt. Raises pets 9 inches above the seat for good visibility.
A quilted, machine-washable liner and pillow provide comfort and security to your pet. Buckle your pet in via the Happy Ride Seat Belt Tether (included). Exterior Dimensions: 22" L x 17" W x 17" H.
Our Thoughts:
-Machine-washable cover +
-Easy to install +
-Height of booster seat allows your pet to look out the window +
-Works with the Happy Ride Safety Harness (recommended for optimal safety; sold separately) +
-Supports heavier dogs +
Traveling Creatures Rating: 9.5/10
3. BLOBLO Pet Travel Booster Seat
The BLOBLO Pet Travel Booster Seat not only suits a variety of car types but is also easy to install. This booster seat has two points of attachment: to the headrest and around the seat itself. Adjustable straps allow you to properly secure the booster set to your car.
This durable and chew-resistant booster seat is made of oxford cloth, a warm and comfortable material for your pet to sit on. Not only is this a dog booster seat, but it also functions as a pet bed (great for road trips!) This cloth is machine washable, and the booster seat itself even features a removable mat. Suitable for small/medium or cats. Dimensions: 21.7" L x 19.7" W x 11.8" H.
Our Thoughts:
-Machine-washable inner pad +
-Easy to install +
-Chew-resistant +
-Doubles as a pet bed +
-Thin attachment straps/dog seat belt -
-Doesn't boost pets up very high -
Traveling Creatures Rating: 8.5/10
4. MARSLABO Dog Car Hanging Booster Seat
The MARSLABO Dog Booster Seat has two points of attachment, both around the headrest and around the back of the seat. These attachments are adjustable, along with the seat belt that secures your pet to the booster seat. A metal frame construction ensures that the seat will not collapse.
This booster seat comes with a double-sided removable liner, keeping your car clean, while also providing your pet some comfort. Holds small dogs up to 25 pounds. Dimensions: 16" L x 13" W x 9" H.
Our Thoughts:
-Machine-washable inner pad +
-Easy to install +
-High enough for your pet to look out the window +
-Includes a poop bag dispenser (with bags) and a collapsible bowl +
-Back not curved to fit seat (may cause lop-sided fit) -
Traveling Creatures Rating: 8.5/10
5. Amazon Basics Dog Booster Seat for Car
The Amazon Basics Dog Booster Seat raises your pet above window level, giving them the opportunity to observe their surroundings while in the car. A machine-washable, flannel-covered mat allows your pet to travel comfortably and in style. This booster seat is recommended for extra-small, small, and toy dog breeds, including Toy Poodles, Chihuahuas, Boston Terriers, and Beagles. This dog booster seat attaches using your car's seat belt. Dimensions: 18.5" L x 17.7" W x 15.7" H.
Our Thoughts:
-Machine-washable inner pad +
-Easy to install +
-Height of booster seat allows your pet to look out the window +
-Back not curved to fit seat (may cause lop-sided fit) -
Traveling Creatures Rating: 8/10
6. Kurgo Pet Booster Seat
The Kurgo Dog Booster Seat keeps your small pet off your lap while also giving him a view while driving. This seat is constructed from metal and features a waterproof outer cover, making clean-ups easy. Includes a seat belt tether for your pet's harness. Features two points of attachment to your car seat. Fleece lining ensures a comfortable ride for your pet. Recommended for small dogs up to 20 lbs (can support up to 30 lbs, but 20-30 lb pets may not be able to comfortably relax. Dimensions: 16" L x 12" W x 8" H.
Our Thoughts:
-Machine-washable inner pad +
-Waterproof exterior +
-Easy to install +
-Harness tether does NOT have no-tangle technology -
Traveling Creatures Rating: 7/10
Booster Seats are a great option for smaller dogs that are otherwise unable to look outside the window. But what about booster seats for larger dog breeds? It is quite difficult to find booster seats that will comfortably allow your large dog to sit and lay down. There is, however, a different alternative: a dog hammock for cars. Check out this Waterproof Dog Car Seat Cover provided by iBuddy.
These recommendations are not given by veterinary specialists, as they are our personal recommendations. It is advised you look into each product prior to purchasing, and consult with your pet's veterinarian regarding any questions. Traveling Creatures is an affiliate and is in no way responsible for circumstances that may occur with the use of any of the recommended products.
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