How to keep your dog safe in the car

Whether it’s a quick trip to the park or a family holiday, keeping your dog safe in the car should be just as important as protecting any other passenger. From choosing the right restraint to understanding the latest pet-friendly car technology, here’s everything you need to know about keeping your dog safe, comfortable and secure on the road.

Why dog safety in the car matters

For many of us, dogs are part of the family. Yet while drivers and passengers routinely wear seatbelts, countless dogs still travel without being properly secured.

Not only can this be dangerous for your pet, but it can also put everyone in the car at risk. A loose dog can get in the driver’s way, or be thrown forward during sudden braking or a collision. Under Rule 57 of the UK Highway Code, dogs and other animals must be safely secured when travelling in a car so they can’t distract the driver or injure themselves or others if you come to a sudden stop. Suitable options include a seatbelt harness, pet carrier, dog cage or dog guard¹.

Did you know? Driving with a dog that’s not in a crate, carrier, harness and seatbelt, or dog guard with boot partition can result in significant penalties. Including;

• A fine of up to £5,000 for careless driving
• Between 3 and 9 penalty points of your licence
• Invalidation of your car insurance. Most UK insurers include a policy clause requiring pets to be secured, meaning a claim involving an unrestrained dog may be refused.²

The good news is that there are now more ways than ever to keep your dog safe while travelling.

The safest ways for dogs to travel in a car

No single solution suits every dog. The right option depends on your pet’s size, temperament and your car type.

1. Use a crash-tested dog harness

A car harness works much like a seatbelt for your dog. It attaches to the seatbelt system and helps prevent your pet from moving freely around the cabin.

When choosing a harness:

• Look for products that have been crash-tested
• Ensure it fits properly without restricting movement
• Attach it to a dedicated restraint point rather than a collar
• Check the manufacturer’s size guidance carefully

A standard walking harness may not offer sufficient protection in a collision, so it’s worth investing in a purpose-designed car harness.

There are some great options on Amazon and EzyDog. Just make sure you do your research and check reviews as well.

2. Consider a travel crate or carrier

Many experts suggest a securely fixed crate or carrier is one of the safest options, particularly for smaller dogs. Properly secured crates help keep your pet protected and can offer additional protection in an accident.¹

For best results:

• Choose a crate large enough for your dog to stand and turn around
• Secure it so it cannot slide around the car
• Position it according to the manufacturer’s guidance
• Introduce your dog to the crate before long journeys

3. Fit a dog guard

Dog guards are commonly fitted between the boot and passenger compartment of an SUV or estate car. They prevent dogs from entering the seating area and reduce the risk of distraction while driving.¹

While dog guards can be effective, many pet safety specialists recommend combining them with a harness or crate for additional protection.

Preparing your dog for a longer journey

A safe journey isn’t only about restraint systems.

Before setting off:

• Take your dog for a walk to burn off excess energy
• Pack water and a portable bowl
• Schedule regular comfort breaks on long trips
• Bring familiar toys or blankets
• Avoid feeding a large meal immediately before travel
• Keep your dog’s identification details up to date

If your dog is anxious in the car, introduce them gradually to travelling with short, positive journeys before attempting longer trips.

Should dogs sit in the front seat?

In general, the rear seats or boot area are the safest locations for dogs.

The front passenger seat can pose additional risks because of airbags, which may cause injury if deployed during a collision. If there’s no alternative, make sure your dog is safely secured and check your car manufacturer guidance regarding airbag safety.

The truth about dogs sticking their heads out of the window

It might look like dogs are having the time of their lives with their head out of the window, ears flapping in the breeze. But it isn’t as safe as many owners think.

Flying debris, insects, road grit and branches can cause injury. There’s also the risk of a dog becoming overexcited and attempting to jump out.

Fresh air is important, but it’s far safer to keep windows only partially open and make sure your dog’s travelling safely in a harness, crate or carrier throughout the journey.

Can you leave a dog in a parked car?

The simplest advice remains the best: avoid leaving your dog unattended in a car whenever possible.

Even on relatively mild days, a parked car can heat up very quickly. Veterinarians and animal welfare organisations continue to warn that heat-related illness can develop rapidly and can become life-threatening.

However, modern car technology is changing how some owners manage short stops.

How modern cars are helping keep dogs safer

Several electric car manufacturers have introduced dedicated pet-friendly climate systems, commonly known as “Dog Mode” or “Pet Mode”.

These systems are designed to maintain a safe cabin temperature while the car’s parked and locked. Features may include:

• Continuous air conditioning or heating
• Displayed messages informing passers-by that the pet is safe
• Temperature monitoring
• Smartphone alerts if battery levels become low
• Remote monitoring through car apps

Tesla popularised Dog Mode, which keeps climate control running and displays a message on the central screen showing the cabin temperature. Similar pet-friendly climate features, along with remote climate control and cabin temperature management, are now available on selected models from manufacturers including Kia, Hyundai, Polestar, Volvo and Mercedes-Benz.

Picking your Tusker car with pets in mind

If your dog regularly travels with you, it may be worth checking whether a model offers features such as Pet Mode before making your choice. Availability can change, but some of the cars in the Tusker range that offer pet-friendly climate features include:

• Tesla Model Y
• Kia EV9
• Kia EV5
• smart #1
• Jaecoo E5
• Omoda E5

Because our range of makes and models are constantly updating, including Hot Deals added on a regular basis, it’s always worth checking the latest specifications before ordering.

Technology is useful, but not infallible

While these features can provide reassurance, they should never be viewed as a licence to routinely leave pets unattended for long periods.

Pet modes rely on battery power and technology functioning correctly. Owners should always:

• Check battery levels before activating the feature
• Monitor notifications from the car app
• Keep stops as short as possible
• Follow local guidance and animal welfare advice

Modern technology can reduce risk, but responsible pet ownership remains the most important safety feature.

A quick dog car safety checklist

Before every journey, ask yourself:

✅ Is my dog suitably secured?
✅ Do I have water available?
✅ Have I planned comfort breaks?
✅ Is the car at a comfortable temperature?
✅ Have I packed anything my dog may need?
✅ Have I checked journey times and weather conditions?

A few minutes of preparation can make a huge difference to your dog’s comfort and safety.

The bottom line

Our dogs trust us completely, especially when they’re climbing into the car for their next adventure. Whether you choose a crash-tested harness, a secure travel crate or make use of the latest pet-friendly car technology, keeping your dog safe should always be part of your journey planning.

As cars continue to evolve, innovative features such as Dog Mode and Pet Mode offer additional peace of mind. But the fundamentals remain the same: make sure your dog’s travelling safely and securely, their comfort’s a priority and never take unnecessary risks.

After all, every passenger deserves a safe journey home.

Pick your next Tusker car with your dog in mind. 

Login today and get your electric car ordered with the latest pet-friendly car technology.

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References:

[hastingsdirect.com]¹

https://www.rac.co.uk/drive/news/motoring-news/driver-fines-for-loose-animals/²

Highway Code Rule 57