Finding the Perfect Fit for Your Dog Seatbelt

It's a common misconception that pets can roam freely in a vehicle. However, the truth is much more concerning. In the unfortunate event of a crash, an unrestrained pet can not only suffer severe injuries but also pose a significant risk to other passengers by being thrown forward. 

In some countries and states, it is a legal requirement for pets to wear seat belts in cars for a reason. So having a dog seatbelt is all about the responsibility we hold as pet owners to ensure their safety and well-being. 

This article will guide you through the key features to look for in a dog seatbelt and provide you with a curated list of the best options available.

Features to look for before buying a dog seatbelt

Nowadays the market is full of different dog seatbelts. However, you can’t just buy any dog seatbelt. Knowing the key features to look for is crucial in selecting the right one for your furry companion. Only the seatbelt that suits your dog's specific needs will ensure their safety and comfort.

Adjustable Tether 

The best dog seatbelt should offer an adjustable length, allowing you to customize it to your dog's size. This adjustability ensures the seatbelt is not just a secure restraint but also provides a comfortable, snug fit. It should accommodate your dog's range of movement within the vehicle.

Overall, it should restrict your dog's movement enough to prevent them from being a distraction while driving but also allow enough freedom for them to sit, stand, and lie down comfortably.

Material

Opt for a seatbelt made from durable, chew-proof materials. This is especially important for dogs that tend to chew on objects when bored or excited. 

Comfort is just as important as durability. Choose a seatbelt that features soft, padded materials to prevent irritation to your dog's skin, ensuring comfort during longer journeys. 

Moreover, a seatbelt with a bungee tether is recommended. The bungee design can absorb shock in the event of a sudden stop or accident, thereby reducing the impact force and protecting your dog from injury.

Compatibility with Harnesses

For safety reasons, a seatbelt that attaches to a harness—rather than a collar—is preferable. This design helps distribute the force across the dog's body in the event of sudden movements, significantly reducing the risk of neck injury. It is good to take safety measures, but you certainly don’t want to expose your dog to other health risks.

Car Compatibility

Don’t overlook the seatbelt’s compatibility with your car. The dog seatbelt should fasten smoothly and securely to your car's seat belt system. Avoid seatbelts that might jam in the buckle, as this could issues when a quick response is needed.

10 Best Seat Belts for Dogs

Kurgo Auto Zipline for Dogs

Specifications:

• Dimensions: ‎ 0.5 x 72 x 1 inches
• Weight: 1.32 pounds
• Length: Adjustable leash is 3 ft; Adjustable zipline is 6 ft.
• Carabiner Style: Regular carabiner clip
• Colors: Black/Orange 

The Kurgo Auto Zip Line for Dogs is designed for in-car dog safety and owner convenience. It keeps dogs restricted to the backseat, reducing driver distraction and preventing dogs from jumping out when doors open, while still allowing them to move. Installation is straightforward, connecting between two fixed points such as seat belts or handles. The package includes the zip line, an adjustable leash/tether, and two carabiners for secure attachment. For optimal safety, it's recommended to use this zip line with a dog car harness like Kurgo's Tru-fit Smart Harness, which you can buy separately.

Reasons to buy:

• Comfortable dog restraint
• Flexible, adaptable design
• Solid build quality

Reasons to avoid: 

• Heavy carabiners for small dogs
• Potential unclipping risk
  

Leash Boss Dog Seatbelt

Specifications:

• Dimensions: ‎ 5.24 x 4.33 x 1.26 inches
• Weight: 4.16 ounces
• Material: Nylon, Alloy Steel
• Length: 16, 21, 26, 31, or 36-inch sizes
• Colors: Black 

The Leash Boss dog seatbelt is a tether cable made from steel rope, which is coated in heavy-duty nylon, so it's chew-proof and durable. Plus, it's totally adjustable, so you can ensure it's just the right length to keep your dog comfortable yet secure.

What's great about this seat belt is its ability to attach directly to the seat's safety latch bar that is already in your car. No more tangling or tripping issues. 

It's specifically made for a dog harness or vest attachment. This means it's much safer than attaching it to a collar around your dog's neck, which can be dangerous in case of sudden stops. 

And no matter what size your dog is—small, medium, large, or extra-large—there's a size option available. They have 16, 21, 26, 31, and 36-inch sizes. For smaller pups, they even have a lighter clip, so it won't be too heavy for them.

Reasons to buy:

• Secure attachment
• High-quality materials
• Heavy-duty and secure latch

Reasons to avoid: 

• Tether might be short for larger dogs
  

Mighty Paw Dog Seatbelt

Specifications:

• Dimensions: ‎ 9.96 x 3.19 x 1.69 inches
• Weight: 6.7 ounces
• Material: Nylon
• Length: Adjustable from 18.5 to 30 inches
• Colors: Black 

Covering the well-being of both you and your dog, the Mighty Paw dog seatbelt will allow you to set off on a journey with your pet by your side.  It securely restrains your dog while also allowing them the freedom to stretch out and relax, ensuring a stress-free journey for both of you.

The best part? It's a universal fit. Whether you're driving a compact car or a massive RV, this dog seatbelt loops around any headrest with ease. Moreover, even the size of your dog doesn’t matter. It adjusts between 18.5” and 30”, so you can find the perfect length.

Built to last, the Mighty Paw Seat Belt is made with seriously tough all-metal hardware. Think of it as a seat belt for humans but engineered for your dog. And here's a clever twist! It doubles as a leash! You can unloop it from the headrest and lead your dog out of the car without fumbling with extra gear.

Reasons to buy:

• Simple attachment mechanism
• Robust metal construction

Reasons to avoid: 

• Incompatibility with some vehicles
  

Ruffwear Doubleback Harness

Specifications:

• Dimensions: ‎ 13.58 x 11.61 x 0.19 inches
• Weight: 1.3 Pounds
• Colors: Cloudburst Gray
• Closure Type: Buckle

The Doubleback Harness is built for serious outdoor enthusiasts who want to take their pups on adventures in rugged terrains like hikes, scrambles, or even backpacking trips that involve a bit of climbing.

The belay harness is totally strength-rated for lifting and lowering dogs. It can support up to 2,000 lbs or 8.9 kN, which is more than enough for any dog. 

What's really neat is that it has a primary tie-in point at the center-back for easy rope attachment. Yes, just like your own climbing harness. There are also additional loops for added stability. And to make sure your dog is comfortable while being the fearless explorer they are, this dog seatbelt features a padded belly support and leg loops for equal load distribution.

Reasons to Buy:

• Better weight distribution
• Stable steel system
• Quick harness setup

Reasons to Avoid:

• Back straps may be unnecessary for regular use.
  

Sleepypod ClickIt Terrain Dog Safety Harness

Specifications:

• Dimensions: ‎ 34.9 x 26.5 x 7.8 cm
• Weight: 581 grams
• Material: Metal
• Colors: ‎Orange Dream, Robin Egg Blue, Deep Black

If you're in the market for a crash tested dog harness and your dog is over approximately 8.2 kg, the Sleepypod ClickIt Terrain is something you'll want to check out. It's a high-performance harness that's been crash-tested with the same rigorous standards as child car seats. This means your dog gets child-seat-level protection while on the road.

It isn't just about safety, though. It's also designed for comfort. This dog seatbelt features a three-point design for torso support, ensuring that your dog's entire torso is secured, not just their neck or chest. The wide, padded vest and shock-absorbing sleeves work together to cushion your dog and disperse any forces they might feel if you have to stop quickly or if you're in an accident. It also allows your pet to lie down comfortably in the car, which is essential for those long trips.

And as the cherry on top, the ClickIt Terrain doubles as a walking harness for everyday walks.

Reasons to Buy:

• Robust and durable
• Secure and safe
• Comfortable for dogs

Reasons to Avoid:

• Difficult to adjust the size
  

EzyDog Drive Harness

 Specifications:

• Dimensions: ‎ 19.29 x 9.45 x 0.24 inches
• Weight: 1.1 pounds
• Material: Aluminum alloy
• Colors: Black

Another crash tested dog harness on our list, and certainly one worth your attention, is the EzyDog Drive Harness. It offers sizes ranging from small to large, catering to a wide range of dog sizes. Just make sure to measure your dog's girth to find the perfect fit.

Using this harness is incredibly easy. Just feed the seat belt through the two handles on the harness, click it into your car’s seat belt buckle, and you're all set. And once you fit the harness to your dog, you don't have to do it every time. It has this Dual SR buckle closure system that makes it super quick to put on and take off.

Durability is a key feature of the EzyDog. The Tri-Glides are made from aluminum alloy, which means they're light but incredibly strong. All the webbing is made from the same stuff as vehicle seat belts, and with its Crosslink Technology, it's about as strong as it gets. Moreover, the harness features a molded chest plate that's padded and contoured to mold to the shape of your dog, ensuring a custom fit and added comfort.

Reasons to Buy:

• Crash-tested assurance
• Adjustable fit system
• Comfortable memory foam

Reasons to Avoid:

• The initial fitting might be complex
  

Kurgo’s Direct to Latch Swivel Tether

Specifications:

• Dimensions: ‎ 12.01 x 2.48 x 0.94 inches
• Weight: 4.94 Ounces
• Material: Nylon
• Colors: Blue, Grey, Orange
• Length: Adjustable from  12 to 22 inches

Imagine hitting the road with your pup without the worry of them hopping into the front seat or getting underfoot. That's what Kurgo’s Direct to Latch Swivel Tether offers.

Installing this dog seatbelt is very simple. It features a universal latch clip that hooks directly onto your car's frame using the child safety latch points. Yes, the same ones you use for kids' car seats. And it's just as easy to switch from one car to another, making it perfect for families with multiple vehicles.

The tether itself is adjustable, ranging from 12 to 22 inches. And the swivel carabiner that attaches to your dog's harness prevents any tangles, giving them a comfortable range of motion.

Reasons to Buy:

• Strong and durable
• Car accident tested
• Easy to use/install
• Prevents roaming/chewing

Reasons to Avoid:

• The carabine end is plastic
  

Aubell Dog Seatbelt

Specifications:

• Dimensions: ‎5.31 x 3.58 x 1.81 inches
• Weight: 4.8 Ounces
• Material: Nylon, Aluminum
• Colors: Black, Grey, Hotpink, Orange, Purple, Red, Teal
• Length: Adjustable from  25 to 32 inches

What sets this dog seatbelt apart is its universal compatibility. Whether you have a compact sedan or a spacious SUV, the Aubell dog seatbelt is designed to fit perfectly. It comes with two types of buckles. One that hooks to the vehicle's latch bar and another that clicks into the car seat belt buckle. That means, no matter what car you're in, you can easily secure your dog.

Made of high-quality bandages with strong elasticity, it's engineered to protect your dog from the jolts of sudden braking or the jarring movements of sharp turns. And because comfort is as important as safety, it's adjustable from 25" to 32", ensuring a snug fit for a range of dog sizes.

Now, let’s talk about the 360-degree Locking Carabiner. This is where the Aubell dog seatbelt really shines. Made of stainless steel, it boasts an impressive maximum tensile strength of 900 lbs. Moreover, it’s also thoughtfully designed to prevent any tangling or strangling, ensuring your dog can move freely and comfortably.

Reasons to Buy:

• Child safety latch compatible
• Prevents in-car roaming
• Strong hook

Reasons to Avoid:

• Not chew-proof for some dogs
  

Petzana Dog Seatbelt

Specifications:

• Dimensions: ‎9.41 x 1.86 x 1.17 inches
• Weight: 3.53 Ounces
• Material: Nylon, Metal, Zinc
• Colors: Black, Red, Purple, Pink, Grey, Blue

Length: Adjustable from  21.2 to 29.2 inches

Crafted with high-quality nylon fabric, the Petzana dog seatbelt is designed to prioritize the safety of your beloved pet while providing a calm driving experience for you. With an extendable length ranging from 21.2 to 29.2 inches, it offers the perfect fit for a variety of dog breeds and sizes.

The thoughtful elastic buffer design is a game-changer, offering an added layer of protection in the event of sudden brakes or sharp turns. The elasticity helps reduce the risk of injury to your pet, ensuring their safety while also allowing you to maintain focus on the road.

Then there’s also the solid zinc alloy swivel snap, which is engineered to support a full 360-degree rotation. This feature prevents the seatbelt from getting twisted or tangled, thus enabling your dog to move comfortably and freely within the confines of safety.

Versatile in its use, the Petzana dog seatbelt doubles as a walking harness. Essentially, it's a small addition to your car's safety features with a huge impact on the well-being of your little friend. 

Reasons to Buy:

• Strong, durable clip
• Allows movement, prevents roaming
• Great for larger dogs

Reasons to Avoid:

• May not fit all seat belts
  

SlowTon Dog Seatbelt  

Specifications:

• Dimensions: 8.04 x 6.19 x 1.77 inches
• Weight: 6.4 Ounces
• Material: Polyester
• Colors: Black, Red, Fuchsia, Blue, Yellow, Green etc

The SlowTon Dog Seatbelt wraps securely around your dog's body and neck, which not only prevents them from roaming the car but also ensures they are not strangled or choked, as the straps tighten without pulling directly against them.

Starting with the harness itself, the breathable mesh chest vest is crafted from a double mesh fabric edged with soft flannelette. This combination ensures your pet stays cool and comfortable. The mesh allows for air circulation, while the flannelette provides a gentle touch against your pet's skin.

Four sturdy straps made from PP material attach to the harness. These straps are not only durable but also absorb sweat, further enhancing your pet's comfort.

Another noteworthy feature is the elastic safety seatbelt. Made from robust nylon, it can stretch and adjust, offering enhanced protection for your dog in the car. The addition of a 360° rustproof swivel hook increases functionality by preventing the seatbelt from tangling, allowing your dog freedom of movement without compromising their safety.

As for applications, this harness isn't just for car travel. It doubles as a regular harness that can connect to a retractable leash, making it versatile for all your outdoor adventures.

Reasons to Buy:

• Easy clip-on system
• Provides secure fit
• Adjustable for growth

Reasons to Avoid:

• May not fit all cars

FAQ

Why is it important to use a seatbelt for my dog in the car?

Using a seatbelt for your dog in the car is first of all crucial for its safety. The dog seatbelt will protect your pet during sudden stops or accidents, preventing injury. It will also keep your dog from distracting you while driving, reducing accident risks. Plus, it ensures compliance with laws in areas where pet restraints are required.

What are the key features to look for in the best dog seatbelt?

When selecting the best dog seatbelt, prioritize durability, adjustability for a comfortable fit, and ease of use. Choose a seatbelt that attaches to a harness, not a collar, to prevent injury. Don’t forget to ensure that it’s suitable both for your dog's size and weight and for your car. 

Are dog seatbelts suitable for all dog breeds and sizes?

No, you should consider the breed and the size of your dog when selecting the seatbelt. As different breeds and sizes of dogs have varying requirements for safety and comfort, it's important to choose a seatbelt that is specifically designed to accommodate the size and weight of your dog.

Reddit Summary

When it comes to keeping dogs safe during car rides, a thread on Reddit has become a valuable resource for pet owners seeking the best dog seatbelt options. Based on the collective experiences and extensive research shared by members of the community, several products have emerged as top recommendations.

The Sleepypod Clickit Sport harness has garnered support for its crash-tested design and functionality, with users appreciating the security it provides. Another popular option is the Kurgo harness and seatbelt system, noted for not rubbing against dogs and being crash-tested, albeit only at speeds up to 35/40 mph.

A crucial point raised by contributors is the importance of selecting harnesses that have been properly crash-tested. Users warn against harnesses that aren’t certified, as they can lead to whiplash, spinal damage, or even decapitation in the event of a crash. The emphasis is on using safety harnesses that connect to the car’s actual seatbelt, not just the buckle.

It’s also important to avoid small tethers that attach to the dog’s harness and then click into the seatbelt buckle, as these can be very dangerous.

Conclusion

To wrap up, ensuring the safety and comfort of your dog during car travels is of utmost importance. Selecting a dog seatbelt that is durable, adjustable, and compatible with both your dog and car is essential. Remember, a well-fitted dog seatbelt not only protects your pet but also contributes to a safer driving experience for all.