How to Install Dog Car Seat + Important Installation Notes

Dog seat installations can be tricky and daunting if you are doing it for the first time. We have worked on a handful of top dog seat brands and pet parent cars and can categorically state that there is no rule of thumb on how to install dog car seats. If you are buying one for the first time, this article is a good place to start as you learn the steps for dog car seat installation. 

Steps on How to Install Dog Car Seats in Your Car

Having bought a dog car seat for your furry friend, you can install it by following the steps below: 

1. Choose a dog seat that is suitable for your dog: In one of our previous articles, we talked about how the choice of your dog’s car seat should be informed by the size and weight of your dog. This is important to ensure your dog is comfortable and secure in the seat.
2. Place the dog car seat at the back: Resist the temptation of putting your dog car seat in the front of your car. To ensure maximum safety, keep the dog car seat at the rear of your vehicle. 
3. Attach the seat securely: Use the car’s seat belt to strap on the dog’s car seat strap. If your car has a LATCH system, you can use that as well.
4. Adjust the strap: You may need to adjust the straps of the seat so that it becomes tighter and more secure for your pet
5. Place your dog in the seat: To be sure the seat is ready for use, place your dog inside it and secure him using the car seat’s harness or tether. 

Considerations for Installing a Dog Car Seat in Your Car

It is important to note that there are certain considerations for installing a dog car seat. Seeing there is no specific guiding principle for dog car seat installation, some of these points should be noted:

Dog Car Seats are Multi-Functional 

There are different thought patterns in the design and manufacturing of dog seats. This is largely supported by the varying reasons people need dog car seats. Some dog car seats are designed to provide ample comfort to pets while others may do so with the added point of elevated views. 

Understanding what purpose a dog car seat serves is quintessential in determining whether it is suitable for you and your dog which ultimately informs how the installation should be. 

Installation is Dependent on the car’s Make

The way to install a dog’s car seat in an SUV will be different from how it would be installed in an RV truck or salon car. Some dog car seats have specifications on how they should be installed depending on the kind of car they are being installed in. 

Companies Have Unique Installation Specifications 

Earlier on, I mentioned that there’s no streamlined set of installation procedures for dog car seats. One of the reasons is that different dog car seat manufacturers often have unique ideas about how to install a dog car seat for optimal functionality. 

What are the Different Types of Dog Car Seat Available?

In the pet supplies market, there are different types of dog car seats available. I have listed some of them below:

1. Booster Seats: A booster seat is designed to elevate your dog, providing them with a better view while helping to prevent car sickness, boredom, and undue anxiety. Some examples include the SWIHELP Dog Car Seat and the Marslabo Dog Booster Seat.
2. Bucket seats: These are enclosed on three sides, providing a secure space for your dog. An example is the K&H Pet Products Bucket Booster.
3. Hammock-style seats: These cover the entire back seat, creating a hammock for your dog. An example is the BurgeonNest Dog Car Seat.
4. Carriers: These can also function as car seats and provide a secure, enclosed space for your dog. An example is the Pet Carrier from Away, which received a five-star rating from the Center for Pet Safety.
5. Non-elevated seats: These sit directly on the car seat and are suitable for larger dogs. An example is the Petsfit Large Dog Car Seat.
6. Backseat extenders: These create extra space in the footwell for large or multiple dogs. An example is the Kurgo Backseat Extender.

Each type of dog car seat offers different features and benefits, so it’s important to choose one that best suits your dog’s size, comfort, and safety needs.

Benefits of Using Dog Car Seats

Oftentimes, we find recommendations from people who think less of dog car seats and suggest alternatives. These alternatives are valid and effective but it is important to know the benefits you’ll enjoy when you install a dog car seat for your furry companion. 

The following are the benefits of using dog car seats:

Improved Safety 

We always recommend dog car seats for safety during car rides. When you have a dog car seat, it will prevent your dog from moving around and keep them safe even during a crash. 

Reduced Distraction 

Restricting your pet’s movement may take the fun out of the car ride for them but it keeps them safe and discourages the propensity for them to become distractions. Unrestrained dogs can easily distract you from driving which can lead to accidents. 

Comfort and Well-Being

Dog car seats provide a comfortable and luxurious ride for your dog, offering headrest support and reducing anxiety and motion sickness. However, these depend on whether you choose the right dog car seat for your dog. You can learn about how to choose the right dog car seat in our article, How Safe Are Dog Car Seats?

Training

We all want well-mannered pets, and while it can take a while before you can get your dog to stay in a car seat, you’ll need a dog car seat. A dog car seat can help transform your dog into an expert back-seat traveler, making your road trips more peaceful and enjoyable.

Protection for your Car

I know you want your car to stay perfect even though you take your pet on jolly-good rides. However, you cannot control where your pet’s paws go in their excitement. Dog car seats protect your car’s interior from scratches, chews, and stains caused by your dog.

Better View

Dog car seats can provide your dog with a better view of the road, which can help reduce anxiety and motion sickness.

Final Thoughts on How to Install Dog Car Seat

Dog car seats come with installation instructions from manufacturers. Even though we have provided a general overview of how to install dog car seat, there are specifications from the makers of the dog car seat you are using that must be followed. These seats are designed for varying purposes and to meet the needs of different dog breeds and car designs so it is crucial to consult with the manufacturer’s notes for installing properly.