Whenever you get into your car and start to drive, you never hesitate to use seatbelts for your own safety. But what about for your dog?
Dogs also need to use car harnesses for their safety, whenever you’re in the car together. For safety and security, you should get one of the best dog car harnesses of 2023 for your dog.
But how do you buy one?
How do you identify the one that would work for your particular breed of dog?
This guide will help you answer all of these questions and more. Let’s get into our guide for the top 10 best dog car harnesses of 2023.
Quick Recommendations:
- Mighty Paw Vehicle Safety Harness
- EzyDog Chest Plate Custom Fit Dog Harness
- Kurgo Tru-Fit No Pull Dog Harness with Pet Seatbelt Tether for Car
- EzyDog Drive Safety Travel Dog Car Harness
- Sleepypod Clickit Sport Dog Safety Harness
- 4×4 North America The Original AllSafe Harness
- Tru-Fit Dog Harness
- Solvit PetSafe Deluxe Car Safety Dog Harness
- Ruffwear- Load Up Vehicle Restraint Harness for Dogs
- CosyMeadow Escape Proof Dog Harness
Dog Car Harness Buying Guide
Before selecting the best dog car harness for your breed, there are certain things you should know and consider. Factors that you ought to consider include the following.
Safety
This is your top priority when getting a car harness. There is a crash test that dog harnesses must pass before they can be made available to buy. Some harnesses exceed the requirements, while others have even further tests carried out to validate how safe they are. These safety levels differ from one another.
Also, you should consider other factors such as:
- The driver’s level of experience.
- The type of roads you will be traveling on.
These two also determine the type of harness you should purchase. Only harnesses that can hold your dog down while driving should be bought. If your dog is always moving in the car, this would be a source of distraction to the driver.
Finally, the dog harness you buy must not have any chance of causing harm or discomfort to your dog.
Comfort
Since your dog would be using this product, you should ensure that the harness you intend to buy is comfortable enough for your dog. Buying an uncomfortable dog harness would irritate them. This will have lead on effects, also distracting you while driving. An uncomfortable dog isn’t good for anyone.
The size of the harness you pick affects your dog’s comfort. There are large and small harnesses and the one you select depends on the size of your dog. You should take your dog’s measurement and compare it to the harness you intend to buy. Some harnesses have straps that you can adjust for comfort and this should be more preferable for those with young dogs that are still growing because you cannot say how big they would eventually be.
Convenience
How easy is it to use the harness? This question should always be at the back of your mind while shopping for your dog car harness and you should ensure you get an easy to use a harness. Several harness products have different methods to attach them to your dog. Some require your dog to step into them, while some are just clipped to the body of the dog.
Apart from putting them on your dog, how easy is it to set up the harness in your car? Should it be attached to your seat itself or just the seat belt? Some are quite easy to set up, while there are harnesses that involve more complex steps during the car setup process. Some car harnesses can be converted to walking harnesses. This would help for example when your dog needs to go to the toilet. Instead of the hassle of removing and strapping the harness back to your dog, you can easily convert it.
Cost
Your budget varies, and so does the type of harness you can get for the amount you wish to spend. You should be careful to ensure that the harness you select would be worth the amount you are paying for it. There are some models with extra features that give them an edge over others. Some have extra straps or for example, a leash. It all depends on your preference and budget.
For those that are taking their dogs on short drives, you can go for a cheaper harness. However, if you would be going on longer journeys, you should get a comfortable harness and should not mind paying extra for features such as reflective threading.
Rules and Regulations Regarding Dogs in your Car
These rules usually vary with location, so you need to ensure that you confirm the rules of where you are or where you are headed to ensure that you do not break any rules intentionally or unintentionally.
- Never drive with a dog in your lap.
- Motorcycle riders should not have a dog between the handlebar and the rider.
- Dogs should be seated in an appropriate part of the vehicle.
- Dogs on utes must be restrained to ensure that they do not fall off the vehicle when it moves.
- The person controlling the vehicle must not lead a dog while the vehicle is on the move.
Tips for Taking Road Trips with your Dog
When going on a road trip with your dog, these are some tips that would help ensure that your journey is pleasurable.
Schedule lots of stops: Always let your dog stretch their legs, use the toilet, get some air and burn off energy.
Start slow and gradually build up: You should start with slow journeys and then build up to longer, faster ones. Some dogs get motion sick.
Never feed and drive: You should feed your dog a few hours before embarking on your trip.
Never let your dog hang out while on the move: Some people believe they should let their dog hang out of the window so it would receive fresh air, but this is bad because it can dry their eyes. Instead, stop and take your dog for a walk.
Do not give treats: If you give your dog treats while on the move, there are chances that your dog would choke on the food.
Cars might get hot for your dog: You should keep the car properly ventilated by keeping the air conditioner on.
Other Ways You Can Secure your Dog
Apart from dog harnesses, there are other ways you can secure your dog in the car when you are going for a drive. Though they are not as effective as any of the best dog harnesses in our list below, it would serve a temporary purpose.
Attach a zipline harness: For young dogs that cannot settle, you can use a zipline, but these must be used with a dog harness.
Get a crate: This does not apply to only dogs. However, you need to make sure the crate is the correct size for your dog so they can turn and lie down. PS: This is perfect for relaxed dogs.
Plush carry box: This applies to only small dogs and gives the dog a good view of the environment and owner. It must be used with a dog harness.
Use a dog guard: You can fit a dog guard in your car which is suitable for dogs that like seeing their owner at all times, while being able to move around. However, ensure it is properly bolted so it would not be knocked out of position.
Back seat barrier: This is for large dogs that struggle when restrained. You can get a barrier so the dog would remain in your back seat even if they may not agree. Ensure it is properly attached before moving.
The List of 10 Best Dog Car Harnesses of 2023
This review will include features, pros, and cons of dog harnesses, as well as customer reviews about the products.
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | |
|---|---|---|
 | Our Top Pick Mighty Paw Vehicle Safety Harness
| VIEW ON AMAZON →READ REVIEWS → |
 | EzyDog Chest Plate Custom Fit Dog Harness
| VIEW ON AMAZON →READ REVIEWS → |
 | EzyDog Drive Safety Travel Dog Car Harness
| VIEW ON AMAZON →READ REVIEWS → |
 | Sleepypod Clickit Sport Dog Safety Harness
| VIEW ON AMAZON →READ REVIEWS → |
 | HDP Dog Safety Car Harness
| VIEW ON AMAZON →READ REVIEWS → |
 | 4×4 North America The Original AllSafe Harness
| VIEW ON AMAZON →READ REVIEWS → |
 | Tru-Fit Dog Harness
| VIEW ON AMAZON →READ REVIEWS → |
 | Solvit PetSafe Deluxe Car Safety Dog Harness
| VIEW ON AMAZON →READ REVIEWS → |
 | Ruffwear- Load Up Vehicle Restraint Harness for Dogs
| VIEW ON AMAZON →READ REVIEWS → |
 | CosyMeadow Escape Proof Dog Harness
| VIEW ON AMAZON →READ REVIEWS → |
1. Mighty Paw Vehicle Safety Harness
This dog harness is one of the best dog car harnesses currently on the market and a clear choice for our number 1. This dog-friendly harness is made from durable and quality materials. It has metal hardware that would even help protect your dog against any unfortunate car accidents. The other parts that are not metal are made up of durable weather-proof materials. Despite the durability of this harness, it is so light your dog would not even know it is there.
Features
- Lightweight.
- Has adjustable straps.
- Great reflective stitching.
Why You Should Buy
This harness can be converted to a walking harness for your dog, which would make your life easier when there are quick stops and you need to let your dog out.
Pros
- Machine washable.
- Top-quality and very comfortable.
- Great reflective stitching.
Customer’s Review
This product has a 4.5 out of 5-star rating on Chewy.
2. EzyDog Chest Plate Custom Fit Dog Harness
With an ergonomic foam chest plate specially designed to mold your dog’s shape, this dog harness ensures that your dog is always comfortable throughout the journey. This harness has a cross-fit design which makes putting it on and taking it off very easy.
This award-winning dog harness has complete reflective stitching through the material, which makes your dog easy to notice in the dark. Regardless of the size of your dog, this harness would help keep them safe and comfortable because it comes in different sizes.
Features
- Very comfortable for your dog.
- Rust-proof stainless leash.
- Available in different sizes.
Why You Should Buy
This harness is very comfortable for your dog, and it comes with a leash for when you want to take your dog on a walk.
Pros
- Comes with a leash.
- Convenient to use.
- Provides better control.
Customer’s Review
This product has a 4.5 out of 5-star rating on Chewy.
3. EzyDog Drive Safety Travel Dog Car Harness
Safety! This is the biggest buzz-word when it comes to this particular dog car harness. It successfully passed all crash test requirements in Europe and the USA. This harness also guarantees quality because it is made from durable materials. The lightweight features help provide comfort because your dog can hardly notice that they’re even wearing a harness. This is a convenient choice because all you need to do is fasten their seat belt through the handles and you’re good to go.
Features
- Guaranteed safety.
- Very comfortable.
- Convenient to use.
- High-quality materials.
Why You Should Buy
This harness has everything you could want for your dog. It provides comfort, security, and convenience. Also, it is very easy to clean.
Pros
- Very convenient.
- Lightweight.
- Durable.
Cons
- Available only in black.
- Does not have reflective stitching.
- Cannot be converted to a walking harness.
Customer’s Review
This product has a 3.9 out of 5-star review on Amazon.
4. Sleepypod Clickit Sport Dog Safety Harness
This stylish dog harness will keep your dog safe and comfortable while on the road. Like the previous product in our list, this harness has also passed different crash tests. The comfort of this harness cannot be exaggerated. Your dog can play, eat, and even take a nap while wearing the harness.
Features
- Available in different colors.
- Convenient to use.
- Multipurpose harness.
Why You Should Buy
This harness can be used for several activities, so you don’t need to always remove the harness every time your dog wants to take a nap or play.
Pros
- Comfortable.
- Convenient to use.
- Available in different colors.
Cons
- Does not have reflective stitching.
Customer’s Review
This product has a 3.6 out of 5-star review on Amazon.
5. HDP Dog Safety Car Harness
This dog harness offers you everything you need for a smooth and comfortable drive. It has an adjustable harness that can be used with any type of seatbelt. It offers your dog freedom to move and the materials used in producing this harness are very strong and durable. This harness can also be converted to a walking harness.
Features
- Adjustable harness that works with any seatbelt.
- Contains your dog’s movement but gives room to lie down, stand, or sit.
- High-quality material.
Why You Should Buy
This dual-purpose harness could be considered the all-round go-to product for your dog. Whether you are taking a walk or going for a drive, this harness will always come in handy.
Pros
- Can be converted to a walking leash.
- Made from strong and durable materials.
- Gives room for your dog to sit, stand, and lie down.
Customer’s Review
This product has a 4.0 out of 5-star review on chewy.
6. 4×4 North America The Original AllSafe Harness
After purchasing this harness, you can be guaranteed it will always hold up. This product is made from Stainless steel and high-quality nylon. The brand is a popular and well-trusted one. This product meets the crash test standard ratings in both Europe and the USA.
This harness can also be converted to a walking harness easily. So strapping your dog in after taking it for a walk is no hassle. The reflective branding makes it easier to notice your dog in the dark.
Features
- Reflective branding.
- Can be used as a walking harness.
- Meets crash test standards in Europe and the USA.
Why You Should Buy
This product is a household name for dog lovers. You can’t go wrong if you go with this product. There has been positive feedback from customers, and the brand has been in the industry for over 15 years so trust is not an issue.
Pros
- Trusted brand.
- High-quality materials.
- Easily convertible to a walking harness.
Cons
- Available in only black.
Customer’s Review
This product has a 4.2 out of 5-star review on Amazon.
7. Tru-Fit Dog Harness
For an everyday dog harness, you should purchase this product. You can leave your dog always wearing this harness. It has five adjustment points and a padded chest plate which would help ensure that your dog is always comfortable.
No matter the size of your dog, this harness would hold it successfully. It was crash tested with dogs weighing 75 pounds and the harness passed these tests successfully. It is available in different sizes and has a lifetime warranty. No manufacturing defects will be found when the product is bought new or it’s covered under warranty.
Features
- Available in different sizes.
- Lifetime warranty.
- D-ring included for stability.
Why You Should Buy
This is one of the best dog car harnesses available, so if you do not mind the cost, you should go for this brand.
Pros
- Comfortably protect your dog.
- Available in different colors.
- Most sold harness.
Cons
- Does not have reflective stitching.
Customer’s Review
This product has a 4.2 out of a 5-star review on Amazon.
8. Solvit PetSafe Deluxe Car Safety Dog Harness
This simple and easy to use harness would provide your dog with the utmost security it needs while you are on the road. This brand has been rigorously crash tested up to 3,000 pounds. The durability does not affect the comfort your dog will enjoy because this harness has a full padded chest which is very comfortable.
The company has been making trusted dog products since 1991 and are available to listen to customer’s complaints regarding any product purchased.
Features
- Comes with a leash attachment.
- Full padded chest for comfort.
- Safety is guaranteed.
Why You Should Buy
For ease and convenience, you should go for this product. You can also be assured of the quality you are buying because it has been tested rigorously.
Pros
- Multiple options for attachment.
- Comfortable.
- Limits distractions for the driver.
Cons
- Only one style available.
- Does not have reflective stitching.
Customer’s Review
This product has a 3.8 out of 5-star review on Amazon.
9. Ruffwear- Load Up Vehicle Restraint Harness for Dogs
This durable harness has been crash tested repeatedly to ensure it passes crash requirements in the USA and Europe. Ruffwear dog harnesses are very safe and quite convenient to use. You can easily strap in your dog and make any necessary adjustments. It also has a universal seat belt which means you can secure your dog in any car.
Features
- Available in different sizes.
- Strong and durable materials.
- Convenient to use.
Why You Should Buy
This high-quality dog harness is a must-have for every dog lover that wants to hit the road with their dog. With the lifetime warranty, you can’t go wrong selecting this product.
Pros
- Lifetime warranty.
- Quality materials.
- Very durable.
Cons
- Only one color is available.
- Does not have reflective stitching.
Customer’s Review
This product has a 4.1 out of 5-star review on Amazon.
10. CosyMeadow Escape Proof Dog Harness
This harness puts you in control of your dog. If you have an unruly dog that struggles to listen to your commands, then this product is for you. It helps you control the dog without causing any harm. This dog harness ensures that your dog can never escape out of it but it does not infringe on its comfort. Your dog would be comfortable while you are in control.
The material used is soft and breathable which makes this harness light. It is quite small, so your dog would barely know it is wearing it. The size makes it convenient to put on and off.
Features
- Available in different colors.
- Available in different sizes.
- Easy to use.
Why You Should Buy
This harness has all the characteristics you want in a dog harness. It also offers you the choice of colors and size which you can select from and it is very convenient to use, all you do is just click it in.
Pros
- Weatherproof.
- Convenient to use.
- High-quality material.
- Controls unruly dogs.
Customer’s Review
This product has a 4.2 out of 5 stars review on Amazon.
Final Thoughts on the Best Dog Car Harnesses of 2023
When selecting any of the best dog car harnesses, ensure you go for the one that would not harm your dog while doing the necessary job.
Buying any of the products listed above depends on your preference and budget, but you can be assured of a safe drive with your dog if you select any of them.
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Hi, I’m Walter,
I live in Oklahoma City, USA, and have extensive dog caring and grooming expertise. In addition, I provide dog training tips and tricks through my blogs in Canine Weekly. I have a Dog Behavior and Training diploma and have previously worked as a Dog Trainer at ROC Animal Training and Behavior and Tip Top K9 of OKC Dog Training.
Apart from writing on Canine Weekly, I share my views on Twitter and Linkedin.