Dog car seats and restraints UK: 6 compared on price and crash-test claims

What does Highway Code rule 57 say about dogs in cars?

“When in a vehicle make sure dogs or other animals are suitably restrained so they cannot distract you while you are driving or injure you, or themselves, if you stop quickly. A seat belt harness, pet carrier, dog cage or dog guard are ways of restraining animals in cars.”Rule 57, The Highway Code (GOV.UK), checked 21 October 2026

Dogs Trust puts it in practical terms: your dog should be in the boot behind a guard, in a securely positioned crate in the boot, or on the back seat in a correctly sized car harness attached to the seat-belt fixing, which also stops them hanging out of the window. Every product on this page fits one of those options.

Are dog car seats safe?

A dog car seat or restraint is only as safe as the evidence behind it, and most makers publish none. Of the six restraints here, two name a crash test. MIMsafe says the VarioCage was crash tested at SP, the Technical Research Institute of Sweden, using its SPCT method for front and rear collisions and rollover. Ruffwear says its Load Up harness was sled tested at MGA Research, an independent facility, under the conditions of the US child-seat standard FMVSS 213 at 30 mph, with 25, 45 and 75 lb dog dummies, and explains why it is not listed as certified by the US Center for Pet Safety.

The Trixie car harness, TIAKI booster seat, Ferplast crate and Trixie boot guard make no crash-test claim. Trixie's own listing for its harness says “for comprehensive accident protection, use a fitted grid for your vehicle type”. TIAKI says its booster seat's short lead helps stop a small dog “jumping out unexpectedly”. Company of Animals also says its CarSafe harness is crash test certified up to 32 kg, but we could not find a UK price outside Amazon.

Travelling with a dog: breaks and heat

Dogs Trust says never leave your dog alone in the car, keep them cool, carry a non-spill water bowl and plan exercise and toilet breaks on long trips. The RSPCA says that when it is 22°C outside a car can reach 47°C within an hour; our keeping dogs cool guide covers what to do. Planning a trip? See dog-friendly holidays and, for travel abroad, the pet travel guide.

How much does a dog car restraint cost?

On 21 October 2026, from £5.29 for a Trixie car harness to £552–£773 for a MIMsafe VarioCage. A walking harness is not a car harness: see our dog harness comparison for walks, and the dog accessories hub for more kit. If your dog is hurt in a car accident, see our dog insurance guide for what policies cover, and contact your vet straight away. New puppy? Start with the puppy first-year checklist.