Safely Restraining Your Dog In The Car

Not too long ago, people didn't think much about restraining their dogs in the car. But it's a good idea, both for the safety of the dog and the safety of the people in the car. A dog can distract or jostle the driver, causing an accident, as well as getting hurt himself.

Crates are often recommended for restraining dogs in the car. This is great for when you have enough space, and for dogs that are used to being in crates. For others, it can make them very uncomfortable. However, it is the only practical way for multiple dogs that you don't completely trust together to ride in the same car. If the crate is a smaller size, it should be secured as well, in order to prevent it from going flying in an accident.

Dog barriers that fit in the back of SUVs and station wagons are another common option. A small dog that is restrained only by one of these in the back of a large vehicle can still be easily injured by going flying, however. For bigger dogs who are heavier and take up more space, this is probably just about as safe as a crate, and less stressful for many.

Seat belts for dogs are a relatively new idea, but very functional. A harness that is secured to the human seat belt allows dogs to ride in the back seat without worrying about them getting in the driver's way. And many dogs that are not crate-trained take to a harness much better than a crate. Dogs should never ride in the front seat, because of the airbags.

You don't have to buy expensive equipment if you don't want to - you can secure your dog easily with things you probably already have. Although seat belt harnesses made for dogs are often cushier and more padded than harnesses for walking, you can make do with the latter in a pinch. Simply secure the human seat belt and use the carseat lock to keep it from letting out again. Put the harness on your dog, and use a short leash or other tether to secure it to the human seat belt. Never tether your dog with their collar.

Despite growing knowledge that unrestrained dogs are neither safe for people nor safe themselves, most dogs still ride loose. If your dog is one of these, consider making a change. It only takes one accident for you to seriously regret your choice.