5 Best Medium Dog Car Seats: Comfort Guide Now

Does your furry friend turn your car rides into a chaotic adventure? You love taking your medium-sized dog along, but keeping them safe and comfortable in the car can feel like a constant battle. Finding the perfect car seat for dogs in that “in-between” size – too big for tiny carriers, too small for giant crates – presents its own set of challenges.

It’s frustrating when seats slide around, don’t offer enough support, or just don’t fit your vehicle well. You worry about their safety during sudden stops and keeping your car clean. You need a solution that works for both of you.

This post dives deep into what makes a great medium dog car seat. We will explore key features, share tips for easy installation, and break down what you really need to look for. By the end, you will feel confident choosing a seat that keeps your pup happy and secure on every trip.

Top Medium Dog Car Seat Recommendations

SaleBestseller No. 1

JOEJOY Elevated Dog Car Seat for Small/Medium Dogs up to 35 lbs, Memory Foam Booster Seat with Detachable Washable Cover, Travel-Safe Car Bed with Safety Belts & Storage Pockets, Grey

【Elevated Comfort for Your Furry Friend】: With its elevated design, this pet car seat raises your pet 5 inches above the car seat, allowing them to enjoy a better view of the outside world while reducing car anxiety. Whether it’s a short trip to the vet or a longer road trip, your dog will love the added comfort and feel more at ease in the car.
【Comfort with Dual-Sided Design】: The two-sided design of this dog car seat features soft, short plush fabric on one side and breathable, comfort-enhancing faux leather on the other. This dual-material design ensures your furry friend stays cool in the summer and warm in the winter, providing year-round comfort. The high-density memory foam filling delivers superior support, minimizing the impact of road bumps and vibrations for a smoother, more enjoyable ride for your pet.
【Safe and Secure】: This pet car seat features a built-in adjustable safety belts to secure your dog’s harness, preventing them from jumping out the window. The non-slip bottom and headrest strap keep the seat stable and secure, ensuring your pet stays safe and comfortable throughout the journey.
【Ideal Size for Small and Medium dogs】: Measuring 19.0 in (L)X 18.0 in (W) X 18.5 in (H), the puppy car seat can accommodate all types of small and medium dogs up to 30 pounds, or two small dogs up to 15 pounds. It fits in the front or back seats of cars, SUVs and trucks. WARM TIP: Please measure your pet before purchasing
【Easy Installation and Maintenance】: Setting up your JOEJOY dog booster seat is a breeze. Simply thread the car seat belt through the designated holes on the bottom and secure the top strap to the car headrest. Adjust the straps to the right length, and the car seat is ready to go! The removable cover is easy to unzip, making it simple to wash and keep your dog’s car seat clean.

SaleBestseller No. 2

NEEZUKAR Dog Car Seat for Small Medium Dogs,Detachable Washable Dog Booster Seat Under 30lbs, Pet Car Seat Travel Bed with Storage Pockets and Dog Safety Belt (Black)

Keep Your Pet Safe: This dog car seat can be secured with the car seat belt and headrest belt to prevent movement ,plus use the included safety leash to fasten to your dog's harness,no more worrying about the safety of your puppy while driving
Small Dog Car Seat: 19.7 in (L) X 19.4 in (W) X 12.5 in (H), The pet car seat is suitable for small medium dogs and cats up to 30 lbs,It is designed to fit almost all types of vehicles,cars,trucks,SUVS,you can easily install it in the front or back seat as your needs
Comfortable Material: The surface of the dog booster seat with ultra-soft short plush fabric, the interior is filled with high-density sponge,which can effectively reduce the impact of road bumps and bring your dog a comfortable journey
Multifunctional Use: With storage bags on both sides designed, you can place pet toys and dog supplies on the car seat for dogs to save space. in addition, you can remove the seat belt and put it in the pocket,then used it as a dog bed at home, outdoors or in the tent
Removable and Washable: This dog car booster seat is completely removable and washable, just open the bottom zipper to take out the sponge and put the dog car bed fabric cover into the washing machine for cleaning

Bestseller No. 3

Smatto Dog Car Seat for Large Medium Dogs, Back Seat Extender for Pets with Hard Bottom, Strong Support Waterproof Dog Seat Cover with 3 Mesh Windows for Cars, Trucks and SUVs

Extended Hard Base: The base consists of 4 reinforced panels that create 40% more space. Paired with egg-crate foam for rock-solid stability and cloud-like comfort.
Large Pet Car Seat: Generously sized at 28.5"L x 23.2"W x 21.7"H, this dog booster car hammock accommodates most large & medium breeds with no weight limit. Suitable for Limousine, Family Car, SUV and Truck.
Water & Scratch Proof: Crafted with 600D Oxford fabric on both sides, layered with PP cotton and waterproof TPU in between. The advanced heat-sealed technology eliminates needle holes, ensuring zero leakage. Durable, scratch-resistant material fully safeguards your car's interior from wear and damage.
3-Sided Ventilation: Strategically placed mesh windows on both sides and front maintain optimal airflow—whether installed on left, right, or center of the back seat.
Full Protection & Seat Sharing: Equipped with front/rear headrest straps and side safety leashes to prevent falls. Installs flexibly on any rear seat position (left/right/center) while preserving passenger space. A safe space for your pet, a pristine interior for you.

Bestseller No. 4

K&H Pet Products Buckle N Go Dog Car Seat for Large Dogs, Waterproof Fabric, Breathable Mesh Sides, Adjustable Seat Belt Leash, Carseat for Medium to Large Pets, Car Seat Cover - 21 X 19 X 19in

LARGE DOG CAR SEAT: Dog car seat for pets provides a safe, secure and restrained location for your pet to ride, while the mesh windows allow your pet to view out and provide additional air flow
SAFETY FIRST: Includes an adjustable dog seat belt tether to prevent your pet from jumping out; front and rear straps loop around headrests to secure, and the bottom is rigid / solid for stability
QUICK INSTALLATION: Quick to install and uninstall and folds flat for easy storage; can be used on the left or right side of the backseat of a vehicle
SIZING: Medium / Large dog car seat measures 21 X 19 X 19; this size dog car seat is great for medium and large dogs; we recommend measuring your pet and your car to ensure the perfect fit
EASY ACCESS: New side zippers provide convenient access from either side, making it easy for your pet to enter and exit when you are on the go

SaleBestseller No. 5

VavoPaw Dog Car Seat for Medium Dog, Dogs Booster Seat Under 50Lbs or 2 Small Dogs Washable, Pet Car Seats with 2 Safety Leashes, Pets Sofa Bed Cushion Add Thick Sponge, Pet Cars Carrier for Travel

Security and Comfort: The dog bed for car is made of hard-wearing polyester fiber that is strong and long-lasting. High quality sponge padding provides stable support to the bottom and sides of the dog booster car seat, creating a cosy and comfortable space for your beloved pet. 4.5-inch thick sponge cushion raises the pet car seat, dog car seat allowing most dogs to enjoy the view out the window and relieve travel anxiety.
Ample Space: Designed for pet-owning families, this dog carseat is suitable for most cars. It measures 27.9 x 18.8in, about the size of 2 seats in the dog car seat medium size dog. The medium dog car seat holds up to 50lbs and provides ample space for medium or 2 small dogs under 25lbs. Side pocket can be used to store pet toys. With the company of toys, your pet is not bored on the go.
Multiple Fixing Design: The medium dog car seat is designed with multiple fixing, including a car seat pin, a car seatbelt fixing, a lanyard attached to the rear seat headrest and 2 pet safety belts. The non-slip bottom increases stability. With this dog car seats for medium dogs, you can focus on driving with confidence and enjoy a safe journey with your pet.
Machine Washable: The car dog seat for dogs is a removable short plush cover. It is waterproof fabric for easy daily tidying. Dust and stains on the dog booster car seat surface can be effortlessly wiped off with a damp cloth. When you need to clean it, open the side zips, take out the sponges and then put the seat cover into the washing machine. The machine-washable design of the funny dog car seat saves your time, so you can spend more precious time with your furry friend.
Easy to Install: The dog car seat medium sized dog is easy to install without tools. Just 4 steps to complete and start a safe and enjoyable journey with your pets. Tips: It is vacuum compressed packaging. After opening the package, please wait patiently for 24-48 hours for it to recover to the best condition.

SaleBestseller No. 6

Dog Car Seat for Small/Medium Dogs, Memory Foam Dog Booster Seat, Travel Safety Per Car Seat with Washable Removable Cover, Storage Pockets for Dogs up to 35 lbs(Gray)

【Optimal Size】: This dog car seat measures 17 in (L) X 17 in (W) X 19 in (H), providing ample space for up to two small puppies or one medium-sized dog weighing under 35 lbs. Suitable for breeds like Yorkshire Terriers, Chihuahuas, Pomeranians, Dachshunds, Shih Tzus, cats, puppies, and more. Refer to the provided picture for specific size details.
【Perfect View, Happy Pup】Boost your pet up by 6 inches, so they can enjoy the scenery outside the window. Whether it’s a quick errand or a long road trip, this dog booster seat keeps your pup entertained and reduces their anxiety, making every trip a breeze.
【Comfortable and Skin-Friendly】: Made from premium crystal velvet fabric, this dog car seat is incredibly soft and skin-friendly. The luxurious material ensures your pet stays comfortable and relaxed, whether on the road or at home.
【Secure and Stable Design】: Our dog car bed features a built-in pet leash and uses both bottom and top seat fixings to keep the seat stable and your pet secure. This design prevents the seat from shifting, ensuring a safe and comfortable journey for your furry friend.
【Multi-scene Use and Easy Maintenance】: This dog car seat is not only suitable for use in cars but can also be used at home, outdoors, in a tent, or anywhere you can imagine. It features large capacity storage side pockets on both sides, providing a convenient spot to store doggy snacks, puppy kibble, and other essentials. No installation required – our dog booster seat is ready to use right out of the box. It comes vacuum-packed and fully expands to its optimal shape within 24 hours. The dog booster seat is fully removable and washable. Open the bottom zipper, take out the sponge, and clean the cover, ensuring your pet always has a clean and comfortable space.

Bestseller No. 7

PETSFIT Dog Car Seat for Small/Medium Dogs Up to 35 lbs – Patented Safety System, 6" Memory Foam Pet Booster Car Seat, Fully Detachable and Washable Dog Carseat with 2 Storage Pockets (Black & Grey)

𝐏𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐒𝐚𝐟𝐞𝐭𝐲 𝐁𝐮𝐜𝐤𝐥𝐞𝐬 - 𝐋𝐨𝐜𝐤𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐃𝐨𝐠 𝐂𝐚𝐫 𝐒𝐞𝐚𝐭 𝐒𝐞𝐜𝐮𝐫𝐞𝐥𝐲 Featuring PETSFIT's patented safety buckles (US No.12274237B2), this dog bed for car securely attaches to your vehicle's seatbelt, keeping dogs stable during sudden stops or sharp turns. Anti-slip base ensures the seat stays firmly in place, offering added safety for your furry friend
𝐃𝐮𝐚𝐥-𝐒𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐝 𝐖𝐚𝐬𝐡𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐂𝐮𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐯𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐬 𝐘𝐞𝐚𝐫-𝐑𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐭 The dual-sided cushion offers comfort in any season—fleece side for warmth in winter, breathable mesh side for airflow during warmer months. The interior 6" egg foam absorbs road bumps and offers orthopedic support, ensuring a comfy ride for your pup, even on long trips
𝟔" 𝐃𝐨𝐠 𝐁𝐨𝐨𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐂𝐚𝐫 𝐒𝐞𝐚𝐭 — 𝐑𝐞𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐞 𝐀𝐧𝐱𝐢𝐞𝐭𝐲 & 𝐂𝐚𝐫 𝐒𝐢𝐜𝐤𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬 The elevated 6" foam cushion lifts your pet to offer a clear window view, reducing motion anxiety and car sickness. Whether on short commutes or long road trips, this dog car seat booster ensures your dog stays relaxed and comfortable throughout the journey
𝐅𝐮𝐥𝐥𝐲 𝐖𝐚𝐬𝐡𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫 & 𝐂𝐮𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐨𝐧 — 𝐊𝐞𝐞𝐩 𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐂𝐚𝐫 𝐇𝐚𝐢𝐫-𝐅𝐫𝐞𝐞 The pet car seat includes a fully detachable cover and a cushion that are machine-washable, making it easy to clean after muddy walks or beach trips. A built-in seatback protector shields your car's upholstery from dirt, fur, and scratches, keeping your vehicle spotless
𝐕𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐥𝐞 𝐃𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐠𝐧 𝐅𝐢𝐭𝐬 𝐌𝐨𝐬𝐭 𝐕𝐞𝐡𝐢𝐜𝐥𝐞𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐃𝐨𝐮𝐛𝐥𝐞𝐬 𝐚𝐬 𝐚 𝐂𝐨𝐳𝐲 𝐈𝐧𝐝𝐨𝐨𝐫 𝐏𝐞𝐭 𝐁𝐞𝐝 This small dog car seat fits most cars, SUVs, and crossovers, and provides ample space for dogs up to 35 lbs or two smaller pups. It installs easily with headrest straps and seatbelt anchors. Plus, it doubles as a comfy dog bed indoors, offering your pet a cozy resting spot. A perfect gift for new pet parents

Bestseller No. 8

WOOAIDAGG Dog Car Seat for Medium Sized Dog,Pet Travel Car Bed with Seat Belt Channle,Fully Detachable and Washable Car Dog Seat with Adjustable Straps,3 Straps Easy to Install (Black)

Fashionable:The Wooaidagg dog car seat features a sleek design that enhances its beauty,Filled with comfortable memory foam and wrapped in super-soft fabric,it helps ease pets' anxiety during long journeys
Safety:The Wooaidagg Dog Booster Car Seat puts safety first with adjustable shoulder straps,an adjustable dog leash,and a bottom harness channel.These features keep pets safe during the ride and give drivers peace of mind to focus on the road
Variety:The Wooaidagg dog booster car seat comes in various styles,ensuring there's one that suits your pet perfectly,All options offer the same comfort, safety,and ease of installation
Easy Maintenance:The Wooaidagg dog booster car seat is fully removable and washable so it can be cleaned and reassembled with ease,Please consider the size of your pet before choosing,the size of dog car seat is (20 inches * 20 inches * 20 inches)
Stability:The Wooaidagg dog car seat is designed with a harness channel at the bottom,allowing you to secure it securely to the car seat using a harness,adjustable straps on the cushion provide extra stability and protection while driving

The Ultimate Buying Guide for Medium Dog Car Seats

Taking your medium-sized dog on car rides should be safe and fun. A good car seat keeps your furry friend secure. It also keeps your car clean. This guide helps you choose the best one for your needs.

Key Features to Look For

When you shop, check these main features first. They make a big difference in safety and comfort.

Safety and Security

Harness Attachment Points: Look for strong loops or tethers. These connect directly to your dog’s safety harness. This stops them from jumping around.
Strap System: The seat must strap securely to your car seat. Use adjustable straps that fit snugly around the headrest and seat base. A wobbly seat is a dangerous seat.
Raised Edges (Bolsters): Sides that go up give your dog a cozy feeling. They also stop your dog from falling out if you stop suddenly.

Comfort and Size

Internal Dimensions: Measure your dog while they are sitting comfortably. Make sure the seat gives them enough room to turn around but not so much room they slide around.
Padding Thickness: Thick, soft padding cushions the ride. This is important for older dogs or long trips.

Important Materials

The materials affect how long the seat lasts and how easy it is to clean.

Durability and Cleaning

Outer Fabric: Heavy-duty, water-resistant fabric is best. Canvas or thick nylon holds up well against claws and dirt.
Waterproofing: A waterproof lining protects your car seats underneath from accidents or wet paws.
Easy Cleaning: Removable, machine-washable covers are a huge bonus. Spills and mud happen.
Inner Filling: High-density foam offers good support. Avoid cheap, thin batting that flattens quickly.

Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality

Not all car seats are made the same. Small details often show the real quality.

Quality Boosters

Reinforced Stitching: Double or triple stitching at stress points (where straps attach) means the seat will last longer.
Non-Slip Bottom: A rubberized or textured bottom prevents the entire booster seat from sliding on your leather or vinyl car seat.
Metal Hardware: Plastic buckles can break. Look for strong metal clips and adjusters for better security.

Quality Reducers

Strong Chemical Smell: If a seat smells strongly of chemicals when you open the box, the materials might be low quality or cheaply made.
Thin Straps: Flimsy nylon straps that easily fray indicate poor construction.

User Experience and Use Cases

Think about how you plan to use the seat. This helps you pick the right style.

Common Scenarios

For Anxious Dogs: A “bucket” style seat that fully encloses the dog often makes them feel safer. The raised sides help here too.
For Dogs Who Like to Look Out: Booster seats that lift the dog higher allow them better visibility. This can reduce travel anxiety for some dogs.
For Easy Travel: If you take the seat in and out often, choose one that is lightweight and folds flat for storage.
For Long Road Trips: Prioritize extra padding and perhaps even a built-in cooling or heating element if you travel in extreme weather.

10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Medium Dog Car Seats

Q: How do I know what “medium” size means?

A: Medium usually means the seat fits dogs between 25 and 50 pounds. Always check the manufacturer’s specific weight and dimension limits.

Q: Can I use this seat on the passenger seat?

A: Yes, most seats work on either the front or back seat. However, the back seat is generally safer in case of an airbag deployment.

Q: Do I still need a harness if I use a car seat?

A: Absolutely. The seat keeps them contained, but the harness connects them to the seat’s tether system. This is essential for safety.

Q: Are these seats safe for older vehicles without LATCH systems?

A: Yes. Most medium dog car seats rely on strong seatbelt strapping, not the LATCH anchors. They work well in most cars.

Q: Will this seat damage my leather car interior?

A: If the seat has a good non-slip bottom, damage is unlikely. Using a towel or protective mat underneath provides extra peace of mind.

Q: How often should I clean the car seat?

A: You should spot clean spills immediately. If possible, wash the entire cover monthly, depending on how often your dog rides.

Q: Can my dog lie down in this seat?

A: Most medium car seats are designed for sitting or standing. If your dog needs to fully stretch out, you might need a larger booster or a dedicated dog hammock.

Q: What is the main difference between a booster and a regular car seat?

A: A booster seat lifts the dog up higher so they can see out the window better. A regular seat often just secures them to the car seat cushion.

Q: Is installation difficult?

A: Most quality seats use simple, adjustable straps. If you follow the instructions carefully, installation usually takes less than five minutes.

Q: What if my dog gets carsick in the seat?

A: If your dog gets sick, try using the seat in the back seat first. Also, ensure the seat doesn’t lift them *too* high, as this can sometimes worsen motion sickness.