Best Dog Car Seats For Large Dogs: 5 Top Picks

Does your big dog take up the whole back seat on car rides? Do you worry about them sliding around when you brake suddenly? Traveling with a large dog can feel like a juggling act. You want them safe and comfortable, but finding gear that actually fits a big boy or girl is tough.

Many standard dog car seats simply aren’t built for larger breeds. They might be too small, too flimsy, or not offer enough support. This leaves you with a stressed pup and a nagging feeling that you haven’t done enough to protect them. It’s frustrating when products don’t meet the needs of your giant companion!

Don’t worry! This guide cuts through the confusion. We will show you exactly what features matter most when choosing a car seat or booster for your large dog. Keep reading to discover durable, spacious, and secure options that will make every journey smoother and safer for both of you. Let’s find the perfect fit for your large furry friend.

Top Dog Car Seat For Large Dogs Recommendations

SaleBestseller No. 1

Dog Car Seat for Medium/Large Dogs up to 60 lbs, Memory Foam Dog Booster Seat with Thick Cushion, Pet Car Seat for Back with Detachable Washable Cover, Storage Pockets for SUV, Pick Up, Trunk, Grey

Perfectly Sized for Comfort: This 35″ L x 22.5″ W x 13.7″ H dog car seat offers a spacious yet cozy ride, securely fitting medium to large dogs or two small dogs in your car's back seat or trunk. More than just a dog car seat, it easily doubles as a travel dog bed and a cozy sofa cushion at home, seamlessly adapting to your pet's needs wherever you go.
Versatile and Practical: This dog booster car seat is designed with raised bone-shaped sides for security and comfort. Crafted from premium crystal velvet fabric and filled with high-resilience sponge, it provides excellent support while effectively minimizing road vibrations. Built to maintain its shape over time.
Thickened & Elevated Comfort: The plush, waterproof 3.14 inch cushion of car seat for dog raises your dog to a comfortable window view. The floating base minimizes vehicle vibrations, helping ease anxiety and motion sickness, while the sturdy sponge maintains its shape and provides excellent support made every ride is calm and enjoyable.
Convenient & Safety Travel: This dog car seat includes two large back pockets to keep treats, toys, leashes, and waste bags neatly stored and within easy reach—so you never have to search for supplies on the go. It also features two built-in safety leashes to secure your pet and prevent jumping, while adjustable straps underneath and around the car seat ensure a stable and snug fit throughout the journey.
Easy to Clean & Maintain: The fully detachable design allows all components of the pet car seat to be quickly removed and reassembled. The sturdy and smooth surface resists dirt and odors, simply wiping or machine washing for effortless care. The raised backrest also protects your car seats from paws and fur, keeping your interior clean.

SaleBestseller No. 2

MIXJOY Dog Car Seat for Large Medium Dogs, Back Seat Extender for Pets, Waterproof Pet Carseat for Medium Sized Dog, Hammock for Pet, with Storage Pocket for Cars/SUV/Truck(L-28 * 22 * 20.5in)

[Back Seat Extender+40% Space for Dogs]: The MIXJOY dog car seat extends 40% space in the back seat. Large dog car seat provide a larger and more comfortable resting space for dogs.
[Passengers Can Sit Next to Dogs]: Using dog car seat can better utilize the space of backseat of a car, passengers can also sit in the back. If you use the full wrap-around dog over, the rear seats will not seat people.
[Large Dog Car Seat ]: 1, MIXJOY large back seat is 28*22*20.5in and suitable for most dogs; 2, Car dog travel bed mattress suitable for Limousine, Family Car, SUV and Truck.
[Prevents Dogs Falls and Seat Scratches]: If your dog is very active, or if you brake sharply while driving, the seat cover help your dog stays on and keep your dog safe, giving you peace of mind during your travel.
[✓100% Waterproof ✓Slip-Resistant ✓Scratch-Proof]: The back seat extender for dogs is made of high-quality waterproof 600D Oxford fabric, the dog seat cover is easy to clean and durable. The dog car hammock on both sides can be used at the top to protect the dog's car seat from scratches, dirt, wet mud claws, and dog fur.

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.

SaleBestseller No. 4

Dog Car Seat for Large/Medium Dogs - Memory Foam Dog Booster Seat for Under 55Lbs or 2 Small Dogs-Detachable and Washable Travel Bed with Thick Cushion and Storage Pockets-Grey

🐕Safe Dog Booster Seat - EUHAMS dog car seat raises your furry friend to the perfect height for a better view outside the window and to ease their anxiety during car rides. Adjustable leash (with Snap Hook) ensures your pup stays in place, providing a comfortable and safe space for them while you focus on driving.
💖Note - Memory foam booster dog car seat is a compressed package, after a long period of transport, after receiving package, leave it for 24-48h to restore the shape.
🐕Memory Foam Comfort - Our dog car bed fabric is made of high-quality velvet, breathable,soft to the touch provides a soft and comfortable sleeping area for dogs.Filled with high rebound egg crate foam sponge that provides ultimate comfort and support for your furry friend during car rides.The firm foam bolster around the edge keeps dogs in a safe and controlled spot.
🐕Perfect Size for Large/Medium Pets - Measuring 31.1 inches (L) X 20.4 inches (W) X 12 inches (H), suitable for large/medium pets under 55poundsor 2 small dogs, ideal for long car rides or trips.
🐕Versatile & Easy to Use - Our pet car booster seat can be easily installed on the back seat of most cars, vehicles, and SUVs. Lightweight, portable, easy to install and detachable,not only can be used in the car,but also at home,outdoors,tent when used as a dog bed.

Bestseller No. 5

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

Bestseller No. 6

JOEJOY Dog Car Seat for Large Medium Sized Dogs Under 55 lbs, Dog Booster Seat for 2 Small Dogs with Detachable Washable Cover, Memory Foam Pet Car Seat with 2 Safety Belts and Storage Pockets

【Elevated Design, Perfect View】：Boost your pet up by 4 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. 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. Your dog will love the added comfort and feel more at ease in the car.
【Secure and Stable Design】：This dog car seats for small dogs feature a built-in adjustable safety belts to secure your dog's harness, preventing them from jumping out the window. This design prevents the seat from shifting, the non-slip bottom and headrest strap keep the seat stable and secure. ensuring a safe and comfortable journey for your furry friend.
【Optimal Size】：This large dog car seat measures 30 in (L) X 19 in (W) X 14 in (H), providing ample space for medium to large dogs or two small dogs, fitting seamlessly into the back seat or trunk of your car. It's not just a car seat; it also doubles as a travel dog bed and sofa cushion and more. WARM TIP: Please measure your pet before purchasing. Refer to the provided picture for specific size details.
【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.
【Multi-scene Use 】：The JOEJOY dog car bed is not only perfect for car rides but also doubles as a cozy bed for your dog. Its portable design allows you to easily bring it anywhere-whether it's in the car, at home, or outdoors. It features large capacity storage side pockets on both sides, providing a convenient spot to store doggy snacks, puppy kibble, and other essentials.

SaleBestseller No. 7

Instraella Dog Car Seat for Large Dogs, Back Seat Extender for Dogs, Foldable Pet Car Seat with Waterproof Oxford Fabric and Non-Slip Bottom, All-Around Protection and Strong Support

✅ Comprehensive Protection: The Instraella dog car seat features a 360° wraparound protection design that keeps your pet safe and secure during sudden stops or sharp turns. With its non-slip base and sturdy structure, this dog seat for car remains stable at all times, creating a reliable and secure travel environment for your pets.
✅ Spacious Comfort for Dogs: Measuring 27.5*21.6*20 inches, this large dog car seat expands your vehicle’s back seat area by approximately 40%, offering more space for your pet to move and rest comfortably. Ideal for both short trips and long drives, it helps reduce fatigue and anxiety.
✅ Flexible Installation: This dog seat cover for back seat can be flexibly installed on the left, right, or middle of the rear seat. Passengers can sit alongside their pets. Suitable for sedans, SUVs, family cars, etc. This versatile dog carrier adapts easily to different travel setups.
✅ Installation Notice: Please ensure the two tubes are tightly inserted into the connector during installation, pull all the surrounding zippers fully to the top to prevent the sides from collapsing, and firmly tuck the seat anchor into the gaps of the car seat to provide maximum stability and keep your dog securely in place.
✅ Waterproof & Durable Materials: Crafted from premium fabric, the dog car seat cover for back seat features a dual-layer waterproof coating, along with scratch- and dirt-resistant materials. It effectively protects your seats from mud, hair, and wet paws, while the wear-resistant construction ensures long-lasting performance for every journey.

Bestseller No. 8

PETICON Large Dog Car Seat, Back Seat Extender for Dogs with 3 Mesh Windows, Waterproof Medium Carseat for Dogs with 4-Splice Hard Bottom, Pet Seat Cover for Cars, Trucks and SUVs (Black)

Large Rear Seat Extender: PETICON large car seat 𝐦𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐮𝐫𝐞𝐬 𝟐𝟖.𝟓*𝟐𝟑.𝟐*𝟐𝟏.𝟕 𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐬, it's suitable for most large and medium dogs and has no pet weight limit. Car dog travel bed mattress suitable for Limousine, Family Car, SUV and Truck. 𝐏𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐦𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐮𝐫𝐞 𝐛𝐞𝐭𝐰𝐞𝐞𝐧 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐭 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐫 𝐬𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐛𝐚𝐜𝐤𝐬 𝐛𝐞𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐩𝐮𝐫𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐬𝐞.
Spacious and Comfortable: The dog car seat extends 40% space in the back seat, built-in 4 sturdy hard bottom splice plates and 4 thick pieces of egg crate foam. Unlike the flimsy alternatives, our premium padding ensures your pet enjoys first-class comfort. Large dog car seat provide a larger and more comfortable resting space for pets.
3 Mesh Windows: The dog booster car hammock has mesh windows on both sides and the front. The strategically placed mesh windows ensure that air circulation can be maintained regardless of whether you install dog pads on both sides or in the middle of the rear seat.
100% Waterproof & Scratch-resistant: The inner and outer surface fabrics of the dog car seat are both 600D Oxford fabric, with PP cotton and waterproof TPU in the middle. It uses hot pressing technology instead of quilting, without needle holes to avoid leaking water. Meanwhile, Oxford fabric is extremely scratch-resistant, don't worry about pets scratching your leather seat.
All-round Protection & Back Seat Sharing: This dog car seat cover can be quickly installed or removed. It can be installed on the left, right, or middle seat of the rear seat as needed. This dog car seat not only reserves seating space for passengers, but also provides comprehensive protection for dogs and keeps hair and dirt contained in one area.

Choosing the Best Dog Car Seat for Your Big Buddy

Taking your large dog on car rides should be safe and comfortable for everyone. A good dog car seat keeps your furry friend secure and prevents them from distracting you while driving. This guide helps you find the perfect fit for your big dog.

Key Features to Look For

When shopping for a car seat for a large dog, certain features make a huge difference in safety and comfort.

Size and Weight Capacity

Measure Your Dog: You must know your dog’s weight and the space they take when sitting or lying down. A seat that is too small will make your dog unhappy.
Weight Limit: Always check the maximum weight the seat can safely hold. Overloading a seat is dangerous.

Safety and Security

Harness Attachment Points: Look for strong loops or tethers inside the seat. These must connect securely to your dog’s harness.
Seat Anchoring System: The seat must fasten tightly to your car seat. Look for adjustable straps that use the car’s seat belt system or LATCH connectors. A wobbly seat is a hazard.

Comfort and Support

Thick Padding: Large dogs need good cushioning, especially on long trips. Look for high-density foam.
Raised Edges (Bolsters): These walls give your dog a sense of security, like a small den. They also help keep your dog in the center of the seat.

Important Materials Matter

The materials used directly affect the seat’s durability and how easy it is to clean.

Durability and Fabric

Heavy-Duty Fabric: Since large dogs are heavier, the fabric needs to resist tearing and scratching. Look for materials like durable Oxford cloth or thick canvas.
Water Resistance: Accidents happen, or dogs come into the car wet after playing. Water-resistant liners save you major cleaning headaches.

Frame and Structure

Sturdy Internal Frame: Some booster seats have internal metal or strong plastic frames. This keeps the seat from collapsing under your dog’s weight.

Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality

A high-quality seat lasts longer and performs better in an emergency. Low-quality seats can fail when you need them most.

Quality Indicators (Good Signs)

Reinforced Stitching: Double or triple stitching at stress points shows the manufacturer expects heavy use.
Easy-to-Remove Covers: A cover that zips off easily allows for machine washing. This greatly improves the long-term user experience.

Quality Reducers (Warning Signs)

Thin, Flimsy Straps: If the straps look thin or the buckles are made of cheap plastic, the seat might break during a sudden stop.
Excessive Off-Gassing: If the seat smells strongly of chemicals when you first open it, the materials might not be high quality.

User Experience and Use Cases

Think about how you will actually use the seat every day.

Driving Scenarios

Long Road Trips: For long drives, prioritize maximum padding and good ventilation. A hot, cramped large dog will become restless quickly.
Quick Errands: If you just run to the store, a simpler, quick-install sling or hammock might work better than a full, rigid booster seat.

Installation Ease

A complicated installation means you might skip using the seat sometimes. Look for clear instructions and simple buckle mechanisms. You should be able to install or remove the seat in under five minutes.

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

Q: Can I use a regular small dog booster seat for my large dog?

A: No. Small dog seats cannot support the weight of a large dog. They might collapse or not offer enough space for safe restraint.

Q: What is the difference between a car seat and a car hammock?

A: A car seat is a contained structure that lifts your dog up. A hammock covers the entire back seat, protecting the upholstery but offering less direct restraint.

Q: Do I still need my dog to wear a harness with a car seat?

A: Yes, absolutely. The harness connects to the seat’s tether. The seat keeps them in place, and the harness keeps them from flying out of the seat during a crash.

Q: How do I clean a large dog car seat?

A: Most good quality seats have removable, machine-washable covers. Always check the manufacturer’s specific cleaning instructions first.

Q: Will a car seat fit in the back seat of my SUV?

A: Most large dog car seats are designed to fit across one section of a standard back seat. Measure the width of your back seat to be sure before buying.

Q: Are these seats safe during an accident?

A: A properly installed, high-quality seat significantly improves safety. It stops the dog from becoming a projectile in the car.

Q: My dog hates riding in the car. Will a seat help?

A: Often, yes. Being contained in a familiar, secure space (like a bolstered seat) makes many dogs feel safer than just sitting loose on the car floor or seat.

Q: Should the seat face forward or backward?

A: For large dogs in booster-style seats, they usually face forward, similar to you. The primary safety feature is the tether to the car’s seat belt system.

Q: What if my dog sheds a lot?

A: Choose a seat with durable, tightly woven fabric that resists trapping hair. Darker colors often hide minor pet hair better.

Q: How high should the seat lift my dog?

A: The seat should lift your dog high enough so they can comfortably see out the window without straining their neck, usually just below the top of the car window frame.