How to Choose the Right Dog Car Safety Product Based on Size and Breed

When it comes to keeping your dog safe during car travel, one size definitely does not fit all. Selecting the right car safety product for your specific dog requires careful consideration of their size, breed characteristics, temperament, and your vehicle’s features. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate the options to find the perfect safety solution for your canine companion.

This article is part of our comprehensive guide to dog car safety, helping you select the perfect safety solution for your unique dog.

Why Size and Breed Matter for Car Safety

A properly fitted car safety product is essential not just for comfort, but for actual safety in the event of an accident. The wrong size or type of restraint could:

• Fail to adequately protect your dog in a collision
• Cause injury due to improper fit or pressure points
• Allow too much movement, creating a distraction
• Be uncomfortable, causing anxiety or resistance
• Break or malfunction under stress

Different breeds have widely varying body types, weights, and behavioral tendencies that all impact which safety solutions work best. Let’s explore how to match these factors to the right products.

To understand the science behind pet safety testing, read our detailed guide on CPS Certification Explained: How Dog Car Safety Products Are Tested.

The Three Main Types of Dog Car Safety Products

Before diving into size and breed considerations, it’s helpful to understand the three primary categories of dog car safety products:

1. Harnesses

What they are: Specially designed harnesses that attach to your vehicle’s seat belt system to secure your dog on the seat.

Best for: Medium to large dogs who are comfortable being harnessed and sitting/lying on a vehicle seat.

Key features to look for:

• Crash testing certification (ideally from the Center for Pet Safety)
• Padded chest plate to distribute force
• Strong stitching and hardware
• Multiple points of adjustment
• Connection to seat belt without long tethers

For detailed reviews of the highest-rated harnesses available today, see our guide to the Best CPS-Certified Dog Car Harnesses of 2025.

2. Carriers

What they are: Enclosed containers, often with hard or semi-rigid sides, that secure to the vehicle using seat belts or other anchoring systems.

Best for: Small to medium dogs, puppies, and anxious travelers who prefer enclosed spaces.

Key features to look for:

• Crash-tested designs
• Secure closure mechanisms
• Proper ventilation
• Attachment points for vehicle seat belts
• Appropriately sized for your dog

3. Crates/Kennels

What they are: Larger, typically rigid containment systems designed to be secured in a cargo area or back seat.

Best for: Larger dogs, multiple dogs traveling together, or dogs who need more space to be comfortable.

Key features to look for:

• Crash-tested construction (look for the CPS certification)
• Strong, impact-resistant materials
• Secure door latches
• Tie-down points for vehicle anchoring
• Proper size for your dog

Matching Safety Products to Dog Sizes

Small Dogs (under 20 pounds)

Small dogs have unique safety needs due to their light weight and sometimes fragile structure. For dogs under 20 pounds, consider:

Best options:

• Carriers: Provide the most comprehensive protection for tiny frames
• Booster seats: Used with appropriate harnesses, these can allow small dogs to see out while staying secure

Specific considerations:

• Small dogs can be injured by harnesses designed for larger pets
• Tiny breeds need extra padding and support
• Small dogs often feel more secure in enclosed carriers
• Ensure the carrier has adequate ventilation but no gaps large enough for escape

Recommended products:

• Sleepypod Mobile Pet Bed (CPS 5-star certified)
• Sleepypod Atom or Air carriers (CPS certified)
• ZuGoPet Rocketeer Pack for dogs up to 25 pounds (CPS 5-star certified)

Medium Dogs (20-50 pounds)

Medium-sized dogs have more options available but still need properly scaled equipment.

Best options:

• Car harnesses: Good balance of security and comfort
• Secured carriers: For medium dogs under 30-35 pounds
• Small vehicle crates: For the larger end of this category

Specific considerations:

• Ensure harnesses have broad chest plates to distribute force
• Medium dogs need enough room to sit and lie down comfortably
• Check weight limits carefully—a 45-pound dog needs different equipment than a 25-pound dog

Recommended products:

• Sleepypod Clickit Sport or Terrain harnesses (CPS certified)
• Gunner Kennels G1 Small (for dogs up to 30 pounds, CPS 5-star certified)
• EzyDog Drive Safety Travel Dog Car Harness (crash-tested, not CPS certified)

Large Dogs (50-90 pounds)

Large dogs require robust equipment that can handle significant weight and force in a collision.

Best options:

• Heavy-duty car harnesses: Must be rated for their weight
• Vehicle crates: Secured properly in the cargo area or back seat
• Vehicle barriers: In conjunction with other restraints for larger vehicles

Specific considerations:

• Product strength and durability are paramount
• Attachment points must be able to handle greater force
• Large dogs need more space but should still be prevented from excessive movement
• Consider the impact of your dog’s weight on stopping distances and force

Recommended products:

• Sleepypod Clickit Terrain (CPS certified up to 110 pounds)
• Gunner Kennels G1 Intermediate (for dogs up to 75 pounds, CPS certified)
• Variocage (crash-tested vehicle crate system)

Giant Breeds (over 90 pounds)

Extra-large dogs present unique challenges for safe car travel due to their size and weight.

Best options:

• Vehicle-specific crates: Usually placed in cargo areas of SUVs or vans
• Heavy-duty harnesses: If rated for their weight class
• Custom solutions: Sometimes necessary for the largest breeds

Specific considerations:

• Few crash-tested products exist for the largest dogs
• Vehicle compatibility becomes extremely important
• Distribution of force is critical at these weights
• May need to consider vehicle modifications for the largest breeds

Recommended products:

• Gunner Kennels G1 Large or XL (CPS crash test certified)
• Sleepypod Clickit Terrain (for dogs up to 110 pounds)
• Impact Dog Crates (crash-tested for extreme durability)

Breed-Specific Considerations

Beyond size, your dog’s breed characteristics should influence your safety product choice.

Brachycephalic (Flat-Faced) Breeds

Breeds such as Bulldogs, Pugs, French Bulldogs, and Boston Terriers have special considerations:

Special needs:

• Breathing difficulties mean they need extra ventilation
• May not tolerate the pressure of certain harnesses on their chest
• Often struggle with temperature regulation

Best options:

• Well-ventilated carriers with temperature monitoring
• Harnesses specifically designed to avoid pressure on throat and chest
• Products that allow a more upright sitting position

Considerations:

• Avoid muzzle-restrictive designs
• Ensure they can pant freely
• Monitor for signs of overheating

Long-Bodied Breeds

Dachshunds, Corgis, Basset Hounds, and similar breeds need support for their elongated spines:

Special needs:

• Prone to intervertebral disc disease
• Need back support during travel
• Should avoid positions that put pressure on their spine

Best options:

• Padded carriers that allow them to lie flat
• Harnesses designed to distribute pressure evenly
• Avoid upright seating positions that strain their back

Considerations:

• The ZuGoPet Rocketeer Pack’s upright position is NOT recommended for Dachshunds and similar breeds due to increased risk of spinal issues

Sighthounds and Slender Breeds

Greyhounds, Whippets, Salukis, Italian Greyhounds, and similar breeds have unique body proportions:

Special needs:

• Narrow heads can slip out of standard collars and harnesses
• Delicate skin and protruding bones need extra padding
• Deep chests but slim waists make fitting difficult

Best options:

• Specialized sighthound harnesses with appropriate proportions
• Well-padded carriers to protect protruding bones
• Crash-tested travel crates may be safer than harnesses for these breeds

Considerations:

• According to the manufacturers, Sleepypod harnesses may not provide a safe or proper fit for Greyhounds, Whippets, Salukis, Afghan Hounds, and Borzoi

High-Energy or Anxious Breeds

Working breeds, terriers, and dogs with anxiety require extra security:

Special needs:

• May attempt to escape restraints
• Can become stressed in confinement
• May chew through straps or mesh

Best options:

• Escape-proof crates with secure latching mechanisms
• Chew-resistant materials
• Products that balance security with enough space to reduce anxiety

Considerations:

• Gradual training is essential for these dogs
• Consider combination approaches (harness plus barrier)
• May need additional anxiety-reduction strategies

If your dog experiences anxiety during car travel, check out our comprehensive guide to Dog Travel Anxiety: Prevention & Management Tips for Stress-Free Car Rides.

Vehicle Compatibility Factors

The type of vehicle you drive significantly impacts which safety options work best:

Sedans

Best options:

• Car harnesses attached to seat belts
• Smaller carriers for back seat
• Compact travel crates for larger back seats

Considerations:

• Limited space means larger dogs may need harnesses rather than crates
• Carriers should be secured with seat belts
• Back seat is safest location

SUVs and Crossovers

Best options:

• Cargo area crates
• Barriers plus harnesses
• Back seat harnesses or carriers

Considerations:

• Crates in cargo areas need proper tie-downs
• Barrier alone is insufficient in crashes
• Consider crash force direction in cargo areas

Pickup Trucks

Best options:

• Secured crates for truck beds (covered preferred)
• Extended cab back seat with harness
• Vehicle-specific containment systems

Considerations:

• Open truck beds are dangerous without proper containment
• Weather protection is essential
• Check local laws regarding truck bed transport

Minivans

Best options:

• Secured crates in rear cargo area
• Middle-row harness attachment
• Custom barriers with additional restraints

Considerations:

• Remove or secure loose items around crated dogs
• Consider removing seats for crate installation
• Ensure adequate ventilation

Be aware that different states have varying laws regarding how dogs must be transported in vehicles. Learn more in our State-by-State Guide to Legal Requirements for Dog Car Travel.

Measuring Your Dog for Safety Products

Proper measurements are crucial for safety product fit. Here’s how to measure for different products:

For Harnesses:

1. Weight: Use an accurate scale
2. Chest girth: Measure the widest part of the chest, usually just behind the front legs
3. Neck circumference: Measure around base of neck
4. Length: For some products, measure from base of neck to base of tail

Allow for two finger widths of space between the harness and your dog’s body for comfort without excess movement.

For Carriers:

1. Length: From nose to base of tail (while standing)
2. Height: From ground to top of shoulder while standing
3. Width: Shoulder width at widest point
4. Weight: Accurate weight is essential

Your dog should be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably in the carrier.

For Crates:

1. Length: From nose to tail, then add 4-6 inches
2. Height: From ground to top of head/ears when standing, then add 4 inches
3. Width: Width across shoulders plus several inches
4. Weight: To ensure crate strength rating is appropriate

Installation and Use Tips

Even the best safety product can fail if not used correctly:

Proper Installation:

• Follow manufacturer instructions exactly
• Secure all attachment points
• Check for stability and minimal movement
• Ensure seat belts or anchors are locked, not just buckled

Correct Usage:

• Introduce your dog gradually to new safety equipment
• Check fit before each trip
• Never modify products in ways not approved by the manufacturer
• Replace any product showing signs of wear or after any accident

Cost Considerations and Value

Safety products vary widely in price, but consider these factors beyond the initial cost:

• Durability: Higher quality products often last longer
• Versatility: Some products serve multiple functions (harness for walking too)
• Resale value: Better brands maintain value
• Potential vet bills: Compare product cost to emergency care
• Warranty: Some premium products offer lifetime guarantees

As a general rule, CPS-certified products will be more expensive due to the extensive testing they undergo, but they provide proven protection that makes them worth the investment.

Special Situations and Solutions

Multi-Dog Households

If traveling with multiple dogs, consider these options:

• Individual restraints: Safest option, with each dog secured separately
• Multi-dog barriers: Used with additional restraints
• Divided travel crates: For compatible dogs of similar size

Dogs with Special Needs

For senior, disabled, or recovering dogs:

• Extra padding: To protect pressure points and joints
• Modified entry: Ramps or steps for vehicle access
• Temperature control: More critical for vulnerable dogs
• Visibility: Positioning that allows you to monitor them

Puppy-Specific Solutions

For growing dogs:

• Adjustable systems: That expand as they grow
• Budget approach: Inexpensive interim solutions followed by long-term investment
• Transitional training: Starting with carriers, moving to harnesses

Conclusion: Making the Best Choice for Your Dog

Finding the right car safety product for your dog requires consideration of multiple factors, but the effort is worthwhile for both safety and peace of mind. Remember these key takeaways:

1. Prioritize certified safety: The Center for Pet Safety certification represents the gold standard
2. Match to your dog’s size and breed characteristics: Consider their unique body type and needs
3. Ensure vehicle compatibility: The best product must work with your specific vehicle
4. Invest in quality: This is truly a case where you get what you pay for
5. Use properly: Even the best product fails if not installed and used correctly

By taking the time to select the right safety product for your dog’s specific size and breed, you’re not just complying with safety recommendations or legal requirements—you’re providing your furry family member with the protection they deserve every time you hit the road together.

Your dog trusts you with their safety—honor that trust by choosing wisely and using consistently. Happy and safe travels to you both!