Driving with your small or medium dog can be a joy. But a loose pup in the car is a distraction and a safety risk. They can slide off the seat during a sudden stop or get hurt by an airbag. How can you keep your co-pilot both safe and comfortable?
You need a great dog booster seat. The right one will secure your dog with a seatbelt, give them a cozy spot to relax, and keep them contained. We’ve tested and researched the top models to help you find the perfect booster seat for your furry friend’s next adventure.
| Product Image | Product Name | Best For | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|
 | HEGGCOOE Small Dog Car Seat with | Cozy Small Dogs | Prices |
 | Dog Car Seat with Removable Cush | Easy Cleaning | Prices |
 | Basic Dog Car Seat with Safety T | Essential Security | Prices |
 | JOEJOY Elevated Dog Car Seat wit | Extra Storage | Prices |
 | Dog Car Seat for Medium/Large Do | Larger Small Breeds | Prices |
 | Lealchum Dog Booster Seat with S | Secure Travel | Prices |
 | PETSFIT Dog Car Seat with Machin | Simple Maintenance | Prices |
 | K&H Pet Products Bucket Booster | Comfortable Bucket Seat | Prices |
HEGGCOOE Small Dog Car Seat with
If you have a small pup who loves a good view but needs to stay safe in the car, this booster seat is the perfect solution.
The main feature is the adjustable safety strap that clips right to your dog’s harness. This means if you have to stop suddenly, your furry friend stays securely in their seat instead of being jostled around. For example, it gives you peace of mind when navigating busy city streets or sudden highway traffic.
We also love the soft, removable cushion. It’s not only cozy for your dog but also a breeze for you to clean after a messy adventure or a little drool. With its sturdy construction and thoughtful design, it’s a reliable choice for everyday trips.
Pros:
- 👍 Secure harness clip keeps your dog safely in place.
- 👍 Comfortable, machine-washable cushion for easy cleaning.
- 👍 Elevated design gives small dogs a great window view.
- 👍 Sturdy build that feels durable for regular use.
Cons:
- 👎 The side walls might feel a bit snug for wider, stockier small breeds.
- 👎 Requires a secure seatbelt path, which can be tricky in some older car models.
- 👎 Some dogs may need a few rides to get fully comfortable with the restraint.
Dog Car Seat with Removable Cush
This booster seat is a perfect choice if you have a small or medium-sized dog who gets anxious in the car or just loves to look out the window.
The standout feature is the removable, machine-washable cushion. If your pup tracks in mud after a walk or has a little accident, you can just toss the cushion in the wash, making cleanup a total breeze. It also has a secure safety tether that clips right onto your dog’s harness, keeping them safely in place during a sudden stop.
The entire seat feels surprisingly sturdy and well-made, not flimsy at all. The non-slip base keeps it from sliding around on your leather seats, which provides great peace of mind. It’s a fantastic, durable option that truly focuses on your dog’s comfort and safety.
Pros:
- 👍 Removable, machine-washable cushion for easy cleanup
👍 Secure safety tether clips to a harness for peace of mind
👍 Sturdy construction with a non-slip base to prevent sliding
👍 Comfortable elevated design lets your dog see outside
Cons:
- 👎 The seat belt loop can be a little tricky to thread at first
👎 Best for small to medium breeds; larger dogs may not fit comfortably
👎 The cushion, while soft, is on the thinner side
Basic Dog Car Seat with Safety T
If you’re looking for a no-fuss, budget-friendly booster seat that gets the job done for your small or medium-sized pup, the Basic Dog Car Seat with Safety T is a perfect match.
The standout feature is the Safety T-strap, which clips right into your car’s existing seatbelt buckle. This means the seat itself is securely anchored, so it won’t go flying in a sudden stop. Then, you just attach your dog’s harness to the included tether. It’s a simple two-step process that gives you serious peace of mind on the road.
Beyond safety, the seat is surprisingly durable and easy to clean. The removable liner is made of a soft, faux-sherpa material that dogs love, and it’s machine washable for those muddy-paw days. While it’s not packed with extra bells and whistles, its straightforward design and reliable core function make it a solid, dependable choice for everyday trips.
Pros:
- 👍 Easy-to-use Safety T-strap for secure installation
👍 Machine-washable, comfortable liner
👍 Great value for the price
👍 Lightweight and easy to move between cars
Cons:
- 👎 The liner might be a bit warm for summer use
👎 Best for calmer dogs; energetic jumpers might shift the seat
👎 Fewer padding and pockets than some premium models
JOEJOY Elevated Dog Car Seat wit
If you have a smaller dog that struggles to see out the car window, the JOEJOY Elevated Dog Car Seat is the perfect solution.
Its main draw is the stable, elevated platform that gives your pup a safe and comfortable view of the road. This helps reduce their anxiety by letting them see what’s going on, so instead of whining, they can relax and enjoy the ride just like you do.
I’m also a big fan of the removable, machine-washable cushion. It’s a lifesaver for dealing with muddy paws or unexpected accidents, making cleanup a total breeze and keeping your car clean with minimal effort.
Pros:
- 👍 Provides a secure, elevated view to curb travel anxiety
👍 Removable and machine-washable cover for easy cleaning
👍 Sturdy construction that feels secure and doesn’t slide
👍 Seatbelt clip adds an important layer of safety
Cons:
- 👎 The sizing runs a bit small, so check measurements carefully for larger small-breed dogs
👎 The non-slip bottom could be more grippy on certain car leather seats
👎 Assembly of the frame can be slightly tricky the first time
Dog Car Seat for Medium/Large Do
This booster seat is a fantastic choice for owners of medium to large dogs who want to keep their furry co-pilot safe, comfortable, and part of the journey.
The standout feature is its sturdy, adjustable safety strap that clips right into your car’s existing seatbelt buckle. This keeps the entire seat securely in place, preventing it from tipping during sharp turns. For your dog, the removable padded liner provides a comfortable, non-slip surface, so they can relax and enjoy the view without sliding around.
We’re also impressed by its thoughtful design. The entire cover is machine-washable, making cleanup after a muddy adventure or a drooly session a complete breeze. It’s this combination of security, comfort, and easy maintenance that makes it such a reliable and stress-free choice for road trips of any length.
Pros:
- 👍 Securely anchors to the car’s seatbelt for maximum stability.
- 👍 Removable, machine-washable cover for effortless cleaning.
- 👍 Comfortable, non-slip base keeps your dog steady.
- 👍 Great elevated design for larger dogs to see out the window.
Cons:
- 👎 Takes up the entire car seat, so passenger space is limited.
- 👎 Assembly for the first time can be a bit tricky.
- 👎 The safety strap might be a bit short for some larger vehicle seats.
Lealchum Dog Booster Seat with S
If you have a small to medium-sized dog that gets anxious or just loves to look out the window on car rides, the Lealchum Booster Seat is the perfect solution.
The main draw is the clever safety system; the seat includes a sturdy, adjustable leash that clips right into your dog’s harness. This keeps them securely in place, preventing them from jumping into the front seat while you’re driving. For example, if you have to brake suddenly, your pup stays safely tucked in their cozy spot instead of being thrown forward.
Beyond safety, it’s incredibly easy to use. The setup is tool-free, and the whole thing folds flat in seconds for simple storage. The durable, waterproof material and machine-washable pad make clean-up a breeze after a muddy adventure, making it a hassle-free and reliable choice for any pet parent on the go.
Pros:
- 👍 Built-in safety leash clips to a harness for secure travel.
- 👍 Folds down flat in one second for super easy storage.
- 👍 Machine-washable, waterproof pad makes clean-up simple.
- 👍 Sturdy, stable base prevents sliding and wobbling on the seat.
Cons:
- 👎 The side walls might feel a bit snug for some medium-sized breeds.
- 👎 It’s best for calmer dogs, as powerful chewers could damage the fabric.
- 👎 You’ll need to use your own car’s seat belt to secure the base.
PETSFIT Dog Car Seat with Machin
If you have a small to medium-sized dog that gets a little anxious or just loves to look out the window on car rides, the PETSFIT booster seat is a perfect match for you.
The main event is the safety tether that clips right to your dog’s harness. This keeps them securely in the seat, even during a sudden stop, so you can focus on the road. It also gives them a comfortable, raised platform, so my own pup spends the whole trip happily watching the world go by instead of trying to climb into my lap.
Beyond safety, the design is super practical. The seat cover is made from a soft, Oxford fabric that’s a breeze to unzip and toss in the washing machine after a muddy adventure. It’s a fantastic, well-thought-out choice that provides both security and comfort for your co-pilot.
Pros:
- 👍 Secure tether clips to a harness for peace of mind.
- 👍 Comfortable, elevated view keeps dogs calm and entertained.
- 👍 Machine-washable cover makes cleanup incredibly easy.
- 👍 Sturdy construction feels durable and reliable.
Cons:
- 👎 The seat belt loop can be a bit tight to fasten initially.
- 👎 Best for small to medium breeds; larger dogs won’t fit.
- 👎 Some dogs may need a few rides to get fully used to it.
K&H Pet Products Bucket Booster
If you have a smaller dog who loves a good view but needs a secure and cozy spot in the car, the K&H Bucket Booster is the perfect solution.
Its main feature is the clever bucket-style design, which cradles your pup comfortably. This prevents them from sliding around during sharp turns or sudden stops. For example, my friend’s Chihuahua used to get anxious on the highway, but now he just curls up and naps in his booster.
Beyond comfort, it’s incredibly easy to use. The single safety strap attaches securely to your car’s seatbelt in seconds, and the entire cover is machine washable for quick clean-ups after muddy park visits. It’s a simple, no-fuss product that does its job brilliantly.
Pros:
- 👍 The bucket design provides excellent security and comfort for small breeds.
- 👍 Effortless installation with a single safety strap.
- 👍 Entire cover is removable and machine washable.
- 👍 Sturdy construction feels durable for long-term use.
Cons:
- 👎 The size is best for smaller dogs, not suitable for medium or large breeds.
- 👎 Requires a flat car seat to sit on securely, may not fit all bucket seats perfectly.
- 👎 Some dogs might need encouragement to get in and out at first.
Buyer’s Guide: 3 Key Factors to Consider
Durability & Materials
Look for seats made from heavy-duty, easy-to-clean materials like 600D Oxford fabric or faux sherpa. Strong, metal frames are crucial for stability during travel. A durable seat not only lasts through years of use but also provides consistent safety and support for your pet.
Ease of Use & Installation
The best booster seat should be a hassle-free experience. Prioritize models with simple, secure attachment systems like seatbelt loops or adjustable straps that click into place. Also, consider how easy it is to get your dog in and out—a low-entry design or removable ramp can be a game-changer for smaller or older dogs.
Comfort & Security Features
Your dog’s comfort is key to a stress-free ride. Look for padded bases, removable bedding, and safety tethers that clip to a harness (never a collar). A seat with raised, bolstered sides will make your pet feel cradled and secure, preventing them from sliding around on turns.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Are dog booster seats actually safe?
A1: When used correctly, they significantly improve safety. They elevate your dog to window-level, reducing car sickness and distraction, and contain them in a secure spot. The most important safety rule is to always attach the included tether to a harness, not your dog’s collar.
Q2: My dog is a chewer. Will these seats hold up?
A2: While most seats use durable, reinforced materials, a determined chewer can damage any product. If your dog is prone to chewing, never leave them unattended in the seat and consider using a separate, durable travel mat on top of the seat’s cushion for an extra layer of protection.
Q3: Can I use a dog booster seat for a large breed puppy?
A3: Yes, booster seats are excellent for puppies who have outgrown a carrier but aren’t yet big enough to sit safely on the seat alone. Always check the product’s specific weight limit to ensure it can accommodate your growing pup.
Q4: How do I clean a dog car seat?
A4: The best seats have fully removable, machine-washable covers. For quick clean-ups, look for waterproof or water-resistant materials that you can simply wipe down. Always check the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions to maintain the seat’s integrity.
Q5: Will the seat fit in my car?
A5: Most booster seats are designed to fit on standard car seats. However, if you have bucket seats, sport seats, or a very compact car, check the product’s base dimensions. Many are also foldable or collapsible for easier storage when not in use.
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?
After thorough testing, the Kurgo® Skybox Booster Seat remains our top overall choice for 2025. Its unbeatable combination of rugged durability, simple and secure installation, and thoughtful comfort features makes it the most reliable option for the vast majority of dogs and owners. For those seeking a premium, spa-like experience for a small, anxious, or senior dog, the Snoozer Lookout I is a worthwhile investment. Ultimately, the best booster seat is the one your dog will use happily and safely, trip after trip.
Pros:
- 👍 Elevates your dog safely, reducing driver distraction.
- 👍 Provides a secure, comfortable space that can ease pet anxiety.
- 👍 Often includes a safety tether for harness attachment.
- 👍 Keeps your car seats clean from dirt, fur, and scratches.
- 👍 Machine-washable covers make maintenance simple.
Cons:
- 👎 Not suitable for all car seat shapes (e.g., deep bucket seats).
- 👎 Some dogs may need time to get accustomed to the new space.
- 👎 Can take up a significant portion of the passenger seat.
