Travelling with a dog in the car is one of the great summer plans: holidays, trips to the beach or family visits with your best four-legged friend on board. But for the journey to be safe and enjoyable, it's worth knowing what the rules say and which restraint system to use. In this guide we explain how to carry your dog in the car without any scares, with practical tips so that both of you enjoy the trip free of distractions and unnecessary risk.
What the rules say about carrying a dog in the car
The law doesn't insist on one particular product, but the Highway Code is clear that dogs and other animals must be suitably restrained so they can't distract the driver or injure anyone if the car stops suddenly. In practice, that means your dog should travel properly secured with an appropriate restraint system, whether that's a harness, a crate or a guard.
Letting the animal travel loose can be treated as driving without proper control or without due care and attention, and it can land you a penalty. Beyond any fine, though, there's a weightier reason: in an emergency stop from 50 km/h (about 30 mph), a medium-sized dog multiplies its own weight several times over and can be thrown forward, injuring itself and putting the rest of the passengers at risk. Restraint isn't just a legal matter, it's safety for everyone.
Restraint systems: how your dog should travel in the car
There's no single right answer: it depends on your dog's size and the type of car. These are the most common and safest options:
- A crash-tested harness with the seatbelt: ideal for small and medium dogs travelling on the back seat. Look for harnesses with several anchor points, which spread the force better in an impact.
- A rigid crate: highly recommended for small dogs and for nervous animals, as it gives them a sense of shelter. Place it on the floor behind the front seats or in the boot, firmly secured.
- A dog guard or divider: in larger cars and for big breeds, a guard separating the boot from the cabin stops the animal getting into the passenger area.
Whichever you choose, check before every journey that the equipment is in good condition and properly fixed. You can kit yourself out with pet and travel accessories designed to make the trip comfortable and safe.
According to the size of the dog
As a general rule: small dogs are best in a crate; medium dogs in a harness with the seatbelt on the back seat; large dogs in the boot with a guard or in a large crate. Never carry your dog loose on the passenger seat or on your lap: as well as being dangerous, it's one of the distractions most likely to get you penalised.
Tips for travelling with a dog in summer
Heat turns a pleasant journey into a hazard if you don't take precautions. Bear these points in mind before setting off with your dog during the warm months:
- Water within reach: take fresh water and a folding bowl, and offer it at every stop.
- Stops every two hours: use them so your dog can stretch its legs, drink and relieve itself.
- Never leave it alone in the car: in summer the interior can pass 50 °C within minutes, even with the windows slightly open. It's the leading cause of fatal heatstroke.
- Avoid the middle of the day: travel first thing in the morning or in the evening, when the sun is less fierce.
- Shield from direct sun: a sunshade on the window keeps the sun off your dog for the whole journey.
Checklist before you set off
So you don't forget anything, run through this quick list before you start the engine:
- Restraint system checked and properly anchored.
- Vaccination record, microchip details up to date and, if you're going abroad, a pet passport or animal health certificate.
- Water, a bowl and some of your dog's usual food, so you don't change its diet all at once.
- Its blanket or favourite toy, so it feels secure.
- Poo bags, wipes and a towel in case it gets wet or dirty.
If your dog isn't used to the car, take a couple of short trips in the days beforehand so it gets familiar with it and associates the journey with something positive. A walk just before you leave also helps it travel more relaxed.
Enjoy the journey, together and safely
Travelling with a dog in the car is perfectly compatible with a calm journey if you combine the right restraint, respect for the rules and a few precautions against the heat. With a bit of preparation, your companion becomes just another passenger and your summer trips are twice as enjoyable. Take a look at our selection of pet products and get the car ready for the next adventure.