Best Dog Car Seat Cover - TOP 10 PICKS:
One major difference between cats and dogs is how they’re perceived. Cats are generally clean, while dogs are more… prone to being dirty. Another big difference is how we keep them entertained. Cats need attention just like dogs, however, cat owners don’t walk their cats and are less likely to take them on car trips.
These two points are reasons we see car seat covers as being vital for any dog owner — they protect your car’s interior from dirt, drool and hair. Especially when you have an active young pup or long-haired breed.
According to a 2011 AAA/Kurgo survey, 56% of dog owners drive with their dog in a vehicle at least once a month per year. Considering how small an investment a cover is (most are <$50) and how much use you get out of it, it’s a no-brainer.
So, which seat cover should you buy? First, let’s dive into pet safety considerations and go through the must-have features for covers.
Best Dog Car Seat Cover Reviews: Safety and Features
Pet safety in vehicles never really crosses your mind until you stop and think about it. An unrestrained dog in a traffic accident is a recipe for disaster. That’s why our first recommendation is to seriously consider buying a safety harness or restraint for your dog.
The AAA/Kurgo survey found that, “use of a pet restraint is three times greater among people who have heard of situations where unrestrained dogs were injured or caused injury to other passengers in a car crash (32%), compared to respondents who are not aware of such a situation (9%).
The top reasons for not using a restrainer include: owners being confident their pet doesn’t need a restraint (42%), never considering it (39%), only taking short trips (29%), and owners wanting dogs to have freedom to put their head out the window (12%).
First of all, it’s not a good idea to let your dog poke their head out the window or sit in the front seat. AAA and the American Veterinary Medical Association both strongly discourage pet owners from allowing this. Secondly a pup protector car seat cover isn’t going to be much help in the case of an accident. So, taking the experts’ advice and the benefits of car seat covers for cleanliness sake — the ideal way to transport your dog is to have a seat cover and a safety harness/restraint (or a crate/carrier).
Let’s move on to the main features to look for in a seat cover.
Size — Most covers are labelled as being universal for cars, trucks and SUVs. We would say “almost” universal as not every standard cover will fit in larger vehicles. The easiest way to know for sure is to measure your back seat and compare it to the listed size.
Materials — You’ll see waterproof used a lot in product descriptions. We would take this with a grain of salt. The reality is — don’t expect water to just bead up on the fabric. If you want something close to waterproof, you’ll have to use a waterproofing spray. Make sure the entire cover is machine washable.
Style — Covers are sold as bench-style, hammock and convertible. Bench-style options cover just the seat, while hammock covers attach to the driver/passenger seat headrests to create a hammock. Convertible (hybrid) covers are the ideal choice for versatility.
Color — If a matching interior is important to you, our list includes covers that come in different colors. Also, be wary of black covers as they tend to get hotter than lighter colors. Probably not a deal-breaker if you have the A/C on, but it’s something to consider.
Additional features — Extra storage is always a plus in our book. We included covers with pouches in the top-10. Other features you may like are extra coverage for the floor and the back of the front seats. Perfect for extra dirty walks and bad weather.
Here Are the Top 10 Car Seat Covers for Dogs in 2020:
We had to wade through a ton of crappy covers (and actual crap) to narrow it down to our top 10. Our choices included options for everyone — seat belt holes, seamless, hammocks, front seat, blanket-style and even covers that can be used as cargo liners.
The top-10 (in no particular order).
Pet Magasin Luxury Water-Resistant Pet Seat Cover
Check priceA durable cover that comes in two colors: beige and black. Large enough to fit in any back seat and requires headrests to attach it securely. The 58” by 54” fabric and stitching are heavy duty — able to hold up to 110lbs. Simple install, no tools required, and easy to stow away when not in use.
URPOWER 100% Waterproof Pet Seat Cover Car Seat Cover for Pets
Check priceLarge, durable, and waterproof. This is one of the most highly rated covers on Amazon. Ideal for heavy shedders, easy to clean and install. The versatile design adapts to your needs from day-to-day. Convenient pouch for storing whatever you need.
4Knines Dog Seat Cover
Check priceAdvertised as waterproof like the URPOWER and some others. However, many report it to be more like water-resistant. For vomit and pee, you might need an additional layer, or something actually waterproof. Otherwise, a great 2-in-1 hammock and bench cover — plus it comes in two sizes and three colors (grey, tan and black).
BarksBar Original Pet Seat Cover for Cars
Check priceYou won’t have to worry about muddy or wet paws with this seat cover. It’s light, durable and easy to clean. Also, it’s machine washable, comes in two sizes: large (58” x 54”) and X-Large (60” x 64”), and has two pouches for storing dog supplies, leashes or anything else you need.
BarksBar Pet Front Seat Cover for Cars
Check priceEasily attached to your front (single) seat with a headrest strap/buckle, tucks in between the seat to anchor the cover, and includes a skirt to protect from spills, dirt and damage. Quilted and padded for extra comfort. Waterproof material makes it easy to clean up and you don’t have to worry about drool and pee (however a big puddle may leak through anyway).
Winner Outfitters Dog Car Seat Covers
Check priceLarge 60” x 56” black cover. Includes a non-slip backing material so it doesn’t slide around. Has side flaps to protect all sides of your seat. Materials and fasteners are decent quality and the entire cover is machine washable.
AmazonBasics Waterproof Car Back Bench Seat Cover Protector for Pets
Check priceBudget-friendly, 56” x 47” light material. Does not have a non-slip backing, making it prone to scrunching and sliding around. For the money, it’s not bad, but has a lot of issues mainly due to the lower-end materials.
Deluxe Quilted and Padded Dog Car Seat Cover
Check priceSuper versatile offering with three different size options and four different colors. Good bang-for-your-buck cover because it offers front to back coverage for front and back seats. Never worry about dirt, mud or water again. Comes with all the perks — additional pouches, mesh between front and back seat and it’s machine washable.
VIEWPETS Bench Car Seat Cover Protector
Check priceNice material — looks and feels quality-made. No bells-and-whistles, but this cover makes up for it in color options (black, grey, sage green and tan), reliability and durability. Easily outperforms convertible/hybrid covers when looked at purely as a bench seat cover.
Epica Luxury Deluxe Pet Car Seat Cover
Check priceVery similar in quality to the VIEWPETS bench seat. Easy to clean, a breeze to install. If you’re looking for a bench seat that’ll withstand the dirt, hair and debris — this is a great choice. Stubborn stains aren’t a problem because this cover is machine washable.
And now we’ll look at the top-3 from the three biggest categories of covers: 1) Water resistant covers 2) Dog blankets for cars and 3) Rear seat covers.
TOP 3 Water Resistant Dog Car Seat Covers:
Pet Magasin Luxury Water-Resistant Pet Seat Cover
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Colors: Beige and Black
Size: 58” x 54”
Main Features: Oxford 600D polyester fabric. Helps keep your car clean by doubling as a hammock. We like that it comes in a light color option so it doesn’t get hot in the summer. Also, it’s big enough where if you have a standard-sized rear seat — it’ll fit. Overall a great choice at a good price point.
Things that could be better: May not fit in all pickups/vans and an X-Large size option would be a nice addition.
URPOWER 100% Waterproof Pet Seat Cover Car Seat Cover for Pets
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Colors: Black
Size: 58” x 54”
Main Features: Universally-sized, this seat cover is made of 600D polyester. Repels moisture, doesn’t stain easily and has side flaps for extra seat coverage. We like it because it has the addition of pouches, where you can store treats, toys or anything else you need. Securely attaches to both the front and rear headrests. Big enough to accommodate large breeds.
Things that could be better: May be a bit small for some large pickups and vans. Could have different size/color options.
BarksBar Original Pet Seat Cover for Cars
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Colors: Black
Size: Large(58” x 54”) and X-Large (60” x 64”)
Main Features: Fully-functional as both a bench seat cover and hammock. Includes additional storage pouches, quick-release buckles, and is made out of a waterproof, machine-washable material. One of a few covers to have size options for larger vehicles. Keeps dirt, hair and other stuff off your seats.
Things that could be better: There could be more color options. Quality could be better as some customers report high wear and tear over time.
TOP 3 Dog Blankets for Cars:
Winner Outfitters Dog Car Seat Covers
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Colors: Black
Size: 60” x 56”
Main Features: Super affordable cover that converts from bench seat cover to hammock and vice versa. Easy to install, stays put and is 2” longer than some of the other options on this list. Very soft, comfortable material that is machine washable and repels water and dirt. At this price point, hard to beat.
Things that could be better: Although it’s 2” longer than other options, it still may not fit big trucks and vans. The materials, although decent quality, may not be able to withstand extended use.
Epica Luxury Deluxe Pet Car Seat Cover
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Colors: Black
Size: 56” x 47”
Main Features: A bench-style cover made of high-quality quilted material. It’s easy to clean and has a special layer that helps repel water, dirt and other doggie stuff.
Things that could be better: While it’s a great budget option, it would be nice to have the option to switch to a hammock. A lack of colors and smaller seat coverage make it less attractive. Would also be better if it had velcro to close the seatbelt openings to prevent spillage onto your seats and dogs chewing the seat belt buckles.
AmazonBasics Waterproof Car Back Bench Seat Cover Protector for Pets
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Colors: Black
Size: 56” x 47”
Main Features: Made of 100% polyester. Very basic bench seat cover that performs well, perfect for people on a lower budget.
Things that could be better: Does not have an anti-slip coating so dogs may end up sliding around and getting irritated. A lack of colors and the small-ish size make it a turn-off. A clear outlier (for the wrong reasons). in terms of quality. If it could convert to a hammock at the same price point, it would be a decent option.
Do car seat protectors for dogs prevent cars from being damaged by dog scratches?
- The best way to protect against scratches is to regularly trim your dog’s nails. Here’s an instructional video on how to cut a dog’s nails.
- And another video on how to trim black nails if you’re scared of nicking the vein (yes, dogs have a vein in their nails).
- If you notice your dog scratching your cover, it may be a sign of anxiety or other behavioral issues. Don’t encourage the behavior and make sure your dog isn’t just bored. We recommend consulting a vet if you’re concerned.
- Buy a seat cover that is multi-layered for extra protection.
- Make sure the top layer is durable and is made of the same material over the entire surface.
TOP 3 Rear Seat Dog Covers
Deluxe Quilted and Padded Dog Car Seat Cover
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Colors: Black micro velvet, Grey, Taupe and Black
Size: front seat 71” x 21”, back seat 94” x 56”, and X-Large back seat 94” x 62
Main Features: Multiple size options that fit your car from front to back. The back seat models include a mesh separator between the back and front seat so your dog can see the road ahead and stay cool. The most amazing thing about this line of products is it covers your seat and the floor. Unmatched size and coverage ensure rainy/muddy/icky days aren’t a problem.
Things that could be better: No hammock option, but other than that — a truly universal line of seat covers.
4Knines Dog Seat Cover
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Colors: Black, Grey and Tan
Size: Large (58” x 54”), X-Large (64” x 60”)
Main Features: Convertible hammock/bench-style cover. We love the combination of high-quality materials, colors to choose from and two size options that guarantee it’ll fit your car both in size and style. Easy to clean with a damp cloth, vacuum or just throw it in the washing machine on a gentle cycle.
Things that could be better: Would be nice to have additional storage pouches, but apart from that this seat cover is a good bang-for-your-buck.
VIEWPETS Bench Car Seat Cover Protector
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Colors: Black, Grey, Sage green and Tan
Size: 56” x 49”
Main Features: One of, if not the nicest-looking seat covers on our list. Stylish black quilted pattern looks classy and helps trap dirt and hair. Strictly a bench-style cover with a universal size that’ll fit most cars. Comes in four different colors to choose from — great news if you want the cover to match your interior.
Things that could be better: Would be a contender for best-of-the-best if it converted to a hammock. Lacks a bigger size option for large trucks/vans. Would also be nice to have additional storage pockets.
The Verdict - a Pet Seat Cover Is an Essential Accessory for Traveling with Your Dog
A seat cover is vital if you have a dog. Even if your dog is short-haired, super-behaved and well-groomed. We all know dogs don’t mind wet/muddy feet during a walk or ouring, and it’s not realistic to get clean before jumping into the car.
We chose the best from three categories.
Best water resistant — Pet Magasin Seat Cover
Durable, waterproof materials that prevent leakage and stains. Comes in a light and dark color with the option to convert to a hammock.
Best blanket-style — Winner Outfitters Seat Covers
Soft, comfortable seat cover that converts to a hammock. Blanket-style, but much easier to clean than a traditional blanket — wipe down with a damp cloth, vacuum or wash it in the machine.
Best back seat cover — Deluxe Seat Cover by Formosa Covers
Hard to match this product in versatility, surface area and size/color options. A great choice if you don’t need a hammock and want to protect your car’s interior.
Checklist on how to choose a car seat cover for dogs:
- Measure your seat. Even though most covers are labelled “universal” we would recommend measuring your seat just in case.
- Hammock vs bench-style vs convertible. Help protect your car from stray hair/dirt and give your dog more freedom with a hammock. The only advantage of bench-style is it looks classier.
- Access to seat belt buckles or more protection from dirt/water/etc. If you need access to buckles, look for a cover with velcro openings. Or, if you know you won’t need them, get one without holes.
- Extra pouches or no pouches. Depends on your car and setup. It’s nice to have quick access to doggie supplies, leashes, etc.
- To match or not to match. Black goes with a lot of interiors, but there are more considerations like how hot some black covers get.
FAQs
The best way to protect your car’s interior from your pet’s fur is to use a car seat cover. You can also use a crate, but that might be challenging if your car is not big enough for this tool or your pet hates those in-crate times. Using a car seat cover, you can transport your pet without any stress for both of you.
Always check the care instructions of the cover you have purchased. Some car seat covers are intended for hand wash in cold water only. If the instructions read that you can put it in the washing machine, then go ahead.
Leather has always been a luxury accessory for cars. If you have some extra cash, you can buy a leather car seat cover to protect the upholstery from pet’s fur. But note that your pooch might slide down from their seats when resting on a leather cover. It’s also harder to clean and maintain. Cloth seat covers come in a variety of patterns, colors, are more affordable, and are easier to clean. So the choice will completely depend on your preferences and budget.
When picking the dog car seat cover, you need to check the measurements of the product first to make sure it fits your car. Make sure it won't slip off the back seat, and the material is durable yet pleasant for your pooch. Check attachment mechanisms and straps so that you know the cover is quick to fit and could resist some pulling.
Most covers are made of the waterproof material, so you could wipe down your cover with a wet cloth or sponge to remove some dirt or fur. You can also vacuum it from time to time to get rid of mud or dog’s hair. If the cover allows machine washing, put the cover through a gentle wash to fight unpleasant odors. Air-dry the dog seat cover before folding it or using it in the car.
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