If your dog can't sit still in the car, a dog barrier will ensure they don't end up in your lap while you're driving.
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8 Best Car Dog Barriers
Updated on Nov. 21, 2024
If you’re a dog owner, chances are you can’t wait to bring your furry friend wherever you go on car rides near and far. Car safety is just as important for dogs as it is for humans, and car dog barriers are one of the best ways to keep everyone safe.
“Dogs can get very excited in cars and often try to jump in the front or even in the lap of their owner while the car is moving,” says Nicole Fiorentino, owner of dog walking and pet sitting agency The Pet Groupies. “Although cute, this is very unsafe for the driver, the dog and other nearby drivers.” Car dog barriers are effective, affordable and easy-to-use tools that can help prevent accidents so you and your pooch arrive at your destination safely.
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Best Dog Barrier for Outdoorsy Dogs
Orvis Grip-Tight Quilted Hose-Off Hammock Seat Protector
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Best Metal Dog Barrier
PetSafe Deluxe Happy Ride Dog Barrier
Metal dog barriers are the most durable, and the PetSafe Deluxe Happy Ride Dog Barrier is a top option for large or determined dogs.
This barrier adjusts to fit most cars and SUVs. Its rubber stoppers prevent damage to your car’s interior, and the manufacturer says this dog barrier doesn’t rattle while driving. You’ll also appreciate its slim bars, so you can maintain your visibility while allowing your dog to see you.
Best Hammock Dog Barrier
Frisco Quilted Water-Resistant Hammock
Hammock-style car barriers are ideal for dogs who like to get dirty or shed a lot, since they also provide a protective barrier for your vehicle’s interior surfaces. The Frisco Quilted Water-Resistant Hammock, made from a water- and stain-resistant material, is a durable and versatile option in this category.
This car dog hammock includes seat belt access slits as well as a built-in storage pocket. It attaches to the back of your front seats, helping to keep your pooch from climbing over the center console.
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Best Between-Seat Dog Barrier
Dykeson Pet Barrier
If your dog likes to climb over the center console, this Dykeson Pet Barrier that stretches between the two front seats might be your answer. This inexpensive net has four hooks that attach to the headrests and seat rails, and it stretches to fit in most cars and SUVs. Plus, it features two layers of mesh so it can double as a car organizer! This is a great tool for dog owners to keep in the car.
Best Mesh Dog Barrier
Starroad-Time Car Dog Barrier
For more easy-going dogs, a fine mesh barrier like the Starroad-Tim Car Dog Barrier will probably be sufficient to keep them in the back seat. The mesh won’t hinder airflow throughout the car, and it’s easy to install with the included bungee cords. The barrier comes in three sizes to fit different vehicles, and it’s extremely affordable, too.
Best Dog Barrier for Trucks
Bushwhacker Deluxe Dog Barrier
The large, sturdy Bushwhacker Deluxe Dog Barrier is a top-rated option for anyone with a truck. This model is 56 inches wide, making it ideal for double-cab trucks. It has an aluminum frame lined with tear-resistant mesh.
This barrier is truly heavy-duty. One reviewer says that it’s the only barrier that has kept his 100+ lb. Great Dane in the back seat: “I bought the wider version for my truck and it fits perfect. He tried to bring it down but to no avail.”
Best Adjustable Dog Barrier
Rabbitgoo Dog Car Barrier
If your back seat is strangely shaped, or you want to use the barrier in multiple vehicles, the Rabbitgoo Dog Car Barrier features an adjustable design that will fit in almost any vehicle. The sturdy metal barrier can be mounted to the seat headrests, with two adjustable panels to extend its height or width as needed. Reviewers say it’s durable and effective, even with large-breed dogs.
Best Dog Barrier for Outdoorsy Dogs
Orvis Grip-Tight Quilted Hose-Off Hammock Seat Protector
Does your dog love rolling around in mud and going swimming at every opportunity? The Grip-Tight Quilted Hose-Off Hammock Seat Protector is an easy-to-clean barrier that will keep your pet securely in the back seat while also protecting your car seats. The heavy-duty fabric traps dog hair, dirt, mud and moisture. The best part is, when it gets dirty, you just hose it down.
Best Car Barrier for Large Dogs
High Road Dog Car Barrier
Large dogs can often go over, around or through mesh barriers, but the High Road Dog Car Barrier effectively keeps big dogs in the back seat. This barrier features a durable steal frame with chew-resistant mesh. It securely attaches to the back of your front seats.
“My 70 lb. Doberman thinks he’s a puppy and used to try to climb onto my lap — super dangerous when driving, obviously,” says one reviewer. “This item keeps him safely in the back where he can’t distract me from the road and keeps him safe so he can’t fly forward if I have to stop short!”
What to Consider When Shopping for a Car Dog Barrier
When shopping for a car dog barrier it is most important to consider the size of your dog and its energy level. “For smaller, less energetic dogs, I think a dog hammock suffices. It’s easy to install and not expensive,” explains Fiorentino. “Some of them come with dog seat belts, which I always encourage.” For larger dogs or high-energy dogs, Fiorentino recommends a metal gate barrier. “They leave no wiggle room for the pup to hop over into the front seat and are very durable.”
It’s also important to consider what will work best for your vehicle, as some car dog barriers are easier to take in and out than others. “If you’re looking for something that’s easy to take out regularly, I’d go for a dog hammock with seat belts,” Fiorentino says.Â
Depending on your budget, price may also play a significant factor. While some car dog barriers are under $50, others on our list can cost more than $200. Look for one that blends value with safety to ensure you and your pup are always protected while on the go.
Why You Should Trust Us
Camryn Rabideau, the author of this piece, has contributed to various publications, including Family Handyman, Martha Stewart, Food52, InStyle, Taste of Home, USA Today, Reviewed.com, The Spruce, Elite Daily and The Everygirl. She specializes in home, smart technology, lifestyle, fashion and beauty.
For this piece, we consulted with Nicole Fiorentino, owner of dog-walking and pet-sitting agency The Pet Groupies. Fiorentino founded her company in 2015 and has volunteered with various rescue organizations, animal shelters and nonprofits, including Dogs Without Borders and Watts Project.
Nina Derwin is a commerce updates editor for Family Handyman. She has experience researching and reviewing various items to help shoppers find the best products on the market. She researched and updated this piece.
How We Chose the Best Car Dog Barriers
In searching for the best car dog barriers, we considered a wide range of options that cater to canines of all sizes and energy levels. We looked for car dog barriers that fit in different types of vehicles and prioritized those that are easy to install and durable. Price is an important factor, and we included options that deliver a good value for the money. Additionally, we consulted Nicole Fiorentino, a pet care expert, to understand how to assess the safety provided by a car dog barrier.
FAQ
How can you keep dogs separated in a car?
To keep dogs separated in a car, Fiorentino recommends putting the barrier behind the front seats and keeping the dogs in the back seat. “Some people will place the barrier behind the back seat if they keep their dogs in the hatchback area,” she says. “I don’t recommend this because usually there’s no option for a dog seat belt in that case.”
How do you install a dog barrier in a car?
Different types of car dog barriers require different installation. Before starting the installation process for any car dog barrier, carefully review the included instructions. Following the directions will ensure the barrier is installed correctly, providing maximum safety. Incorrectly installed car dog barriers may not function to their full capacity.
What is the best way to keep a dog in the car?
The safest place for a dog to ride in a car is in the back seat with a harness, inside a carrier or crate or behind a car dog barrier. Car dog barriers prevent dogs from jumping in the front seat, causing a distraction that can lead to an accident. Dogs should not ride in cargo areas with no seat belts or tools to keep them safe in the event of a collision.
