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Best Dog Crate For 2023
Our Top PicksLooking for the best dog crate? Our team of experts has researched and tested the top options on the market to provide you with a comprehensive guide. A dog crate is an essential tool for your furry friend's safety and comfort, whether you need one for potty training, travel, or just a cozy space. We've analyzed important criteria, such as durability, size, ventilation, and ease of cleaning, and taken customer reviews into account to present you with the most popular and well-regarded options. Keep in mind that choosing the right size and introducing the crate gradually is crucial for creating a safe and comfortable environment for your dog. Our expert insights will help you make an informed decision and find the perfect crate for your pup.
The Guardian Gear Nylon and Steel Soft-Sided Collapsible Dog Crate Medium is the perfect solution for pet owners on the go. Made with durable nylon and steel, this crate is lightweight and easy to carry. Its collapsible design makes it easy to store when not in use. Ideal for travel or home use, this crate provides a safe and comfortable environment for your furry friend. It can also be used as a training tool to help your dog feel more secure and comfortable in a crate. Its medium size is suitable for dogs weighing up to 40 pounds.
Pros
Collapsible, Soft-sided, Durable nylon and steel
Cons
Not suitable for large dogs
The Guardian Gear Contain-Me Pet Crate is a great option for pet owners who need to travel with their furry friends. This crate is air travel approved for pets up to 10 pounds, making it a perfect choice for small dogs and cats. Its size of 18" x 12" x 9" is compact yet spacious enough for your pet to feel comfortable during travel. The blue color is stylish and easy to spot in a sea of luggage. The crate is made of durable materials and is easy to assemble and disassemble, making it a convenient option for pet owners on the go.
Pros
Air travel approved, Perfect size for small dogs, Easy to assemble
Cons
Limited to pets up to 10 pounds
The ProSelect Everlasting Dual-Door Crate for Dogs is the perfect solution for pet owners looking for a durable and reliable dog crate. Constructed of epoxy-finished steel, this crate is extra-strong and foldable, making it easy to transport and store. With dual doors, it's versatile and convenient for both you and your furry friend. Ideal for large dogs, this crate measures 48"L x 30"W x 34"H and provides a comfortable and secure space for your pet to rest and relax. Whether you're house-training your new puppy or need a safe place for your dog to sleep at night, the ProSelect Everlasting Dual-Door Crate is an excellent choice.
Pros
Durable and extra-strong construction, Dual-door design for easy access, Foldable and portable
Cons
May be too heavy for some
The Garnpet 36 Inch Collapsible Soft Dog Crate is the perfect solution for large dogs on the go. With four doors, durable mesh windows, and a foldable design, this portable pet crate is both versatile and practical. Measuring 36''L x 25''W x 25''H, this soft side dog crate is made with high-quality materials and is easy to clean. Whether you're traveling or simply need a comfortable place for your furry friend to rest, the Garnpet 36 Inch Collapsible Soft Dog Crate is a must-have for any dog owner.
Pros
Collapsible and portable, 4 doors for easy access, Durable mesh windows
Cons
Limited color options
The EHEYCIGA Collapsible Small Dog Crate is a must-have for pet owners who love to travel. This portable soft small dog kennel is perfect for indoor and outdoor use, with mesh windows that provide ventilation and visibility. The crate is made of high-quality materials and is easy to set up and fold down, making it ideal for on-the-go pet owners. Measuring 26''L x 18''W x 18''H, this grey crate is spacious enough to accommodate small dogs comfortably. Whether you're taking a road trip or just need a safe and secure place for your furry friend, the EHEYCIGA Collapsible Small Dog Crate is the perfect solution.
Pros
Collapsible for easy storage, Portable for travel, Mesh windows for ventilation
Cons
May not be suitable for larger dogs
The iCrate Dog Crate Starter Kit is the perfect solution for large dog breeds weighing between 71-90 pounds. This kit includes a spacious crate with a cover, a cozy pet bed, and two dog bowls. The 42-inch size ensures that your furry friend has plenty of room to move around and stay comfortable. The crate is made of high-quality materials and is easy to assemble. Whether you're crate training or just need a safe space for your pup, this starter kit is a great investment.
Pros
Complete starter kit, Includes pet bed and bowls, Ideal for large dog breeds
Cons
Not suitable for small dogs
The BestPet 48-inch Dog Crate is an excellent choice for large dog owners looking for a durable and spacious indoor or outdoor kennel. With its sturdy metal wire construction, double-door design, divider panel, and removable tray, this crate provides a comfortable and secure environment for your furry friend. It's easy to assemble and transport, making it ideal for travel or camping trips. The black finish gives it a sleek and modern look that will complement any home decor. Overall, this crate is a great investment for both you and your beloved pet.
Pros
Multiple size options, Double-door access, Removable tray for easy cleaning
Cons
May not be sturdy enough for heavy chewers
The unipaws Furniture Style Dog Crate with Tray and Cushion in Large Walnut is the perfect solution for pet owners who want to keep their furry friends close while maintaining a stylish home. This end table dog house is made from high-quality materials and features double doors for easy access. The included cushion provides a comfortable place for your dog to rest, and the tray makes cleaning up a breeze. This indoor dog crate is suitable for small, medium, and large dogs, making it a versatile option for any pet owner.
Pros
Furniture style design, Double door for easy access, Comes with tray and cushion
Cons
May not fit all decor
The Precision Pet Products Two Door Great Crate Wire Dog Crate is a sturdy and reliable option for pet owners looking to keep their furry friend safe and comfortable. This 30 inch crate is perfect for pets weighing between 30-50 lbs and features two doors for easy access and ventilation. Made with durable wire and a removable plastic tray for easy cleaning, this crate is ideal for both travel and home use. The secure and comfortable environment provided by this crate makes it a great option for training and housebreaking your pet.
Pros
Two door design, Easy to assemble, Removable plastic tray
Cons
May not fit all vehicles
The Explore Land 42 inches Dog Crate Cover is a must-have accessory for pet owners who want to provide their furry friends with a comfortable and secure space. Made from durable polyester, this cover fits most wire dog crates and offers protection against dust, wind, and light. It is also easy to install and clean, making it a practical solution for busy pet owners. Whether you're traveling with your pet or just want to create a cozy atmosphere at home, the Explore Land 42 inches Dog Crate Cover is an excellent choice.
Pros
Durable polyester material, Universal fit for wire crates, Easy to install and remove
Cons
May not fit non-standard crates
FAQQ: What is the best dog crate for a medium-sized dog?
A: The best dog crate for a medium-sized dog would depend on their specific needs and behavior. However, some popular options include wire crates with a divider panel for adjustable sizing, soft-sided crates for travel, and plastic crates for durability and easy cleaning.
Q: Are wooden dog crates safe for dogs?
A: Wooden dog crates can be safe for dogs as long as they are well-ventilated and made with non-toxic materials. It is important to ensure that the crate is the correct size for your dog and that they are not able to chew on or ingest any parts of the crate.
Q: How long can I leave my dog in a crate?
A: The amount of time a dog can be left in a crate depends on their age and individual needs. Generally, puppies should not be left in a crate for more than a few hours at a time, while adult dogs can tolerate longer periods of time as long as they have access to food, water, and a comfortable environment. It is important to gradually increase the amount of time your dog spends in their crate and never use it as a form of punishment.
ConclusionsAfter conducting a thorough review of various dog crates, we have concluded that there are plenty of options available to fit any pet owner's needs. From soft-sided collapsible crates for easy travel to durable steel crates for larger dogs, there is a wide range of materials and sizes to choose from. Additionally, there are comfortable options such as plush mats and bumper-style cushioning to ensure your furry friend is comfortable while in their crate. Overall, pet owners should consider their specific needs and preferences when selecting a dog crate. We encourage pet owners to explore the different options and make an informed decision based on their individual situation.
Diggs Just Launched Enventur—the First Ever Inflatable Dog Crate—to Help You Save Space While Traveling With Pets
The Diggs inflatable dog crate is now available for preorder.
Traveling with pets is tough, but not impossible. From making sure they're comfortable to keeping them clean, it just takes a little more preparation. Dog hammocks and dog carriers make the job easier, but if you still haven't figured out the best solution for traveling with your dog, allow us to introduce Diggs' latest invention: the Enventur travel kennel. As an inflatable dog crate, it makes road trips fun again, especially alongside your pup.
A dog crate, especially when traveling by car, keeps your dog from distracting the driver and scratching car seats. The Enventur portable kennel will have you spending less time fussing with Fido and more time enjoying the best pet-friendly hotels and national parks.
What is an inflatable dog crate?
The Enventur travel kennel is a super-strong, inflatable dog crate that can be assembled and disassembled in minutes. It makes traveling with pets a breeze and offers peace of mind for even the rowdiest dogs. Add it to the backseat or cargo space for on-the-go use, or inflate the crate after arriving at your destination. Whether it's a beach day or camping trip, the inflatable dog crate provides pets with all-day comfort. Speaking of camping, by the way, these dog camping gear essentials are a must-have to keep your pup safe and happy on your next adventure.
The crate inflates and deflates in minutes thanks to a manual, SUP or electric car pump. Air cushions add extra padding into the floor without the need for an extra dog bed, although your pooch might feel more comfortable with a familiar bed from home.
The walls include ventilated mesh windows for easy breathability. They're not transparent, however, so checking up on your pet every so often might be necessary. If your dog gets anxious during car rides, try these calming treats to help them feel at ease.
Enventur inflatable dog crate featuresIf the inflatable element raises suspicions, we get it. But the Enventur travel kennel is made of PVC and drop-stitch tech that's been tested to military standards. That means the material is resistant to claw punctures, chewing and pet accidents. Hygiene and comfort are a priority for pet travel, and the crate cleans easily (no need to clean fur off the car seats!).
Choose from three sizes (small, medium and large) for dogs up to 30, 55 and 80 pounds, respectively. The small and medium sizes fit in the backseat, but the large size works best in the cargo space. It's also angled to fit the dimensions of the vehicle. One of the best parts of having a soft, inflatable dog crate is that it's practically soundless. No rattling metal bars or hard plastic shells! D-rings help secure the crate to your car for safety, and side handles allow for easy transportation, even with a dog inside.
When you're ready to head out on an adventure with your furry friend, inflate the crate using the Diggs Manual Pump, which can be added to your order for $75. Any other SUP, manual or electric pump is also compatible using the Halkey Roberts valve attachment.
Although it was tested for severe cold and heat performance, there's no mention of the crate being temperature regulating, which means you should use with caution in extreme hot and cold environments. A cooling dog bed may help, but be sure to read up on summer safety tips for dogs before venturing into the heat.
After the day is done, paws are clean and your dog is hydrated, deflate the crate in just a few minutes using the pump. Then, roll the crate and carry it by the side strap.
@diggspet The FIRST ever inflatable dog kennel. Now available for pre-order. Link in bio. #dogkennel #cratetraining #fyp ♬ original sound – Diggs Pet Where to buy the Diggs inflatable dog crate
The Enventur inflatable dog crate is available for preorder through the Diggs website. The small size is available for $425, the medium for $474 and the large for $575. Expect for shipping to take place in August (and more pet adventures to follow soon after!).
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How To Drive Safely With A Dog: Shop Crash-tested Harnesses, Crates And More
If you have a pet, you know how difficult it is to leave your favorite companion at home. Fortunately, there are many reasons to bring your furry friend along on a road trip, whether you're embarking on a week-long camping adventure or heading to the beach during the warmer months. But did you know there are several safety precautions to consider whenever you travel with your dog? These include using appropriate restraints in the car, packing up-to-date vaccination records and ensuring you have essentials like food, water bowls and waste bags on hand.
If you're planning on taking your dog along for a car ride but don't know where to start, we spoke to veterinarians and pet safety experts about the best ways to keep your dog safe. We also rounded up expert-recommended and crash-tested crates, carriers and safety harnesses.
SKIP AHEAD Best crash-tested carriersBest crash-tested cratesBest crash-tested harnessesWhat kind of car restraint is best for your dog?How to safely travel with your dog
We kept the following in mind while picking safe travel restraints for dogs, based on expert guidance:
To help you determine which products are safest for your companion, we've compiled the safety products and containment devices that are crash test-certified by the CPS, which put products through rigorous testing to determine the strength and effectiveness of latches, zippers, stitching and built-in reinforcements.
Away Travel CarrierThis option from the popular travel brand Away is designed for both car and airline travel and won a Select Best for Your Pet award for best overall travel carrier. It's made from water-resistant nylon and has latches on the side that securely fasten to a car's seat belt system, according to the brand. It has top and side openings and comes with machine-washable sherpa bedding on the inside to help your pet feel comfortable. It also has multiple pockets to keep your belongings secure and the front entry point has fully see-through mesh (if you want to cover the mesh, it includes a piece of fabric that rolls down). The Away carrier comes in two colors — black and blue — and you can personalize it with your initials for an additional $35.
Pet weight: Up to 18 lbsWater-resistant: YesWashable: Yes, beddingDimensions: 18.7 in. L x 10.8 in. W x 10.75 in. H
Diggs Passenger Travel CarrierThis travel carrier from Select staff-favorite brand Diggs has custom seat belt clips and a buckle strap to keep your dog secure during car travel. It's recommended for dogs weighing up to 18 pounds (the brand does offer an inflatable travel crate for larger dogs weighing up to 80 pounds). The carrier has a built-in bed and pee pad, and it has both front and side openings that make it easier for your pet to get in and out of the carrier, according to the brand. It also has three outer pockets and a detachable cross-body strap. It comes in four colors: navy, slate gray, blush pink and charcoal gray.
Pet weight: Up to 18 lbsWater-resistant: N/AWashable: N/ADimensions: 20 in. L x 10.8 in. W x 11.5 in. H
$195.00
Amazon
$195.00
Diggs
Paravel Cabana CarrierThe Cabana Carrier is designed from Paravel's EcoCraft canvas, which is made of 38 recycled plastic bottles, according to the brand. It has a washable fleece lining, multiple pockets, a trolley sleeve so it can attach to your suitcase and mesh panels to encourage airflow inside. It also folds down completely, so it's easy to store away when you aren't using it.
Pet weight: Up to 20 lbsWater-resistant: YesWashable: Yes, fleece liningDimensions: 11 in. L x 11 in. W x 20.5 in. H
Sleepypod AtomThe Sleepypod Atom is designed for smaller pets and works for both vehicle and airline travel (although experts recommend looking at your airline's carrier size requirements before boarding). This carrier weighs only 3.4 pounds and has a buckle on both sides that can secure it to the seat belt in the rear seat of the vehicle. The included plush bedding on the inside is also removable and machine-washable.
Pet weight: Up to 12 lbsWater-resistant: N/AWashable: Yes, beddingDimensions: 17 in. L x 8.5 in. W x 10.5 in. H
Sleepypod Mobile Pet BedThe original Sleepypod includes velcro positioning points to secure a seat belt, removable and machine-washable interior bedding and mesh panels for breathability. "The bottom of the carrier can be used as a bed inside the home, making acclimation training easier for the pet," says Wolko. It's also offered in a mini size, which is certified for pets 7 pounds and under and is considered an appropriate size for several airlines.
Pet weight: Up to 15 lbsWater-resistant: N/AWashable: Yes, beddingDimensions: 17 in. L x 8.5 in. W x 10.5 in. H
Gunner Kennel G1This crate earned a 5-star safety rating from the CPS in both the crate and carrier-class — it's the only product that has earned a dual certification, says Wolko. It has double-wall construction that provides impact protection for your pet, according to the brand. It also has a reversible door design that lets you open the crate from either side, and the door is reinforced with an aluminum frame that can keep your dog safely contained in case of a car crash, according to Gunner. It comes in four sizes: small, medium, intermediate and large. Though the crate doesn't provide exact size and weight guidelines for dogs, the brand does offer a size guide that gives recommendations based on your dog's weight and length and the size of your vehicle.
Pet weight: Varies based on crate sizeWater-resistant: YesWashable: Yes, exteriorDimensions: 24.5 in. L x 18.625 in. W x 19 in. H (small), 29.5 in. L x 20.5 in. W x 23.5 in. H (medium), 34 in. L x 23 in. W x 28.5 in. H (intermediate), 40.25 in. L x 28 in. W x 33.25 in. H (large)
Lucky KennelThe Lucky Kennel can be a worthwhile option if you're traveling with larger dogs. It has reversible doors and ventilation holes to keep air flowing on hot days, and it comes in two sizes (intermediate and large). If you have more than one pet, you can stack multiple Lucky Kennels on top of each other. The brand also offers a comfort pad that fits inside the crate and gives your dog a layer of cushion for the ride.
Pet weight: Up to 75 lbs (intermediate) and 110 lbs (large)Water-resistant: N/AWashable: N/ADimensions: 32.5 in. L x 22.5 in. W x 24.5 in. H (intermediate), 38 in. L x 24 in. W x 29 in. H (large)
Rock Creek Aluminum Dog CrateThis durable crate has an aluminum metal frame and comes in four sizes: medium, large, XL and XXL. It has a lockable door latch and secondary latches to prevent dogs from escaping, according to the brand. You can stack multiple of these crates on top of each other, and it comes in seven colors, including white, blue, pink and green. For dogs with crate anxiety who might escape, the brand also offers a door guard to add another layer of protection. Though the brand does not provide specific weight requirements for each size, Rock Creek does offer a size guide with pet height recommendations. Keep in mind this is the heaviest option on our list, weighing 38 pounds for the medium size and 79 pounds for the XXL size.
Pet weight: Varies based on crate size and pet heightWater-resistant: N/AWashable: N/ADimensions: 30.5 in. L x 20 in. W x 22.5 in. H (medium), 36.5 in. L x 23.5 in. W x 27.75 in. H (large), 42.5 in. L x 28.5 in. W x 32.5 in. H (XL), 48 in. L x 32.25 in. W x 35 in. H (XXL)
$699.99
$875.00
Rock Creek Crates
Sleepypod Click-It Terrain PlusThis safety harness from Sleepypod is certified crash-tested by the CPS for dogs up to 110 pounds and has a three-point design, which secures your dog's torso to the seat using your car's seat belt system. It also has shock-absorbing sleeves and a padded vest for additional security and comfort, according to the brand. While it's designed for car safety, it also doubles as a walking harness. It comes in four sizes ranging from small to XL. Keep in mind that Sleepypod harnesses may not provide a safe or proper fit for certain breeds like Greyhounds, Whippets, Salukis, Afghan Hounds and Borzoi due to their unique body types, according to the brand.
Pet weight: From 18 lbs up to 110 lbsWater-resistant: N/AWashable: N/AChest size: 20.5-25.5 in.(small), 25.5-28 in. (medium), 28-31 in. (large), 31-41.5 in. (XL)
Sleepypod Click-It Sport PlusLightweight and designed for everyday use, the Sleepypod Click-It Sport also passed the CPS crash test for dogs up to 90 pounds. Like the Click-It Terrain, this option comes in four sizes — small, medium, large and XL — and has three points of contact to attach to the seat belt and reduce forward and side-to-side movement, according to the brand. It also doubles as a walking harness and has a padded vest with reflective strips to help you see your pup better at night.
Pet weight: From 18 lbs up to 90 lbsWater-resistant: N/AWashable: N/AChest size: 16.5-22 in.(small), 22.5-28 in. (medium), 28.5-34 in. (large), 34.5-40 in. (XL)
Kong Water BottleA travel water bottle to ensure your dog is getting ample water during road trips is always important, especially during hot weather and long trips, according to our experts. The Kong Water Bottle is a Select Best for Your Pet award winner thanks to its lid which acts as a bowl. Its small handle and shape made it easy to pour, according to Select social commerce editor Sadhana Daruvuri, who uses this bottle to keep her dog Bandit hydrated while on the go. The bottle is made of stainless steel and it comes in two sizes and four colors.
Kurgo First Aid Kit for Dogs & CatsWolko recommends taking a pet-friendly first aid kit while traveling in case of an emergency. This 50-piece option includes cotton swabs, antiseptic towelettes, gauze pads, sting relief pads and more, all inside a functional multi-compartment pack. In addition to a first aid kit, our experts recommend researching an emergency vet at your destination and having their contact number handy.
$22.45
$32.99
Amazon
$24.25
Chewy
Earth Rated Dog Poop BagsNo matter where you travel with your dog, waste bags are an essential item to take to avoid leaving messes behind. I use this option from Earth Rated for my dog Bella every time we come back from walks, and I love that they're durable and don't rip when I'm wiping the rougher parts of her paws. The bags come in either a 120-pack or a 270-pack, and you can choose to purchase either fragrance-free or lavender-scented bags. These bags block odors and prevent leaking, according to the brand.
$13.99
Amazon
$23.89
$26.98
Walmart
Dog by Dr. Lisa WipesPet wipes can serve multiple purposes on a trip, from cleaning up dog-related messes to wiping their paws or faces whenever they get dirty. One of our favorite at-home grooming products, these wipes include plant-based ingredients like aloe vera, cucumber extract and coconut to moisturize and soothe the skin, according to the brand. They're also a Select staff favorite: I use them to wipe Bella's paws every time we come home from a walk, and Select associate updates editor Zoe Malin says they smell great and are super gentle, so they don't irritate her dog Chance's sensitive skin.
Much like humans wearing seat belts in case of a crash, dogs should be properly strapped into a crash-tested restraint, whether that's an enclosed pet carrier or a travel safety harness. This not only reduces the chance of serious injury to your dog during an accident but can also keep them from escaping inside the car and distracting the driver. "Dogs often don't realize the dangers of interfering with a driver, so many may try to climb on the driver or get in their lap — especially if they are anxious," says Dr. Wendy Mandese, a veterinarian and clinical associate professor at the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine.
There are four main types of car restraints for pets: carriers, crates, travel harnesses and car seats or boosters. Below, we list the differences between each type and how to use them properly. Though these all have their unique pros and cons, our experts agree that they should be independently crash-tested by the CPS to make sure it's safe outside of brand claims.
Carriers are covered enclosures that can be strapped in using a seat belt or ISOFIX/LATCH anchors, which are connected to the vehicle's seat and designed for installing children's car seats without using a seat belt. "There are two types of carriers: those that only prevent distraction and those that offer crash protection," says Wolko. You can prevent this by keeping carriers connected to the seat and closed while the car is moving.
Crates, on the other hand, are typically larger and heavier than carriers. "Crash protection crates have anchor straps that are used to secure the kennel to the vehicle via the available connections in the cargo area," says Wolko.
"Carriers and crates are the preferred options for safe travel because they confine the pet," says Dr. Christina Carlo, a veterinarian and the medical director at VCA Avondale Veterinary Hospital. Hard-sided crates and carriers specifically are the safest option for your pet because they provide the most protection against impact, according to Dr. Dana Varble, chief veterinary officer at the North American Veterinary Community.
While carriers usually go in the back seat, crates typically go in the cargo area of an SUV. "They're typically larger in size and heavier, [and] therefore they should not be secured on the rear seat of the vehicle," said Wolko.
Like all other pet travel products, carriers and crates should be independently crash-tested by the CPS to ensure safety outside of brand claims.
Travel harnesses connect to the vehicle's seat belt system, which can safely keep your pet secured in your car. "Harnesses with seat belt clips are a great choice as they allow some freedom for your pet to sit up or lay down and experience the fun of a car ride without the risk of being loose," says Varble. Make sure the harness properly fits your dog — it shouldn't feel loose and it should fit snugly on their body and chest — and has a handle that can securely attach to a seat belt strap, says Carlo. And just like crates and carriers, these harnesses need to be CPS crash-tested to ensure they meet safety standards.
Car seats serve as open-air suspended seats or booster seats, and some can be anchored by the seat belt. Others may look like a catcher's mitt.
Because car seats are typically open, they can serve as a good way to let your dog look out of the window and reduce car sickness, which is common in puppies, according to Mandese. You should always pair a car seat with a safety harness to ensure your dog is secure and prevent them from flying out of their seat in case of a crash.
However, there are a few safety concerns surrounding car seats, and neither our experts nor CPS recommend them to pet owners. Many use the vehicle's seat belt system to stay secure, but you should only use this system to secure your dog's travel harness, according to Wolko.
If you do use a booster seat, it should be in conjunction with a travel harness, which reduces the risk of injury in case of a crash since it anchors them down. "Boosters are not safe in an accident because they are open and the only strap controlling the pet is usually small and connected to a collar around the neck unless the pet is wearing a harness," says Carlo. You should also only secure the seat using the car's ISOFIX/LATCH anchors. "This will allow the seat belt system to be used independently to secure the harness the pet will need to wear," Wolko says.
Some car seats may require you to connect them directly to the seat, but these connections are usually very weak and will not prevent injury, according to Wolko. Other pet travel seats connect to the console between the driver and passenger seats, which is both unsteady and unsafe, she says. You should also opt for a rear-facing car seat and avoid forward-facing options since your pet can fly out during a crash, according to Dr. Kristen Nelson, a veterinarian and author of "Coated With Fur: A Vet's Life."
Though car restraints may vary in type and effectiveness, one thing remains consistent among all of our experts: You should never place pets and carriers, harnesses, car seats or any other restraint in the front seat of your car because the airbags can seriously hurt your pet. You should securely place restraints and enclosures in the rear seat or the cargo area of the vehicle, according to Nelson.
Never let your dog ride in the back of an open truck because it can lead to severe injuries, and you should avoid letting your dog ride with their head sticking out of an open window since that can lead to eye injuries from road debris, according to Mandese.
When it comes to keeping your dog secure, tightening seat belts is key. "The most common mistake is leaving the seat belts loose to make the pet more comfortable," says Nelson. "Unfortunately, the extra room lets them fly during a crash." However, you should never connect the internal tether of the carrier or the seat belt to your pet's collar since it can result in neck fractures or airway damage if you were to brake suddenly, says Mandese.
At Select, we work with experts who have specialized knowledge and authority based on relevant training and/or experience. We also take steps to ensure all expert advice and recommendations are made independently and without undisclosed financial conflicts of interest.
Mili Godio is an editor at Select who covers a variety of pet topics, including dog food, beds, treats, toys and more. For this article, Godio spoke to six veterinarians and pet safety experts about how to safely travel in a car with your dog. She also compiled their recommendations for the best crash-tested carriers, crates and harnesses to consider and researched dozens of options on the market based on the experts' guidance.
Catch up on Select's in-depth coverage of personal finance, tech and tools, wellness and more, and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and TikTok to stay up to date.
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