As a dog owner, you want to make sure that your furry friend is safe and secure while on the road. That’s where a dog car harness comes in handy. Not only do they keep your pup safe in case of an accident, but they also prevent them from distracting the driver and help them feel more secure during the ride. In this article, we’ll be discussing the best dog car harnesses on the market.
Why You Need a Dog Car Harness
Before we dive into the best dog car harnesses, let’s talk about why you need one in the first place. According to the American Automobile Association (AAA), over 30,000 accidents are caused by unrestrained pets each year. Not only can an unrestrained pet cause distractions for the driver, but they can also be seriously injured or killed in the event of an accident.
A dog car harness is essential for keeping your pup safe while on the road. They are designed to attach directly to the car’s seatbelt and keep your dog secure in their seat. They also prevent your pup from being thrown around the car in case of an accident.
Types of Dog Car Harnesses
There are several types of dog car harnesses available on the market, each with its own unique features and benefits. Here are some of the most popular types:
1. Vest-Style Harnesses
Vest-style harnesses are designed to be worn like a vest and are secured with a strap that goes around the dog’s chest. They are comfortable for your pup to wear and distribute pressure evenly across their chest in case of an accident. These harnesses are a great choice for dogs who are prone to pulling or have respiratory issues.
2. Strap-Style Harnesses
Strap-style harnesses are designed to be worn like a regular harness and are secured with a strap that goes around the dog’s chest. They are lightweight and easy to put on, making them a great choice for dogs who get anxious or fidgety in the car.
3. Booster Seat Harnesses
Booster seat harnesses are designed to elevate your pup and give them a better view of the road. They are secured to the car’s seat with a strap and have a built-in harness to keep your pup secure. These harnesses are a great choice for small dogs who have trouble seeing out of the car window.
Top 5 Best Dog Car Harnesses
1. Kurgo Tru-Fit Smart Harness
The Kurgo Tru-Fit Smart Harness is a vest-style harness that is designed to keep your pup secure and comfortable during car rides. It is made with a padded chest plate to distribute pressure evenly in case of an accident and has a front D-ring leash attachment for added control while walking. This harness also comes with a tether that can be attached directly to the car’s seatbelt.
2. Sleepypod Clickit Utility
The Sleepypod Clickit Utility is a strap-style harness that is designed to keep your pup secure in case of an accident. It has a three-point design that works with the car’s seatbelt to keep your dog secure and prevent them from being thrown around in the event of a crash. This harness is crash-tested and certified by the Center for Pet Safety.
3. Ruffwear Load Up Harness
The Ruffwear Load Up Harness is a vest-style harness that is designed to keep your pup secure and comfortable during car rides. It is made with a padded chest plate to distribute pressure evenly in case of an accident and has a three-point design that works with the car’s seatbelt to keep your dog secure. This harness is crash-tested and certified by the Center for Pet Safety.
4. Solvit Deluxe Car Safety Harness
The Solvit Deluxe Car Safety Harness is a strap-style harness that is designed to keep your pup secure in case of an accident. It has a padded chest strap for added comfort and a tether that can be attached directly to the car’s seatbelt. This harness is crash-tested and certified by the Center for Pet Safety.
5. PetSafe Happy Ride Car Harness
The PetSafe Happy Ride Car Harness is a strap-style harness that is designed to keep your pup secure and comfortable during car rides. It has a padded chest strap for added comfort and a tether that can be attached directly to the car’s seatbelt. This harness is crash-tested and certified by the Center for Pet Safety.
How to Choose the Right Dog Car Harness
Now that you know about the different types of dog car harnesses and the top options on the market, how do you choose the right one for your pup? Here are some things to consider:
1. Size
Make sure to choose a harness that fits your pup properly. The harness should be snug but not too tight, and your dog should be able to move comfortably while wearing it.
2. Safety Certification
Choose a harness that is crash-tested and certified by the Center for Pet Safety. This will ensure that your pup is safe in case of an accident.
3. Comfort
Make sure to choose a harness that is comfortable for your pup to wear. Look for harnesses with padded chest plates and adjustable straps for a customized fit.
Conclusion
A dog car harness is an essential accessory for any dog owner who frequently travels with their furry friend. Not only do they keep your pup safe in case of an accident, but they also prevent them from distracting the driver and help them feel more secure during the ride. When choosing a dog car harness, make sure to consider the size, safety certification, and comfort of the harness. With the right harness, you can ensure that your pup stays safe and secure while on the road.