Does your dog like to explore the vehicle while driving down the road? Your pup probably starts in the back seat, then meanders to the front seat with you, whipping you in the face with their tail. Then, wander to the back and continue this pattern until you reach your destination. Even though it’s nice to have your pet play co-pilot, it isn’t safe for either of you or anyone else on the road.
Perhaps you and your buddy like muddy adventures and need a solution to keep them (and the mud) in the trunk. Not only could it save you a lot of time and hassle from cleaning the vehicle out after every adventure, but it can also save you a lot of frustration while driving. Do any of these scenarios sound familiar? If so, a car pet barrier could be the solution you’ve been looking for to help keep everyone safe and clean.
| Front Seats | Sedans & Midsize Cars | Best Pet Barrier For SUV | Trucks | Trunks & Cargo Area |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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| View on Amazon | View on Amazon | View on Amazon | View on Amazon | View on Amazon |
| Read Review | Read Review | Read Review | Read Review | Read Review |
Why Do I Need A Car Pet Barrier? 6 Reasons
Dogs are curious and want to be in the middle of the action. A car pet barrier or dog net for cars puts a divider between you and your pup to keep you both safe. Here are some of the reasons you might need a dog gate for your car:
- Reduce Distracted Driving. Driving while distracted is super dangerous for everyone, not just those in the vehicle. Keeping everyone in their space means you don’t have to worry about what’s happening back there. This allows you to concentrate on what’s ahead and practice safe driving.
- Keep You & Passengers Safe. According to the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (ROSPA), at 30mph, a 50-lb dog would be thrown forward with a force equivalent to almost nine 12-stone men. Car barriers can protect you and your passengers from serious injury.
- Increase Your Dog’s Safety. While you concentrate on what’s ahead, you’re not in control or even aware of what your dog is up to. Dogs should not be allowed to roam the car without being restrained. You wouldn’t let your child roam free, and this should be the same for your pup.
- Keep Your Dog Out Of The Front Seat. It’s important to keep your dog out of the front seat regardless of whether they are restrained or crated. Not only does it reduce your temptation to pet them, but if an airbag deploys while your pup is in the front seat, it could injure them or, worse, be fatal.
- Keep Your Car Cleaner. Limiting dog-accessible areas of your vehicle allows you to keep human-only areas much cleaner for you, your family, and your guests. You no longer have to apologize for dirty car seats or lint roller yourself after every journey.
- It Could Be The Law. Depending on what state you live in or are traveling to or through, your dog could be required to wear a harness or be restrained.
If you’re about to travel with your dog, I recommend you read our tips for your dog when traveling in a vehicle before you hit the road.
Dog Travel Safety Statistics
I have researched dog travel safety statistics to reiterate how important it is to restrain your dog in the vehicle. Sadly, there isn’t much research on the matter. However, one of the most recent studies shows that only 55% of respondents restrained their dogs in the U.S. while traveling, compared to 72% in the U.K. It’s thought that the regulations requiring U.K. residents to restrain their dogs in a vehicle are responsible for this.
I also found these older statistics on traveling with dogs. Nearly 65% of dog owners admit to driving distracted at least once while driving with their dog. Of those, 52% admit to petting their pup while driving. 23% use their hands or arms to restrict their dog’s movement or hold the dog in place. 19% state they use their hands or arms to keep their pup from climbing from the back seat to the front. That’s a lot of distracted drivers and owners trying to hold their dogs back. This two-minute video from KGUN9 in Tucson, AZ, talks about the danger of distracted driving for pets and people.
What Are Your State’s Traveling Requirements With A Dog?
Laws change, and you must stay up-to-date with your state’s requirements. However, as of March 2024, only a few states had specific laws requiring dogs to wear a harness or be restricted when driving. Only a handful of states ban dogs from the front seat or truck bed. Some states, including Arizona, Connecticut, and Hawaii, can charge drivers under distracted driving laws if they drive with a dog in their lap. However, the wording of many state requirements is ambiguous. Although restrictions are mentioned, most states do not mandate a restraint system. Use this interactive map to find what type of dog restraint law your state enforces.
6 Best Dog Barrier For Cars
Now that you know why you need or might benefit from a dog car barrier, here are my top picks for the best car dividers for dogs. I have chosen one for each type of car or vehicle position and reviewed them honestly. I also list the pros and cons of each, so let’s take a look.
Best For Front Seats: High Road Dog Barrier Gate Review
The High Road pet barrier is my top pick for the best car divider for dogs between the front and rear seats. The sturdy metal frame, made from heavy-duty steel, stretches the mesh fabric across the rear of the front seats. What’s nice about this is that it doesn’t go across the entire vehicle or obstruct your view. The mesh material means visibility is good. You can see the road and your pup, and they can see you, which can help reduce anxiety. This narrower profile means it offers a universal fit for most vehicles and has adjustable height and straps.
This option isn’t suitable for small dogs. It doesn’t restrict them from squeezing through the area between the seat and the vehicle doors. This may be a great and affordable option if your dog is generally well-behaved. But keep in mind that the mesh material doesn’t hold back dogs as well as other barriers. So, if your dog is unruly, chews, or pushes through things, they may move this barrier around some. The coverage area is 32.5″W x 37″H.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Heavy-duty metal frame | Mesh material isn’t the best at holding rambunctious dogs back |
| Connects to the headrests with adjustable straps | Complaints of instructions being unclear or none at all |
| Mesh material is great for visibility | Not for small dogs |
| Universal fit | |
| Covers the center console area | |
| 90-day warranty |
Pricing
Best For Sedans & Mid-Sized Cars: Jumbl Pet Dog Barrier Review
If you’re looking for a sturdy dog gate for your car, the Jumbl Pet dog barrier is my number one choice. This barrier is made of heavy-duty, all-metal material, meaning durability is great. It can also adjust in length to go across the back of the seats in your sedan or mid-sized car. Assembly is tool-free and straightforward, which means easy installation. However, some customers complain that some of the mounting hardware is flimsy.
The coverage area is 35.5″ W x 16.5″ H, and the adjustable side panels are 12″ W x 10.5″ H. This barrier is slightly smaller than others I review and won’t work well if used in a larger vehicle than a mid-sized car or sedan. But it’s a great product and price for mid-sized vehicles and comes with a lifetime warranty.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| It is adjustable | Only big enough for a mid-sized sedan |
| Easy installation – no tools needed | Some users say the mounting hooks are flimsy |
| Durable, sturdy metal frame and wire mesh | |
| Good visibility | |
| It comes with a lifetime warranty |
Pricing
Best For SUVs: MidWest Pet Barrier Wire Mesh Car Barrier Review
View on Amazon | View on Chewy
The MidWest car dog barrier is made of wire mesh and fits most SUVs, vans, and hatchbacks. However, I think this is the top choice as the best SUV dog barrier. What makes this an ideal pet barrier for an SUV? It is adjustable and made of heavy-duty tubular meshed steel, so durability and visibility are great.
The coverage area is 27.88″ W x 23.5″ H at a minimum, but it can expand to 70″ W and 50″ H. The downside is that some people have spent longer than expected installing this barrier, so it’s not as easy to install as the other barriers on my list. Some customers have also used zip ties to secure it and stop it from rattling.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| It covers a large area, which is ideal for larger vehicles | Installation takes longer for some |
| Adjustable size | Some customers complain about rattling noise |
| Made of strong, heavy-duty metal mesh | |
| Metal has a black finish to decrease glare for better visibility | |
| 1-year warranty |
Pricing
Best For Trucks: Bushwacker Deluxe Dog Barrier Review
This Bushwacker car dog barrier has metal tubing to maintain its barrier shape and prevent pups from squeezing around it. The heavy-duty tubing connects to a scratch and tear-resistant pet screen made from mesh. The mesh material means airflow isn’t compromised. The barrier attaches to the front seat headrest and either the car seat frame or seat belt mount.
Its coverage area is 56″ W x 23″ H, which is best for trucks and large SUVs. To determine your car’s width, measure your car’s interior just below the headrests. This barrier works as long as the width is greater than 56 inches. However, if this is too big, there is also a 50-inch model available. It’s important to note that this product only goes between the front and back seats.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Driver’s and passenger’s seat don’t need to be aligned perfectly | Not adjustable |
| Sturdy and good durability | Made to go between the front and back seats only |
| Easy installation | |
| Connects to the headrests | |
| Good visibility | |
| 1-year warranty |
Pricing
Best For Trunks & Cargo Areas: Rabbitgoo Dog Car Barrier Review
When your dogs ride in the back of your hatchback or SUV, the Rabbitgoo car barrier is an excellent choice. This adjustable car pet barrier is sturdy and easy to install. One unique feature is an upgraded knob design made to increase security. The coverage area is 35.8” W x 15.7” H, and adjustable side panels are 16.5” W x 11.8” H with a full extension equal to 60.6″.
The thick nylon straps and sturdy buckles prevent most dogs from pulling it away from the headrests. Customers’ primary complaint is that the straps may be too short. Some pets can get around it because it isn’t tall enough for their vehicle. However, most customers felt the fit was great, so be sure to measure that it fits before ordering it.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Adjustable | Straps may be too short |
| A sturdy, metal design offering durability | Not tall enough for some dogs |
| Metal mesh means good visibility | |
| Easy installation | |
| Strong straps & buckles |
Pricing
Best Center Console Net: Dykeson Dog Car Net Barrier Review
If you’re looking for a simple, no-frills dog barrier net, Dykeson’s option is ideal. The four-sided elastic dual mesh means it stretches to fit the shape of your vehicle and isn’t as easy to push through compared to single-layer mesh options. The barrier size is 11.7″ x 11.7″ when not stretched. The four clips make for easy installation and a nearly universal fit.
It doubles up as a storage pocket, which can be handy for some families. Although it is budget-friendly with the lowest cost, it’s only suitable for well-behaved or relaxed dogs who won’t try to climb over. This option is unsuitable for unrestrained, excitable dogs, and customers state it is unfit for large dogs who like climbing.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Simple dog car net offering good visibility | Not suitable for large breeds or dogs who climb |
| It has four clips to keep it in place | |
| Stretches across the center console | |
| Double mesh layer that doubles up as a storage pocket | |
| Low cost | |
| Easy installation |
Our Personal Experience With A Similar Dog Car Net
I have used a net in my car as a barrier for my dogs for several years. I have always had larger breeds, and I once had two 85-pound Labrador Pitbull mixes. Taking them anywhere in the car together was a big job, and I especially needed to keep them from climbing over the seats when the car was moving. At the time, I was lucky enough to own a car (Volvo station wagon) with a built-in net between the backseat and the trunk. This was one of the best and most effective barriers for the car I’ve ever seen, and I have installed one in every vehicle I have had since. The net allows my pups to see and hear me but keeps them safe in the back of the car while we move. It also keeps the mess of drool and hair in the back of the car rather than all over. I highly recommend using a net as a barrier. Just be sure to buy one that fits your vehicle correctly, or it will not work well.
– Danielle DeGroot, Large Dog Owner, Canine Journal Research & Writing
Pricing
Frequently Asked Questions
We know that some of our readers still have questions about dog car barriers and how to keep their dogs safe on the road. If you don’t see your question below, ask us in the comments section, and we’ll find the answer for you.
Are Car Barriers Safe For Dogs?
Yes, all the car barriers in my top picks are safe for dogs and tried and tested by other dog lovers. It’s essential to restrain your dog when traveling in the car to prevent distracted driving and injuries to you or your pet and promote safety for all road users. In a collision, anything that isn’t fixed in place poses a threat to itself or anyone in the car. Even if you don’t use a dog seat belt or restraint harness, a car barrier can prevent your dog from hurtling forward or backward in the event of an accident.
What Is The Best Car Divider For Dogs?
The best car divider for dogs is the one that fits your vehicle and suits your and their needs the most. It’s important to choose a high-quality, durable dog car barrier that is relatively easy to install and ensures optimum visibility. Plus, if your dog can see you, it can help reduce your dog’s anxiety.
Do I Need A Gate For Dogs In My Car?
Although no law requires a dog barrier for vehicles, many states require you to restrain your dog and prevent distracted driving. Even if your state has no laws on this issue, canine experts and veterinarians alike recommend investing in a restraint system of some sort for your safety, your family, your dog, and other road users. Gates for dogs in cars help keep them in one place and are very helpful in creating dog-free zones in your car, too.
Does Car Insurance Cover Injured Pets?
Accidents happen, and some pets become harmed even with a car dog barrier in place. What happens if you have a collision and your dog is injured? It depends on a variety of factors. We have a guide on whether car insurance policies cover medical expenses for pet injuries.
Safe Travels With Your Pup
Wondering how to secure your dog in the cargo area of your SUV or how to keep your dog in the backseat of your car safely? You can choose one of the car dividers for dogs in this article or consider other restraints like seatbelts. And if you let your dog ride in the back, you might want to consider car seat covers to keep them clean from hair and mud. You can even keep your pup safe on a bike. As long as you’re staying safe and your dog is not distracting you, that is all that matters. If your dog suffers from travel sickness, head to our guide on dog car sickness, which offers tips, natural remedies, and more.
Do you use any of the dog car barriers above? Or perhaps you have another option you think I should add to my top picks? We love to hear from our readers, so please let us know in the comments below.
Why Trust Canine Journal?
Emma is a dog mom to two rescue dogs, Bonkers and Chips. She travels up and down the U.K. with her dogs a lot and always practices safe driving with dog restraints. Emma has a passion for dogs and writing and loves to share her knowledge and experience with other dog lovers. She works with a professional team at Canine Journal to ensure that they share the best and most up-to-date information as a trusted online canine resource.
