The Best Dog Seat Covers

Written by Kirstin Harrington
Updated: January 17, 2023
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It’s safe to say that dogs like riding in the car more than most humans. To them, nothing beats hanging their head out the window with their ears flopping in the crip air. Whether you’re bringing them to the park, to the vet, or on a long road trip, having a dog seat cover does more than just make the ride more comfortable for your four-legged friend. 

While we all love our pets, there’s no denying that they love ripping up fabric, chewing on furniture, and sometimes they go to the bathroom in all the wrong places. Car seat covers add an extra layer of protection to your vehicle. 

After a long day of playing with your pooch at the beach, you won’t have to worry about sand, water, or mud getting onto your leather seats. There are budget coverings and more costly covers for $100 or more. Features such as quilting for added comfort or beautiful leather elements, or attractive carrying cases can drastically affect the price. 

Continue on for our best picks, as well as things to consider before you shop, whether you’re looking for a simple affordable buy to get the job done or would like to invest more on a cart seat cover set with extra features.

  1. PLUSH PAWS PRODUCTS Quilted Hammock Car Seat Cover
    • Protects seats from hair, mud, bathroom accidents and more
    • Durable quilted polyester ensures it stands up to all these things and more
    • Easily attaches to the back and front headrests
    • No-slip backing ensures the hammock stays put
    Check Chewy Check Amazon
  2. URPOWER Dog Front Seat Cover for Cars
    • Customized fit according to your car's make/model
    • Easily attaches to headrest
    • Completely covers entire front seat
    • Waterproof construction keeps seats dry and clean
    • Quilted padding provides comfortable ride
    Check Amazon
  3. Active Pets Car Seat Cover
    • Ideal option for backseat travel
    • Four water-resistant and scratch-proof layers keep seats protected and dogs comfy
    • Easy installation makes it simple to put in and take out
    • Velcro and snap buckle attachments keep the mat in place
    • Adjustable fit ensures complete coverage
    Check Amazon
  4. BDK PolyPro Car Seat Cover Set
    • Matching set provides a uniform look
    • Great protection from spills, bathroom accidents and more
    • Breathable fabric keeps the cover cool
    • Easy installation is ideal for most vehicles
    Check Amazon
  5. Yuntec Dog Car Seat Cover
    • Protects seats from scratches, mud, pet hair, spills and more
    • Easy-adjust straps ensure the perfect fit
    • Built-in seatbelts keep your pups safe from moving around while care is in motion
    • Non-slip backing ensures that mat stays put
    Check Amazon
  6. Arf Pets Waterproof & Non-Slip SUV Cargo Liner
    • Top option for cargo area of SUVs and vans
    • Waterproof coating keeps the interior of your car protected from spills and accidents
    • Polyester and cotton padding is comfortable for pets
    • Non-slip backing ensures the cover stays put
    Check Chewy Check Amazon

A-Z Animals Top Picks for Car Seat Covers

#1 Best Overall: Plush Paws Products Quilted Hammock Car Seat Cover

When we were scouring the web to find the overall best dog seat cover, we found that the Plush Paws Products Quilted Hammock Car Seat Cover stood out as our top choice.

This seat cover is a great way to keep your pup cozy and safe when they’re joining you on a car ride. This seat cover keeps seats free from hair, mud, potty accidents, and more. It’s designed using durable quilted polyester that provides your pooch an extra layer of comfort. 

As the name suggests, this pet seat cover forms a hammock, giving your dog more room to lay back and relax. This feature is a major plus if you have more than one dog in your car. The wide seat cover attaches to the back headrests and the front seat headrest, giving 58 x 55 inches of space for pups of all sizes. 

One of the best features of this seat cover is that it has elastic straps paired with non-slip silicone backing to ensure it stays in place as your dog moves around. Plus, included are two sets of adjustable harnesses and seatbelts to keep your dog safe and secure during travel. One set fits dogs between 15 and 60 pounds, while the other fits dogs between 60 and 100 pounds.

The only drawback to this product that we can find is that some customers have reported that the material is a little slippery which can cause dogs to slide around.

Pros and Cons of the Plush Paws Products Quilted Hammock Car Seat Cover

ProsCons
This seat cover is designed using durable quilted polyester.The material is a little slippery which can cause dogs to slide around.
It provides 58 x 55 inches of space in the form of a hammock.
It has elastic straps paired with non-slip silicone backing to ensure it stays in place.
It comes with two sets of adjustable harnesses and seatbelts. One set fits dogs between 15 and 60 pounds, while the other fits dogs between 60 and 100 pounds.
Best Overall
PLUSH PAWS PRODUCTS Quilted Hammock Car Seat Cover
  • Protects seats from hair, mud, bathroom accidents and more
  • Durable quilted polyester ensures it stands up to all these things and more
  • Easily attaches to the back and front headrests
  • No-slip backing ensures the hammock stays put
Check Chewy Check Amazon

2. Best for Front Seats: URPOWER Dog Front Seat Cover 

If you prefer your four-legged friend to join you in the front seat then try the URPOWER Dog Front Seat Cover.

When purchasing this seat cover on Amazon, you’re able to easily enter your vehicle make and model and they’ll let you know if it fits! However, it’s important to mention that the backseat is the safest place for pups and the front passenger seat should be designed for small breeds only. This option is designed like a bench seat cover and simply loops over the headrest and straps in at the bottom of the chair. 

One of the best features of this seat cover is that it completely covers the surface which helps keep your car seats in pristine condition all while giving your pooch a ride! In addition to durable polyester, the URPOWER pet seat cover has four layers of waterproof polyurethane to help with any potential bathroom accidents. 

It comes in at 20.5 x 40.1 inches in size and is incredibly easy to put on. You won’t have to worry about the cover sliding around and it can be easily removed when it’s time for a human passenger to sit up front. 

Unfortunately, some customers have reported that when they washed this cover some of the rubber backing came off.

Pros and Cons of the URPOWER Dog Front Seat Cover

ProsCons
This car seat cover is made from durable polyester material which is both strong and comfortable.The rubber backing can sometimes come off in the wash.
It has four layers of waterproof polyurethane to protect seats against mud, water, or any bathroom accidents.
It is easy to fit and simply loops over the headrest and straps in at the bottom.
Best for Front Seat
URPOWER Dog Front Seat Cover for Cars
  • Customized fit according to your car's make/model
  • Easily attaches to headrest
  • Completely covers entire front seat
  • Waterproof construction keeps seats dry and clean
  • Quilted padding provides comfortable ride
Check Amazon

3. Best for Rear Seats: Active Pets Car Seat Cover

The best option for the backseat is the Active Pets Car Seat Cover which has many positive ratings online.

This seat cover has four protective layers of water-resistant material to keep your car seats in great condition and protect against muddy or wet paws or any bathroom accidents. The exterior is designed using 600D Oxford cotton, followed by a layer of Oxford 210D, two layers of PP cotton, and a final non-slip backing. These materials make this dog seat cover both waterproof and scratchproof! 

Another great feature is that installation is designed to be quick and easy, plus it can be easily removed when not in use. There are two seat anchors and four headrest anchors to keep the cover from slipping and sliding around.

Another popular reason why pet parents love this rear seat cover is that it’s adjustable. You can have it set up to be a hammock or a simple bench cover. Plus, there are convenient seat belt slots so that humans can ride in the back without needing to remove the cover. 

It’s very easy to clean and can be wiped down with a wet towel or thrown in the wash. Overall, it’s our favorite choice for a backseat car cover for dogs of all ages! 

Although this car seat cover has a lot going for it, some owners with active dogs have reported that their pets have managed to claw holes into it within a year of purchasing it. Also, a small number have reported that their pets still slide around some on this seat cover.

Pros and Cons of the Active Pets Car Seat Cover

ProsCons
This seat cover features four layers of water-resistant material to protect car seats from muddy or wet paws and bathroom accidents.Customers have reported that active dogs have managed to claw holes into it with one year of purchasing.
The exterior is made from layers of 600D Oxford cotton, Oxford 210D, two layers of PP cotton, and a final non-slip backing.Dogs can slide around a little on this seat cover.
There are two seat belt slots so that humans can ride in the backseats without needing to remove the cover.
It is easy to clean.
This seat cover is adjustable and can be set up as a hammock or a bench seat cover.
Best for Rear Seats
Active Pets Car Seat Cover
  • Ideal option for backseat travel
  • Four water-resistant and scratch-proof layers keep seats protected and dogs comfy
  • Easy installation makes it simple to put in and take out
  • Velcro and snap buckle attachments keep the mat in place
  • Adjustable fit ensures complete coverage
Check Amazon

4. Best Matching Set: BDK PolyPro Car Seat Cover Set

Are you wanting a matching set of car seat covers to allow your pup to mosey from one seat to another? Our selection as the best matching option is the BDK PolyPro Car Seat Cover Set. 

These seat covers protect against stains from dog urine, spilled coffee, and more. Pets and dog parents alike enjoy the breathable polyester material that keeps you cool and comfortable during your travels. 

There is a stylish two-toned design and luxurious stitching accents that give your car an updated look, all while protecting the seats. These car seat covers are designed to be easy to install as it takes just three simple steps for them to be ready to use. 

One reason why this choice made the list is that it has a universal fit. While it’s always a good idea to make sure it fits your car, the manufacturer claims it fits “most” vehicles, including trucks, cars, SUVs, and vans. Unfortunately, some customers have reported that while they do fit most cars, it is not always the best fit as some found that the covers were tight across the seats and others reported that the fit was quite “baggy”.

Pros and Cons of the BDK PolyPro Car Seat Cover Set

ProsCons
These seat covers are made from breathable polyester material.The fit is not always accurate on all cars. In some cases they can be a snug fit, while in others they can be quite loose and “baggy”.
They have a stylish two-tone design with luxurious stitching.
They can be installed in just three easy steps.
These seat covers have a universal fit and are designed to fit most cars.
Best Matching Set
BDK PolyPro Car Seat Cover Set
  • Matching set provides a uniform look
  • Great protection from spills, bathroom accidents and more
  • Breathable fabric keeps the cover cool
  • Easy installation is ideal for most vehicles
Check Amazon

5. Best for Mud and Dirt: Yuntec Dog Car Seat Cover

Does your pup love to get dirty by running around in water, sand, or mud? Who can blame them? By using the Yuntec Dog Car Seat Cover your pet can still have a blast in the great outdoors without ruining your car seats. 

This is a great option for families with pets and children as these durable seat covers prevent your seats from being ruined from scratches, pet hair, mud, dirt, spilled snacks, and more. Plus, there are straps on the cover that make it incredibly easy to adjust when needed. 

There are also two built-in seat belts that can be adjusted to keep your pooch stable, secure, and safe. This cover is designed with 600D Oxford fabric, non-slip backing, four layers of waterproof protection, and PVC water-resistant coating. 

However, some customers have reported that this car seat cover does not fit their cars. Plus, some reported that it has a chemical smell when they first opened it and as a result they had to wash it before using it.

Pros and Cons of the Yuntec Dog Car Seat Cover

ProsCons
This seat cover has from 600D Oxford fabric, four layers of waterproof protection, a PVC water-resistant coating, and a non-slip backing.This cover does not fit all cars.
It features two built-in seat belts for dogs.It sometimes has a chemical smell when first opened.
It has adjustable straps to make it easy to install.
Best for Mud & Dirt
Yuntec Dog Car Seat Cover
  • Protects seats from scratches, mud, pet hair, spills and more
  • Easy-adjust straps ensure the perfect fit
  • Built-in seatbelts keep your pups safe from moving around while care is in motion
  • Non-slip backing ensures that mat stays put
Check Amazon

6. Best for Trunk: Arf Pets Waterproof & Non-Slip SUV Cargo Liner

Do you drive an SUV or truck? Perhaps you want your pup to be as safe as possible, thus putting them in the cargo area of your vehicle. In that case we recommend the Arf Pets Waterproof and Non-Slip SUV Cargo Liner which is a durable and budget-friendly option.

This liner is 55 x 82 inches and fits the majority of SUVs, trucks, and vans. While it’s common sense, we do want to add that you should never place your dog in the closed trunk of a car. These seat covers are only designed for open trunks of the vehicles listed above. 

One of the best features of this design is that it includes several layers of protective fabric. There is an exterior coating of waterproof PVC, followed by polyester and cotton padding, and finished off with a non-slip backing. This means that your car will be protected against muddy paws as well as spillages or accidents, all while your pet is comfortable. It is also designed to be easy to wipe clean or to wash.

Unfortunately, some pup parents have reported that the material is quite slippery which means that dogs can slide around on it easily.

Pros and Cons of the Arf Pets Waterproof & Non-Slip SUV Cargo Liner

ProsCons
This cargo liner is designed to fit most trucks, vans, and SUV’s.The material is slippery which results in dogs sliding around on it easily.
It is easy to wipe clean.
It features several layers of waterproof fabric to protect the car against muddy paws, spillages, or toilet accidents.
It has cotton and polyester quilted padding to ensure that dogs are comfortable.
Best for Trunk
Arf Pets Waterproof & Non-Slip SUV Cargo Liner
  • Top option for cargo area of SUVs and vans
  • Waterproof coating keeps the interior of your car protected from spills and accidents
  • Polyester and cotton padding is comfortable for pets
  • Non-slip backing ensures the cover stays put
Check Chewy Check Amazon

How to Wash Dog Seat Covers

Dog car seat covers are a terrific method to keep dog hair and dirt off of your vehicle seats, but they must be washed on a regular basis to keep your vehicle clean and fresh. The majority of dog car seat covers may be washed in the washing machine. To be sure, look at the label.

Dog car seat coverings easily become caked with dog hair. The easiest approach to remove hair from seat covers is to vacuum them completely before washing them. The easiest technique to remove fur strands from the cloth is to use a portable carpet attachment. 

To clean the dog car seat covers, use a washing machine, a rug shampooer or detergent, and a towel. Simply soak the whole area of the seat covers, sprinkle a tiny quantity of detergent on the cloth, and scrub the covers if using soap and a cloth.

If your cleaning procedure does not remove all of the stains, you can wash them out by hand. Wet the spots, then liberally dust them with baking soda and scrape the soda in using a scrub brush. Let it remain overnight before vacuuming the baking soda out.

Choosing the Best: What to Look For

There are certain features you’ll want to look for when comparing dog seat covers. These factors will make a big difference when it comes to quality, durability, and how comfortable and safe your pup will be. Let’s take a look at what you should keep your eye-peeled for. 

Durability and Features 

It doesn’t matter how expensive a car seat cover is; if it doesn’t have updated stitching and a well-quilted construction, it will come apart after only a few uses. Ensure the cover is genuinely long-lasting and well-designed. 

Consider how it should be cleaned as well. Machine-washable coverings are the best alternative. When it comes to dog car seat covers, this is by far the most significant characteristic. 

It’s not enough to have a single sheet of material; it has to be structured to prevent moisture and keep dirt off your vehicle seat. Oxford 600D treated cotton and polyester are the strongest fabrics for dog seat covers.

Location

Hammock-style and bench coverings are placed on the rear seats of any vehicle, and they may also be utilized in the cargo area. However, a specific cover or one with size-adjustable zippers is required for the front seat.

Size

Before you do anything else, you must first measure the car seats. Although the majority of dog car seat covers are universal in size, they are frequently too thin for particular car seat types and, despite claims, do not suit every vehicle. 

If you drive a huge SUV or truck, choose the extra-large version since, regardless of what the manufacturer claims, the normal size will be insufficient.

The Different Types of Dog Seat Covers: Pros and Cons Compared

With so many different types of dog seat covers on the market, how do you know which one is best for your vehicle? After you’ve chosen which seat(s) you’d like your dog to ride on, consider these styles. 

  • Waterproof: If your dog suffers from bathroom accidents, having a waterproof cover will be beneficial. They’re great if you plan to put a water dish on the seat with them as well. There aren’t any downfalls of waterproof seat covers. 
  • Quilted: The main disadvantage of quilted covers is that they can be more expensive and some dog owners don’t like the look. For canines, quilted seat covers provide extra comfort and security from the materials used. 
  • Hammock: If you’re planning on getting a seat cover for the backseat, a hammock cover is preferred by most dog parents. They’re spacious and secure, making them a great choice for larger dogs. However, hammocks do tend to be pricier than bench seats. 
  • Trunk: Lastly, trunk dog seat covers are a great way to give your dog plenty of space if you have a van or SUV. There aren’t really any cons of this style other than they can only install in certain types of vehicles. 

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About the Author

Kirstin is a writer at A-Z Animals primarily covering animals, news topics, fun places, and helpful tips. Kirstin has been writing on a variety of topics for over five years. She has her real estate license, along with an associates degree in another field. A resident of Minnesota, Kirstin treats her two cats (Spook and Finlay) like the children they are. She never misses an opportunity to explore a thrift store with a coffee in hand, especially if it’s a cold autumn day!

The Best Dog Seat Covers FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) 

Is it possible to dry dog seat covers?  

Yes! Let the dog car seat covers air dry outside in the sun or hang them to dry in a room on a hanger. If the blankets seem wrinkled after drying, run them through the dryer on tumble for around ten minutes to refresh the fabric.

 

Is it true that extended car trips are unhealthy for dogs? 

Taking your dogs or cats on a road vacation is a terrific way to avoid the stress and cost of boarding them. Traveling lengthy distances in a car, on the other hand, is not simple for all animals. Experts recommend starting with shorter excursions to acclimate your pets to driving in a car.

 

Is it possible for dogs to travel in the front seat of a car? 

Dogs are allowed to ride in the front seat, but the passenger-side airbag must be turned off and the seat moved as far back as feasible.

 

What is the safest spot in the car for a dog? 

A partition between the rear seat and the cargo area of a van or SUV is probably the best way to keep a dog safe in a car. Simply place the dog in the rear of the car, where it will be safe and free from the passengers.

 

Is it safe to use dog seat covers? 

Dogs should have a harness that snaps in to keep them secure in the event of a sudden stop or a car wreck. Dog seat coverings can effectively protect dogs by keeping them snuggled away from the driver in the back seat.

 

How to remove dog hair from the seat cover?

If you choose to machine wash the dog car seat cover, most of the hair will come out in the lint trap in your dryer. You can also use a lint roller, duck tape, or specific hair removal devices.

 

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