New research shows that where dogs ride in the car can affect how much they enjoy the ride. Learn where your dog is happiest before you head off!
Research conducted by Compare the market shows that where dogs ride in cars can play a big part in how happy and relaxed they are.
study methodology
The study included different dog breeds: Jack Russell, Poochon, Cocker Spaniel and Red Fox Labrador. On five separate occasions, each of the dogs walked the car in four locations.
Using heart-rate-monitoring collars to track changes in the dogs’ heart rates, the study identified which locations were wagging their tails and which were best avoided.
Where do dogs sit most comfortably in the car?
The data showed that the four dogs felt most comfortable sitting in the back seat facing their owner. In this position, her heart rate dropped 9.5% from baseline. The second most comfortable spot was the front seat, where her heart rate dropped by 6.8%.
READ MORE ⇒ Why is my dog panting and drooling in the car?
In contrast, the dogs’ heart rates were higher when they sat in places where they couldn’t see their owners. In the back seat, the dogs’ heart rates increased by 10.6%. And boot riding caused the biggest increase – up 20.4% from baseline.
Be sure to buckle up
No matter where your dog rides in the car, their safety is the top priority. Crash tested dog harnesses protect your pup from injury in an accident and keep them from distracting you and causing an accident!
READ MORE ⇒ The best crash tested car harnesses for dogs
Dogs in the front seat
The dogs in Compare the market‘s study found that the front seat of the car is the second most comfortable place to drive. If your dog prefers the front seat, there are additional steps to protect him.
First, when we say the “front seat,” we’re talking about the passenger seat. Driving with a dog on your lap is not safe for you or your dog. Trying to hold your dog and drive it at the same time means you’re not giving your full attention to both tasks. Also, your dog is more likely to distract you if he rides on your lap. And he could be crushed by the steering wheel or airbag in an accident.
If your dog prefers to “shotgun” rides or you don’t have a back seat, making sure your pup is buckled is even more important. When you ride in the front passenger seat, your dog can distract you more easily than in the back seat.
Also, make sure you turn off the passenger side airbag if your dog rides in the front seat.
Finally, slide the seat back as far as possible so that it doesn’t hit the dashboard in a crash.
More resources
Why is my dog panting and drooling in the car?
My dog HATES the car – WHAT NOW?!
The Best Crash Tested Dog Harnesses for Traveling by Car
How to make a pet first aid kit for your car
Is it illegal to leave your pet alone in the car?
What to do if your puppy gets motion sickness?
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