6 Best Dog Car Hammocks

We love going on road trips with our dogs and bringing them along for errands around town. But more often than not, these trips lead to hairy, dirt-filled messes that end up all over our car seats. Chances are you also feel this struggle as a pet parent. Luckily, a dog car hammock keeps seats looking good as new while keeping pups comfortable in the car.

Unlike standard car seat covers, a dog car hammock covers the entire back seat to provide a comfy and secure nest. Because they loop over the front headrests, dog car hammocks provide a barrier to keep dogs from blocking the driver’s rear view or jumping up front. The hammock style also keeps pups secure in the back seat in case of sudden stops or sharp turns. For an extra secure ride, invest in a doggy seat belt and other important dog items for your car.

Dogs prone to car sickness also benefit from a dog car hammock because it contains the mess without spilling on seats. Play it safe by choosing a dog car hammock with washable materials for a hassle-free clean up. Whether you’re ready to buy a dog car hammock or searching for one of the best gifts for dog lovers, we rounded up the best dog car hammock options.

What to look for when buying a dog car hammock

Dog car hammocks differ based on size, material, features and price. To choose the best dog car hammock for your pooch, start by measuring your back seat. Not all dog hammocks fit every car, so you’ll want to have measurements on hand. As for materials, opt for waterproof or water-resistant fabrics that are machine washable. Keep an eye out for durable construction too, and whether it’s compatible with your pup’s size. If your furry friend weighs more than 100 pounds, choosing strong straps is key.

Finally, consider a dog car hammock that includes safety features like a seatbelt attachment. For example, some contain slots for attaching your dog’s safety harness to the seatbelt. Check out these additional gadgets for your dog.

Evaluation criteria

We chose the best dog car hammocks based on high user reviews, overall ease of use and consideration of special features.

• Ease of use
• Safety features
• Durability
• Waterproof or water-resistant construction
• Washable materials
• Price

Best overall dog car hammock

URPOWER Dog Seat Hammock

This bestselling dog hammock fits a variety of back seat sizes. The hammock’s design allows for easy installation by securing straps over headrests, and side flaps protect door panels. The hammock style is ideal for road trips or adventures with pups, but it also converts into a car seat bench cover or a trunk cargo liner for other outings. With four layers of fabric and a water-resistant outer layer, this hammock’s protection goes above and beyond. Nearly 20,000 Amazon shoppers give this product five stars.

“Not only was this product easy to install and is easy to clean, but it really kept my dog very calm in the backseat,” writes verified Amazon purchaser Harriet. “My dog is 65 pounds, which made it quite unpleasant to take him for a ride. Now, he stays away from the windows and just lays down and is perfectly content.”

Pros

What we like about the URPOWER Dog Seat Hammock:

• Fits a variety of car and truck sizes
• Includes two seatbelt slits and seatbelts
• 100% waterproof
• Non-slip backing
• Adjustable headrest straps and seat anchors
• Converts into a car seat bench cover
• Includes side door protection flaps
• Available in two sizes and six colors

Cons

Consider these factors before buying the URPOWER Dog Seat Hammock:

• Not machine washable, so brand suggests using a damp cloth or vacuum to clean
• Some reviewers have found that bigger pups add stress on the hammock’s seams

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Best budget dog car hammock

Frisco Water-Resistant Hammock Seat Cover

A simple yet functional dog car hammock, the Frisco Water-Resistant Hammock is a brilliant, wallet-friendly buy. The heavy-duty polyester material keeps fur and messes away from the car’s interior, while the water-resistant construction ensures spills or accidents don’t transfer to seats. It includes multiple attachment points for the best fit possible, and seat belt slits accommodate pet safety gear. Plus, the included storage pockets are perfect for treats, leashes or dog poop bags.

Pros

What we like about the Frisco Hammock Car Seat:

• Affordable price point
• Water-resistant
• Heavy-duty polyester fabric
• Machine washable
• Seat belt slits (seat belt not included)
• Available in two colors
• Suitable for large dogs

Cons

Consider these factors before buying the Frisco Hammock Car Seat:

• Surface may be slippery for some dogs
• The regular size may not fit extra large back seat areas, so you’ll want to measure yours

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Best splurge dog car hammock

Active Pets Non-Slip Hammock for Dogs

The Active Pets Dog Seat Hammock is a non-slip car seat cover that stays in place while giving dogs better traction. The padded material resists paws and claws, making it durable for frequent use, and it converts into a car seat bench cover and trunk lining. Its universal fit works for small cars to big trucks. This pick offers flexibility and more special features than standard dog car hammocks.

Pros

What we like about Active Pets Dog Car Hammock:

• Universal fit is flexible for a variety of car sizes
• Water-resistant
• Heavy-duty quilted fabric
• Non-slip material
• Available in four colors and two sizes

Cons

Consider these factors before buying the Active Pets Dog Car Hammock:

• No seat belt accommodations
• Rubber backing “pills” with use, may leave a residue on seats
• At almost $40, this dog car hammock is on the pricey side

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Best washable dog car hammock

BarksBar Luxury Waterproof Car Seat Cover

The BarksBar Dog Car Hammock doubles as a seat cover and dog car hammock. The quilted design protects seats while providing a comfy resting spot for pups. The hammock fits most standard cars, but make sure to measure your back seat to see if the product’s dimensions suffice. It installs easily with buckles and straps that fit over headrests. When used as a car seat cover, it protects against spills and stains from canine and human riders. Throw this hammock in the wash for easy cleaning (the colors don’t even bleed!).

Pros

What we like about the BarksBar Car Hammock:

• Water-resistant
• Rubber non-slip backing
• Velcro seatbelt openings for pet safety gear
• Machine washable on gentle and air dry cycles
• Spot cleans easily with a damp cloth or vacuum
• Available in two sizes

Con

Consider this before buying the BarksBar Car Hammock:

• Some reviewers have found the straps break easily, so this pick may not be ideal for large dogs

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Best small dog car hammock

Frisco Quilted Water-Resistant Hammock Car Seat Cover

An upgrade from the standard version, the Frisco Quilted Water-Resistant Hammock features heavy-duty polyester material and quilted padding for extra comfort and durability. It comes with multiple attachment points for the best fit possible, and the non-slip backing keeps pets stable. This hammock contains closable seat belt slits to accommodate pet safety gear. It’s machine washable, too.

Pros

What we like about Frisco Quilted Hammock Car Seat:

• Keeps small pups comfortable yet safe
• Converts into a bench car seat cover
• Water-resistant
• Machine washable
• Heavy-duty polyester fabric
• Seat belt accommodation (seat belt not included)
• Available in three colors (including cream)

Cons

Consider these factors before buying the Frisco Quilted Hammock Car Seat:

• Some reviewers found it’s somewhat difficult to remove dog hair from the cover
• Some reviewers found that the hammock style doesn’t quite stretch over the headrests in SUVs

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Best dog car hammock for large vehicles

BarksBar Original Hammock

The original version of the BarksBar Dog Car Hammock is an Amazon pet product with nearly perfect reviews. The standard and extra-large size fit a variety of vehicles. The hammock is made from heavy-duty, water-resistant polyester and works as a bench seat cover or hammock. With storage pockets and Velcro openings for seat belts, it ensures pups and their gear travel safe. This hammock is upholstery-safe as it withstands extreme temperatures and won’t leave dye residue or pills.

Pros

What we like about BarksBar Original Hammock:

• Fits small cars, large trucks and SUVs
• Easy to install
• Converts into bench seat
• Machine washable on gentle and air dry cycles
• Available in two sizes

Cons

Consider these factors before buying the BarksBar Original Hammock:

• Surface is somewhat slick

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