What is the UK law on having your dog in the car?
Your dog must be suitably restrained
While the laws around having your dog in the car have changed over time, Rule 57 of the Highway Code currently states that dogs must be suitably restrained while inside the vehicle. This is to ensure the dog doesn’t distract the driver and is less likely to cause injury to themselves or others if the car stops quickly.
Your dog can't travel in the passenger seat
The Highway Code also states that your dog can’t travel in the passenger seat as this is also more likely to cause driver distraction. It can be particularly dangerous if the car has a passenger airbag.

Many dog pet fatalities are caused when a dog is thrown forward either due to a vehicle impact/collision or violent/heavy braking. Not only is the animal injured or worse but passengers can also be injured. The simple and effective answer is a seat belt harness.
Seat belt harness
Seat belt harnesses are one of the most popular restraints, because they allow your dog to sit on the backseat free from a cage, providing them some freedom but still restricting their movements.
As the seat belt harness fits on your dog, it may be a good idea to get them used to the harness on walks first. Once in your vehicle, the harness has an attachment that fits into the seat belt buckle, preventing them from moving too much.
It’s likely that this is the most popular method because dogs are generally happiest lying on the seat during the journey.


Short version 50cm
Long version 70cm