3 Best Waterproof Car Seat Covers for Dogs (2024)

Keeping your car clean and protected while traveling with your furry friend can be a challenge. Muddy paws, slobbery kisses, and the occasional accident are all par for the course when you’re a dog owner.

That’s where waterproof car seat covers come in! They act as a barrier between your precious pup and your pristine upholstery, saving you time, money, and frustration. But with so many options on the market, choosing the right one can be overwhelming.

To help you out, we’ve compiled a list of the 3 best waterproof car seat covers for dogs based on factors like coverage, durability, ease of use, and customer reviews.

You will also find informative details on the benefits, installation, and maintenance of car seat covers for dogs.

Benefits of Dog-specific Car Seat Covers

Durability: Dog-specific covers are typically constructed with stronger materials like nylon, ripstop polyester, or quilted PVC.

These fabrics are significantly sturdier than most standard seat covers to withstand scratches, claws, muddy paws, and even chewing attempts.

The durability comes from double or triple stitching at stress points, preventing rips and tears that can occur with basic fabrics and single stitching.

Safety features: Dog car seat covers include features like seat anchors, tether loops, and raised edges to keep your dog secure and protected.

Seat anchors provide secure attachment points preventing the cover from sliding around while tether loops offer extra protection by restricting your dog’s movement inside the car by connecting its harness.

Some covers feature raised edges to create a hammock effect preventing spills and messes from spreading.

Better fit: Unlike standard covers designed for human bodies, dog covers are tailored to canine anatomy. This ensures a snug fit that won’t bunch up, leaving gaps where your dog can squeeze through or get tangled.

Many dog covers have slots or adjustments to accommodate headrests and armrests, ensuring a secure fit and preventing the cover from sliding off.

Some covers offer separate sections for the seat and back, ensuring a good fit even on seats with split folding functions. Flaps on the sides protect car doors and consoles from scratches and muddy paws.

Water-resistant materials: Accidents happen, and spills are inevitable with furry companions. 

Dog-specific covers often have a waterproof or water-resistant coating that repels liquids, preventing them from soaking through and damaging your car seats.  This makes cleaning significantly easier, as you can simply wipe down the surface.

3 Best Waterproof Car Seat Covers for Dogs

Here are 3 best waterproof car seat covers for dogs to limit your time on research and make an informed choice:

Kurgo Bench Seat Cover

This hammock-style dog car seat cover is built for overall protection and value, making it a top choice for dog owners who prioritize both cleanliness and their furry friend’s comfort.

Spreading of dog hair and muddy paw prints in the back seat is very common. This cover’s hammock design creates a barrier between your pup and the upholstery, protecting your seats, doors, and even the center console.

Unlike standard seat covers, the hammock suspends your dog off the floor, keeping them clean and dry, especially after rainy walks or messy adventures.

The non-slip backing keeps the hammock securely in place, preventing your dog from slipping and sliding during car rides.

This stability provides peace of mind, knowing your dog is safely contained and won’t be thrown around in case of sudden stops or turns.

There is no need to worry about spills, accidents, or muddy paws. The quilted nylon fabric is water-resistant and durable, effectively repelling liquids and dirt.

The quilted texture adds a touch of comfort for your dog while also ensuring easy cleaning. You can easily wipe down messes or toss the cover in the washing machine for a deeper clean.

This cover comes equipped with seat anchors and tether loops that provide extra security and ensure a snug fit.

You need to attach the anchors to your car’s seat anchors and use the tether loops to connect your dog’s harness. The adjusting feature offers an extra layer of safety and prevents your furry friend from roaming around the car.

However, some users report that the side flaps might need additional reinforcement to stay snug against the doors, depending on your car’s interior configuration.

While the hammock design offers excellent coverage, it might not be suitable for all car models. You must ensure to check the product’s dimensions and compatibility information before purchasing.

Overall, Kurgo’s hammock-style dog car seat cover is a fantastic choice for pet owners seeking comprehensive protection, comfort, and easy cleaning.

PetSafe Happy Ride Bench Seat Cover

This quilted bench seat cover is a budget-friendly champion for dog owners who prioritize basic protection and comfort for their furry friends. While it may not offer the full hammock coverage of the previous option, it shines in terms of affordability and functionality.

Unlike some basic seat covers, this one features a plush quilted top that provides additional comfort for your pup. They’ll enjoy a comfy ride, even on long journeys.

This added padding also helps protect your car seats from scratches and claws, preventing wear and tear over time.

This cover doesn’t skimp on security. It comes equipped with seat anchors and adjustable straps that ensure a snug fit and prevent the cover from sliding around.

You can customize the fit to your specific car seat configuration for added peace of mind, knowing your dog will stay safely contained.

However, it is important to note that this cover doesn’t offer full back seat coverage like a hammock style, so consider your dog’s size and potential messiness when deciding if it’s enough protection.

In terms of maintenance, keeping your car clean with a dog on board shouldn’t be a chore. This cover’s machine-washable fabric makes maintenance a breeze.

While the water-resistant polyester helps with spills, it might not be suitable for larger water accidents or muddy adventures.

Dirty Dog Cargo Liner

If you’re looking for an ultimate shield for your car’s cargo area against the messy adventures of pets, gear, and outdoor activities, this heavy-duty Dirty Dog cargo liner is your knight in shining armor.

This liner’s built with durable PVC that’s waterproof and tear-resistant, repelling liquids and handling rough cargo with ease.

The tough material stands up to the scratches, wear, and tear of excited pups protecting your car’s interior.

However, the PVC material might offer limited breathability compared to fabric options. 

The raised edges of this liner act as a moat, containing messes within the designated area and preventing them from seeping onto your car’s floor or side panels. The raised edges keep your car squeaky clean.

Traveling with pets in crates or carriers is a breeze with this liner. Convenient seatbelt loops allow you to secure the crate or carrier directly to the car’s anchor points, ensuring optimal safety and stability for your furry friend.

This feature eliminates the need for additional straps or bungee cords, streamlining your travel setup and providing peace of mind knowing your pet is secure.

Not only for pets, this liner also features a non-slip backing that keeps it securely in place, preventing shifting and protecting your precious cargo from tumbles and crashes.

While excellent for cargo areas, this liner isn’t designed for back seats. Consider your specific needs and the type of protection you require for different areas of your car.

Cleaning this liner is easier. No need for complex washing or scrubbing; simply wipe down spills with a damp cloth or hose them off for a thorough clean. This low-maintenance design saves you time and effort.

Buyer’s Guide: Factors to Consider While Choosing Car Seat Covers for Dogs

When choosing car seat covers for dogs, it’s important to consider various factors to ensure the safety, comfort, and protection of both your pet and your vehicle. Here are several key factors to consider:

Material

Opt for seat covers made from waterproof and stain-resistant materials to protect your car seats from accidents, spills, and pet-related messes. Materials like polyester, nylon, or neoprene are popular choices for their durability and water-resistant properties.

Choose materials that are breathable to ensure your dog stays comfortable during the journey. This is particularly important for longer trips to prevent your dog from getting too hot.

Ensure the material of seat covers are easy to clean, preferably machine washable. Dogs can be messy, so having a cover that you can easily toss in the washing machine will make your life much easier.

Size and Fit

Consider whether you want a universal fit that can be adjusted to various car models or a custom fit designed specifically for your car’s make and model. Custom-fit covers often provide better coverage and protection.

Ensure that the seat cover provides sufficient coverage to protect the entire seat and any surrounding areas. This is especially important if your dog tends to move around a lot during car rides.

Attachment and Installation

Check how the seat cover is secured to the car seat. Adjustable straps and buckles should be sturdy and easy to use. Some covers also come with non-slip backing to prevent sliding.

Moreover, look for seat covers that are easy to install and remove. This is important for convenience and for maintaining the cleanliness of your car.

Safety Features

If you use a dog harness for car travel, choose a seat cover with openings that allow you to secure your dog with a seat belt. This enhances both your dog’s safety and yours during car rides.

Ensure that the seat cover has a non-slip surface to prevent your dog from sliding around, especially during sudden stops or turns.

Durability

Dogs may scratch or dig at the seat cover, so choose a durable and tear-resistant material to withstand their activity.

Prefer reinforced seams that add to the overall durability of the seat cover. Such seams prevent from easily coming apart with regular use.

Compatibility with Your Vehicle

Seat covers designed to work with the headrests in your car are better compatible. Some covers have built-in openings or adjustable straps to accommodate different headrest configurations.

Make sure that the seat cover allows easy access to seat belts and latch anchors if you need to secure your dog with a harness or use a child safety seat.

Aesthetic Considerations

While not as crucial as other factors, the design and color of the seat cover can still be important for some users. Choose a design and color that complements your car’s interior.

Portability and Storage

If you need to store the seat cover when not in use, consider its foldability and whether it comes with a storage bag for convenience.

How to Install a Dog Car Seat Cover

Most dog car seat cover manufacturers have detailed installation instructions and videos on their websites. Look for the specific brand and model you purchased and search for their “installation guide” or “instructions” page.

Here are some general tips for installing most dog car seat covers:

• Remove any objects or debris from the seats and floor.
• Lay the cover flat and familiarize yourself with all its straps, loops, and features.
• Most covers have anchors or straps that attach to the seat anchors or headrests. Secure these first to establish a strong base.
• Some covers have flaps that protect the doors and consoles. Attach them using straps or tuck them under the seats.
• If your cover has tether loops, connect them to your dog’s harness for additional security.
• Tighten any straps to ensure the cover fits snugly and doesn’t slip around.
• Have your dog sit or stand on the cover to check for comfort and ensure there are no loose areas.

Remember, specific installation instructions will vary depending on the cover you have. Always refer to the manufacturer’s guide or video for the most accurate information.

Here is a small video showing how to install a dog car seat cover appropriately:

How to Clean and Maintain Dog Car Seat Covers

To ensure your dog car seat covers stay clean, fresh, and in good condition here are some effective tips:

• Immediately address spills, dirt, or fur build-up with a damp cloth or a gentle cleaning spray suitable for the cover’s material.
• Use a handheld vacuum to remove loose fur and debris at least once a week. To remove dust and grime from the surface of the cover, use a damp cloth or cleaning wipes.
• Check the care instructions on your dog car seat cover. Many water-resistant fabrics can be machine-washed on a gentle cycle with cold water and mild detergent. Hang dry or air dry to avoid shrinkage.
• If the material is not machine-washable, soak the cover in a bathtub filled with lukewarm water and gentle detergent for 20-30 minutes. Scrub gently with a soft brush, rinse thoroughly, and hang dry or air dry.
• For stubborn stains or odors, consider using a diluted solution of enzymatic cleaner or a pet-safe upholstery cleaner.
• When not in use, store the cover in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture.
• Always refer to the manufacturer’s care instructions for specific cleaning guidelines.
• Avoid harsh chemicals or bleach, as they can damage the fabric and shorten the cover’s lifespan.

Are Dog Car Seat Covers Safe?

Yes, dog car seat covers are generally safe when used correctly and appropriately.

Well-designed hammock covers with secure attachments and strong materials can be safe, often providing better support and crash testing than standard covers.

Some standard covers can also be safe if properly secured to prevent your dog from becoming a projectile in an accident. Such covers have seat anchors, tether loops, and non-slip backings.

If the covers are made of durable materials like water-resistant nylon or quilted fabric with good tensile strength it can withstand major impacts keeping your car interiors and pets safe. 

When it comes to usage, ensure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for correct strapping and anchor points. A loose cover can become hazardous in an accident.

Airbags pose a serious risk to unrestrained pets in the front so never use the cover in the front seat.

Remember, even with a secure cover, it’s crucial to properly restrain your dog using a harness or crate that’s compatible with the seat belt or anchor points.

How do I choose the right size of waterproof car seat cover for my dog?

When selecting a car seat cover for your dog, consider the specific dimensions of your car seats and whether the cover offers a universal or custom fit.

Measure your seats to ensure the cover provides adequate coverage and protection. Custom-fit covers are designed for specific car models, offering a tailored and secure fit.

Are all waterproof car seat covers machine washable?

Not all waterproof car seat covers are machine washable, so it’s essential to check the product specifications.

Look for covers explicitly labeled as machine washable for easy cleaning and maintenance.

This feature is particularly useful for handling pet-related messes and maintaining a clean and odor-free car interior.

Can I use a dog harness with any waterproof car seat cover?

Most waterproof car seat covers are designed with safety in mind and include harness openings. However, it’s crucial to check the product details to ensure compatibility with your specific dog harness.

Look for covers that provide easy access to seat belts and allow you to secure your dog with a harness, enhancing both your dog’s safety and your peace of mind during car rides.

What is the average cost range for waterproof car seat covers for dogs?

The cost of waterproof car seat covers for dogs can vary based on factors such as material, size, brand, and additional features.

On average, you can find reliable options in the range of $20 to $70. Universal-fit covers may be more budget-friendly, while custom-fit or premium materials could be on the higher end of the price spectrum.

Consider your specific needs and budget when choosing the right car seat cover for your furry companion.

Conclusion

Waterproof car seat covers offer effective protection and many benefits to your car’s original upholstery and interiors if you frequently travel with your furry companion.

When choosing one, consider your dog’s size and temperament, the type of car you have, your budget and more importantly the factors from our comprehensive buyer’s guide.

With the right cover, you can enjoy road trips and adventures with your furry friend without worrying about the mess.

Remember, prevention is always better than cure! Before each trip, ensure your dog is well-rested, potty-trained, and has had plenty of exercise to minimize the risk of accidents.