Vacations are the best time of the year - and in many cases the planned destination is even luxuriously close by. So what could be more natural than a spontaneous trip by car to the seaside or the mountains? Of course, the four-legged family members should also enjoy their vacation, but how do dogs actually travel safely in the car?
Legal first - how legislators view dogs in cars
The simplest and safest method for dogs in the car is the dog crate. This more or less spacious box is simply installed in the trunk and you don't have to worry about anything else. This is good for estate cars and larger vehicles, but with additional luggage at the latest, things can get tight on vacation trips.
Should you just strap your dog into the car and drive off? The situation is not quite that simple (also legally), because in the event of a police check you could be fined. Dogs are legally considered cargo and must be secured accordingly to prevent them from slipping and falling. However, you can certainly accept a fine of up to 75 euros and a further 60 euros plus a point in Flensburg for acute danger, but the safety of your dog is paramount. Further important information on fines and consequences can be found on this page "Seat belt obligation in Germany" can be found here. How you can ensure this even without a dog crate
Should you just strap your dog into the car and drive off? The situation is not quite that simple (also legally), because in the event of a police check you could be fined. Dogs are legally considered cargo and must be secured accordingly to prevent them from slipping and falling. However, you can certainly accept a fine of up to 75 euros and a further 60 euros plus a point in Flensburg for acute danger, but the safety of your dog is paramount. Further important information on fines and consequences can be found on this page "Seat belt obligation in Germany" can be found here. How you can ensure this even without a dog crate
Buckling up your dog in the car - the seat belt for the dog
First of all, you need a suitable car harness for your four-legged friend so that you can hook it into the system of your choice. In addition to a good fit, you should also look for robust hooks and fully stitched eyelets so that your dog is well secured even in the event of emergency braking.
With the Dog safety belt or bitch also requires a harness. This stabilizes your four-legged friend in all directions with a triangle of forces. However, you should supplement such systems with a protective mat and separating grid.
A car safety buckle, a harness and a belt system are ideal for medium-sized dogs in particular. You can tell whether the harnesses and buckles are safe by the GS seal for tested safety.
For larger dog breeds, there is hardly any way around a dog crate for the trunk. With small dogs, on the other hand, you have many transportation options, even in a small car.
With the Dog safety belt or bitch also requires a harness. This stabilizes your four-legged friend in all directions with a triangle of forces. However, you should supplement such systems with a protective mat and separating grid.
A car safety buckle, a harness and a belt system are ideal for medium-sized dogs in particular. You can tell whether the harnesses and buckles are safe by the GS seal for tested safety.
For larger dog breeds, there is hardly any way around a dog crate for the trunk. With small dogs, on the other hand, you have many transportation options, even in a small car.
The simplest solution here is the dog transport box or a softer safety tube. A metal transport box is generally more resistant to accidents than a lighter, cheaper plastic version. These can be stowed in the trunk (with additional straps) or footwell, but can be a little uncomfortable for the dog on long journeys.
A dog basket is more or less a dog car seatcomparable to a child seat for the back seat. This is the most comfortable option for small dog breeds. Of course, you will still need a suitable harness and will have to secure your dog with a belt or harness. car safety buckle car safety buckle.
The same applies to soft bags, which must also be secured with straps.
However, there are also special dog seats for cars that are secured in all directions with a base and four side sections. Dogs must still be strapped into the dog seat and the seat must also be strapped into the vehicle. However, you don't need a special dog blanket to keep the upholstery fur-free and you can use the dog seat as a carry bag and basket for your vacation home.
If necessary, you should use rear seat barriers and dividers as additional safety devices. These create a spatial separation and many barriers are even padded, but never in all directions. In the event of an evasive maneuver, an unrestrained four-legged friend would be thrown into the door panel.
The same applies to soft bags, which must also be secured with straps.
However, there are also special dog seats for cars that are secured in all directions with a base and four side sections. Dogs must still be strapped into the dog seat and the seat must also be strapped into the vehicle. However, you don't need a special dog blanket to keep the upholstery fur-free and you can use the dog seat as a carry bag and basket for your vacation home.
If necessary, you should use rear seat barriers and dividers as additional safety devices. These create a spatial separation and many barriers are even padded, but never in all directions. In the event of an evasive maneuver, an unrestrained four-legged friend would be thrown into the door panel.
With the dog as a passenger
Basically, there are many solutions for traveling safely and comfortably on vacation with your dog without worrying about the well-being and safety of your four-legged friends. Which solution is best for you depends primarily on the size and breed of your dog and, of course, the space available in your car.
However, the equipment is not enough, as you should also allow some time for your dog to get used to it. Slowly get your dog used to the harness and crates at home and ensure a dog-friendly environment during the journey. Then nothing will stand in the way of a relaxed vacation.
However, the equipment is not enough, as you should also allow some time for your dog to get used to it. Slowly get your dog used to the harness and crates at home and ensure a dog-friendly environment during the journey. Then nothing will stand in the way of a relaxed vacation.
