If you’ve ever driven with your Frenchie moving around the backseat or sitting in your lap, you understand how distracting it can be. Though it may seem adorable to see a dog enjoying a car ride with its head out the window, it is, in fact, quite dangerous. We have compiled the ultimate guide to assist you in finding the best car seats for French Bulldogs, combining safety, comfort, and style to ensure that your Frenchie is snug and secure on every journey—whether it’s a quick trip to the vet or a long vacation road trip.
You will learn about the critical role car seats play in keeping Frenchies safe, the importance of utilizing car seats and the risks French Bulldogs face in car accidents when car seats are not used. Let’s get started!
Canine Bible has tested and rated thousands of dog products, including dog car seats, to help you make better buying decisions. Read our editorial mission. This specific review article was written by the research team at Canine Bible, passionate and experienced dog experts and enthusiasts. All content has been fact-checked and vet-approved by Dr. Meri Halvari, DVM, and our veterinary review board. For a deeper understanding of dog car seats, our writers and editorial team have referenced and cited peer-reviewed studies and insights from industry experts.
To generate a list of our top French Bulldog car seats, four of our testers and their Frenchies evaluated various dog car seat brands in The Canine Bible Lab and real-world conditions to gauge their performance in crucial areas. These areas included the quality of materials, safety features, ease of installation, comfort level, and overall value for money (read our product review and test methodology for more information on how we test items). Additionally, we sought expert opinions to pinpoint the essential characteristics of an ideal dog car seat for brachycephalic breeds like French Bulldogs.
Here’s how we tested within five performance categories.
Material Quality: We scrutinized the fabric and structural components of each car seat, prioritizing those made with durable, high-grade materials that offer comfort without compromising on safety. We looked for seats with robust, yet cozy fabrics that could withstand the typical wear and tear from dogs.
Safety Features: The paramount aspect of a dog car seat is its safety. We assessed the robustness of safety tethers, the reliability of the fastening system, and the overall design’s ability to secure a pet during a ride. Seats that demonstrated superior protection in case of sudden stops or collisions scored highly.
Ease of Installation: We valued car seats that can be quickly and easily installed and removed from the vehicle, allowing for convenience and flexibility for pet owners. User-friendly designs with clear instructions were rated favorably.
Comfort Level: Given the particular needs of French Bulldogs, comfort was a critical component. We sought seats with ample padding, proper ventilation, and enough space to allow for a relaxed seating position, ensuring the seats were snug yet spacious enough for a French Bulldog’s unique body shape.
Overall Value: After considering the quality and performance of each car seat, testers were tasked with determining if the product offered good value for its price. Car seats that met all our criteria and were deemed a worthy investment by our testers received top marks for overall value.
How We Rated The Best French Bulldog Car Seats
4.8 to 5 stars: These dog car seats are the best we tested. We recommend them without reservation for your French Bulldog’s safety and comfort during car travel. They excel in material quality, safety features, ease of use, comfort, and overall value.
4.5 to 4.7 stars: These dog car seats are excellent, with only minor drawbacks such as a higher price or limited color options. We still endorse them for their overall performance and comfort.
4.0 to 4.4 stars: These are solid choices for your French Bulldog, though there may be superior options available. They meet the most essential criteria but may lack in certain aspects like ease of cleaning or adjustability.
3.5 to 3.9 stars: These car seats are average. They meet the fundamental needs but might not offer the best materials or might have a design that is not as user-friendly.
3.4 and below: We don’t recommend car seats within this rating range and you won’t find them on our list. They may have significant drawbacks, such as subpar materials, inadequate safety features, or poor design for a French Bulldog’s comfort.
We created this article on the best car seats for Frenchies to provide dog owners with comprehensive, well-researched, and trustworthy information. Our goal is to empower Frenchie owners to make informed decisions about their car seat needs and help you discover the best car seat brands.
Is it essential to secure your French Bulldog with a car seat? Much like the way you wouldn’t dream of driving with a child unsecured, your French Bulldog should also always be safely restrained in the vehicle. As pet owners, it’s our responsibility to minimize distractions while driving.
The American Automobile Association (AAA) and Kurgo report that 1 in 5 dog owners take their hands off the steering wheel to prevent their pets from climbing into the front seat.
Moreover, the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety warns that even two seconds of diverted attention from the road can double your chances of being involved in a crash.[1] These statistics show that looking away from the road for just a few seconds or being distracted by a French Bulldog that is not properly restrained can be a significant distraction and significantly increase the risk of a deadly accident for you and your four-legged co-pilot.
French Bulldogs Risks of Not Using a Car Seat
In the event of a car accident, a French Bulldog, or any dog for that matter, can become a dangerous projectile.
Consider this: an average-sized French Bulldog weighing 28 pounds, when unrestrained in a vehicle that crashes at 50 mph, can exert approximately 1,518 pounds of force.[2] Such force is sufficient to propel your Frenchie through the car, potentially causing injury to both the dog and human passengers. Additionally, the impact of a collision can force a dog’s internal organs like the heart, lungs, brain and intestines to shift violently, which can be fatal.
Allianz, a travel insurance company, has stated that an airborne dog can experience forces of projection up to 40 times its weight.[3] The potential damage from such force if your French Bulldog is not safely secured in a car seat or harness could be lethal. Jennifer Huebner-Davidson, a traffic safety programs manager for AAA, told CNN that even at a modest speed of 30 miles per hour, an unrestrained 10-pound dog can exert an estimated 300 pounds of pressure in a crash.[4]
Understanding these risks underscores why securing your French Bulldog with a car seat is not just a precaution—it’s a potentially life-saving measure.
Other Reasons to Get A Car Seat For French Bulldogs
Dog car seats not only reduce the risk of injury during a crash but also provide several other benefits:
Visibility. Dogs are naturally curious and often want to see their surroundings. A dog booster seat raises them to a level for better visibility, enhancing their comfort while ensuring their safety during the drive.
Mitigating sickness and anxiety. Car seats help dogs that suffer from motion sickness by keeping them more stationary, which can lessen nausea. Additionally, the secure environment of a car seat can make dogs feel safer and more at ease, potentially reducing anxiety.
Peace of mind for owners. During car rides, it’s common for dogs to become overly excited, leading to panting or whining. Having your dog in a car seat can give them a reassuring sense of enclosure, offering peace of mind for both the pet and the owner.
Protecting your vehicle’s interior. If your Frenchie gets car sick, a car seat is a lifesaver for your vehicle’s interior, shielding it from drool or vomit.
How to Pick The Best French Bulldog Car Seat
Size, weight and fitStart by measuring your dog’s height and weight. The seat should provide enough room for your pet to sit, stand, and turn around comfortably. Ensure the car seat can support your French Bulldog’s weight. This is crucial for safety.
Sturdy attachment and secure fasteningEnsure the car seat has a robust system for attaching to your vehicle’s seat belts and includes adjustable leashes or harnesses to keep your dog securely fastened in their seat.
Ease of useThe car seat should be easy to install and remove for convenience. If you plan on moving the seat frequently, look for a lightweight and portable model.
Material qualitySelect a seat made from durable materials that can withstand scratching and chewing.
Additional featuresPockets can be handy for storing doggy essentials like treats, bags, and leashes.
Compatibility with your vehicleEnsure the car seat fits well in your car, leaving enough space for human passengers and other items. Consider whether your car has any specific requirements or limitations for attaching a dog seat. Choose a seat that is suitable for both the front and back seats of your car, giving you flexibility.
Safety certificationsOpt for car seats that have been crash-tested and have safety certifications from reputable organizations.
Ease of cleaningRemovable and washable covers are a plus, as French Bulldogs can drool or shed.
Climate considerationFor areas with extreme temperatures, look for car seats with temperature-regulation features or breathable fabric.
Why we picked and recommended it: The Snoozer Lookout Dog Car Seat is perfect for letting your Frenchie enjoy a safe and comfy ride. It doubles as a booster seat and takes into account the pet’s viewing pleasure and comfort, which is important for Frenchies who enjoy watching the world go by. This car seat is soft to the touch while strong enough to handle daily wear and tear.
What sets it apart from competitors: This car seat’s sherpa lining fabric is designed to keep your pup cool in the summer and warm during the winter. Furthermore, its foam form and simulated lamb’s wool interior create a cozy bed-type environment, which makes it perfect for dogs who get easily excited or dislike traveling.
Key Features
Safety strap. Secures the seat to the car and also fastens your pet in place.
Poly cotton cover. Our poly-cotton exterior is fade-resistant, shrink-resistant, and wrinkle-resistant, which means it holds up to heavy use and regular cleaning while still looking great.
What We Like (Pros)
Straps to connect your dog’s harness to the seat
Washable/dryable
Cover repels hair
What We Don’t Like (Cons)
It may be on the pricier side compared to some other options.
Bulkiness could make it challenging to fit in smaller cars alongside other passengers.
2. Best Car Seat For French Bulldog Puppy
4.7
★★★★★
K&H Pet
Who It’s For: French Bulldog puppy owners seeking a car seat designed for the comfort and safety of young Frenchies.
Why we picked and recommended it: The K&H Pet Bucket Booster Seat is designed by K&H, a leading pet accessory manufacturing brand with over 20 years of experience. The small or console version of this seat is perfect for young French bulldog puppies who have not reached adult-sized or French Bulldog females who tend to be smaller in size than male Frenchies. It’s cozy and provides enhanced comfort thanks to a 3-inch foam cushion that is washable.
What sets it apart from competitors: Great for small dogs or puppies as it dips down in the front so your pet can easily climb in and out for easy buckling up. If you have two puppies, the large option can fit up to two small pets or one medium-sized breed.
Key Features
Safety leashes. Two adjustable security leashes to attach to your puppy’s harness for safety.
Durability. Constructed with sturdy materials designed to last and hold up to the wear and tear of puppy use.
What We Like (Pros)
Elevates pets for a better view
Reduces motion sickness
Fits in front or back seat
Removable, washable cover
One-year limited warranty
Cover repels hair
What We Don’t Like (Cons)
Liquid stains can soal in the foam
3. Best French Bulldog Car Seat For Extra Protection
4.7
★★★★★
Queens Nose
Who It’s For: Ideal for those who prioritize safety and extra protection in a car seat for their pets and individuals who frequently travel with their dogs and need a durable solution that offers both front and back protection.
Why we picked and recommended it: If you want extra safety features and protection in an accident, QUEENS NOSE Durable Dog Car Seat comes with front and back airbags and protects the dog from sudden stops. This car seat is designed to protect your Frenchie from bouncing back and forth. We selected this seat for its comprehensive protective design, which guards against impacts from multiple directions, a crucial feature for unpredictable driving conditions.
What sets it apart from competitors: It comes with four sides with zippers that can be changed into various shapes for versatile use. For instance, you can fold one pillow in half so dogs can lean on their necks or even use it as a dog bed.
Key Features
Pockets on both sides. It has pockets for snacks, collars, toys, or other storage needs.
Extra protection. Includes additional padding, which can absorb shock and offer a smooth ride for sensitive pets. It’s reinforced front and back protection.
What We Like (Pros)
Handles for easy carrying
Waterproof fabric
One-year replacement warranty
Anti-slip bottom
High-quality leash
What We Don’t Like (Cons)
The extra protection may make the seat bulkier, which could be a disadvantage for smaller vehicles
It may require more effort to install properly due to its enhanced safety features.
4. Best Booster Seat For French Bull Dog
4.5
★★★★★
Kurgo
Who It’s For: French Bulldog owners who want to give their pets a better view out of the window without compromising on safety.
Why we picked and recommended it: The Kurgo Skybox Booster Seat is the perfect booster seat for Frenchies. We chose this seat for its height-boosting capability that allows pets to enjoy car rides with a clear view, reducing anxiety and car sickness.
What sets it apart from competitors: Features metal supports for structural integrity and a tether that can be easily attached to a harness to keep your French Bulldog secure in the booster. It’s a comfortable bucket-shaped seat that your dog will feel safe and secure in.
Key Features
Portability. Lightweight and collapsible design for convenient storage and portability.
Durability. Made with durable ripstop material
Pockets. Includes zippered side storage pockets for packing treats and toys
What We Like (Pros)
Reversible and washable liner
Fits in front or back seat
Waterproof exterior
What We Don’t Like (Cons)
May not be as plush as other seats, which might require additional cushioning for maximum comfort
5. Cheapest Car Seat For French Bulldog
4.5
★★★★★
Bloblo
Who It’s For: Great for budget-conscious Frenchie owner who still prioritizes safety and comfort for their pets.
Why we picked and recommended it: The BLOBLO Dog Car Seat is our top affordable pick, balancing price and functionality. Despite its lower price, it doesn’t compromise on the essential requirements of a good pet booster seat, such as quality and safety.
What sets it apart from competitors: Its Oxford and polypropylene webbing cloth design keeps the pets warm and comfortable and the seat includes soft padding for your pet’s comfort during rides.
Key Features
Easy to install. Thanks to an adjustable buckle design, it can be quickly installed according to the model car in its front seat or rear seat.
Storage pockets. Handy pockets for storing treats, toys, or waste bags.
What We Like (Pros)
Machine washable or hand wash
Wear-resistant and bite-resistant, non-sticky, no static
Adjustable buckle design
What We Don’t Like (Cons)
Not suitable for large dogs
The materials might not be as durable as more expensive models, potentially affecting longevity
6. Best French Bulldog Car Seat Covers
4.8
★★★★★
4Knines
Who It’s For: Execellent for French Bulldog owners who prioritize preserving their car’s interior while ensuring their pet’s comfort.
Why we picked and recommended it: We chose 4Knines Dog Seat Cover for its design focused on pet comfort and protection for the vehicle. Its versatility allows it to fit a wide range of car models, which is highly beneficial for owners who use different vehicles. It’s perfect for pet parents looking to protect their car’s interiors. This car seat cover not only shields your seats from dirt and hair but also ensures your pet’s safety.
What sets it apart from competitors: Its hammock design prevents your French Bulldog from unsafely placing its front legs on the floor or poking its head into the front seat area, which could distract you while driving.
Key Features
Stylish look. This seat cover has a quilted top layer that not only looks stylish but also provides extra comfort for your pet.
Easy to maintain. You can simply vacuum it, rinse it with a hose, or pop it in the washing machine.
What We Like (Pros)
Waterproof and non-slip design
Covers the entirety of your backseat
Ideal for a car or smaller SUV
Padded for comfort
Made from heavy-duty materials
What We Don’t Like (Cons)
It may be too bulky for smaller vehicles or those with uniquely shaped seats.
7. Best Seat Belt For French Bull Dog
4.7
★★★★★
Vastar
Who It’s For: It’s ideal for those who are looking for a reliable restraint that affords their Frenchie a bit of freedom to move without compromising on safety.
Why we picked and recommended it: The Vastar Adjustable Dog Car Seat Belt is one method to ensure your Frenchie remains safely restrained and secure in the vehicle while driving. It provides the flexibility for your dog to sit, stand, or lie down comfortably in a car without causing distractions to the driver. A seat belt provides more freedom than a car seat. This seat belt features a clip that is 2 cm wide, so be sure to check the size and compatibility of your car’s buckle before purchasing.
What sets it apart from competitors: It offers a swivel snap that prevents tangling, ensuring your Frenchie can shift positions without getting wrapped up in the belt.
This seat belt requires the use of a harness. Do not attach it to your dog’s collar. Refer to our top harness pick below. — When seatbelting your dog, always use a harness instead of a collar. In the event of an impact, a collar would concentrate collision forces on your dog’s neck. A harness, on the other hand, will distribute the impact across the broader area of his chest.
Key Features
Universal fit. Universal clip for compatibility with most vehicles.
Adjustable. Adjustable length for comfort and flexibility (21 to 36 inches).
What We Like (Pros)
Takes up less space than a car seat
Sturdy and durable
18-month warranty
What We Don’t Like (Cons)
May not be compatible with some older vehicle models
It requires a separate harness, as attaching it to a collar is not recommended
8. Best Harness For French Bulldog
4.9
★★★★★
Sleepypod
Who It’s For: It’s especially suited for French Bulldogs due to its adjustable sizing and ergonomic design that accommodates their unique body shape.
Why we picked and recommended it: A car harness for dogs can create a safer, more comfortable ride for your French Bulldog pup. We chose the Sleepypod ClickIt harness for its outstanding safety features, which have been rigorously crash-tested under the same crash test conditions used to test child safety restraints. It has a five-star rating from the Center for Pet Safety. Its reputation for durability and comfort makes it a top choice for French Bulldog owners. This level of testing is not common among pet harnesses, setting it apart in the market.
What sets it apart from competitors: What distinguishes the Sleepypod ClickIt harness is its three-point design and softly padded chest that evenly distributes force throughout the dog’s torso and minimizes movement, decreasing damage in the event of an accident.
Be sure to measure your Frenchie’s chest size before getting it. The small option should work fine on most French Bulldogs, but a medium choice might be ideal if you have a bigger dog.
Key Features
Versatile. Compatible with car seat belt systems
Durable. High-quality materials that stand up to wear and tear
What We Like (Pros)
Dog can stand, sit, lay
Ballistic nylon exterior
Automotive-grade seatbelt webbing
Vest distributes and disperses damaging forces
Energy-absorbing padded vest
What We Don’t Like (Cons)
A little expensive
Some dogs might find the harness too restrictive or heavy
May require a period of adjustment for the dog to get used to the harness
Here are three things to keep in mind when using a car seat.
Always use a dog car seat with a reliable harness. This ensures your pet’s safety and prevents them from escaping the seat during the journey.
Position the car seat in the backseat of your vehicle. If your Frenchie is seated in the front passenger seat, they are at risk of being injured by an airbag deployment or being ejected through the window in the event of an accident.
When using a dog seat belt, it is essential to pair it with a dog harness. Attach the seat belt to your dog’s harness, not their collar. Fastening anything to your dog’s neck can lead to serious injury or even fatal consequences in the event of an accident due to the high risk of choking and neck trauma. A harness is designed to distribute the impact force evenly across the dog’s body, thereby reducing the risk of injury.
If you get a dog seat belt, use it with a dog harness. Hook the seat belt to your dog’s harness. Never tighten anything to your dog’s neck/collar. The force of an accident can severely injure or break their neck. The risk of choking is high. A dog harness allows the force of the impact to be distributed evenly across the body.
Ensure that the car seat is securely fastened to your vehicle’s seats.
If you have a Frenchie who gets anxious during rides, you can also explore CBD dog treats. They work great for relieving anxious behaviors.
Car Dog Ramp For French Bulldogs
If you have a senior French Bulldog, or if your Frenchie suffers from arthritis or other mobility issues, it might be time to consider dog stairs or a ramp. Many veterinarians recommend ramps, particularly for aging dogs, as their ability to leap onto elevated surfaces diminishes and their joints become more susceptible to injuries.
Dog ramps can simplify life for small dog breeds with short legs, like French Bulldogs. Should your cherished canine companion struggle to climb into the car for any reason, the PetSafe Solvit Pet Ramp could prove to be a useful aid.
Dog Car Crash Statistics
According to a survey by AAA & Kurgo Pet Passenger, 65% of dog owners acknowledge engaging in at least one potentially distracting activity while driving with their dog.[5] The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration highlights that distracted driving accounts for nearly 16% of all car accidents. Securing your French Bulldog in a car seat can not only protect them in the event of a collision but also help to minimize distractions while you drive.
Does Your Frenchie Get Anxious In The Car?
If your French Bulldog gets anxious in the car, here are some tips for calming him down.
Introducing Your French Bulldog to a Car Seat
If your Frenchie is reluctant about using a car seat, follow this step-by-step guide to introduce them to the car seat correctly.
Step 1: Place the car seat in the house and let them sit there so he gets comfortable by just being in the room.
Step 2: Put treats in the car seat to encourage your dog to place a paw on the seat to reach his treat. Try it a few times.
Step 3: Place your dog in the seat and reward them for staying put, even if it’s just for a few seconds.
Step 4: Encourage your Frenchie to get into the seat by themselves, using a treat as a lure. Reward them once they are seated.
Step 5: Increase the duration your Frenchie stays in the seat before giving them a treat. Practice this step several times.
Step 6: Secure your Frenchie in the car seat with a clip. Praise and reward them for staying calm and not trying to escape.
Step 7: After a few days of practice, move the practice into the car. Have your dog sit in the car seat until calm and relaxed.
Step 8: With consistent practice, your dog should soon look forward to jumping into their seat without hesitation whenever it’s time for a drive.
Ensure your dog always associates the car seat with positive experiences. Start with very short sessions and reward them with their favorite treats or affection. Although it might be challenging initially, aim to conclude each session on a positive note.
French Bulldog Car Seats — Conclusion
Finding the best car seat for your French Bulldog is crucial, and it’s not always straightforward. The importance of your choice cannot be overstated, as it’s about more than just comfort — it’s about safety. While you might stumble upon cheaper options that seem adequate, the best dog car seats typically come with a higher price. A proper car seat can prevent injuries during sudden stops or accidents, minimize distractions for the driver, and make the journey more enjoyable for your four-legged companion.
In addition to finding the right car seat, we highly recommend considering pet insurance for your French Bulldog. Pet insurance can be a true lifesaver, offering not just protection for your furry companion but also shielding your finances from unexpected veterinary expenses.
And for those of you looking to safeguard your pet within the confines of your property, exploring the option of dog runs might be beneficial. Dog runs provide a secure area for your pet to exercise and enjoy the outdoors without risking them wandering off or coming to harm. Ensuring your French Bulldog’s safety, both in the car and at home, should be a priority for any responsible pet owner.
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Sources
Canine Bible uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process and product review methodology to learn more about how we fact-check, test products, and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
Canine Bible authorship represents the unified voice of our entire editorial team and our in-house veterinarians rather than a single author. Each article, blog post, and review published under the Canine Bible name undergoes a rigorous review process, involving all team members to guarantee accuracy and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research. This collaborative effort is an integral part of our editorial process and aligns with our four pillars of content creation. This approach ensures our content is backed by expert knowledge and factual information, offering our readers reliable, actionable, and trustworthy content.
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