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Even the best-behaved dogs can cause unintentional damage to your vehicle’s interior when they go along for the ride.
Anyone who has traveled with pets knows some of the challenges when driving with four-legged friends: fur clinging to upholstery, drool on the dashboard or seats, nail marks on vinyl side panels and the occasional potty mishap.
Your vehicle’s clean interior can turn into a furry mess.
"A cushioned surface helps reduce anxiety and even motion sickness in some dogs,” said Dr. Emily Carter of Companion Animal Clinic. “Avoid covers with strong chemical odors, as these can be overwhelming for a dog’s sensitive nose.
“Also, make sure the cover doesn’t block airflow in the backseat—especially on long distance trips."
For dogs prone to travel anxiety, hammock-style seat covers create a cozy, den-like space. They also increase driver safety by blocking off the front seats. Mesh windows allow air flow.
Hammock-style seats allow your dog to see you and feel reassured while still staying safely confined, Dr. Carter said.
Durability
Opt for seat covers made from scratch-resistant and tear-proof materials.
According to Pat O’Donnell of Seat Cover Solutions, reinforced stitching prevents seams from splitting under pressure and stops hair from getting stuck in the fabric. Durable car covers can withstand dog’s claws and movements inside the vehicle during travel.
"Look for materials like Oxford cloth, eco-leather, heavy-duty polyester or canvas.” O’Donnell said. “These options protect your seats and allow your dog to scratch or chew without causing damage.”
Waterproof
O’Donnell recommends waterproof seat cover for puppies in potty training, senior dogs with bladder issues or anxious dogs who drool.
Waterproof covers keep moisture from seeping into your upholstery and creating permanent damage from stains or odors, O’Donnell says.
O'Donnell advises choosing seat covers made from materials with polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) coatings for optimal water resistance. These materials not only keep your seats dry and are also easy to wipe clean.
Washing Machine Friendly
All pet covers eventually get soiled. While some covers are installed as permanent solutions, others are designed to place in the laundry pile.
Regular machine washing helps remove stubborn odors, bacteria and allergens that can accumulate in the fabric. Select materials that can withstand frequent washes without tearing or fading–quilted or padded designs with removable layers and durable polyester fabric.
Avoid plush-only fabrics that tend to trap hair and do not hold up to regular washing.
Non-Slip Backing
Non-slip baking helps the seat cover stay securely in place and prevent it from sliding around even if you have an active canine.
O’Donnell emphasizes the importance of non-slip covers with seat anchors and adjustable straps that stay in place no matter how much your dog moves around.
“Adjustable straps make sure the dog car seat cover is securely fastened, preventing it from slipping or shifting during transit,” O’Donnell said. “Seat anchors lock the cover in place, stopping it from bunching up or moving around while your dog is in motion.”
He also shares expert tips for keeping dog car seat covers in top condition over the long haul.
- Use a vacuum to remove pet hair, dirt and debris every week. This prevents buildup that wears down the fabric over time.
- Always wash according to the manufacturer’s guidelines. Use mild detergent and cold water to preserve waterproof coatings and prevent shrinkage.
- For minor accidents, use a pet-safe fabric cleaner and soft cloth to clean targeted areas that don’t need a full wash.
- Remove, fold and store seat covers in a dry place when not in use. To avoid mold, mildew or damage from prolonged sun exposure.
- Direct sunlight fades seat cover colors. Use UV-resistant window shades or pack in shaded areas to prevent discoloration.
- Use a damp cloth to remove stains. For stubborn stains, use pet-safe laundry soap and rinse the area carefully. Never use bleach on car seat covers.
- Consider a backup set of seat covers if you travel regularly with pets. Rotating them prolongs life and allows you to have one in the laundry pile while the other is ready for your next pet excursion.
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