For pet owners, the joy of bringing furry companions along for car rides often comes with a side of worry—the potential for mess. Whether it’s muddy paws after a park visit, shedding fur during road trips, or the occasional accident, our beloved pets can unintentionally wreak havoc on car interiors. That’s where Pet Seat Covers come to the rescue. These essential car accessories act as a robust barrier, shielding your seats from hair, dirt, scratches, and spills, allowing you to enjoy journeys with your dog without the stress of interior damage.
To help you navigate the vast market of dog car seat covers, we’ve rigorously tested 18 of the latest and highest-rated options. Our hands-on testing involved real dogs, real cars, and real-world scenarios, ensuring we identified the best pet seat covers for various needs and vehicles. Safety is paramount, so every car seat protector we evaluated features seat belt slots, crucial for securing your pet with a safety harness. We considered diverse styles, from simple bench covers to full hammock designs, and assessed features like waterproofing, durability, ease of cleaning, and overall value. Discover our top recommendations to find the perfect pet seat cover and keep your car pristine, mile after happy mile.
Best Overall Pet Seat Cover
URPOWER Dog Car Seat Cover
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PHOTO: Amazon
What We Love:
- Waterproof and highly durable material
- Comprehensive four-sided back seat coverage
- Available in a wide array of colors to match your car interior
- Non-slip backing to keep the cover securely in place
- Convenient Velcro openings for easy seat belt access
What Could Be Improved:
- May shift slightly in windy conditions with windows down
- Not designed for machine washing
The URPOWER Dog Seat Cover stands out as our top overall pick due to its exceptional versatility and reliable protection. This waterproof pet seat cover offers three configuration styles: use it as a cargo liner for SUVs, a standard bench cover for back seats, or a hammock-style cover, providing complete protection for the back seat, floor, and even the back of the front seats and doors. This comprehensive coverage makes it an ideal car seat protector for dogs for daily commutes, errands, and adventurous trips to the dog park.
Installation is straightforward and secure in all configurations, thanks to seat anchors, headrest straps, and a non-slip bottom. The cover’s understated design blends seamlessly with most vehicle interiors, offering both aesthetic appeal and robust protection. Crafted with a quilted surface, it provides a comfortable space for your dog to relax during rides. Knowing it’s 100% waterproof, you can travel worry-free, easily spot cleaning or vacuuming up messes as needed. A handy extra pocket provides storage for dog essentials like leashes and collapsible bowls. For a reliable, adaptable, and effective dog seat cover, the URPOWER is an excellent choice.
Dimensions: 54 x 58 inches (standard), 60 x 64 inches (extra-large) | Weight: 2.65 pounds (standard), 3.09 pounds (extra-large) | Material: Polypropylene | Coverage Style: Car bench, back seat hammock, cargo liner | Breed Size: All sizes
[:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/sps-dog-seats-cover-test-urpower-dana-ingemann-04-611b60eecebb4be8a11e5b80dbdc8328.jpg)](https://www.thesprucepets.com/thmb/7lpUMgCUtXFaHo5vuSbBesvQsnc=/fit-in/1300×0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/sps-dog-seats-cover-test-urpower-dana-ingemann-04-611b60eecebb4be8a11e5b80dbdc8328.jpg)
PHOTO: The Spruce Pets / Dana Ingemann
Best Bench Seat Cover
PetSafe Quilted Bench Car Seat Cover
PHOTO: Amazon
What We Love:
- Reliably waterproof to protect your seats from spills and accidents
- Non-slip backing ensures the cover stays in place
- Stylish leather and brass accents elevate the look
- Conveniently machine washable for easy cleaning
- Includes seat belt keepers and zipper access for buckles
What Could Be Improved:
- Quilted design may trap dog hair, requiring more thorough cleaning
The PetSafe Quilted Bench Car Seat Cover is designed for pet owners who want a combination of style and functionality in a bench seat cover for dogs. This quilted dog seat cover is crafted to effortlessly fit the back seat of most cars, SUVs, and trucks, making it perfect for everyday use. A key feature we appreciated during testing was its ability to stay firmly in place, a crucial factor for both driver and dog comfort. A stable car seat protector provides a secure and inviting surface for your dog, reducing distractions for the driver.
This cover employs elastic straps for headrests, seat anchors, and a non-slip backing to ensure minimal movement. Built-in keeper straps position seat belts for human passengers, while zippered slots offer access to in-bench seat belts. While testing in a Mazda CX-5, we noted slight buckle access difficulty due to the seat belt length, but this is a minor issue not directly related to the cover’s design. With zippers closed, it delivers complete waterproof protection. For cleaning, the entire cover is machine washable, though vacuuming and spot cleaning are often sufficient for everyday messes. The leather trim and brass accents add a touch of elegance, justifying its slightly higher price point as a premium pet seat cover option.
Dimensions: 60 x 46 x 11.75 inches | Weight: 4.5 pounds | Material: 100% cotton | Coverage Style: Car bench | Breed Size: All sizes
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PHOTO: The Spruce Pets / Julia Sayers Gokhale
Best Pet Seat Cover for Large Dogs
4Knines Dog Seat Cover
PHOTO: Amazon
What We Love:
- Reliable non-slip backing and colorfast material for durability
- Comfortable quilted and padded surface
- Designed to fit most car models including vans, SUVs, and trucks
- Durable enough to withstand sharp dog nails
What Could Be Improved:
- Does not offer door protection
- Some users report occasional leaks despite waterproof claims
For owners of larger breeds, the 4Knines Dog Seat Cover with Hammock is a top choice. This dog seat cover for large dogs is specifically built to handle the unique challenges that come with bigger canines. Large paws often mean tougher nails and more mud, and this padded car seat protector is up to the task. During our tests, the hammock style combined with the robust material proved particularly effective in preventing damage from large dog nails as they moved around.
The adjustable cover is available in regular and extra-large sizes and constructed with multiple layers of colorfast polyester, including a non-stick waterproof backing. Installation is simple with seat anchors and headrest straps. For maintenance, it can be easily wiped down or machine-washed for deeper cleaning. Notably, this durable pet seat cover is made without heavy metals and AZO dyes, prioritizing your pet’s safety and health. If you need a pet seat cover that can withstand the wear and tear of a large dog, 4Knines is an excellent option.
Dimensions: 13.4 x 54 x 3.54 inches (regular), 15.55 x 12.44 x 4.53 inches (extra-large) | Weight: 2.95 pounds (regular), 3.68 pounds (extra large) | Material: Polyester | Coverage Style: Car bench, back seat hammock | Breed Size: All sizes
Best Budget Pet Seat Cover
Frisco Quilted Water Resistant Bench Car Seat Cover
PHOTO: Frisco Quilted
What We Love:
- Designed to fit a wide range of vehicles including cars, vans, SUVs, and trucks
- Made with water-resistant polyester fabric for basic protection
- Includes convenient storage pockets for pet accessories
What Could Be Improved:
- Bottom corner straps may not be compatible with all car models
The Frisco Quilted Water Resistant Bench Car Seat Cover proves that affordability doesn’t have to compromise protection. This budget pet seat cover offers excellent value, providing reliable seat protection without breaking the bank. It securely fits most car seats using adjustable headrest straps, acting as a dependable car seat protector. Seat anchors, a non-mesh backing, and reinforced stitching ensure the heavy-duty polyester fabric stays in place.
Handy storage pockets are included to keep dog toys or leashes organized, and convenient slits allow access to seatbelts, which can be closed when not in use. We highly recommend pairing any pet seat cover with a crash-tested car seat or restraint for your dog’s safety. This combination not only protects your car but also promotes a safer and more relaxed environment for your pet during travel, often leading to calmer car rides. Available in gray, black, and cream, this universally fitting cover is suitable for nearly any vehicle. Cleanup is easy as it is machine-washable, making it a practical and economical dog seat cover.
Dimensions: 48 x 59 x 0.2 inches | Weight: 4.23 pounds | Material: Polyester, nylon, synthetic | Coverage Style: Car bench | Breed Size: All sizes
Best Front Seat Pet Cover
Active Pets Front Seat Dog Cover
PHOTO: Amazon
What We Love:
- Waterproof fabric construction for maximum spill protection
- Features side and front flaps for enhanced coverage
- Available with blue, pink, or orange trim options to personalize your car
What Could Be Improved:
- Color options limited to black only for the main cover
While safety guidelines recommend dogs travel in the back seat with a restraint, certain situations, like trucks or cars without back seats, necessitate front seat travel. In these cases, the Active Pets Front Seat Dog Cover is an excellent solution. This front seat dog cover is designed to protect bucket-style seats and prioritize pet safety with restraint use.
Constructed with four layers of waterproof fabric, this pet front seat protector offers superior spill resistance. It also includes side and front flaps for extra protection against muddy paws. We found it quick and easy to install in various car models, effectively covering all areas prone to pet messes. Seat anchors and adjustable buckles around the headrest and seat ensure a secure, custom fit. Though only available in black, trim options in orange, pink, or blue allow for a touch of personalization. For reliable front seat protection, this dog seat cover is a smart choice.
Dimensions: 12 x 11.5 x 2.5 inches | Weight: 1.4 pounds | Material: Cotton | Coverage Style: Front seat | Breed Size: All sizes
[:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/sps-dog-seats-cover-test-active-pets-front-jennifer-may-04-6873ee855fc846069e95a7d6a4cf6c90.jpg)](https://www.thesprucepets.com/thmb/RZrPkDYdkD24sZ30ZedbnJRqLtE=/fit-in/1300×0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/sps-dog-seats-cover-test-active-pets-front-jennifer-may-04-6873ee855fc846069e95a7d6a4cf6c90.jpg)
PHOTO: The Spruce Pets / Jennifer May
Best Cargo Liner for Pets
F-color Cargo Liner
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PHOTO: Amazon
What We Love:
- Non-slip bottom ensures cargo stays put during travel
- Includes bumper coverage to protect against scratches during loading
- Water-resistant material for spill protection
- Available in a variety of colors to match your vehicle
What Could Be Improved:
- Suction cup feature for installation not consistently reliable
For pet owners with SUVs, the F-color SUV Cargo Liner is an excellent choice to protect the cargo area. This dog cargo liner is specifically designed to shield the rear of your SUV from bumper to back seat, including the floor and side areas. It effectively contains pet messes and protects against scratches and dirt.
Installation is designed to be secured using hook and loop straps or suction cups, though we found the hook and loop method to be significantly more effective. This pet cargo protector is easy to maintain; it can be vacuumed and wiped clean. It is also available in various colorfast shades to complement your car’s interior. The waterproof fabric provides ample protection against spills, although it’s not machine-washable. If you’re seeking a reliable SUV cargo liner to keep your vehicle’s cargo area clean and protected from pet-related messes, the F-color is a great solution.
Dimensions: 55 x 81 inches (standard), 55 by 93 inches (large) | Weight: 4.19 pounds (standard), 4.84 pounds (large) | Material: Polyester | Coverage Style: Cargo liner | Breed Size: All sizes
Best Pet Seat Cover for Compact Cars
Active Pets Hammock Car Seat Cover
PHOTO: Amazon
What We Love:
- Side flaps provide extra protection when pets enter and exit the vehicle
- Simple and quick to install and remove as needed
- Easy-to-wipe-clean surface for quick maintenance
- Versatile design works as a hammock, bench, or cargo liner
- Offered with four trim color options: black, blue, pink, and orange
What Could Be Improved:
- Limited to black color for the main cover
- Lacks pockets or pouches for accessory storage
Owners of compact cars will appreciate the Active Pets Hammock Car Seat Cover, designed to offer streamlined protection in smaller vehicles. In our tests using a Nissan Leaf, this pet seat cover for small cars stood out by fitting smoothly without bunching up, a common issue with universal-fit covers in compact models. This dog hammock for car uses straps and clips to connect to headrests, providing a more secure fit compared to covers with straps alone.
The waterproof material effectively protects against shedding and scratches. Side flaps add an extra layer of defense, shielding seats as your dog gets in and out. It can also be configured as a bench cover or cargo liner, adding to its versatility. Maintenance is simple—it’s easy to remove, shake out fur, wipe down, or vacuum. While highly functional, the only enhancement we’d suggest is the addition of pockets, a feature found in some competing models, for storing pet travel essentials. For compact car owners seeking a snug and protective car seat protector, this Active Pets model is ideal.
Dimensions: 52.5 x 27 inches (standard), 59 x 63 inches (extra-large) | Weight: 2.8 pounds (standard), 3.06 pounds (extra-large) | Material: 600-denier Oxford fabric | Coverage Style: Car bench, back seat hammock, cargo liner | Breed Size: All sizes
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PHOTO: The Spruce Pets / BJ Hollowell
Best Durable Pet Seat Cover
K9 Ballistics Tough Rip Stop Car Seat Cover
PHOTO: K9 Ballistics
What We Love:
- Waterproof fabric is easy to wipe clean and also machine-washable for thorough cleaning
- Made in the USA by a Certified B-Corporation, ensuring ethical manufacturing
- Versatile bench and hammock styles to suit different needs
- Center mesh panel allows for viewability between front and back seats
What Could Be Improved:
- Website photos show a camouflage version, but only tan and black are currently available
For pet owners needing ultimate durability, the K9 Ballistics Tough Rip Stop Dog Back Seat Cover is unmatched. After enduring a 20-hour road trip with two dogs—a Husky mix and a Shiba Inu—this durable dog seat cover showed no signs of wear, completely protecting the car interior from water, dirt, scratches, and drool. If you have a “ruff” rider, this scratch resistant dog seat cover is built to withstand even the most active dogs.
Made with K9 Ballistics’ proprietary ripstop fabric, this pet seat cover is woven for exceptional strength and comfort. We found the material quality superior to all other covers tested. Installation is intuitive, and it remains secure with headrest straps and seat belt/buckle access points. In hammock configuration, a mesh panel allows dogs and owners to see each other, which can reduce anxiety for both. Available in two sizes, this ripstop pet seat cover is machine washable and easily wipes clean. For unparalleled durability and peace of mind, the K9 Ballistics cover is the top choice.
Dimensions: 52.5 x 27 inches (large), 60 x 58 inches (extra-large) | Weight: Not listed | Material: Ripstop fabric | Coverage Style: Car bench, back seat hammock, cargo liner | Breed Size: All sizes
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PHOTO: The Spruce Pets / Hang Pham
Best Pet Door Protector
PetEvo Car Door Protector
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PHOTO: Amazon
What We Love:
- Effectively prevents scratch marks on car doors
- Easy to wipe clean for quick maintenance
- Simple to remove and store when not needed
- Offers two installation options for user preference
- Waterproof material protects against moisture and dirt
What Could Be Improved:
- May not fully cover all corners on every car door model
Excited dogs at the dog park can sometimes lead to scratched car doors. The PetEvo Car Door Protector is designed to prevent this damage, acting as a barrier between your car’s interior and your dog’s nails. This car door protector for dogs is a simple yet effective addition to protect your vehicle’s doors from scratches. Made of waterproof polyester, it also guards against dirt and drool.
During testing, a Labradoodle was unable to dislodge the liner, even with enthusiastic pawing. The cover also remained stable when the window was operated. Installation options include plastic tabs that insert into the window seal or hook and loop strips for door attachment. We found the latter more convenient for easy installation and removal. While a universal size, it might leave minor gaps on some mid-sized sedan doors, but typically in areas less prone to pawing. If you’re looking for a reliable pet door cover to prevent scratches, the PetEvo is a practical solution.
Dimensions: 27 x 27 x 22 inches | Weight: 1.01 pounds | Material: Polyester | Coverage Style: Door | Breed Size: All sizes
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PHOTO: The Spruce Pets / Mary Amadeo
Best Upgrade Pet Seat Cover
Orvis Tough Trail Grip-Tight Windowed Hammock Seat Protector
PHOTO: Orvis
What We Love:
- Soft, quilted fabric for enhanced pet comfort
- Available in two sizes: Compact and Truck, for a better fit
- Mesh panel between front seats for ventilation and visibility
- Machine washable for easy and thorough cleaning
- Backed by Orvis’s guarantee and repair services for peace of mind
- Protects against shedding, dirt, sand, and water effectively
What Could Be Improved:
- Hammock surface can be slightly slippery for some dogs
For a premium experience, the Orvis Tough Trail Grip-Tight Windowed Hammock Seat Protector is our top upgrade pick. This premium dog seat cover stands out with a mesh viewing window between the front seats, setting it apart from other hammock styles. This feature allows you and your dog to see each other, potentially easing anxiety for both during travel. It provides excellent containment and protection for your pet and car interior.
A major benefit is its effectiveness against dog hair, particularly for cars with dark interiors and light-haired dogs. This luxury dog car seat cover completely prevented hair from reaching the upholstery. We especially appreciate the large flags over seat belt openings, preventing hair from sneaking through. Installation and cleaning are easy; it vacuums quickly and is machine washable and dryer-safe. While water-resistant with a non-slip backing, the hammock surface can be a bit slippery. Despite this minor point, its soft, quilted feel and robust protection make it a worthwhile upgrade pet seat cover.
Dimensions: 61 x 48 inches (compact car), 61 x 62 inches (truck large) | Weight: Not listed | Material: Polyester | Coverage Style: Car bench, back seat hammock | Breed Size: All sizes
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PHOTO: The Spruce Pets / Anna Knief
Popular Pet Seat Cover on Reddit
Friendswolf Dog Car Seat Cover
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PHOTO: Amazon
What We Love:
- Functional and well-thought-out design for practical use
- Durable and waterproof material construction
- Easy to install and remove as needed
- Stays securely in place during car rides
What Could Be Improved:
- May be oversized for smaller car models
The Friendswolf Dog Car Seat Cover has garnered significant praise in online communities, particularly within a Golden Retrievers forum on Reddit. Users consistently highlight its durability, functionality, and effectiveness, especially considering its reasonable price point. One Reddit user noted, “Easy to remove and clean. Your dog also won’t fall into a footwell or be able to climb between the front seats,” emphasizing its practical benefits as a highly rated dog seat cover.
Constructed from leather and polyvinyl chloride, this popular pet seat cover features a waterproof hammock design with zippered sides, protecting the bench and car doors from scratches and containing messes and dog hair. Despite its robust protection, it allows dogs to enter and exit the car easily. It’s simple to install and remains securely positioned. Additional features include a tear-proof mesh window and side pockets for storing dog toys and treats. However, note that its size is best suited for cars with ample rear seating like SUVs and may be too large for smaller vehicles. For a Reddit dog seat cover with strong community backing, Friendswolf is worth considering.
Dimensions: 33.79 x 28.7 x 13.1 centimeters | Weight: 2.11 kilograms | Material: Leather, polyvinyl chloride | Coverage Style: Car bench, back seat hammock | Breed Size: All sizes
Final Verdict
For the best overall pet seat cover, the URPOWER Dog Seat Cover stands out with its affordable price, color variety, and versatile three-in-one design (hammock, bench, and cargo liner). It offers reliable waterproof protection and convenient seat belt access. For maximum protection against scratches, spills, and shedding, we recommend the K9 Ballistics Tough Rip Stop Dog Back Seat Cover. Its exceptional durability and comfortable design, in both hammock and bench configurations, ensure a worry-free and pleasant travel experience for you and your dog. Choosing the right pet seat cover is an investment in your car’s longevity and your pet’s comfort during every journey.
What To Look For in Pet Seat Covers
Selecting the ideal pet seat cover depends on your specific needs and vehicle type. Consider these key factors:
Style
Types of pet seat covers vary to protect different areas of your car. The five main styles are hammock, bench, cargo liner, bucket seat, and door covers. Hammock styles provide full back seat coverage, including the back of the front seats and footwell. Bench covers protect the seat surface itself. Cargo liners are designed for SUV cargo areas. Bucket seat covers fit individual front seats, and door protectors guard against scratches. Some pet seat covers offer multiple configurations for versatile use. Choose a style that fits your car and provides the necessary coverage while offering a comfortable space for your dog.
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PHOTO: The Spruce Pets / Julia Sayers Gokhale
Waterproofing
Waterproof dog seat cover features are crucial for protecting your car from spills and accidents. While most covers claim water resistance, effectiveness varies. Fabric composition is key, but consider seat belt openings as potential leak points. For maximum waterproof pet seat cover performance, look for flap covers or zippered access points for seat belts, ensuring both safety and spill protection. Prioritize truly waterproof materials if this is a primary concern.
Cleaning
Ease of cleaning is essential for maintaining a pet seat cover. All covers on our list can be wiped clean and vacuumed. Some are also machine washable, offering more thorough cleaning. Always check care instructions, as improper cleaning can compromise features like waterproofing. Machine-washable easy clean dog seat covers offer convenience for regular maintenance.
How We Tested Pet Seat Covers
We tested 18 top-rated dog car seat covers across various styles, assessing them for different needs and vehicles. Each cover was given to a tester with a dog for three weeks of real-world use. Testers documented their experiences with photos and detailed notes, evaluating performance against muddy paws, shedding, scratches, and spills.
Our rigorous methodology, developed with pet experts, focused on functionality, size fit, ease of cleaning, installation ease, and overall value. Special features like mesh windows were also assessed. Pet experts, including veterinarians and behaviorists, consulted on our testing protocols. After testing, our editors analyzed data and tester feedback to identify top performers, combining experiential insights with scoring averages to select our final recommendations for the best pet seat covers.
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PHOTO: The Spruce Pets / Anna Knief
FAQ About Pet Seat Covers
What is the best way to get dog hair off of seat covers?
Dog hair removal varies depending on hair type. For both tumbleweed-like clumps and bristly hairs, a vacuum or lint roller works well. A damp sponge can also effectively wipe away hair. For machine-washable covers with heavy hair accumulation, pre-cleaning with a vacuum or lint roller before washing is advisable to maximize washer effectiveness.
How often should dog seat covers be cleaned?
Cleaning frequency depends on your dog’s activity level. According to Olivia Crum, PetSafe category product manager, “Depending on your dog’s activity, you could be washing the seat cover every two weeks or pushing the wash out to a month.” More active, muddy dogs require more frequent cleaning than calmer, cleaner dogs. Adjust your cleaning schedule based on your pet’s adventures.
Are dog seat covers safe?
Pet seat covers for cars are designed to protect your car interior, but pet safety is equally important. Always use a dog seat belt, crate, or car seat with a car seat protector to secure your dog during travel and prevent injury. For optimal safety, choose crash-tested products certified by organizations like the Center for Pet Safety (CPS) or Automotive Safety Engineering (ASE). Prioritize safety by ensuring your dog is always properly restrained in the car.
Car and Canine Essentials
This tool combines the ease of a traditional roller with the reusability of a lint roller, effectively removing pet hair from car interiors and seat covers.
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This mobile pet bed doubles as a car carrier, with seatbelt positioning points for secure car travel, ensuring pet comfort and safety.
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This adjustable car harness with a secure magnetic clasp safely restrains dogs in cars using a seatbelt, prioritizing pet safety during travel.
A large-capacity, food-safe silicone collapsible bowl, dishwasher-safe and with a one-year guarantee, perfect for pet travel needs.
Why Trust The Spruce Pets?
This article was updated by Anna Mejorada, a writer for The Spruce Pets and dedicated pet product expert, and reviewed by Mary Jo DiLonardo, a seasoned pet expert with extensive experience in pet care and safety. The Spruce Pets team is committed to providing thoroughly researched, expert-backed recommendations to help pet owners make the best choices for their beloved animals. Our product reviews and recommendations are based on rigorous testing and analysis, ensuring you receive trustworthy and helpful information.
