Best Dog Car Seat Cover: Protect Your Seats from Mud, Fur and Spills

For a complete checklist of dog travel gear essentials, check out our comprehensive guide here. Below we narrow the focus to seat covers that protect your car's rear bench or front bucket seats. Each pick prioritizes durable fabric (like 600D polyester), waterproof coatings, non-slip backing and easy access to seat-belt anchors so you can secure your dog's harness while keeping hair and mud off the upholstery.

Top Picks (At a Glance)

How We Chose

Our team combed through recent lab tests and hands-on reviews to curate seat covers that balance durability with comfort. We focused on the following criteria:

• Coverage style: Products needed to be rear-bench or front-bucket covers with ample seat and door protection, and many convert between hammock, bench and cargo modes.
• Fabric durability: We prioritized rugged materials such as 600D polyester or cotton twill that resist claws and muddy paws while still feeling comfortable for long rides.
• Waterproofing: Each pick uses coated layers or waterproof backing to stop spills or wet fur from soaking through.
• Non-slip security: Anchors, non-slip backing and adjustable straps keep covers in place during sudden stops.
• Seat-belt access: Openings or zippers allow you to thread seat belts or a harness through for safety.
• Ease of cleaning: Machine-washable materials and quick-dry fabrics simplify maintenance.

Note: A seat cover isn't a substitute for a car-safety harness or booster seat. For crash-safety, pair these covers with a certified restraint.

Best Dog Car Seat Cover Reviews

URPOWER Dog Seat Cover for Cars — Best Overall

URPOWER's versatile design hits the sweet spot between coverage and convenience. It converts between bench, hammock and cargo liner modes, making it ideal for road trips, errands or camping.

Why we like it

• The 3-in-1 layout shields the back seat, floor, door panels and cargo area as needed.
• Quilted polypropylene fabric is 100% waterproof and has a non-slip bottom to prevent sliding.
• Velcro openings let you access seat belts for human passengers or attach a dog harness.
• Comes in two sizes (54 × 58 in. or 60 × 64 in.) and multiple colors; installation uses anchors and headrest straps.

Specs that matter

• Coverage style: Bench, hammock or cargo liner.
• Material: Quilted polypropylene with waterproof coating.
• Non-slip backing: Yes, plus seat anchors for security.
• Seat-belt access: Velcro slots for buckles.
• Sizes: Standard (54 × 58 in.) or XL (60 × 64 in.).
• Care: Spot clean or vacuum; not machine-washable.

Pros

• Flexible installation options for different vehicles and dogs.
• Fully waterproof and easy to wipe clean.
• Non-slip base and anchors keep the cover in place.
• Extra storage pocket holds leashes or travel bowls.

Cons

• Not machine-washable; requires spot cleaning.
• Can shift slightly if windows are down.

Where to buy: Amazon

Kurgo Wander Hammock Seat Cover — Easiest to Install

Kurgo's Wander Hammock earned praise from Car & Driver testers for its quality materials and quick installation. Instead of fiddly buckles, it uses plastic hooks that slip over headrests for fast setup.

Why we like it

• Plastic hooks replace buckles, making it easy to install or remove in seconds.
• Available in 55- and 63-inch widths to fit everything from compact cars to full-size trucks.
• A zippered vent acts as an air-conditioning pass-through so pets stay cool.
• PVC-backed 600D polyester provides water resistance and stands up to claws.

Specs that matter

• Coverage style: Hammock that attaches to front and rear headrests.
• Material: 600D polyester with PVC backing.
• Seat-belt access: Seat-belt openings with flaps for harnesses (bench mode also possible).
• Widths: 55 in. or 63 in. for a custom fit.
• Care: Machine-washable; quick-dry fabric.

Pros

• Fast installation thanks to hook-style attachments.
• Two width options accommodate a range of vehicles.
• Vent zipper improves airflow for dogs and back-seat passengers.

Cons

• Does not include door-panel flaps; seat bolsters remain exposed.
• Only available in hammock style (not a full cargo liner).

Where to buy: Amazon

4Knines Dog Seat Cover with Hammock — Best for Large Dogs

If you have a heavy-shedding or high-energy dog, the 4Knines cover is built to withstand abuse. Its quilted, colorfast polyester resists claws and mud, and the waterproof backing keeps seats dry.

Why we like it

• Durable quilted fabric and non-slip waterproof backing stand up to large dogs and muddy paws.
• The hammock converts to a bench cover and comes in regular or extra-large sizes for wider vehicles.
• Anchors slip between seat cushions, and headrest straps keep it secure; installation is straightforward.
• Free of heavy metals and AZO dyes and machine-washable for easy cleaning.

Specs that matter

• Coverage style: Bench or hammock.
• Material: Multiple layers of colorfast polyester with waterproof backing.
• Non-slip backing: Yes.
• Seat-belt access: Slits with flaps allow harness attachments.
• Sizes: Regular or extra-large.
• Care: Machine-washable; wipe down between washes.

Pros

• Handles the weight and activity of large breeds.
• Thick padding adds comfort on long rides.
• Machine-washable and free from harmful chemicals.

Cons

• No built-in door protection to shield interior panels.
• Some reviewers report minor leaks despite waterproofing.

Where to buy: Amazon

PetSafe Happy Ride Quilted Bench Seat Cover — Best Quilted Bench Seat

PetSafe's bench-only cover trades hammock flexibility for upscale looks. Its cotton twill fabric, leather trim and brass accents give it a refined feel, yet it's still waterproof and functional.

Why we like it

• Cotton twill fabric with leather and brass accents elevates the look of your back seat while keeping it dry.
• Non-slip backing, seat anchors and elastic straps hold the cover steady on road trips.
• Built-in keeper straps and zippered slots allow you to thread seat belts through without exposing upholstery.
• Fully machine-washable for simple cleanup.

Specs that matter

• Coverage style: Bench only.
• Material: Waterproof cotton twill with leather trim.
• Non-slip backing: Yes.
• Seat-belt access: Keeper straps and zippered slots.
• Dimensions: 45 × 56 in. bench area.
• Care: Machine-washable; vacuum or spot clean between washes.

Pros

• Premium aesthetic suits upscale interiors.
• Stays put thanks to anchors and elastic straps.
• Zippered belt openings make it easy to secure pets and passengers.

Cons

• Quilted fabric can trap hair and may require more frequent cleaning.
• Only covers the bench; doesn't protect door panels or the footwell.
• Higher price than more utilitarian covers.

Where to buy: Amazon

Active Pets Hammock Car Seat Cover — Best for Compact Cars

Compact cars and smaller SUVs benefit from the Active Pets Hammock, which offers an affordable mix of waterproofing and coverage without overwhelming a tight rear seat.

Why we like it

• Four-layer 600D Oxford fabric with side and front flaps protects the bench, door panels and seat backs from mud and drool.
• Converts from bench cover to hammock or cargo liner, making it versatile for various outings.
• Installs quickly using seat anchors and adjustable buckles; includes non-slip backing for stability.
• Offers standard and XL sizes with trim color options (blue, pink or orange) to suit personal taste.

Specs that matter

• Coverage style: Bench, hammock or cargo liner.
• Material: 600D Oxford fabric with waterproof coating.
• Non-slip backing: Yes.
• Seat-belt access: Velcro openings and side flaps to thread harnesses.
• Sizes: Standard or extra-large; compact fit suits smaller cars.
• Care: Machine-washable or hose down for quick cleaning.

Pros

• Affordable yet versatile; works for compact cars, SUVs and hatchbacks.
• Side and front flaps protect door panels and keep pets contained.
• Multiple trim colors let you match your car's interior.

Cons

• Only available in black base color; colored trim may not appeal to everyone.
• Less padding than some premium covers; may be less comfortable on long trips.

Where to buy: Amazon

Buying Guide

Selecting the right dog seat cover depends on your vehicle, your dog's behavior and how often you travel. Here are key considerations:

• Choose your coverage style: Hammock covers attach to front and rear headrests, creating a barrier that prevents dogs from climbing into the front seat and catching fur and dirt before it hits the floor. Bench-only covers offer less protection but allow dogs to hop in and out easily. Many of our picks convert from hammock to bench or cargo liner, giving you flexibility.
• Match the size to your vehicle: Measure the width of your rear bench or front bucket seat. Models like the Kurgo Wander Hammock come in two widths for a tailored fit, while 4Knines offers regular and extra-large versions for trucks and SUVs.
• Look for durable, waterproof materials: Heavy-duty fabrics such as 600D polyester or cotton twill resist scratching and are easy to clean. Waterproof coatings or multiple layers prevent drool and accidents from soaking through.
• Secure fit & non-slip backing: Seat anchors, adjustable straps and textured backings keep covers from sliding when you brake or take sharp turns. This is especially important for energetic or large dogs.
• Seat-belt and harness compatibility: Make sure the cover has openings or zippers for seat belts so you can attach a crash-tested harness. Safety restraints should always be used in conjunction with a seat cover.
• Ease of cleaning: Machine-washable covers simplify maintenance; if you can't machine-wash, look for quick-dry fabrics that wipe down easily. Quilted designs may trap more hair.

Care & Safety Tips

• Vacuum or shake out loose fur after every ride to prevent buildup. A handheld vacuum makes quick work of hair and crumbs.
• Spot clean minor spills promptly; for machine-washable covers, follow the manufacturer's washing instructions to maintain waterproof coatings.
• Pair your seat cover with a crash-tested harness or travel crate for your dog's safety. Seat covers alone do not restrain pets during sudden stops.
• Check straps and anchors regularly for wear and re-tighten them to keep the cover secure.
• Allow wet covers to dry completely before storage to avoid mildew or odor; breathable fabrics dry faster.
• If your dog chews or claws at straps, consider adding chew guards or trimming excess strap length.

FAQs

Do dog seat covers fit all vehicles?
Most covers are designed to be "universal," but fit varies. Measure your bench width and compare it to the product dimensions. Some covers, like the Kurgo Wander Hammock, come in multiple widths to suit compact cars and SUVs.

Are dog seat covers safe for leather seats?
Yes. A quality cover protects leather from scratches and contains moisture. Look for non-slip backing and anchor straps to prevent sliding.

Can I wash my dog seat cover in a machine?
Many covers, including 4Knines and PetSafe models, are machine-washable. Always check the care label; some covers like URPOWER require spot cleaning only.

How do I keep the cover from sliding?
Choose covers with non-slip backing and seat anchors. Hammock styles that attach to both front and rear headrests provide extra stability during sudden stops.

Will a seat cover contain pet hair?
Seat covers trap fur on the surface, making it easier to vacuum. Quilted designs may hold more hair, so regular vacuuming is recommended.

Are hammock-style covers better than bench covers?
Hammock covers offer more protection and can prevent dogs from falling into the footwell. However, bench covers allow easier access for dogs that jump in and out frequently.

Can I use a seat cover in the front seat?
While it's safest for dogs to ride in the back, if you drive a single-cab truck or have no back seat, a front-seat cover like Active Pets' bucket cover can protect your upholstery. Always disable passenger airbags when traveling with a pet in the front.