6 Best Dog Car Hammock of 2023

A back seat dog car hammock keeps hair, mud, and dirt off your car seats, which is a widespread issue for pet owners.

Moreover, pets with medical issues or post-surgery conditions can be safely transported using a dog hammock, which is especially useful for senior dogs.

The backseat dog car hammock is not like traditional seat covers.

Unlike a dog car seat cover, a dog hammock hooks onto the headrests of the rear and front seats in the vehicle to literally create a hammock for dogs over your car's back seat.

This way, not only do they provide a safe place for your pet to ride in, but they also protect your vehicle from dog hair, dirt, debris, and damage done by canine toenails.

We've tested several brands for their durability, features, how easy it is to put them on and off in a vehicle, and of course, the price.

Below are the six best dog car hammocks that we liked the most, in that order.

A Quick Glance at our Top Picks

Best Dog Car Hammocks: Knowing the Pros and Cons

There is a good reason the dog car hammock is popular.

They are safe and keep your pooch comfortable during your car rides.

Take a closer look at the benefits of having a dog hammock and some caveats to keep in mind.

The Pros and Benefits of a Dog Car Hammock

• Keep your dog contained in the dog hammock.
• It helps prevent your dog from falling when you make a quick turn
• Your dog won’t distract you as much, keeping you safe
• Protect your upholstery
• Easy to install
• Your choice of colors, sizes, materials, and features
• Your dog feels safe inside the dog hammock
• The dog car hammock smells familiar, helping your dog adjust to a new car
• It contains messes for easier clean-up

The Cons and Cautions Associated with A Dog Car Hammock

• They don’t protect your dog in a collision
• Your dog should still have a seatbelt even when in the dog car hammock
• Only work in the rear seat
• They take up the entire rear seat

It is also worth noting that, like anything else your dog sits on for extended periods of time, even the best dog hammock can start to smell over time.

However, it is much easier to wash the dog hammock than it would be to clean your seats’ upholstery.

A Quick Glance at our Top 6 Car Hammocks for Dogs

How to Pick the Best Dog Car Hammock for Your Pet/Car

While not all backseat car hammocks for dogs are the same, they are very similar in their design and the purpose they're used.

For the most part, they are just an upgrade for regular dog car seat covers and are typically slightly more expensive. The extra cost comes from the “hammock” feature, which is what traditional car seat covers lack.

The best dog car hammock for back seats should be easy to install and take out of your vehicle.

If not, and if you're doing a lot of car traveling with your dog, it will quickly become a hassle.

What To Look Out For in a Dog Car Hammock

Make sure to buy a dog hammock that is machine washable. Because their purpose is to keep hair and dirt in, you're likely to wash them often.

Think about your own needs for the dog hammock and your pet's specific needs when choosing the right item.

For example, is your dog very active in the car, and do they move around a lot during rides?

If so, the best dog car hammock for you is the one with a non-slip covering, so it doesn't fall off easily.

Also, consider if a waterproof dog car hammock is a necessity. It's best for dogs that frequently swim or if you have a dog with incontinence issues.

Consider other small features that you may need.

Some dog hammocks come with pockets for dog supplies, while others have holes to put seat belt clips through, and some have better and more secure ways of keeping the dog hammock steady and in place.

Finally, if a dog car hammock isn't suitable, there are other options for car travel with dogs. Fortunately, you can easily look for ‘car seat covers near me online.

The most common item for small breeds is car seats which keep your dog in one place and away from seats, serving a similar purpose.

Features to Find in a Dog Car Hammock

If it is the first time you to buy a dog car seat hammock, then you ought to be on the lookout for these features:

Size

A dog car hammock varies in size depending on the purpose. You may want a hammock for dogs that covers the entire seat to keep it clean.

Some dog owners prefer to cover only a section of their backseat, especially if there are other passengers. Others choose a dog hammock that is the exact length of their seat. 

That way, your pooch will have enough space to stretch or walk around without you having to worry about them spoiling the covers.

Style

Aside from choosing a dog car seat hammock for its functionality, you should also pick one that fits your style. You can always opt for dog hammocks that go well with the color of your car's interior.

Fortunately, most of the best dog car hammocks come in different colors. 

Protection

One of the main reasons why people choose to buy a car hammock for dogs is to protect their seats from soiling. Cleaning up dog hair from the fabric is a tedious task as well. 

Dog hammocks protect your leather seats from scratches. It can also be very beneficial when your pooch may evidently jump in with muddy paws.

Functionality

The dog hammock for your car should be easy to install and disassemble. The same goes for the cleaning method.

Another must-have feature of a dog hammock is that it should make your pooch feel comfortable and secure. They should be able to sleep and rest in the back seat without much ruckus or discomfort.

If you opt for large wide-spreading dog car hammocks, look for those that act as barriers. This prevents your dog from crossing over to the front seat.

Aside from those mentioned above, here are specific features that allow both you and your dog to get the most out of the car hammock seat:

• Washing machine safe
• Anti-slip bottom
• UV protection
• Waterproof and water repellant
• Seat belt openings
• Car door protector flaps
• Mesh window (to see your dog from the front seat)

The Best Dog Car Hammock

1Waterproof Non-Slip Cover with Hammock
by 4Knines

• Find it on Amazon ($59.99)
• Find it on Chewy ($89.99)

Dog hammocks are usually integrated with seat covers, and the 4Knines is the best example of how to do this right.

It is available in black, grey, and tan colors and in two size options that actually fit most dogs.

The medium size of this dog hammock measures 54 inches across the rear seat, while the extra-large measures 60 inches.

UV coating makes this seat protector hammock water-resistant, easy to clean, and luxurious-looking.

Why We Picked This Car Hammock

This ended up as our first pick among the best dog car hammocks because it feels like a well-made item that will last us a long time.

The strong dog hammock straps are sturdier than other brands, and its visibly durable construction is particularly great for pets that are recuperating from medical conditions.

Slipping is a common issue with the dog hammock, but this seat cover’s non-slip backing holds everything in place throughout the trip without any adjustments.

It also simplified collecting pet hair and dirt and the few dirty spots we got cleaned off with just a damp cloth. It's the ideal dog car seat hammock in terms of hygiene and efficiency.

PROS: Available in 3 colors and 2 sizes Quality, durable materials Water-resistant Easy to clean with a damp cloth Non-slip backing

CONS: While it claims to be water-resistant, too much wetness will still leak through to the vehicle's upholstery.

 

2Premium Pet Seat Cover, Hammock Style
by Kululu

• • Find it on Amazon ($39.95)
  • Unavailable on Chewy

This hammock-convertible car seat cover from Kululu features something unique – it has a mesh window that allows our pup to see the view of the front seat.

This is the second-best dog car hammock for this feature alone because any dog would appreciate not feeling isolated during long car trips.

Moreover, the viewing feature also lets air through the dog hammock for a more relaxing ride.

The seat cover/hammock measures 54 inches wide and 58 inches long and comprises four layers of visibly durable materials that you immediately feel.

It is secured in place by extra straps, seat anchors, and non-slip silicone backing. There’s also a dog seat belt for added security which you may or may not use.

What Customers Are Saying About This Car Hammock

Pet owners experienced firsthand the outstanding features of this product.

This dog car hammock is so thick that it can almost serve as extra comfortable bedding.

The dog hammock felt very stable and did not flip or move about during a few trips.

You can seal the seat belt openings with Velcro fastenings to keep chewers from accessing your seat belt buckles.

With this premium seat cover, cleaning the vehicle becomes a much simpler matter.

You can easily wipe the hammock down with a damp cloth, vacuum the fur off of it or spray it down with the hose if your pooch gets it muddy.

PROS: Mesh window allows your dog to see through to the front seat Measures 54″ X 58″ Secured in place by extra straps, seat anchors, and non-slip silicone backing Equipped with a dog seat belt to keep your pet restrained You can secure seat belt openings with Velcro Easy to clean with a damp cloth, vacuum, or garden hose

CONS: Smells of chemicals when first taken from packaging (but can be vented) Only available in one size that does not fit all trucks, cars, and SUVs

 

3Pet Seat Cover Waterproof with Hammock
by Plush Paws

• Find it on Amazon ($72.99)
• Find it on Chewy ($72.99)

With Plush Paws dog car hammock, our dogs did not only enjoy its hammock feature, but we also received two bonus pet car seat belts and two harnesses.

They're not of the best quality, but it's a nice touch. This dog car seat hammock has quality features that you wouldn't want to miss as well.

Triple-layered and quilted, this dog seat cover will protect your car’s interior from the usual paw prints, scratch marks, dirt, and hair from pets.

The top layer comprises combined cotton material and polyester, while the middle layer is made of thick padding.

The bottom layer is made of silicon that, together with the seat anchor and side flaps, prevents the cover from budging or sliding off the car seat.

This item is available in two sizes and colors gray and tan. It's a good thing you can easily see this product when you search for ‘car seat covers near me' online.

Why We Picked This Car Hammock

This is one of the best dog hammocks because no dyes or harmful chemicals were used to treat the surface.

We were also impressed by how the tube-like anchors of the Plush Paws dog hammock really hold things firmly and help to keep a perfect fit.

If you're searching for a bigger pet seat cover to fit your large car, SUV, or truck, this will be the one.

While most other dog car hammocks listed here are somewhat big, this one has the largest size, with the “XL” measuring 63”x65″. It reaches the corners of our SUV's sizable backseats for a perfect fit as if it was customized for our car specifically.

PROS: It comes with 2 pet seat belts and 2 harnesses Triple-layered and quilted for added comfort Available in 2 sizes and 2 colors No dyes or chemicals used to treat the surface

CONS: The adjustable straps slide on their own under the weight of larger breeds The quality of the seams isn't the best, and some ripped pretty quick

 

4Luxury Dog Hammock Car Seat Cover
by BarksBar

• Find it on Amazon ($22.49)
• Find it on Chewy ($22.49)

This one is waterproof and definitely felt comfortable to sit on.

It is anchored in key points and backed by a rubber material to prevent slipping off.

The standard size measures 54”x58”, while the X-Large size fits larger seats up to 60”x64”.

We loved the installation process, which was extremely easy – we just slipped it on, buckled the straps, secured the tube anchors, and we were good to go.

The same could be said about cleaning up.

Wet spots don’t get absorbed and can be wiped off with a cloth. This needs only occasional washing and is machine washable.

Why We Picked This Car Hammock

Being one of the best dog car hammocks, this one is not only all about function.

It’s a sleek-looking cover, too, with luxurious padding and a quilted polyester surface in classic black that’s easy to match with any car interior.

Every feature looks well put together, including the noticeably durable stitching and clasps and front flaps and straps that turn it into a hammock.

PROS: Waterproof Backed with rubber for stability 2 sizes available Machine washable

CONS: The straps are not as durable as we initially expected A few small seams ripped after a little use, but that wasn't a big deal

 

5Waterproof Dog Hammock Car Seat Cover for Dogs
by NAC&ZAC

• • Find it on Amazon ($38.99)

• Unavailable on Chewy

The classic quilted pet seat cover is a truly timeless feature, but what if you want something more modern and minimalist?

If that's what you're looking for, this dog hammock pet car seat cover from NAC&ZAC will likely meet your needs.

After installation, it clearly lends seamless beauty and sleek simplicity to our vehicle's interior. This dog car seat hammock can be the perfect aesthetic addition for both your pooch and automobile.

It is available in black, gray, and a deeper shade of black called V3.0 Black.

Velcro-fastened slots for the seat belts kept things in place, neat and clean, and in harmony with the overall clean look.

Sizes of the seat cover vary in width only (50” for small, 56” for standard, and 66” for large), but all are 63 inches in length.

Why We Picked This Car Hammock

Unlike most water-resistant dog car hammocks, this one is said to be 100% waterproof, but, unfortunately, we didn't find that to be the case. It's made of canvas-like polyester top material, PE layer in the middle, and a non-slip rubber backing.

If you have a heavily drooling pet, this feature will be an important one, but we could not recommend this for incontinence issues.

Adjustable straps, sturdy quick-release buckles, textured rubber backing, extra elastic straps, and side covers that fit snugly all add up to make a firm and stable hold onto our seats.

There’s no tugging here and there, no squirming on the seats, and our driver and passengers enjoyed a couple of trips.

The dog hammock with its reinforced straps, though not extra thick like the padded versions, is robust and could really carry a heft.

PROS: Available in 3 colors and 3 sizes You can secure seat belt openings with Velcro 100% waterproof Non-slip rubber backing

CONS: It's not actually 100% waterproof Some cars may have issues with a proper fit

 

6Original Dog Hammock
by BarksBar

• Find it on Amazon ($17.09)
• Find it on Chewy ($17.09)

Hammock or hammock-convertible pet seat covers keep dirt, hair, and whatnots that dogs bring within the confines of the rear seat.

But, the biggest thing this dog hammock from BarksBar keeps in place is your dog.

The barrier between the front and rear seats is at a height that our dogs couldn't easily climb over.

We didn't think about this beforehand but later found it useful, especially if our dogs would be hyperactive and disrupt driving.

This dog car seat hammock is ideal for large dogs that tend to cross over to the passenger's or driver's seat. There’s a vertical zipper, though, to allow access when there’s a need.

This black seat cover is available in two sizes.

Why We Picked This Car Hammock

Among the best dog hammock seat covers, this one is the cheapest, and it's probably the most cost-effective, the easiest way to protect your car's seats and keep long travels with pets hassle-free and comfortable.

The two large pockets are useful for storing toys and pet supplies.

Considering its low price, it has all the necessary features we wanted from a dog car hammock: waterproof, hammock-convertible, durable, and easy to install and maintain.

When you’re driving, you don’t need a nosey dog that trespasses your line of view or disturbs your peace.

PROS: The barrier between front and back seats is higher than with most of the best dog car hammocks. Available in 2 sizes Two large pockets allow you to store toys and treats Waterproof Cheaper than any of the other best dog hammocks on this list

CONS: Not very durable (consider the price, it's expected) The quality of the materials is the lowest among all brands tested

Can Your Dog Sit in the Front Seat?

Having your pooch in the front seat is not exactly safe for the driver and everyone else in the car. Aside from being good distractors, your pooch may start to explore and play around the driving area.

Also, the dog will be in a dangerous position just in case an accident happens. If you want to carry your dog in the front seat, make sure to disable the airbag to avoid getting your pooch or yourself from getting squished.

How Do You Clean a Dog Car Seat Hammock?

Check the cleaning instructions that come with the dog hammock. Fortunately, most dog car seat hammocks are machine-washable. 

It's a good thing that the laundry detergent is enough to do the cleaning. However, you can always add a quarter cup of vinegar to remove any smell. 

Whenever you plan to wash your dog's car seat hammock, make sure to separate it from your clothes. Otherwise, you might end up seeing dog hairs in your clothes or mixing unpleasant smells. 

Are Car Hammocks Safe for Dogs?

Dogs feel safer in your vehicle with a car hammock in place. When you choose a cozy dog hammock, your pooch will readily feel at ease at the back of your car. 

Car hammocks provide plenty of space for your dog to lie down and stretch. It would be like setting a sleeping or resting area for your pooch inside your vehicle.

Best Dog Car Hammock – Conclusion

Most dog owners fret about their car’s condition especially if they always take their furry companions with them. Fortunately, the best dog car hammock will help you protect your car seat from any dog mess.

When choosing a car hammock for dogs, there are many things to consider. However, it all boils down to the style and purpose that made you need a car hammock in the first place.

With this list here, you will be able to find a suitable dog car seat hammock for both your dog and car. They are the ideal dog car hammock when it comes to functionality and style.

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