Making Your Car Dog-Friendly for Summer
When the warm weather picks up, summer road trips with your dog sound like a great way to explore together. But before you start packing treats and picking playlists, it’s worth making sure your car is as dog-ready as possible. A hot car can be uncomfortable, and even short drives can be stressful for pets if the space isn't set up with them in mind. A little planning goes a long way toward keeping your dog safe, calm, and content during the journey.
From short weekends away to longer countryside trips, dogs can be great travel companions. That said, travelling in heat adds extra pressure. Dogs aren't just passengers – they’re part of the family – and making the car comfortable and dog-friendly can help both of you enjoy the ride. Whether it’s sorting out airflow or preventing fur from taking over the seats, a bit of prep makes a big difference.
Preparing Your Car For Dog Travel
Before you even get to harnesses and accessories, a few simple tweaks can make your car more welcoming and safe for a dog. The goal is to create a space that’s clean, cool, and free of anything that might cause distraction, discomfort, or harm while on the road.
Start with a clean-up. Clear out any rubbish from the back seat or boot, and vacuum up dirt and leftover snacks. Dogs can easily get hold of small bits left lying around, and what seems harmless to us might not be so straightforward for them.
Next, think about where your dog will sit. Will they be in the boot with the seats folded flat, on the back seat, or in a crate? Make sure that area is free from anything that could shift about during the drive. Non-slip mats or soft bedding can also offer some extra comfort under their paws.
Here are a few extra steps that can help set things up nicely:
Block out direct sunlight by adding window shades
Keep chewable items like cords, bags, and travel gear out of reach
Store leads, poo bags, and wipes in the glove box or door pocket for easy access
Add a familiar-smelling blanket or toy to settle your dog
Check your car’s air vents to make sure your dog will have good airflow
By sorting these things ahead of time, you create a more peaceful space which can help reduce anxiety and make the whole experience better for your dog.
Must-Have Car Accessories For Dogs
Once your car’s prepped, the right accessories can take things to another level when it comes to travel safety and comfort. Not every dog needs the same setup, so it helps to think about your dog’s behaviour, size, and how long you’ll be on the road. The basics usually fall into a few useful categories.
1. Seat covers and protectors
Fur, muddy paws, and drool are part of the experience – but your seats don't have to suffer. Waterproof or wipeable seat covers can protect your upholstery and keep things tidy, especially after wet walks.
2. Dog seat belts and harnesses
These help secure your dog while you drive. It’s important for safety – both yours and theirs – as an unrestrained dog can easily become a distraction or get injured during sudden stops.
3. Travel crates
Some dogs feel safer in a crate. If you go this route, make sure it’s well-ventilated, fixed in place, and roomy enough for your dog to turn around and lie down.
4. Seat barriers
Useful for keeping your dog from jumping into the front seat or moving around while you’re on the move.
5. Boot liners
If your dog travels in the boot, a liner can protect the area from fur, dirt, and claw marks. Many come with raised edges to catch water and mud.
Adding these bits and pieces doesn’t have to be complicated. Start with the ones that suit your dog’s needs best, and then build from there. What works for one pet might not suit another, so take it step by step.
Keeping Your Dog Comfortable During Long Journeys
Long rides, especially on warm days, can be tiring for dogs. Unlike people, they can’t tell you when they feel too warm or restless. Making simple adjustments to keep your dog cool and relaxed can go a long way in helping them settle during the drive.
Make sure your car stays well-ventilated. Open windows slightly if it's safe to do so or use the AC to direct airflow toward where your dog is resting. Avoid pointing vents directly at them, though, as constant cold air can be uncomfortable too. Sunshades on the windows are a good way to block harsh sunlight and reduce heat, particularly if you're driving during midday or on open routes without much tree cover.
Hydration is one of the most important things to think about on a hot day. Always bring fresh water and keep it accessible. A travel-friendly bowl that doesn’t spill easily can make giving them water on the go that much easier. It’s also helpful for quick stops when the car is parked and your dog wants a quick sip in the shade.
Other easy ways to keep your dog happy during travel:
Stop every hour or two to let your dog stretch, sniff, and do their business
Bring their favourite blanket or toy from home to comfort them
Avoid feeding right before long drives as some dogs get upset stomachs when travelling
Keep windows locked if your dog loves sticking its head out. It’s risky at higher speeds and debris or bugs can cause issues
One example that comes to mind is a customer who drove from Kent to the Lake District and said breaking up the trip with shady park breaks helped their dog arrive noticeably calmer. Short breaks and a bit of water went further than any toy or treat.
Ensuring Safety And Monitoring Your Dog
Safety should run through the whole trip, from start to finish. Even if your dog’s ridden along hundreds of times before, long summer journeys bring extra things to look out for. Paying attention just for five minutes before and during each stop helps keep the trip smooth for both your dog and everyone else in the car.
Plan how they’ll get in and out of the car. If you’re parked on a hot road or drive, surfaces like asphalt or paving slabs can burn paws quickly. Try to find grass or lay down something flat for them to walk on if needed. Also check they’re steady getting in and out, especially if they’re a bit older or tend to jump out quickly when excited.
Watch for signs your dog might be stressed or overheating:
Heavy panting or drooling
Restlessness or whining
Laying down and refusing to move
Red or glassy eyes
Ears pinned back or tail tucked down
If you spot any of these, take a break as soon as you can. Park in a shady spot, offer water, and let them rest outside the car. Never leave your dog in a parked car, even briefly. Temperatures can rise fast, even on days that feel mild to us.
It’s also worth checking their seat belt, crate latch, or harness clip from time to time. Sometimes, with movement or vibration, things can shift slightly. A loose buckle might not keep them secure if you need to stop suddenly.
Making Summer Trips Enjoyable
Turning a trip into something both you and your dog look forward to means thinking beyond just logistics. Dogs thrive on stimulation and connection, and any chance they get to enjoy the journey just as much as the destination can turn an ordinary drive into something special.
Try planning routes with pet-friendly stops instead of just straight motorway services. Open fields, dog-friendly cafes, or shaded walking paths make perfect pit stops where your dog can burn off some energy and reset before hitting the road again. If your dog gets excited in new places, these breaks also give them a chance to sniff around and stay mentally relaxed.
Travelling early in the day or later in the evening helps beat the strongest heat. Morning trips can also be less hectic with quieter roads and calmer environments all around.
If you're staying somewhere overnight, it helps to double-check ahead that dogs are welcome, not just allowed. Bringing along your dog’s food, bed, and routines helps maintain familiar patterns even in new spaces.
Building your travel days around your dog’s needs where possible doesn’t mean limiting the trip. It often ends up making it better for everyone.
Enjoy Stress-Free Travels With Porta-Bowl
Planning for comfort, packing proper gear, and paying attention to key details like airflow and hydration can turn a stressful trip into a smooth ride. When dogs feel safe and settled, they’re more likely to enjoy the journey and stay calm across longer distances. Making your car dog-friendly isn’t about fancy upgrades. It’s about small, smart choices that work in real-world travel situations.
If you’re heading off on summer holidays or long drives with your dog, simple tools and better prep can help avoid fuss and keep tails wagging. It doesn’t have to be complicated to work. Just a bit of thought, the right gear, and time for a few extra stops along the way.
Summer travels with your dog become so much more enjoyable when you have all the right gear prepared. Having access to car accessories for dogs means your pet can stay comfortable and relaxed on the road. With Porta-Bowl, you can easily offer fresh water along the way, helping your furry friend stay happy and hydrated from start to finish.
