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Travelling with Your Dog by Car: UK Safety Laws and Tips

Millions of UK dog owners travel by car with their pets regularly, whether for short trips to the park or long holiday journeys. But many are unaware of the legal requirements and safety risks involved. This guide covers the rules, practical tips, and what to do in case of an accident.

UK Law on Dogs in Cars

Under Rule 57 of the Highway Code, dogs (and other animals) must be suitably restrained in a vehicle so that they cannot distract the driver or injure themselves or others in a collision or if the vehicle stops quickly. The Highway Code does not specify exact restraint methods, leaving owners to choose the appropriate solution.

Failure to restrain a dog in a vehicle can result in prosecution under the Road Traffic Act 1988 for driving without due care and attention, which can lead to fines of up to £2,500, penalty points, and even disqualification. Additionally, a driver could be found at fault if an unrestrained dog caused an accident.

Separately, under the Animal Welfare Act 2006, travelling in a vehicle in a manner likely to cause the animal unnecessary suffering is an offence. This includes leaving a dog in a hot car — even briefly in warm weather, temperatures inside a parked car can rise to dangerous levels within minutes.

Safe Car Travel Options for Dogs

There are several safe, legal options for transporting dogs in cars. A crash-tested dog crate in the boot — secured to prevent movement — is one of the safest options for both dog and occupants. In a collision, an unsecured crate can become a dangerous projectile, so proper fixing is essential. Metal crates are generally more impact-resistant than plastic ones.

A dedicated dog guard — a metal barrier separating the boot area from the rear passenger seats — is suitable for larger dogs that travel in the boot. It keeps the dog in the cargo area but does not protect them from impact. Car-specific safety harnesses that attach to the seatbelt mechanism are available in a range of sizes; look for those that have been crash-tested, as many harnesses on the market have not been independently tested for impact safety.

For smaller dogs, a carrier that attaches to the seatbelt or is secured in the footwell is another option. Whatever restraint you choose, it should fit your dog properly and have been tested to a recognised safety standard where possible.

Keeping Dogs Comfortable on Long Car Journeys

Dogs travelling long distances benefit from preparation and regular breaks. Veterinary guidance suggests stopping every 2 hours at minimum to allow dogs to toilet, stretch, and drink water. Some dogs experience travel sickness (car sickness) — this is more common in puppies whose inner ear balance mechanisms are not fully mature. Signs include excessive drooling, yawning, restlessness, and vomiting.

If travel sickness is a problem, speak to your vet. Prescription anti-nausea medications such as Cerenia (maropitant) are very effective — a course of treatment costs approximately £20–£40. Feeding a light meal (or no meal) 4–6 hours before travel reduces nausea risk. Some dogs benefit from a travel-calming supplement or, in severe cases, a mild sedative prescribed by a vet.

Never leave a dog in a car on a warm day, even with windows cracked open. The RSPCA and Dogs Trust both provide guidance on the dangers of hot cars — a dog can die in a car in as little as 15 minutes in warm weather.

What to Do if Your Dog Is Injured in a Car Accident

Car accidents involving dogs are a genuine emergency. An injured dog in pain may bite even a familiar owner — approach calmly and carefully, and use a makeshift muzzle (a strip of fabric tied around the snout) if necessary to prevent defensive biting before moving. Do not attempt to remove the dog from a severely damaged vehicle without assessing the safest way to do so.

Contact your vet or an emergency vet immediately. Describe the situation and follow their guidance on moving the dog. Emergency out-of-hours consultations in the UK average £275.72, and trauma treatment for injuries such as fractures, internal bleeding, or pneumothorax can be significantly more expensive. Pet insurance covering accidents and emergency treatment is essential for dogs that travel regularly.

After any car accident, even if your dog appears uninjured, a veterinary check is advisable — internal injuries, shock, and soft tissue damage may not be immediately apparent.

Travel Documents and Preparation

Before any long journey with your dog, ensure they are microchipped, wear a collar with an ID tag (legally required in England, Wales, and Scotland), and are up to date with vaccinations and parasite treatment. Carrying your dog's vaccination booklet and a summary of any medical conditions is good practice.

Map the route for stops with secure outdoor areas where dogs can be exercised safely. Service stations on major routes increasingly have dedicated pet relief areas. Knowing the location of vets along your route — particularly if travelling to a remote area — means you are prepared for any health emergency. [Compare vet prices near you](/compare-vet-prices/) at your destination before you set off.

Find a Vet Near You

Whether at home or on the road, CompareMyVet helps you find the nearest vet wherever you are in the UK. Visit [app.comparemyvet.uk](https://app.comparemyvet.uk) to search for practices at your destination or along your route.