Updated for 2026 — This article has been reviewed and updated with the latest recommendations.
Dogs and car upholstery are natural enemies. Fur embeds in fabric. Muddy paws stain leather. Nails scratch surfaces. Drool creates permanent discoloration. A quality car seat cover or hammock protects your investment while making car travel comfortable for your dog. The hammock style adds a barrier that prevents dogs from falling into the footwell during sudden stops, which is both a safety and comfort feature.
01Cover vs. Hammock
A seat cover drapes over the back seat like a fitted sheet. It protects the seat surface but does not prevent the dog from moving to the footwell or between the front and back seats. A hammock attaches to the headrests of both the front and back seats, creating a suspended surface with a barrier behind the front seats. Hammocks keep dogs contained in the back seat area and protect the back of the front seats from scratching.
024Knines Dog Seat Cover
The 4Knines Dog Seat Cover converts between a standard bench cover and a hammock configuration. Heavy-duty waterproof polyester construction. Triple-layered fabric with a quilted top for comfort, waterproof middle layer, and non-slip backing. Adjustable straps and buckles accommodate different vehicle sizes. Openings in the hammock allow seat belt access for human passengers when the dog is not riding.
The material holds up well under large, active dogs. Machine washable. At $50 to $65. Check Latest Price
03Vailge Dog Car Seat Cover
The Vailge Dog Car Seat Cover provides mesh viewing windows on both sides of the hammock, which reduces anxiety for dogs that need to see their surroundings. Waterproof 600D Oxford fabric. Non-slip backing. Side flaps protect the doors from scratches. At $25 to $35, the best value for a full-featured hammock cover. Check Latest Price
04Plush Paws Products Luxury Hammock
The Plush Paws Luxury Hammock is the premium option with extra-thick quilted padding, reinforced stitching, and side flaps that cover door panels completely. Waterproof and machine washable. A center zipper allows the cover to be split for car seats that fold down. At $60 to $80, the highest quality option for people willing to invest. Check Latest Price
05Kurgo Bench Seat Cover
The Kurgo Bench Seat Cover is a simpler bench-style cover without the hammock feature. Waterproof, stain-resistant fabric with a non-slip backing. Quick to install and remove. At $30 to $40. Best for dogs that are already well-behaved in the car and do not need the containment a hammock provides. Check Latest Price
06Installation Tips
Adjust the straps so the cover is taut across the seat. A loose cover bunches up under the dog, creating an unstable surface. Secure the hammock to all four headrests. Place a non-slip pad or towel under the dog if the cover fabric is too slippery. Wash the cover regularly to prevent odor buildup.