Introduction: Many dachshund owners travel with their dogs unsecured, often because finding the right car seat for their long-bodied, short-legged companion feels overwhelming. With so many options available, it's easy to see why.
But travelling without a secure travel solution really shouldn’t be an option.
A specialist car seat is key to keeping your dachshund safe and comfortable on every drive.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the essentials of choosing the best car seat specifically for dachshunds while highlighting often-overlooked factors that make a big difference.
Why the A Dachshund Dog Car Seat is Essential
Dachshunds can be very delicate creatures, and their spine needs protection. Their longer bodies make them much more susceptible to injury from sudden jolts and stops in the car.
Excessive movement or abrupt shifts can put a strain on their intervertebral discs, potentially contributing to spinal injuries or exacerbating conditions like IVDD (Intervertebral Disc Disease), which dachshunds are prone to.
A properly fitted car seat provides stability and security, preventing them from sliding around and reducing impact on their back.
The right seat should allow them to sit or lie in a natural position while offering sufficient cushioning to absorb the motion, bumps and turns in the road.
1. Why Choosing the Right Size Dachshund Dog Car Seat Matters
How a Properly Sized Car Seat Protects Your Dog and Enhances Their Travel Experience
A well-fitted seat prevents your dachshund from moving excessively, keeps them securely in place during sudden stops, and can even reduce travel anxiety by creating a snug, defined space.
The wrong size, however, can lead to discomfort and potential safety hazards, especially on longer trips.
2. How to Measure Your Dachshund for the Perfect Car Seat Fit
A Quick Guide to Measuring Dachshund Length and Weight for the Ideal Car Seat
- Length: Measure from the base of your dog’s neck to the base of its tail.
- Weight: Knowing your dog’s weight helps you choose a seat within the recommended range for stability and comfort.
Remember that your dog’s exact length doesn’t need to match the seat’s length perfectly.
Often, a dog car bed with a more padded feel gives them enough room to curl up naturally, especially if they tend to settle in or snuggle down into the cushions.
Many dogs find extra comfort sinking into a plush bed's deep, supportive pockets, allowing them to feel secure even in a slightly smaller space.
For example, all sizes of dachshunds find the Luther Bennett Travel Pod the perfect fit, offering deep cushioning, secure sides, and a cosy space to settle into—ideal for their long shape and burrowing tendencies.
Standard Dachshunds typically have a Pod of their own. Tweenies or Miniatures can share a single-seat Pod should they not mind being snuggled up together.
And if you are travelling with two or more dachshunds that like their space, you can ride in the XL Pod!
With these guidelines, you’ll be on your way to finding a car seat that’s both spacious and comfy for your dog to relax in, whether they’re sitting up or lying down.
Best Car Seats for Dachshunds: What to Look For
Dachshunds have specific needs when it comes to car travel. Here’s a breakdown of the best options, along with key considerations:
Durable, Supportive Padding
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Look for a seat with plush, deep pockets that allow your dachshund to sink in comfortably, providing the perfect balance of support and cosiness. The ability to burrow into a soft, cushioned space helps reduce anxiety and keeps them secure during travel.
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Deep, supportive bolsters help stabilise their long back and prevent pressure on their spine.
Secure Attachment Points
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A well-secured car seat prevents shifting during stops and turns, reducing the risk of jarring their sensitive spine. Look for dog car seats with Isofix for easy installation.
Adjustable Safety Tether
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The seat should include a tether that attaches to the dog's harness (never a collar) to keep the dog secure without restricting movement.
The Luther Bennett Travel Pod is designed with these factors, offering a structured yet cosy space that dachshunds instinctively love.
What to Avoid When Choosing a Dachshund Car Seat
Finding the right car seat is just as much about knowing what to avoid as it is about knowing what to look for. Here’s what I’ve learned from personal experience:
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Seats Without Enough Padding – If the base is too firm, your dachshund won’t settle comfortably, and it won’t absorb impact well.
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Too Much Open Space – A seat that’s too large might seem like a good idea, but without snug support, your dachshund may slide around during travel.
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Cheap Materials – If the price sounds too good to be true, it probably is!
Low-quality stitching and thin fabric won’t last long, and a weak seat isn’t something I’d ever risk using.
I touch on how to find a reputable online seller here. -
No Secure Fastenings – If the seat doesn’t attach firmly to your car’s seatbelt or Isofix points, it can shift dangerously during sudden stops.
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Built-in Tethers That Clip to Collars – Attaching directly to a collar can be dangerous—always choose a seat that secures your dog via a harness.
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Overly High or Hard Sides – If the sides are too rigid or tall, your dachshund might struggle to get comfortable or feel restricted.
Luther Bennett Customer Review - I am already the proud owner of three of the regular Travel pods, but I know how much my dogs like to be together, and also, when using it out and about, it is easier to carry in just one travel pod than multiple ones. The dogs took straight to it and loved how luxurious it felt. Easy to put together and looks fantastic. Can't wait to put it into the car.
Final Thoughts: Give Your Dachshund the Travel Comfort They Deserve
Dachshunds are the most popular breed among our customers for a reason—their unique shape and travel needs are completely catered for by our Dog Travel Pods
The Luther Bennett Travel Pod has been designed with dachshunds in mind, ensuring that every journey is secure, comfortable, and stress-free. Whether it’s a quick trip to the shops or a long road adventure, your dachshund deserves a space where they feel safe and at ease.
Join the thousands of dachshund owners who have already made the switch and see the difference for yourself.
Explore the Luther Bennett Travel Pod today and give your dachshund the ride they deserve.
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The Best Dog Car Seat For Adventures And Mucky Pups