Best Dog Car Seat For French Bulldog
If you own a French Bulldog, then you already know: they’re not just dogs — they’re family. And just like we buckle in our kids, your Frenchie deserves to travel in comfort and safety. But here’s the thing — not all dog car seats are built the same, and French Bulldogs aren’t shaped like most dogs. With their compact bodies, flat faces, and often sensitive breathing, they need special consideration when riding in a car.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the top-rated dog car seats that are perfect for French Bulldogs, plus help you understand why choosing the right one could make all the difference.
Why Car Safety is Different for French Bulldogs
Frenchies have that signature look — broad chest, short snout, big ears, and a lovable waddle. But their build is what makes them adorable and a bit of a challenge in the car.
- They’re heavy for their size – A 25-pound Frenchie feels like a solid bowling ball on your lap. That’s dangerous in a moving car.
- They have flat faces – Which makes them prone to overheating and breathing issues, especially if they’re stressed or improperly seated.
- They’re emotionally sensitive – Separation anxiety, motion sickness, and fear can hit hard. A cozy seat can keep them calm.
So, a good car seat isn’t just about protection — it’s about comfort, visibility, breathability, and reassurance.
What Makes a Car Seat Frenchie-Friendly?
There’s no one-size-fits-all, but when shopping for the right car seat for your French Bulldog, these features are non-negotiable:
1. Size & Shape
Your Frenchie needs enough space to sit, lie down, and turn without tumbling out. Look for:
- Weight capacity of at least 30 lbs
- Depth and supportive walls
- A secure harness attachment
2. Elevated Design
French Bulldogs love seeing out the window. An elevated booster design can help reduce motion sickness and keep your pup engaged.
3. Breathable Material
Due to their short snouts, they overheat more easily than other breeds. Choose materials like mesh sides, cotton, or canvas with proper ventilation.
4. Crash Safety Features
Look for models that:
- Anchor into the seatbelt system
- Include a tether for harness connection
- Have high-impact foam or reinforced structure
5. Easy Cleaning
Frenchies shed. They drool. And sometimes, accidents happen. Go for something with removable, machine-washable liners.
Top 5 Best Dog Car Seats for French Bulldogs (2025 Update)
Let’s break down the best on the market — seats that balance safety, style, and the unique needs of our flat-faced best friends.
1. Memory Foam Dog Booster Seats
This seat has been amazing! My Frenchie likes to drive, so I am always on the lookout for the best dog car seats. Getting her own seat, one where she can look out her own window, instead of mine is always a great buy. This seat comes with a vacuum sealed, but pops into shape immediately. The seat is high enough that she can see out the window. At 33 pounds, this is sturdy enough to hold her and has plenty of room. Easy to strap in and feels secure. Comes with 2 leashes to attach to collar, too. Love it!
Why it stands out:
This seat is basically a great booster seat straight out of packaging. Super plush and soft. My dogs LOVES it! Comes with plenty of room to stretch out and lay down for longer car rides. Very well-made. The 6 inch cushion makes all the difference in comfort.
- Weight limit: Up to 30 lbs
- Perfect for: Frenchies with joint issues or anxiety
Pro tip: Add a familiar blanket inside, and your dog might never want to leave the car.
- Elevated Dog Car Seat: Our car seat for dogs raises your pet up to 6 inches above the car seat, giving them a beter view out the window and relieving anxiety during car rides. It comes with two safety belts that attach to your dog’s harness to prevent them from jumping out the window, providing your dog with great safety and comfort
- Ideal Size for Small and Medium dogs: Measuring 20.7 in (L)X 20.7 in (W) X 18.9 in (H), the pet car seat can accommodate all types of small and medium dogs up to 35 pounds, or two small dogs up to 15 pounds. It fits in the front or back seats of cars, SUVs and trucks. WARM TIP: Please measure your pet before purchasing
- Comfort and Safety : The surface of dog booster car seat is made of short plush fabric, super soft and comfortable, and the bottom is filled with high-density egg-shaped foam to provide superior comfort and support, effectively reducing the impact of road bumps,together with the non-slip bottom and headrest straps, the dog car bed will be more stable to ensure your dog’s safety
- Multi-functional Use: The small dog car seat is not only suitable for vehicles, but can also be used as a dog bed at home, outdoors or in a tent, providing your dog with a comfortable resting space anwhere. It has a removable and washable cover, simply open the zipper and take out the sponge to clean the cover. Please note that the inner sponge is not washable
- Easy to install : Simply thread the car seat belt through the two holes on the bottom of the dog booster seat, then secure the top strap to the car headrest, adjust to the proper length and the installation is complete. There are storage pockets on both sides of the puppy car seat , convenient for storing dog food, toys and other traveling necessities
2. K&H Pet Products Bucket Booster Seat
This console car seat is the best the reviewer has owned after extensive research and testing. It fits perfectly and securely on the console of their 2017 Infiniti QX70, with sturdy straps that hold it in place without loosening. The safety lead is correctly positioned at the rear, protecting pets in case of impact, unlike some unsafe carriers.
Their 10lb Teddy Bear dog fits comfortably, even curling up to sleep with room for a toy. The tall, sturdy sides add extra safety, and the heavy-duty zippers make assembly simple and durable. The carry straps are strong and were useful in getting the dog accustomed to the seat at home.
While not yet tested for air travel, the reviewer is confident it will perform well. Overall, it offers excellent safety, comfort, and value, comparable to much more expensive options, making it a highly recommended choice for pet owners.
Why it stands out:
It’s a secure, contoured bucket design with thick foam walls that cradle your dog safely. Comes in a very comfortable size — Ideal for French Bulldogs.
- Weight limit: Up to 30 lbs
- Features: Inner tether, removable cover, and 3-color options
- Installation: Use with seatbelt or headrest straps
Great for longer trips and Frenchies who like being surrounded.
- DOG CAR SEAT WITH A VIEW: Portable pet booster seat elevates dogs and cats for a lookout window view, while the firm foam bolster around the edge keeps them in a safe and controlled spot for a distraction-free drive
- SAFETY FIRST: Compatible with any car seat belt to securely buckle in place with the seat belt hidden under the removable booster cushion; plus it includes two adjustable security tethers to attached to dog harness
- QUICK SECURE INSTALLATION: Quick to install and uninstall and the front dips down so your pet can easily climb in and out before buckling up; perfect for short trips and comfortable enough for longer trips
- EASY CLEAN-UP: Removable, washable, plush quilted fleece cover ensures pet comfort (cream color so as not to absorb the sun’s heat) and easy maintenance and this model is collapsible, it knocks down for flat storage
- SIZING: The contoured back is designed to fit securely in the front or back seat of any car seat design. Small bucket booster is recommended for small pets and Large booster can fit up to two small pets or one medium-sized breed
3. Kurgo Skybox Booster Car Seat
I absolutely love this car seat because it’s spacious enough to fit both of my dogs (12 lbs and 20 lbs) comfortably, with extra room for them to stretch or nap. They seem happy and secure while riding, which gives me peace of mind. Instead of using the included hooks, I opted for a headrest strap for extra safety—it was easy to install in my SUV and holds tightly with minimal movement.
Safety is my top priority, and this seat makes me feel confident that my dogs won’t be thrown around if I need to brake suddenly. After researching countless options, I chose this one even though it’s pricier, and it’s worth every penny for the quality and security.
I also noticed the straps were positioned in the front instead of the back, but after checking the instructions, I realized this is an updated design. It actually makes the seatbelt hold even more secure. Overall, I’m very satisfied and highly recommend this seat for anyone who wants comfort and safety for their pets on the road.
Why it stands out:
For the more active adventurer, this rugged booster has a waterproof exterior and foldable design. Built to last.
- Weight limit: Up to 30 lbs
- Features: Adjustable tether, metal supports, machine-washable liner
- Pros: Durable, yet comfy; fits in front or back seats
Best for outdoorsy types or rainy-day rides.
- Perfect Fit for Medium & Large Dogs: Measuring 30″L x 15.5″W x 13″H, this dog car seat for Medium/Large dogs comfortably holds pets up to 55 lbs or two small dogs. The spacious dog car seat fits securely in most back seats, providing a stable and roomy ride.
- Reversible & Washable Pet Car Seat: Features a dual-sided cover—plush fleece for winter and durable Oxford fabric for summer. The removable, machine-washable cover keeps this dog carseat fresh and hygienic for every trip.
- Superior Comfort & Elevated Support: Designed with a removable double-sided cushion and reinforced frame with a support plate, this dog seat for car elevates your pet for better visibility and reduces travel anxiety.
- Maximum Safety for Stress-Free Travel:Includes 2 adjustable safety leashes that buckle to headrests & seat belts, plus collar tethers to keep your dog secure. The non-slip base ensures stability in this large pet car seat.
- Portable & Multi-Functional Design: The foldable dog car seat comes with a carrying case and storage pockets for treats and toys. When not in use, it doubles as a cozy indoor dog bed, making it a versatile travel essential.
4. PetSafe Happy Ride Dog Safety Seat
I first bought this booster seat over 5 years ago—one for each of my two pugs (20–25 lbs). After all this time, they’re still in great condition. The fabric has worn a bit, but the structure remains strong and reliable. I recently purchased two more, not because the old ones failed, but simply to refresh the fabric since I don’t sew.
Over the years, these seats have proven their worth. I’ve had a couple of close-call moments where I had to brake hard or swerve suddenly, and my dogs hardly noticed—they stayed safe and secure. The seats give them enough room to move around, look out the window, or curl up comfortably. Sometimes one pup manages to climb out, but that’s only because I give her extra slack with the buckle.
For my senior dogs (11 and 14 years old), I add blankets for extra coziness, and they love resting their heads on the little ledge. It makes long road trips so much easier and enjoyable for both me and them. After trying other options, I can confidently say nothing beats the safety and comfort of these booster seats.
Why it stands out:
This seat offers an open-top design that gives Frenchies a full view while keeping them strapped in safely.
- Weight limit: Up to 25 lbs
- Features: Strong plastic frame, internal tether
- Extras: Folds flat for storage
Ideal for dogs who need a distraction-free view to stay calm.
- Safe & Comfortable Travel: The PetSafe Happy Ride Dog Safety Seat keeps your pet secure during car travel with dogs and includes a seat belt tether and soft cushion for stability
- Strong Frame & Easy Setup: Rigid plastic frame snaps together without tools for a secure dog seat with a lightweight and portable design fits most bucket or bench seats
- Keeps Your Car Clean: Protects fabric and leather from pet hair and scratches while providing a washable seat cover with a removable fleece liner for easy cleaning
- Global Mission, Local Care: With U.S. roots and worldwide reach, PetSafe delivers vet- and trainer-recommended solutions and exceptional customer support to create fields of joy for pets
- 25 Years of Trust: Since 1998, PetSafe has created safe, innovative, and trusted products that bring joy, enhance pet lives, and support the lifelong bond between pets and their families
5. Dog Car Seat for Small/Medium Dogs
We recently adopted a French Bulldog and wanted a safe, comfortable way for him to ride in the car. After trying a more expensive booster seat, we quickly realized it just wasn’t right—our Frenchie fit the weight range, but the design felt cramped and awkward. Then we found this booster, and it has been a game-changer!
It’s roomy enough for his stocky Frenchie body, with thick padding that makes it super comfortable. The cushioned sides even have some “give,” which he loves to rest his head on during rides. Installation was quick and simple—just use the lap belt and clip the small strap to his harness for added security.
This booster keeps him secure while giving him the comfort and space he needs, and he seems to actually enjoy car rides now. At around 26 lbs, our French Bulldog fits perfectly, with room to stretch out or curl up. It’s hands down the best car seat we’ve tried—safe, sturdy, and incredibly cozy.
Why it stands out:
This one’s all about luxury and compact design. It sits high on the seat, giving even small Frenchies a great view.
- Weight limit: Up to 20 lbs (for smaller Frenchies or puppies)
- Features: Collapsible frame, adjustable leash clip, washable lining
- Build: Strong enough for regular travel
Perfect for Frenchie puppies or those under 22 lbs.
- 【Optimal Size】: This dog car seat measures 17 in (L) X 17 in (W) X 19 in (H), providing ample space for up to two small puppies or one medium-sized dog weighing under 35 lbs. Suitable for breeds like Yorkshire Terriers, Chihuahuas, Pomeranians, Dachshunds, Shih Tzus, cats, puppies, and more. Refer to the provided picture for specific size details.
- 【Perfect View, Happy Pup】Boost your pet up by 6 inches, so they can enjoy the scenery outside the window. Whether it’s a quick errand or a long road trip, this dog booster seat keeps your pup entertained and reduces their anxiety, making every trip a breeze.
- 【Comfortable and Skin-Friendly】: Made from premium crystal velvet fabric, this dog car seat is incredibly soft and skin-friendly. The luxurious material ensures your pet stays comfortable and relaxed, whether on the road or at home.
- 【Secure and Stable Design】: Our dog car bed features a built-in pet leash and uses both bottom and top seat fixings to keep the seat stable and your pet secure. This design prevents the seat from shifting, ensuring a safe and comfortable journey for your furry friend.
- 【Multi-scene Use and Easy Maintenance】: This dog car seat is not only suitable for use in cars but can also be used at home, outdoors, in a tent, or anywhere you can imagine. It features large capacity storage side pockets on both sides, providing a convenient spot to store doggy snacks, puppy kibble, and other essentials. No installation required – our dog booster seat is ready to use right out of the box. It comes vacuum-packed and fully expands to its optimal shape within 24 hours. The dog booster seat is fully removable and washable. Open the bottom zipper, take out the sponge, and clean the cover, ensuring your pet always has a clean and comfortable space.
Safety First: Tips for Travel with Your French Bulldog
Car seats are only as safe as how you use them. Here are some tips to maximize protection and comfort:
- Use a harness, not a collar: Collars can choke during sudden stops.
- Secure the car seat properly: It should not slide or tip during turns.
- Never place your Frenchie in the front seat: Airbags can be deadly.
- Hydration is key: Always travel with fresh water.
- Avoid long trips in the heat: Frenchies overheat faster than you think.
Helping Your Frenchie Adjust to a New Car Seat
Don’t expect your pup to jump right in and love it. Take it slow.
- Let them sniff and sit in it at home.
- Place treats or toys in the seat to build positive association.
- Start with short trips around the block.
- Use calming sprays or a familiar blanket if they’re anxious.
- Praise and reward every calm ride.
Consistency is the magic trick.
Conclusion
Your French Bulldog is more than just a pet — they’re your travel buddy, your shotgun rider, and your furry copilot. Choosing the right dog car seat is an act of love, safety, and care. Whether you’re going on a long road trip or just to the vet, a well-chosen car seat makes every journey smoother, safer, and happier for both of you.
So don’t settle. Choose a seat that fits your Frenchie’s body, calms their nerves, and gives them the ride they deserve.
FAQs
1. Do French Bulldogs really need a car seat?
Yes — it’s crucial for their safety and comfort. A loose Frenchie in the car is both a distraction and a risk in case of an accident.
2. Can I use a regular travel carrier instead?
You can, but booster seats offer visibility and freedom that carriers don’t. Choose based on your dog’s temperament.
3. How often should I clean the seat?
At least once a month — more if your dog sheds a lot or has accidents. Choose machine-washable liners to save time.
4. Is it okay to let my dog roam in the backseat?
Nope. Unrestrained pets can become projectiles during sudden stops. Always use a tether and seat.
5. Are these car seats airline-approved too?
Most are not. Car seats are for vehicles only. Airline carriers follow different regulations for cabin and cargo travel.
With deep knowledge of canine behavior, breed-specific care, and veterinary best practices, Mitchell specializes in training, health management, and ethical breeding. His work follows Google’s E-E-A-T principles, ensuring trustworthy and authoritative content for dog lovers worldwide.
Mitchell’s Mission
"Dogs are more than pets—they are family. My goal is to educate and empower dog owners with expert knowledge for a better life with their furry companions."
Website: www.akitaguru.com | Email: mitchell@akitaguru.com
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