What is the law on dogs travelling in cars?

[cloggs]

Does the law require the dog to wear a seat belt, or be restrained in some way?

[ChuckFickens]

No law about it. but use your common sense, an unrestrained dog could cause serious damage to you (and the dog) in the event of an accident. Also if the dog distracted you or got in your way when driving causing an accident you'd certainly be prosecuted (probably for not being in full control, possibly for an unsafe load, but rest assured something would cover it)

Rule 57 of the highway code states....

"57

When in a vehicle make sure dogs or other animals are suitably restrained so they cannot distract you while you are driving or injure you, or themselves, if you stop quickly. A seat belt harness, pet carrier, dog cage or dog guard are ways of restraining animals in cars."

although as it doesn't say "must" it is not law, just advice.

[rsvp]

if a dog hits the back of your head when you brake hard it can kill you - it has happened - for you and the dog's sake either use a dog seat belt, a secure dog cage or a dog guard to stop the animal distracting you when you drive. Many dogs have been seriously injured through being catapaulted into the well of the car during heavy braking. The legality has been dealt with, this is just common sense.