Cavoodles are Australia's most popular dog breed, and most of them love a car ride. The problem is that a small, curious cavoodle rarely sits still: they want to see out the window, climb into the front and sit on your lap. A good dog car seat solves all three. Here is how to choose the right one for your cavoodle.
Why a cavoodle needs a car seat
- They are too short to see out. Most cavoodles cannot see over the door from a normal car seat. A booster seat lifts them up, which keeps them calmer and less likely to get car sick.
- They wander. An unrestrained small dog can end up in the footwell or on the driver's lap, which is distracting and, in most states, can earn you a fine. See our guide to dog car travel laws in Australia.
- They shed less, but they still bring the beach home. A seat with a washable cushion keeps sand and mud contained.
What size car seat does a cavoodle need?
Cavoodles vary a lot in size depending on the poodle parent:
- Toy cavoodle: roughly 3–6 kg. A centre console seat or a small booster seat both work.
- Miniature cavoodle: roughly 6–10 kg. Choose a booster seat rated for at least 10 kg with enough room to lie down.
- Larger cavoodles (10 kg+): skip the booster and use a back seat hammock with a dog seat belt instead.
Measure your dog from nose to base of tail while they are lying curled up, and compare that with the inside dimensions of the seat. If in doubt, size up.
Booster seat vs centre console seat
Centre console seat
Straps on top of the armrest between the two front seats. Your cavoodle sits right beside you, which is great for anxious dogs. Best for toy cavoodles only, and make sure your dog cannot reach the gearstick or the driver.
Booster seat
Sits on the passenger or back seat and is held in place by straps around the headrest and seat. It gives your dog more space to curl up and is the better choice for most cavoodles. The back seat is the safest place, away from front airbags.
Features to look for
- A built-in tether that clips to a harness (never a collar).
- A firm, raised base so the seat does not collapse when your dog moves.
- A removable, washable cushion.
- Non-slip backing and adjustable straps that fit your car's headrest.
- Storage pockets for treats, poo bags and a lead.
How to get your cavoodle used to the car seat
- Put the seat on the floor at home for a few days and let your dog sniff and sleep in it.
- Move it into the car and reward your dog for hopping in, with the engine off.
- Start with short drives around the block, then build up to longer trips.
- Bring a familiar blanket or toy so the seat smells like home.
Our pick for cavoodles
Our dog booster seats are designed for small dogs like cavoodles, with a raised base, a built-in tether and a washable cushion. For bigger cavoodles, pair a back seat hammock with a dog seat belt.
FAQ
Can a cavoodle sit in the front seat?
In most Australian states it is allowed as long as the dog is restrained and not on your lap, but the back seat is safer because front airbags can injure a small dog.
Do dog car seats stop car sickness?
Many dogs get less car sick when they can see out the window and are not sliding around. If your dog is regularly sick in the car, talk to your vet.