If your dog rides in the back seat, you have probably seen it happen. One hard stop and your dog slides into the footwell. Two common fixes are a dog backseat extender and a hammock seat cover. A bench seat cover is a third option. Each one works differently, so the right choice depends on how your dog rides and what you want to protect.
This is a general buying guide. Ridemutt does not sell an extender or a hammock cover at the moment, so we compare the three types in plain terms and then point you to the things we do sell for car rides.
Why the footwell gap matters
In many cars, there is a gap between the back seat and the front seats. A dog that moves around can drop into that gap. A nervous dog may keep sliding back down. A good fix fills the gap and gives your dog one level place to stand.
The three options
Hard-bottom backseat extender
A backseat extender is a firm platform that bridges the gap. Your dog can stand, turn and lie down on a flat surface. The firm base is the main difference from the other two options. Check each model's listing for its cover material, size and how it stays in place. An extender is a comfort accessory, not a crash restraint, so use it with a harness and tether.
Hammock seat cover
A hammock seat cover is a fabric sheet that spans the back seat. It covers the upholstery and can help keep hair and mud off the seat. The common drawback is sag. Fabric has no firm base, so it can dip into the gap. Your dog then has no steady place to stand.
Bench seat cover
A bench seat cover fits over a bench-style seat to protect the upholstery. It is good for keeping the seat clean. It does not fill the footwell gap, though, and a dog that stands or paces can still slide. Fit matters too. A cover made for one seat shape may not sit well on another, so check the sizing before you order.
Quick comparison
| Option | Footwell gap | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Hard-bottom extender | Fills it with a firm base | Dogs that slide or pace |
| Hammock cover | Can sag into it | Dogs that mostly lie down |
| Bench seat cover | Does not fill it | Calm dogs that stay put |
Which one does your dog need?
- Pick an extender if your dog slides into the footwell, paces, or cannot stand still on a soft surface.
- Pick a hammock cover if your dog mostly lies down and you want a light cover for the back seat.
- Pick a bench seat cover if seat protection is your main goal and your dog stays in one spot.
Whatever you choose, keep your dog in place
None of these is a restraint. A harness and a tether do the work of keeping your dog from roaming the car. Both of these clip to a harness, not a collar:
The Dog Car Seat Belt Tether latches into your car with a hassle-free clip and lets your dog sit, stand or lie down. The Stretchy Dog Car Seat Belt is adjustable, with a minimum length of 70 cm that stretches to 125 cm.
Keep the seat clean
Whichever cover you pick, hair will still get through. A washable roller lifts it off the seat after a trip. The Reusable Pet Hair Roller is described as working on clothes, bedding, carpet, sofas, car seats and floors.
Tips before you buy
- Measure the back seat width and the gap to the front seats.
- Check the product dimensions against your car before you order.
- Use a harness every time your dog rides.
- Wipe up mud while it is fresh. It is easier to clean before it dries.
Frequently asked questions
Will a backseat extender stop my dog from falling into the footwell?
It fills the gap, so your dog has a level place to stand. That makes a fall less likely. It is not a restraint, so keep your dog in a harness and tether.
Is a hammock seat cover better than an extender?
It depends on your dog. A hammock cover can work for a dog that mostly lies down. A dog that stands, paces or slides may do better on a firm base.
Do I still need a harness if I use an extender?
Yes. The extender gives your dog a stable surface, not a restraint. Use a harness and tether every time your dog rides.
More to explore
See the On the Road collection for car and travel gear. Delivery times depend on where you live, so check the delivery questions on our FAQ. Use code LAUNCH15 for 15% off at checkout.
Related guides: How to choose a car seat for a small dog and How to protect your car from dog hair, mud and scratches.