Car Bed vs Regular Dog Bed: What’s the Difference?

Are you and your pup often on the road together? Then you’ve probably wondered whether your dog should have their own designated spot in the car. In this blog, we’ll explore when a dog car bed is worth it and why it can make every trip safer and more comfortable for both of you.

Why Choosing the Right Bed Matters

If you love taking your dog everywhere (from weekend getaways to quick grocery runs) their comfort and safety on the road matter more than you think.

A dog car bed might look similar to a regular bed, but its purpose is completely different. While a regular dog bed is made for cozy naps at home, a car bed is built to handle motion, bumps, and long rides; keeping your dog secure and calm while you drive.

So, what’s the real difference between a car bed and a regular bed, and how do you know which one your dog needs? Let’s break it down.

What Is a Regular Dog Bed?

A regular dog bed is designed for everyday rest and sleep. It’s a safe, stationary space your dog can call their own.

Common types of home dog beds:

• Orthopedic memory foam beds
  
  

• Donut or bolster beds
  
  

• Flat cushions or mats
  
  

❌ Why not use a normal dog bed during road trips?

It might be tempting to just chuck your dog's day-to-day bed into the car whenever you are traveling together. However… this might not be such a great idea. Here´s why:

• Not secure for moving vehicles
  
  

• May slide around on car seats
  
  

• Doesn’t protect against sudden stops or turns
  
  

• Isn’t made to be portable, and will often be clunky and heavy to carry
  
  

What Is a Car Dog Bed (Travel Dog Bed)?

A car dog bed (also known as a travel bed or dog car seat) combines comfort with safety. It’s made specifically for travel and designed to stay secure on your car seat while keeping your dog cozy and contained.

Key Features

• Safety straps and buckles: Secure to headrests or seat belts
  
  

• Non-slip bottom: Prevents sliding on car seats
  
  

• Bolstered sides: Adds comfort and protection during turns
  
  

• Padded base: Absorbs bumps and vibrations
  
  

• Removable covers: Easy to clean after messy rides
  
  

• Portable: Many fold up or double as a travel bed for hotel stays
  
  

Example: The Pelsbarn Luxurious Car Bed combines orthopedic comfort with travel safety. It’s designed with anti-slip grips, adjustable straps, and plush cushioning, so your dog feels calm, even on bumpy rides. This product is launching very soon!! Need a car bed now? Have a look at our Pelsbarn Protecting Car bed.

Car Bed vs Regular Dog Bed: A Side-by-Side Comparison

Why the Difference Matters

1. Safety Comes First

A bed that slides around is not just annoying, it’s dangerous as well. A dog can easily lose balance or get hurt in sudden stops. Car beds stay firmly in place, reducing risk and distractions while you drive.

2. Less Anxiety, More Comfort

Travel can be stressful for dogs. A sturdy, padded car bed gives them a sense of security. Especially with bolsters they can lean against. This comfort helps calm anxious pups and reduces motion sickness.

3. Better Support on Long Rides

The extra padding and foam layers absorb vibration and road bumps. For senior dogs or those with joint pain, this support makes a huge difference in how they feel after travel.

4. Cleaner and Easier to Maintain

Car beds are designed for dirt, fur, and wet paws. Most have removable, machine-washable covers and are made to release dirt easily when washed. It also comes in handy when you take your dog out for an autumn adventure in nature, and not having to worry about muddy paws in your car on the way home. 

When to Use a Car Dog Bed

Use your car dog bed when: 

• Traveling or running errands with your dog
  
  

• You want to minimize car anxiety
  
  

• You need a safe, anchored setup
  
  

💡 Tip: Many Pelsbarn customers keep one car bed and one home bed, so their pup always has a cozy, familiar spot no matter where they go. However, if you are looking for a bed that does it all: Our new Luxurious Car Bed transforms into an at-home donut bed when taken out of the car as well. 

When a Car Bed Might Not Be Necessary

While a dog car bed is a great investment for most pups, there are a few cases where you might not need one:

• You rarely drive with your dog: If car trips are a once in a blue moon type of occasion, your vet is walking or cycling distance, and you practically never take your dog with you while driving. You can probably live without one. 

• Your dog is safe and calm in the car using other methods: Some dogs prefer staying low to the ground or resting in their crate with a favorite blanket. If that routine keeps them calm, there’s no need to change it.

• Your car already has a fitted pet seat cover with built-in padding: In that case, adding a car bed might not add much extra benefit.

That said, if you notice your dog getting restless, sliding around, or anxious during rides, a properly anchored car bed can still make a world of difference, even for short trips.

How to Choose the Best Dog Car Bed

Here’s what to look for before buying:

1. Size and Fit: Measure your car seat and your dog’s length.
   
   

2. Anchoring System: Choose adjustable straps or seatbelt clips.
   
   

3. Comfort Level: Go for orthopedic foam or thick padding.
   
   

4. Washability: Machine-washable cover is a must.
   
   

5. Non-slip Design: Especially important for leather seats.
   
   

6. Safety Tether: Connects to your dog’s harness for extra protection.
   
   

7. Portable or Convertible: Ideal if you travel frequently or stay overnight.
   

Maintenance and Durability Tips

• Wash covers regularly to remove dirt and dander
  
  

• Shake out loose fur after each ride
  
  

• Check buckles and straps for wear
  
  

• Air dry the foam or padding when needed
  
  

• Use a blanket or liner for extra protection (like the Pelsbarn Calming Blanket)
  
  

Final thoughts: Comfort and safety go paw in paw

Choosing between a regular dog bed and a car bed depends on your lifestyle.

• For home comfort, stick with an orthopedic or bolster bed.
  
  

• For travel and safety, invest in a well-designed dog car bed with secure straps and padding.
  
  

Because your dog deserves to rest easy and safely.  Whether it’s by your side on the couch or in the backseat on your next road trip.

Warmly, 

Elle from team Pelsbarn