How to Transport Your Dachshund Safely and Comfortably
When it comes to travelling with your Dachshund, comfort is important—but safety is essential. Whether you’re nipping out on a short drive or setting off for a long journey, it’s your responsibility to make sure your dog is secure, calm, and well-protected.
At Coots At Eversden, we’ve clocked up thousands of miles with our Dachshunds, from everyday errands to international dog shows. Over the years, we’ve learned what works, what to avoid, and why the proper travel setup matters—not just for peace of mind, but for your dog’s wellbeing and the law.
Dogs Must Be Restrained in the Car – It’s the Law
In the UK (and across much of Europe), it’s now required by law that dogs must be suitably restrained while travelling in a vehicle. This is part of Highway Code Rule 57, which clearly states animals must be secured to prevent them from distracting the driver or causing injury.
Failure to follow the law could lead to:
- Fines up to £5,000
- Penalty points on your licence
- Insurance issues in the event of an accident
- Charges of careless or dangerous driving
But aside from legal risks, an unrestrained dog is at serious risk if you have to brake suddenly or are involved in a collision. Even on a short trip, safety must come first.
Why We Recommend Rigid Travel Crates
From years of experience on the road, we’ve found that rigid plastic travel crates offer the best protection and comfort for Dachshunds. We use the Ferplast Atlas range, which is designed specifically for car travel and has never let us down.
Unlike standard metal crates, these have rounded edges that make it easier to close your boot safely. They’re strong, well-ventilated, and secure—giving your dog a calm, enclosed space that feels safe and prevents unnecessary movement during the journey.
The crates come in various sizes, so whether you’re travelling with one dog or more, or need something compact for a smaller car, there’s usually something that fits. Some even come with optional dividers to help keep dogs separate while travelling together.
No matter where you place the crate—boot or back seat—it’s essential that it’s fixed securely. In the boot, the crate should sit flush and not slide around. If it’s going on the back seat, make sure the seatbelt runs through the crate’s built-in lip or restraint points to hold it steady.
What About Soft Carriers?
We understand that rigid crates aren’t always practical. Sometimes you’re just popping out on a short trip, travelling light, or need something that’s easier to store. In those cases, a foldable soft carrier can be a suitable alternative—but only when used correctly and safely.
We’re talking about carriers that:
- Hold their shape when zipped up
- Allow your Dachshund to curl up comfortably
- Include secure anchor points or seatbelt loops so they can be strapped in firmly
These are not open beds or sling-style bags. A good-quality soft carrier should offer structure and proper restraint. Many are designed to fold flat when not in use, making them convenient for storage—without compromising on safety during travel.
If your soft carrier doesn’t have a way to attach a seatbelt or anchor it securely, it’s not suitable for use in the car.
What to Avoid Entirely
There are some products on the market that look nice but simply aren’t safe. Beds that double as booster seats or open-top carriers may be fine in the home, but in a moving car, they pose a real danger—especially when they rely on clipping a lead or strap to your dog’s collar.
This kind of restraint can put pressure on the neck if the car stops suddenly, leading to serious injury. Please avoid anything that doesn’t offer firm support and a secure way to fasten into the vehicle.
A Few Final Tips
- Always restrain your dog in a properly secured crate or soft carrier
- Never attach a lead or strap to their collar as a restraint
- If the crate or carrier is on the back seat, use the seat belt to hold it firmly in place
- The front passenger seat is not safe for your dog and may be illegal depending on where you’re travelling
Still Not Sure What’s Right for You?
We know that every dog is different, and so is every car and every journey. If you’re unsure about what crate or carrier might work best for your Dachshund, or how to fit it properly in your vehicle, we’re always happy to offer friendly, practical advice.
At the end of the day, safe travel isn’t just about ticking boxes. It’s about giving your dog a journey that feels secure and calm—so you can drive with confidence too.
If you have any questions or want a bit of help choosing what’s right for your setup, feel free to get in touch with us. We’re always happy to help.
