Dog Car Seat for Labrador and Golden Retriever: Why You Need the XL
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Labrador Retrievers and Golden Retrievers are the most common family dogs in North America, and also two of the hardest to fit in a dog car seat. Adult dogs of both breeds are usually well over 50 lbs, which is more than most booster seats can handle.
Which size for a Lab or a Golden?
Go by weight. An adult Labrador or Golden Retriever typically needs our XL seat, which is built for dogs over 50 lbs. A young or small female at 45 lbs may still fit the Large, but if she is still growing, order the XL. A dog with room turns around and lies down; a squeezed dog stays standing and moves about.
What to look for with a big retriever
- Anchoring: metal ISOFIX/LATCH clips and adjustable straps, so a 70 lb dog does not shift the seat.
- Waterproof base: wet coats and muddy paws after the lake are part of the deal.
- Machine-washable cover: retrievers shed. A removable cover keeps the seat fresh.
- Harness clip: attach it to a harness, never a collar.
Will it fit my car?
The XL is made for the back seat of a sedan, SUV or pickup with a rear bench. Measure the width of your back seat first. For a step-by-step guide, read how to measure your dog and your back seat.
Getting a retriever used to the seat
Start in the driveway with treats, then a short drive to somewhere fun. Our 7-day guide walks you through it.
TheDogCarSeat is a comfort and containment product, not a crash-tested restraint system.
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