Adac test: danger of unsecured dogs in the car
When we take our dog on a car trip, we should think not only about his well-being, but also about his safety. A recent study by the German Automobile Association (ADAC) shows that unsecured dogs in cars pose a significant risk.
The test, conducted in cooperation with Stiftung Warentest, reveals frightening results: Even in a collision at a speed of only 50 km/h, an unsecured dog developed a weight of almost half a ton – an enormous burden for the occupants in the car and the dog itself.
The good news is that there are many effective ways to secure your dog in the car to minimize the risk of injury and damage. Learn more about the results of the test and how you can safely take your furry friend on the next trip here.
Study reveals: Dog restraints often inadequate
A new study by ADAC shows that unsecured dogs in cars can pose a serious danger. According to the findings, many dog restraints on the market are inadequate and do not provide the necessary protection in the event of an accident.
During the test, various dog restraint systems were evaluated for their effectiveness and safety. The results showed that many products do not meet the required standards and can fail in the event of a collision, which could result in serious injury or even death to the animal.
It is important to note that in many countries it is illegal to have unsecured dogs in the car. It is therefore advisable to choose a suitable dog restraint that meets current safety standards and protects the animal in the event of an accident.
- The appropriate dog restraint should:
- can be permanently installed in the car
- How to keep the dog safely in place
- not increase the risk of injury to the dog
- that meet safety standards
It is important to pay attention to quality and safety when buying a dog restraint, in order to ensure the welfare of the animal and minimize a possible danger on the road. As pet owners, we have a responsibility to transport and protect our beloved four-legged friends safely.
Insufficient legal regulations: Dogs in the car
The ADAC has examined the danger of unsecured dogs in the car in a test. The results show that in the event of an accident, unsecured dogs can lead to life-threatening injuries. Nevertheless, there are no uniform legal regulations for securing dogs in cars.
Many dog owners underestimate the danger and put themselves and the dog in danger. Often dogs are transported on the front passenger seat or on the backseat without any safety device. But in the event of an accident, they become dangerous projectiles and can suffer serious injuries in the event of heavy braking or a collision.
It is important to create legal regulations that ensure the safety of dogs in cars. A uniform regulation for securing dogs in the car can contribute to this. It should be clearly defined how dogs are to be secured in the car and what sanctions may be imposed in the event of violations. This is the only way to ensure the safety of humans and animals in road traffic.
- But even without legal regulations, dog owners should show a sense of responsibility and transport their dog safely in the car.
- There are several options for securing dogs, such as dog crates or safety harnesses.
- The dog should be secured in a place in the car that will be used as little as possible in the event of an accident and will not cause additional injury to the dog.
In general, the ADAC test shows that insufficient legal regulations can often lead to dangers in road traffic. It is important that politicians act here and ensure uniform regulation.
How to find the right dog restraint
An ADAC test has shown that unsecured dogs in the car pose a great danger. In the event of an accident or abrupt braking, unsecured dogs can become dangerous projectiles that can injure or even kill the occupants of the car.
Therefore, it is important to find a suitable dog restraint that protects both the dog and the occupants of the car. There are different types of dog restraints, such as seat belts, boxes and nets.
- A seat belt is especially appropriate for smaller dogs or calm dogs that do not run or jump around while driving.
- A dog crate is a good option for larger dogs or dogs that like to move back and forth while driving. It is important to find a crate that is large enough for the dog and can be securely fastened in the car.
- A dog net can be used to block access to certain areas of the car and ensure that the dog stays in a certain place while driving.
Regardless of the type of dog guard, it is important that it is installed and secured properly. A loose or poorly fastened dog restraint can be just as dangerous as no restraint at all.
Therefore, thoroughly research the different types of dog restraints and find the right restraint that will keep your dog safe while driving while protecting the occupants of the car.

Summary: Priority is given to safety
The current ADAC test has impressively shown how dangerous unsecured dogs in the car can be. Many dog owners underestimate the risk posed by a four-legged friend flying around. At the same time, an unsecured dog can become a deadly hazard to all occupants in the event of an accident.
There are various ways to secure your dog in the car: from a simple dog guard to a special car belt or transport box. It is important that the securing device is adapted to the size and weight of the dog and complies with the requirements of the StVO (German Road Traffic Act).

- A transport box offers the dog the greatest protection and prevents it from being thrown through the vehicle in a collision. In addition, the dog cannot run around uncontrolled in the car.
- The car seat belt is a good alternative to the transport box if the dog is not claustrophobic or claustrophobic. The dog is not protected from a collision, but it is prevented from being thrown through the car.
- Dog guards are particularly suitable for larger dogs and station wagons or off-road vehicles. They prevent the dog from jumping into the passenger seat or even the driver’s lap while driving. However, they do not provide protection in the event of a collision.

Regardless of the chosen securing option, as a dog owner you should always make sure that the dog has enough space and freedom of movement, has enough water available and takes regular breaks. This is the only way to ensure a safe and pleasant ride for all passengers.