Travelling with your dog should be safe, comfortable, and stress-free, for both you and your dog. Whether it’s a quick trip to the park or a long family holiday, securing your dog properly in the car is an important part of responsible ownership.

Two of the most popular solutions are dog guards and dog crates. While both products help keep dogs contained during travel and can help drivers comply with Rule 57 of the UK Highway Code, they offer different benefits depending on your dog, vehicle, and travel habits.

If you’re unsure which option is best, this guide breaks down the differences to help you make an informed decision for you and your furry friend!

 

What does Rule 57 of the Highway Code say?

Rule 57 of the UK Highway Code states that dogs and other animals should be “suitably restrained” when travelling in a vehicle so they cannot distract the driver or injure themselves, or passengers if the vehicle stops suddenly.

Both dog guards and dog crates can help you meet this requirement when used correctly.

What Is a dog guard?

A dog guard is a barrier fitted between the boot and passenger area of the vehicle. Ours are crash tested, and are designed specifically for individual vehicle models to ensure a secure and precise fit.

The purpose of a dog guard is containment, preventing your dog from entering the cabin while travelling.

Benefits of a dog guard

Maximises boot space

Dog guards allow your dog to use the full boot area, making them ideal for larger breeds or households with multiple dogs.

Vehicle-specific fit

Our dog guards are designed specifically for individual makes and models, helping ensure a secure fit without permanent modifications to your vehicle.

Easy access

Your dog can jump in and out of the boot easily, which is useful for active dogs or frequent journeys.

Good ventilation

Because the boot remains open internally, airflow is typically excellent.

Flexible for everyday use

Dog guards can be a practical option for drivers who regularly switch between transporting pets, luggage, shopping, or outdoor equipment.

 

What is a dog crate?

A dog crate is an enclosed travel cage designed to keep your dog contained within a dedicated space in the vehicle. Not all car crates are crash tested, meaning they haven't undergone impact testing to evaluate how they perform during collisions.

Unlike a standard containment solution, the Travall Dog Crate is crash tested and designed with protection in mind for your furry friend.

 

Benefits of a dog crate

Added crash protection

A crash-tested crate is specifically engineered to help protect your dog during an accident, not simply keep them in one area of the car.

Creates a secure den-like space

Many dogs feel calmer in enclosed environments, particularly nervous or reactive dogs.

Helps reduce movement during travel

Crates can minimise shifting and movement while driving, which some dogs find more comfortable.

Cleaner travel environment

Mud, fur, and water are contained within the crate area, helping keep the rest of the vehicle cleaner.

Useful beyond the car

Our dog crate can also double as temporary resting spaces at events, campsites, or during overnight stays.

 

Key differences between the Travall Dog Guard and Travall Dog Crate

Feature	Dog Guard	Dog Crate
Main Purpose	Containment	Containment + crash protection
Vehicle Space	Dog(s) uses full boot	Dog takes up defined space
Suitable for Large Dogs	Excellent	Depends on crate size
Crash Tested	Yes	Yes
Dog Freedom of Movement	More room	More restricted
Cleanliness Control	Moderate	High
Ease of Removal	Fixed (easy install/removal)	Portable (secured with straps)

 

Which option is best for your dog?

The right choice depends on your priorities, your dog’s temperament, and how you use your vehicle.

Our dog guard may suit you if:

• You have a larger breed
• You regularly transport multiple dogs
• You want to maximise boot space
• Your dog is calm and comfortable in the boot area

Our dog crate may suit you if:

• Protection for your dog in a collision is your top priority
• Your dog prefers enclosed spaces
• You travel long distances frequently
• You have a nervous or highly active dog
• You want a contained, easy-to-clean travel area

Final thoughts

Both crash-tested dog guards and crates are excellent ways to travel more safely with your dog, and both can help drivers comply with Rule 57 of the Highway Code.

A vehicle-specific crash-tested dog guard offers practicality, flexibility, and excellent use of space, while a crash-tested crate focuses more heavily on impact protection as well as containment.

Ultimately, there’s no “best” option, only the best choice for your dog, your vehicle, and the way you travel together!

 

The Travall Dog Crate is currently only available to purchase on travall.co.uk