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Do dogs have to be secured in the car in Norway?

What Statens vegvesen says about dogs in cars, crates and harnesses.

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Short answer

Statens vegvesen says you must not drive with your dog loose in the car, because it is not safe for the dog, the driver or the passengers. In a sudden stop the dog can be thrown forward and injure both itself and others. Use a transport crate or a harness made for dogs in cars.

Travelling with pets on road trips in Norway a dog with a leash sitting next to a small moose silhouette and a vet cross

Why

  1. Statens vegvesen, the Norwegian Public Roads Administration, states that you must not drive with your dog loose in the car.
  2. A loose dog can be thrown forward in a sudden stop and, at worst, injure both itself and others in the car.
  3. Statens vegvesen advises securing the dog in a transport crate or in a harness designed for transporting dogs in cars.

Details

The advice is on Statens vegvesen's page about securing loads, which also covers luggage, roof loads and trailers. It names two options for the dog: a transport crate, or a harness made for transporting dogs in cars. A crate should be fastened in the boot.

Tip

Fasten the crate in the boot and push it forward against the back of the seat, so it cannot slide in a sudden stop.

Common misconception

A calm and well-trained dog can ride loose on the back seat.

What actually happens

Statens vegvesen says you must not drive with the dog loose at all, as any dog can be thrown forward in a sudden stop.

People also ask

  • Is it illegal to have a loose dog in the car in Norway?

Sources

This answer is for reference only. Rules can change, so check Statens vegvesen before you travel.

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