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Dog & Drive FAQs

Dog & Drive FAQs

Dog & Drive is a vehicle-specific dog travel system for your car boot: carbon fibre dog steps plus a made-to-measure crate, with an optional cushion and divider. Each part is designed to match your boot and anchor to your car’s OEM lashing points (the factory tie-down rings).

It’s designed to work as one complete system, but each component can also be used on its own. You can start with dog steps for joint-friendly access, add the crate later for a defined travel space, and build the setup over time as your needs change.

Dog Steps

What are the steps?

Vehicle-specific carbon fibre steps that mount to a vehicle-specific frame made for your car. They’re designed for simple, one-handed use and fold compactly within the tailgate opening when not needed.

What’s included with steps-only?

A set of carbon fibre dog steps (56 cm or 86 cm) plus the vehicle-specific mounting frame. The frame uses your car’s OEM lashing points for a stable, integrated fit.

Fit and compatibility

Will the steps fit my vehicle?

Yes — for vehicles we list, we build the step frame from our bank of 3D scan data so it follows your boot contours cleanly, with no guesswork.

Do I need to measure my boot or send photos?

No. Choose your vehicle and year and we match the fit from our database.

Which side of the boot do the steps go on?

We configure the frame so the steps align naturally with your boot and tailgate geometry, and keep the setup practical for day-to-day loading.

What if I have a split (two-piece) tailgate, tow bar, boot liner, or raised EV/PHEV boot floor?

Just mention it at enquiry. We’ll confirm the best configuration for your vehicle and how you use the boot.

What if I can’t see any lashing points in my boot?

That’s common. Some vehicles have lashing points tucked under trim panels or covers. Mention your vehicle at enquiry and we’ll confirm where they are and how the frame anchors.

Which step size do I need (56 cm or 86 cm)?

56 cm is the compact option for narrower tailgate openings and space-efficient boot setups. 86 cm is a wider platform for larger tailgates and added room underfoot. We’ll recommend the right size based on your vehicle and layout. If you’re pairing steps with the Small crate, the compatible option is the 56 cm steps.

Installation and removal

How are the steps installed?

The steps mount onto a vehicle-specific frame that anchors to your car’s OEM lashing points. You install using the supplied fitting guide — no drilling or permanent changes.

How long does the first-time install take?

Most customers allow around 30 minutes the first time, just to get familiar with the anchor points and layout. After that, fitting and removal is typically only a few minutes.

Do I need tools?

In most cases, no special tools. If you have a bespoke or more complex configuration, we’ll advise at enquiry.

Do I need to remove boot mats or the boot floor?

No — in most cases you can keep your existing boot mats and floor in place. If your vehicle has a raised floor or removable panels, mention it at enquiry.

Can I still access underfloor storage or a spare wheel?

Usually, yes. If you access underfloor storage regularly, mention it at enquiry and we’ll recommend the most convenient configuration for your routine.

Do you provide an installation guide or video?

Yes — fitting videos and the installation manual are available on our Installation page.

Can I leave the steps installed permanently?

Yes — many customers leave the frame installed for day-to-day use and simply deploy or fold the steps as needed.

Stability and everyday use

Will the steps rattle or move while driving?

They’re designed to stay stable by anchoring to fixed points in the boot (OEM lashing points) and folding compactly when not in use.

Are the steps stable on uneven ground or kerbs?

The steps include an automatic support foot to create a stable stance as you open them. For best use, follow the guidance in the fitting guide — particularly on soft, slippery, or uneven surfaces.

Will the steps be slippery in rain or mud?

No — the step surface is designed for grip in everyday conditions. If they’re covered in heavy mud, a quick rinse helps keep them clean and grippy.

Do the steps touch the tailgate or bumper when folded?

They’re designed to fold compactly within the tailgate opening. If you have aftermarket boot protection, load lip guards, or trim, mention it at enquiry and we’ll confirm the best setup.

What is the load rating?

The steps have a minimum load rating of 70 kg+. Always use the product as intended and follow the supplied fitting and safety instructions.

Training and confidence

Will my dog learn to use them?

Most dogs do with short, positive sessions. Start low, reward confidence, practise stepping down, then move to the boot.

Are the steps suitable for small dogs?

Yes — we offer a compact 56 cm option and can match the setup to your boot and your dog.

Cleaning

How do I clean the steps?

Wipe down or rinse as needed. If you’re using them after muddy walks, a quick rinse keeps the surface clean and grippy.

Dog Crate

What is the crate?

A dog travel crate designed to sit cleanly in your boot and anchor to OEM lashing points. It uses reinforced fibreglass mesh panels for airflow and visibility, creating a defined travel space with a strong, lightweight structure.

What’s included with crate-only?

You can choose a standard crate size (Small, Medium, or Large), or a crate made specifically for your vehicle. The vehicle-specific option is designed around our recommended sizes, then shaped to your car model’s boot for the cleanest, most space-efficient fit — with no measuring required.

Your crate is supplied with a zippered front opening panel and the required anchoring points for your setup.

Fit and sizing

Will the crate fit my vehicle?

Yes — we can match your crate to your vehicle from our fit database. If you want the cleanest, most space-efficient result, choose the made-to-measure option (no measuring required).

Do I need to measure my boot or send photos?

No. Select your vehicle and year and we match the fit from our database.

Are crates always made to measure?

You can order standard sizes, or choose a vehicle-specific fit for the cleanest, most space-efficient setup.

How do I choose crate size?

Choose a starting size based on your dog and how you want them to travel: compact single-dog, roomier single-dog, or large/two-dog travel. If you’re unsure, enquire and we’ll recommend the best option.

One dog or two dogs — how does that work?

We can advise the best size and layout depending on your dogs. If you’re travelling with two dogs, a divider can help create two defined spaces (or separate dog space from luggage). Tell us your dogs’ breeds and approximate weights at enquiry.

How much boot space does the crate take up?

For made-to-measure setups, you can choose boot coverage (50%, 75%, or full width). This helps keep the boot usable for everyday kit.

Will it work with seats up or seats down?

Yes — tell us how you normally use your rear seats at enquiry so we can confirm the best fit for your layout.

Installation and removal

How is the crate installed?

It mounts securely and stays stable by anchoring to your vehicle’s OEM lashing points using the supplied straps and attachment points.

Can I remove it easily?

Yes — the crate is designed for everyday practicality, including removal when needed.

Security, restraint, and comfort

Will the crate move or rattle?

Anchoring to OEM lashing points is designed to keep the crate secure and help reduce movement and unwanted noise on the road.

Is the crate crash tested?

It’s designed to mount securely and stay stable by anchoring to your vehicle’s OEM lashing points, but it isn’t sold as crash-tested or crash-certified. For best practice, we recommend travelling your dog with a suitable harness clipped to the crate’s integrated loops.

Can I use a harness with the crate?

Yes — the crate includes integrated harness loops so you can clip in your dog’s travel harness to help reduce movement.

Will my dog feel closed in?

The fibreglass mesh keeps the crate feeling open with airflow and visibility, while still creating a defined travel space in the boot.

Ventilation and overheating — how does it handle warm weather?

The open mesh panels support airflow and visibility. In warm weather, always manage temperature carefully — keep the cabin ventilated, plan breaks, offer water, and never leave a dog unattended in a warm vehicle.

Will tags, clips, or leads rattle on the mesh?

In normal use it’s minimal. Most noise comes from tags and metal clips, so a quieter collar (or removing tags during travel) can reduce it further.

Will the mesh mark my dog?

The fibreglass mesh is designed to be strong but more forgiving than traditional metal bars. A fitted cushion also helps create a comfortable resting area.

Cleaning

How do I clean the crate?

Wipe down, rinse, or hose as needed. For heavy mud, a removable boot liner underneath can make clean-up faster.

Hair, smells, and wet bedding — what’s the day-to-day reality?

A quick shake-out and wipe-down handles most day-to-day mess. If your dog is wet, remove the cushion to dry separately and rinse the crate area as needed. Good airflow helps things dry faster after a rinse.

Full System (Steps + Crate + Optional Cushion/Divider)

What is the full system?

A complete dog travel setup designed around your vehicle. The full system includes the crate and steps at a minimum, with optional additions like a divider and fitted cushion to suit your routine.

What’s included with the full system?

At a minimum: the carbon fibre steps and the made-to-fit crate, designed to work together as one integrated setup. In the full system configuration, the crate acts as the base integration, so a separate steps-only frame isn’t required.

You can add options like a divider and a fitted cushion depending on how you use the boot. Full system pricing is typically better value than buying the steps and crate separately.

Day-to-day practicality

Can I still use my boot normally?

Yes. The steps fold compactly in the tailgate area, and the crate is designed to follow your boot angles for a space-efficient fit. If keeping one side of the boot clear matters, we can configure a layout that leaves a usable “luggage lane” (vehicle-dependent).

Can I carry luggage as well as my dog?

Yes — choose your boot coverage (50%, 75% or full) and add a divider if you want a clear split between dog space and luggage.

What about muddy or wet dogs?

The crate is designed for everyday travel and practical clean-up. Many owners choose a fitted cushion to create a defined resting area in the boot, which can be removed when needed.

Will it fit if I fold down the rear seats?

We can build around how you actually use the boot. If you often drive with seats down, mention it at enquiry so we can confirm your best fit and configuration.

Ordering, payment, and aftercare

How do I order a Dog & Drive setup?

Ordering starts with an enquiry. You choose your vehicle (make, model, year) and your setup (steps, crate, full system, cushion, divider). We confirm the correct configuration from our database and provide your quote and ordering information.

Can I buy online without enquiring?

We use an enquire-to-order process for vehicle-specific fit. This ensures we confirm the correct configuration before build and delivery.

What information do you need from me?

Your vehicle make/model/year, your dog’s breed and approximate weight, and how you want to use the boot (dog-only or shared space). If your vehicle has a split tailgate, tow bar, raised boot floor, hidden lashing points, or seven seats, mention that too.

Do you ship internationally?

Yes — shipping options, costs, and any import charges (where applicable) are confirmed before you order.

Can I install it myself?

Yes — the system is designed for self-installation using the supplied fitting guide. For more complex bespoke configurations, installation at our facilities can be arranged by appointment.

What about returns, cancellations, and warranty?

Because each system is made to order, returns and cancellations can be limited. Please check our current Terms and Conditions and ask any questions before you confirm your order.

Safety and legal

Is it legal in the UK?

In the UK, dogs must be suitably restrained when travelling so they cannot distract the driver or injure themselves (or you) if you stop quickly. A harness, pet carrier, dog cage, or dog guard are listed examples.

Will this affect my car warranty or MOT?

The system anchors to factory lashing points and is designed to be installed using the supplied fitting guide. If you have vehicle-specific warranty concerns, it’s sensible to check with your vehicle manufacturer or dealer.

Dog Cushion and Divider

What are they?

Optional add-ons to fine-tune your boot layout. A divider creates a clear split in the boot for dog and luggage, and a fitted cushion is made to suit your boot and chosen layout.

Is the cushion suitable for older or recovering dogs?

Often, yes — a padded base can make longer journeys more comfortable. If your dog has a diagnosed condition, follow your vet or canine physio’s advice.

Will nervous dogs benefit?

Many dogs settle better with a defined, consistent space in the boot. A fitted cushion can help make that space feel familiar over time.

Can I remove the cushion?

Yes — cushions are typically chosen to suit a layout, but you can remove them whenever you need more boot flexibility.

What if my dog is wet or muddy?

Remove the cushion when needed, wipe down the boot area, and consider a boot liner underneath for easier clean-up on very muddy days.

Will the cushion/divider fit my vehicle?

Yes — these options are made to suit vehicles in the fit database and integrate with the same vehicle-specific system.

Still unsure? If you want to confirm fit, layout, and pricing, please get in touch via the enquiry form below.

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