Dogs Sticking Their Heads Out The Car Window Should Be Banned

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Here's the important reason why

Dogs sticking their heads out of the car window should be banned, the experts at Direct Line Pet Insurance suggest.

According to new research, two in five dog owners who drive with their pets risk major fines by not keeping them secure in the vehicle, while 28% of dogs suffer an injury as a result of sticking their heads out of a moving car. It might seem like a harmless habit, but the Highway Code states that animals must be suitably restrained when in a vehicle so that they cannot distract or injure the driver.

Speaking toThe Telegraph, a spokesman for the insurer said: "Is it time to ban dogs putting their heads out of car windows? While breaking the Highway Code does not carry a direct penalty, if you are deemed to be distracted and cause careless driving, you could be fined up to £200 on a 'fixed penalty notice' by the police, and depending on the severity, up to nine penalty points on a driver's licence.

"Careless driving penalty points must stay on driving records for four years from the date of the offence."

If you are embarking on a car journey with your dog, make sure you use a dog car harness, pet carrier, dog cage or dog guard to keep them safe. Dogs may find being in the car confusing, especially if they are watching the moving traffic, so don't forget to keep them calm.

"Use treats to reward your dog for simply being in the car," advise the Dogs Trust. "Some dogs can be worried or excited about what might happen when they're in a small, confined space and find it difficult to relax.

"If they get treats every time they get in the car, they'll soon really like it in there! Your dog also needs to get used to the sound and movement of the car."

This tyre-shaped chew toy has been made from durable rubber, so it's perfect for determined chewers. It also gives owners the chance to fill the inside with tasty treats, too. Available in two sizes for you to choose the best for your breed.

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Built for durability, this bright red dog toy will offer your four-legged friend mental and physical stimulation. And at just £8.50, it's a real steal buy.

Soft yet durable, this cute grey bear has minimal stuffing and an internal knotted rope skeleton.

A great option for larger breeds, this tough yet elastic dog toy is ideal for particularly aggressive chewers. The dual handles also mean that you can use it to play with your dog too.

One of the toughest dog balls on the market, this sweet 'planet' design has been made with award-winning Orbee Tuff material. Certain to provide hours of fun...

Does your pup love to play fetch? Well, this dog toy is one of the most durable styles around — and will aim to stand the test of time, no matter how much it is used.

Ideal for dogs who love to swim, this floating fabric toy has a handle and is designed with abrasion-resistant materials for increased durability. Make sure not to forget it on your next beach trip.

Made from hemp and recycled cotton, this rope ring's tough fibres work to clean your pup's teeth while also being a whole lot of fun to play with.

This is no ordinary ball: made with aggressive chewers in mind, it's perfect for pups who need something firm to hold onto. It is 100% non-toxic, has a fun squeak sound and is infused with a natural mint oil.

This durable rubber mango toy — which can be filled with dog treats — is sure to provide hours of chewing fun. Perfect for small and medium dog breeds.

Perfect for aggressive chewers, this bright green bone toy helps to help clean teeth and control plaque, while providing endless hours of fun.

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Thanks to the built-in rope, owners can throw this ball further for their pups to chase. It is used by the K-9 police as well as the Military Working Dog Teams, so it's both tough and durable. Brilliant if you want to train and motivate your dog.

Perfect for fetch and interaction with your dog, this ball has been made with extra-tough rubber to stand the test of time. Thanks to its soft and unique surface, the ball will also keep your dog's gums healthy.

Let the fun commence with this long-lasting squeaker football dog toy. Perfect for keeping your dog entertained in the garden.

This strong wheel dog toy is perfect for aggressive pulling and tugging. The specially developed soft rubber design helps to clean their teeth and massage their gums, while its engaging shape will provide hours of fun.

This durable wooden stick is great for dogs who love to chew regularly. While keeping your dog occupied for hours, it's also great for their dental hygiene.

Built to last, this fun donut dog toy has been made from high-quality material will not wear down dogs' teeth.

With a mixture of strong ropes and a soft middle section, this is a great option for dogs who love to play.

This bright orange fetch toy is ideal for interactive fun. It has a squeaker and practical handle for throwing at your pup. We're certain they'll love this!

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This chew toy encourages healthy, non-destructive chewing habits with dogs.

Great for young puppies, this gentle bone will help teething pups who have not yet formed any adult teeth.

This durable pineapple toy has been built to last, helping to solve destructive chewing, teething, dental health, boredom, separation anxiety, training, and exercise.

We love this unique toy, which is great for chew sessions and endless fun. Top tip: fill with peanut butter to extend playtime and satisfy chewing instincts.

In a blush pink, this large onion toy is surprisingly durable. Best of all, it's just over £4.

This durable Bark Bone is infused with real bacon and is perfect for even the toughest chewers. Its non-toxic and non-allergenic materials mean its safe for your pup to enjoy.

Looking for a durable rubber frisbee? Well, look no further, as this red style from KONG is perfect for keeping your four-legged friends fit and healthy.

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