the only proper way of doing it is a harness, that more or less contrains them in the standing or seated position facing forward (just like a human belted in)

a half assed job where they are harness but can move around has a huge risk of injury as they hit the limits of the leash and the head neck rotates quickly in an accident. probably as much risk as not contraining them, or relying on a flat barrier/ crate to contain them.

 

I just searched and it looks like they make harnesses and carriers for pets that are crash rated. There is a website called "Center for Pet Safety" that you may want to read for ideas. Since your dog weighs as much as a human, you would need something that is directly anchored to the frame to be safe.

 

I did find that thank you, I also saw an article about them and cbc news working together to test 16 harnesses and only one passed out of all of them! So I'm looking to buy from here.

Just a note of thanks to @roadshow for your genuine concern and interest for the safety of your canine companion. IMHO we put our 4-legged companions at risk, even more than ourselves, when we share the 'joy of travel' with them and unfortunately there's no really great solutions that offer them the same degree of protection we enjoy. We just need to recognize that reality and factor that into when and how we travel with our friends (exercising even greater care than normal, to the extent that's possible, when behind the wheel with our dog in the car, as I'm sure you do).

You might find good guidance, too, from your veterinarian or especially breed-specific websites/forums or local clubs.

As mentioned in your previous thread http://www.fordescape.org/forum/off-topic-discussion/93794-asking-large-dog-owners.html my late beloved dane "Dallas" (RIP dear friend) loved to travel.

Harkening back to that thread, what did you end-up finding works best for your Mastiff to enter your Escape?

He's actually having an easy time now getting in and out without the ramp, but I did get him used to it using treats to lure him up. I'm going to keep it in the garage for the future in case he develops problems as he gets older though.

 

Just a note of thanks to @roadshow for your genuine concern and interest for the safety of your canine companion. IMHO we put our 4-legged companions at risk, even more than ourselves, when we share the 'joy of travel' with them and unfortunately there's no really great solutions that offer them the same degree of protection we enjoy. We just need to recognize that reality and factor that into when and how we travel with our friends (exercising even greater care than normal, to the extent that's possible, when behind the wheel with our dog in the car, as I'm sure you do).

You might find good guidance, too, from your veterinarian or especially breed-specific websites/forums or local clubs.

As mentioned in your previous thread http://www.fordescape.org/forum/off-topic-discussion/93794-asking-large-dog-owners.html my late beloved dane "Dallas" (RIP dear friend) loved to travel.

Harkening back to that thread, what did you end-up finding works best for your Mastiff to enter your Escape?