New research has revealed driving with your dog unrestrained in the car could be as dangerous as mobile phone distraction.

One owner says her greyhound could have killed her, with researchers warning any unrestrained animal could prove deadly.

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The study, conducted by the University of Adelaide, found people who failed to restrain their dogs tended to be younger, drive less frequently, and have a larger animals.

The highest proportion of owners restraining their dogs lived in New South Wales and Queensland - over 70 per cent - while South Australia was lower - at 62 per cent.

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Researchers have also warned that harnesses may not be as effective as owners believe.

A study conducted by NRMA Insurance found that out of 25 harnesses tested, only two safely restrained the dummy used.

Potentially-deadly dogs

Dr Susan Hazel from the University of Adelaide’s School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, said unrestrained dogs were a potential distraction as serious as using a mobile phone.

"We know the link between mobile phones and distracted driving; patting or turning around to look at your dog is likely to be just as bad,’’ she said.

Unrestrained dogs are a potential distraction as serious as using a mobile phone, new research suggests. Credit: 7NEWS

“Even more importantly, if your dog is not restrained and you’re in an accident, your dog can be seriously injured or killed.

If your dog becomes a projectile in an accident, other people in the car may also be seriously injured.”

'Terrifying' experience

Jess Dunduk, from Croydon Park, was driving at 60kmh when she had to brake hard for another driver and her greyhound, Peppa, went through the gap between the front seats and hit the dash.

“We were very lucky to only have minimal injuries. Peppa got away with bruises and I had a few scratches on my arm from her brushing past me,’’ Dunduk said.

Dog owner Jess Dunduk says her greyhound 'Peppa' was lucky to survive. Credit: 7NEWS

“To think, if we were travelling faster or had even hit the car in front, it’s terrifying.

"The experience has dramatically changed how I travel with dogs in the car.

"I only use tested harnesses for car travel with my dogs or crates."

The University of Adelaide says compulsory testing of in-car dog restraints and better education about the dangers of having pets loose in the car are needed, to ensure the safety of drivers and pets.