A dog sticking its head out of a car window with its tongue lolling and ears pricked is a familiar sight on the roads.

However, owners could face huge fines for not restraining their dog properly in a car - and it could even invalidate your insurance.

The Highway Code states that when in a vehicle, dogs or other animals should be suitably restrained so they cannot distract you while you are driving or injure you, or themselves, if you stop quickly.

While the code isn't legally binding, those who let their dogs run around their cars could face being pulled over by police for driving without due care and attention.

This can lead to a maximum fine of £2,500 and nine points on your licence.

As well as this, you could also face prosecution under the Welfare of Animals (Transport) (England) Order 2006 which states: “You must not transport an animal in a way that causes, or is likely to cause, injury or unnecessary suffering to that animal."