What Type of Dog Carrier Do You Need?
By K9Reproduction.comUpdated July 18, 2024
Do you enjoy taking your dog on exciting adventures? Or do you just need a safe way to take them to the vet? Either way, a good dog carrier is essential. With so many types of dog carriers available, it’s easy to get overwhelmed when trying to find the best carrier for your dog.
According to dog trainer and founder of Fun Paw Care, Russell Hartstein, CDBC, you don’t have to worry about finding one perfect dog carrier that works for all situations. “Many families have more than one carrier—one for travel [and] one for the vet,” he says. In fact, you likely won’t use the same dog carrier for strolling around the neighborhood as you would for traveling on an airplane.
So, let’s break it down and explore how to determine which type of dog carrier (or carriers) may be the best fit for you and your dog.
Measure Your Dog First In What Type of Dog Carrier Do You Need
First, you’ll need to measure and weigh your dog so you can choose the right size dog carrier. For hard and soft dog carriers, you’ll need to choose a carrier that’s big enough for your dog to stand up in and turn around.
Measure from the tip of their nose to the base of their tail and add 3 inches.
Then, measure them from the top of their head to the ground and add 3 inches.
For wearable carriers, like a dog backpack or a sling dog carrier, your dog doesn’t need much extra room to move around. However, these dog carrier bags will most often specify a maximum weight, so you’ll need to keep that in mind as well. What Type of Dog Carrier Do You Need.
Consider What You’ll Use the Dog Carrier For
Next, think about how and where you’ll use the dog carrier most. Are you looking to take your dog on a plane? Or maybe you need a safe way to transport your pup in the car.
Car travel has its own set of safety concerns. Make sure that the dog carrier you are considering passes third-party crash tests. For airline travel, check with the airline for their specific rules and regulations regarding pet travel to ensure a smooth journey.
Choose a Style
Dog carriers come in several basic styles. Here are each of the styles explained a little more in-depth:
Hard-Sided Dog Carrier
Hard dog carriers or travel dog kennels provide the best protection for your dog. These types of carriers are often used more for longer travels like planes, trains, boats, and long car rides. They can work for any size dog but are especially useful for medium-size and large dogs who don’t fit into other types of dog carriers. They’re also tough enough to stand up to heavy chewers and escape artists.
Soft-Sided Dog Carrier
Soft dog carrier bags are more often used for small to medium-size dogs and are best used with a dog that is a known good traveler. These have more casual uses—like going around town, to a restaurant, or for shorter distances. Soft-sided dog carriers are easier to carry than hard carriers and are much more portable and convenient.
Dog Carriers With Wheels
Wheeled dog carriers make traveling with a pet a whole lot easier on your back and shoulders. Since the carrier can also be pulled behind you smoothly on wheels, it can keep your dog from being jostled around. Wheeled dog carriers aren’t intended for hiking or rough terrain but are an excellent choice for city walking or airplane travel.
Dog Backpack Carriers
Backpack carriers for dogs are also portable and convenient options for carrying your dog around with you. They’re perfect for small to medium-size dogs who love to be a part of the action. In a dog backpack, they can enjoy the sights and sounds along with you during your outings. They’re an easy way for dogs to join adventures when it may be too much for them to always be running alongside.
Slings for Carrying Dogs
Sling dog carriers are great for little dogs, whether they are young or a senior. A sling can be bumpy as you walk, so make sure your pet is in the sling securely and won’t bounce out. When you are rushing around the house or town or have a very young dog with you who you want to see the sights of the city without touching the floor, a sling can be a great way to keep them by your side.
Dog carriers aren’t just for tiny dogs or senior dogs who need some help getting around. Finding the right type of carrier is essential for airplane travel, car travel, or just taking your pup along with you on your adventures.
For more information and resources, visit K9Reproduction.com.
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