The 10 Best Pet Bicycle Carriers
Special Honors
Buddyrider Dog Bicycle Seat The Buddyrider Dog Bicycle Seat is an interesting option that gets mounted over the center of the bike, rather than on the front or rear. This design reduces the effect on handling that some others models can have. It is made from sturdy materials and, though it is almost completely open, it has a reliable strap system to keep pooches in place. buddyrider.ca
Trixie Dog Basket The Trixie Dog Basket has a charming design that won't detract from your bike's aesthetics. Rather than a mesh enclosure that can interfere with vision, it utilizes a galvanized steel wire lattice dome over the top to stop an animal from jumping out. It includes a removable and hand-washable cushion to keep its rider comfortable. trixie.de
Editor's Notes
April 16, 2020:
Taking your four-legged family member along when you go cycling can make the experience much more enjoyable. You'll get some company and be able to feel good that you are giving your dog or cat a chance to enjoy the outdoors with you, while your pet will certainly appreciate not being cooped up in the house for any longer than is necessary. Since pets come in all shapes and sizes, so too do our recommendations.
While you'll obviously have to go with a tow-behind trailer for medium and large dogs, if you have a really big breed that weighs more than 90 pounds, your best bet is PetSafe Solvit Hound About. It has a tubular aluminum frame that is strong, without being overly heavy. That being said, if your pooch comes in below 85 pounds, we would recommend the Aosom Elite II instead. Not only is it more affordable, but it converts to a jogging stroller, making it a more versatile option that can be especially helpful if you have an aging canine that no longer has the stamina for long walks. The Sepnine 2-in-1 Medium also converts to a jogging stroller, but its fixed-front wheel can make it very difficult to steer when used in that manner, so would recommend it if you plan on using it in that mode very often.
When it comes to smaller pets, a handlebar- or rear-mounted basket should more than suffice. While both dogs and cats should always be safely tethered, due to the fact that cats are usually less trained than dogs, they are generally more likely to try and jump out. With that in mind, we feel the DoggyRide Cocoon is the best basket option to bring a feline along on your trips. It has an attachable, full-mesh dome that completely encloses the entire basket. When it comes to style and function, we very much like the Travelin K9 Pet-Pilot Wicker Max and Barkbay Basket Booster. The Travelin K9 Pet-Pilot Wicker Max has a charming wicker construction and features a removable sun shade on the top, while the Barkbay Basket Booster has a drawstring-controlled closure that acts as an additional safety measure to prevent any unwanted escapes. It also has two well-padded shoulder straps, so you can carry it around like a backpack when not mounted to your bike.
Why You'll Be Glad You Have A Bicycle Carrier
It can be hard on your animal to run alongside you for too many miles.
If you've ever seen a cyclist riding down the street with one of these carriers in tow, part of you may have thought at first that it looked a bit silly. But this is one product that every animal parent should have. You likely know that having a pet is good for you — in fact, studies suggest dog owners have healthier hearts and live longer lives. And anyone with a furry companion understands the wonderful emotional support they provide. So, make the most out of that beneficial relationship by bringing Fido along with you everywhere you go, including on your bike rides.
Now, you're convinced Spotty should come along, even when you go car-less, but you may be wondering why you shouldn't just let him run alongside you. That could be fine for shorter joy rides. But think of days when you'd like to combine exercise with transportation, you hop on a mountain bike and take the city by storm, for hours. It can be hard on your animal to run alongside you for too many miles. No matter how athletic your buddy is, he just can't run from your house, to the coffee shop, to your barber, to your friend's apartment, full speed ahead. A carrier lets your four-legged friend come along for the ride, without putting physical strain on his body.
Even if you're just planning a breezy day of running errands downtown, bike riding with a dog by your side through busy urban streets can be stressful for you and your pet. There are a lot of hazards to look out for, like other loose animals who may jump at your pal, potholes, food on the ground that Fido may try to pick up, and more. When you're on your bike, you cannot get in front of these situations as swiftly as you can when you're on foot. If your dog is outside of a carrier, simply walking alongside you, it's too easy for him to get in harm's way. A carrier gives your animal a comforting, protected escape from hectic city sidewalks.
Carriers Vs Baskets
Some pet owners think they've already solved the riddle of how to bring their little buddy along by attaching a simple, open basket to the front of their bicycle. These can actually provide a nice experience for Fido, as they allow him to enjoy the sites and sounds. But they are best for rides in nature, removed from traffic as research has found that keeping pets in the front of a vehicle is a top cause of distracted driving. If that's true for operating a vehicle, it can be true for riding a bicycle. It's hard not to look at Fluffy's cute face when you should be looking at traffic signals. So, only use open baskets in less congested areas, or consider a covered model to stop yourself from looking at your pup.
If that's true for operating a vehicle, it can be true for riding a bicycle.
If you know you simply can't look away from your furry baby when he's in a front basket, try a carrier that attaches to the back of your bicycle. Some even give you the option to put them in various places, eliminating the chances that Fido will look you in the eyes and distract you when you're trying to focus. While many of these types of carriers are available in both open air and confined models, some furry friends are too fussy for the freedom of an open air model. You know your animal, so ask yourself if he's the type who might lunge towards a squirrel, or a friend he sees across the street. If he is, you shouldn't take such any chances; opt for a carrier that confines your pet in a cozy, secure environment. They feature safety constraints, such as four walls and harnesses, ensuring Spotty stays put until the ride is over. Plus, they have room to hold some of your pet's toys to keep him further preoccupied during the trip.
Whether you go with a carrier with more of a trailer design or a front basket, always be extra careful when riding with an animal. If you were to get into an accident, Spotty would be very vulnerable to injury. He doesn't know how to brace himself for impact as you do, and is probably much smaller than you are. Remember that going on bike rides with your furry companion is a joy that comes with responsibilities, so choose your carrier wisely.
How To Choose The Best Carrier For You
With so many pet carriers to choose from, you'll need to think about your habits and preferences, as well as your animal's. You've likely noticed that many dogs love to stick their head out the car window when you're driving. This has a lot to do with their incredible sense of smell and all of the fascinating information their noses take in on the road. If your canine does this, then you may want a bicycle carrier with a more open design. Many have mesh sides that let plenty of scents inside, which is a pleasure for Fido's olfactory system.
With so many pet carriers to choose from, you'll need to think about your habits and preferences, as well as your animal's.
If you find your pet is overwhelmed by all of the stimulation of a bicycle ride, you may want a more closed model. Some have flaps that you can zip up, covering the mesh sides, creating a cocoon-like environment for your dog. If Spotty needs extra comfort on the ride, there are carriers with cushioned and cozy interiors that will help the furry passenger relax. Some are so well lined that they'll feel just like your animal's own bed.
Your pet has just as much important luggage as you do for a full day out. Between his pop-up water bowl, favorite toy, treats, and sweater, Fido will need somewhere to store his belongings. Fortunately, some carriers have plenty of pockets that close via snap buttons, zippers, or velcro, to prevent items from flying out on the road. If you get the right carrier, your pet will be just as excited to get the bike out of the garage as you are.