Do you love cycling and plan on taking your dog on a rapturous ride across your neighborhood? If you do, I totally get it. I mean, the image of a dog’s face lit with a grin as you zip through the street is truly endearing.
This article explains how to carry a dog on a bike and includes a few pet baskets and other unconventional solutions you can use to give your canine the experience of a lifetime. So get on your road bike and get going!
For Small Dogs: Bike Baskets
Do you own a dog who’s on the smaller side like a Chihuahua, Shih Tzu, or a Maltese? If you do, then a basket carrier might be ideal for your canine.
Typically attached to the handlebar of your bike, these baskets are a brilliant investment for people who wish to take their small or toy dog around. They allow you to keep an eye on your dog at all times as you cycle in case they fall off or feel nauseous during the ride.
How small your dog is might vary depending on their breed or individual genetics. Thankfully, these baskets are available in a range of shapes, sizes, and even colors. So make sure to pick one that suits your bike and ensures a comfortable ride for your canine.
For Small Dog Breeds: The Handy Backpack
Alternatively, if you don’t want a dog basket, why not use a backpack instead?
When picking the perfect backpack, it’s important to check its weight limit. This ensures a comfortable ride for your dog and prevents your bag from drooping, which could result in the straps snapping right off.
You should also make sure that your backpack has ample airflow. Look for designs with mesh panels that allow air to circulate. The right amount of ventilation will keep your pup cool and relaxed.
If you plan to take your dog on nightly rides across your neighborhood, backpacks with reflective strips can be invaluable to you. It’s an essential safety feature that can help prevent accidents in low-light conditions.
For Medium-Sized Dog Breeds: Rear-Mounted Seats
Some pet owners could have a medium-sized dog like a Shepherd, a Beagle, or a Basset Hound. If you’re one of those people, you must understand that a basket might not be large enough.
In this case, rear mounted seats are perhaps the best option for them. As the name suggests, these are seats mounted to the back of a bike. They have a movable bar that can keep your dog in place, especially during those fast-paced rides across highways and other longer distances.
These seats attach to the back of the bike and often include a cushion for extra comfort. Like the basket, look for one with a safety tether to ensure your dog doesn’t leap out while you’re cruising along.
For Small and Medium-Sized Dog Breeds: The Classic Carrier Box
Carrier boxes are a great idea for small and medium-sized dogs that weigh 25 pounds or less.
Make sure to pick one that matches the size and weight of your dog. Additionally, look for a solid and stable foundation with a robust base to prevent it from tipping or sliding.
You could also customize these with soft blankets, pillows, and even your dog’s favorite toy. Some boxes even come equipped with safety belts that act as seatbelts, so look for those if your dog is a little hyperactive.
For Large and Giant Dog Breeds: Trailer Carriers
Some dog lovers might enjoy the company of a dog whose size is almost as big as it’s heart and as profound as it’s personality. Yes, we’re talking about Newfoundlands, Great Danes, and Bull mastiffs.
It goes without saying that owners may need a large and spacious area to accommodate these dogs. This is where bike trailers and chariots come into the picture.
These are essentially enclosures with a wheel on either side that can be attached to the rear end of the bicycle, causing them to move as you pedal.
There’s also a flap that can be drawn open when your dog wants to take everything in and closed when they don’t. Make sure to look for those with sturdy frames made of waterproof materials.
Steps to Properly Introduce Your Dog to its Carrier
Some dogs tend to be incredibly obstinate and are, therefore, resistant to change. This is why familiarizing your furry friend with their new home on your bike is ideal.
But don’t worry! Here is a step-by-step guide to properly acquainting your dog with their carrier.
- Firstly, ensure a calm and controlled environment by allowing your dog to sniff the basket and get accustomed to it at their own pace.
- Once they seem to be comfortable with it, practice placing them in it for short periods of time. For better results, offer them treats and praise to encourage the action.
- Then, gradually introduce them to the concept of a moving bike by walking it with your dog in the basket.
- Now, start taking them on slow, short rides, gradually increasing their duration and speed. Make sure to keep track of their temperament and reactions along the way.
Things You Might Need When You Take Your Dog on a Bike Ride
Initially, you may think that in order to properly plan a bike ride with your dog, considerable attention and thought has to be put into it. To simplify this, we’ve put together a list of some essentials you’ll need to ride your bike with your dog.
- Dog Treats & Snacks: Sometimes, your dog might feel a tad bit hungry on the ride. Thus, it’s probably a good idea to carry around a portable bowl and some of their favourite snacks and treats.
- Fresh Water: Keeping your dog hydrated is crucial for their well-being. This is why you should carry around a bottle of fresh water as well.
- A First-Aid Kit: Having a contingency plan in mind should things go south is an integral part of biking with your dog. This is why you should have a complete first-aid kit in case either of you suffer a laceration, a contusion, or any other issue that needs to be tended to.
- A Leash or Harness: This is an incredibly handy item that every dog owner should have especially if they plan on taking them on bike rides. To ensure your pet’s safety, simply strap them in with these and voila! Now, you have a perfectly functional seat belt for your dog!
Remember, the goal is to have a fun and safe experience together. So take the time to prepare, and you’ll both be ready to enjoy the ride!
The next section offers you an in-depth exploration of some great makeshift dog bike carriers for every size and type.
Let’s Cycle Our Way To The End Of This Guide
That brings us to the culmination of this article. I hope you’ve gotten an idea of a few ways to take your dog safely on one of your biking sessions.
Remember, training your dog requires plenty of patience, consistency, and dedication. If you have all three of them, you can rest assured that you’re well on your way to earning yourself a well-behaved albeit independent canine companion.
So, good luck with you and your dog’s biking escapades!
