Dog bike carriers and trailers: baskets, seats, trailers and safety

Before you buy anything

Sharing a ride with a dog can be great, but it is not for every dog or every rider. A dog on a bike is a living weight that moves, shifts and may panic. Before you buy a carrier, think about your dog's size, health, temperament and age, and your own riding experience. When in doubt, ask your veterinarian whether your dog is a good candidate and for any health limits, and start with short, slow rides.

Types of carriers

Weight and size

Every carrier has a maximum weight, and that includes the dog, a blanket, water and any gear. Never go over it. The dog should be able to sit and lie down comfortably without being crammed, and its head should not stick out where it could hit something. For baskets, check that the sides are high enough to prevent a jump or a lunge, and that the basket is firmly mounted. Our carry-load checker compares your loads with the limits you enter.

Harness and tether

• Use a harness, not a collar. A leash or tether clipped to a collar can choke a dog that jumps or falls.
• Keep the tether short so the dog cannot jump out, but long enough to sit and lie down comfortably.
• Clip it to a secure point inside the carrier, not to the bike.
• Choose breathable materials that will not rub.
• Introduce the harness at home before the first ride.

Trailers

A trailer is a small enclosed cart that hitches to the rear axle or seat post. It can carry larger dogs, and some carry gear as well. Check these points:

• Weight rating for the trailer and the hitch.
• Ventilation with mesh windows on several sides.
• Safety flag and reflectors, which make the trailer visible. Add lights for riding in dim conditions.
• Floor padding and a way to secure the dog with a harness tether.
• Braking and turning. The trailer adds weight and length, so brake earlier and take wider turns.
• Hitch and coupler. Check them before each ride, and use a safety strap if provided.

Heat and weather

Dogs cannot cool down as well as people. Hot pavement can burn paw pads, and on a hot day a dog can overheat quickly, especially a short-nosed breed or an older or overweight dog. Avoid riding in the hottest part of the day, give frequent water and shade breaks, and watch for heavy panting, drooling, weakness or vomiting. If your dog seems overheated, stop, move to shade, offer water and contact a vet. In cold or wet weather, protect the dog with a blanket and a dry spot.

Training and temperament

• Start slow. Let the dog sit in the carrier while the bike is stationary, with treats and praise.
• Short rides first. Gradually extend the distance.
• Watch the dog's body language. Tucked tail, trembling or whining means stop.
• Use calm routes with little traffic and few loud noises.
• Never force a dog. Some dogs simply do not like it.

Law and etiquette

Rules about carrying animals on bicycles vary by state and city, and some places have leash and restraint rules. Check local laws. Be considerate on shared paths, yield to others and keep your dog calm around other animals.

Care

• Wash liners and covers regularly.
• Check straps, hooks and welds before each ride.
• Clean up any messes.
• Store the carrier dry and away from sun.

Common mistakes

1. Exceeding the weight limit.
2. Clipping a tether to a collar.
3. Riding in the heat.
4. Skipping training.
5. Using a basket not meant for animals.