SubscribeDog Carriers: Find Your Pup’s Perfect Match
Dog carriers are a great option for anything from car rides to flights. Keep your pup safe, comfortable, and stylish on the go.
Does your dog go everywhere with you? You’re not alone!
According to a recent survey by the American Pet Products Association, dogs are traveling alongside their humans more often than ever. In 2023, 88% of dog parents traveled with their pet in the car, while 22% percent took their dogs on three or more trips with them by plane, up from 13% in 2022 (1).
As pet travel increases, so do the risks associated with transporting pups here, there, and everywhere. That’s why comfortable secure dog carriers are essential for all of your on-the-go needs, from errands around town to road trips upstate to flights across oceans.
Where to start? Right here! We rounded up the best-of-the-best dog carriers for furry friends (and itineraries!) of all shapes and sizes.
Don’t Guess When It Comes To Your Pet’s Care
Don’t Guess When It Comes To Your Pet’s Care
Dog Carriers Matter: Find Out Why
A quality dog carrier can make trips safer and more enjoyable for both you and your pet. Here’s why every out-and-about dog parent should consider investing in one:
- Car safety: When a dog is restrained in a carrier, they are safe from being thrown around the car during sudden stops and car accidents. Additionally, a restrained dog cuts down on dangerous distractions for the driver.
- Airline rules: All commercial airlines require dogs to remain in approved carriers while at the airport and in flight.
- Unfamiliar environments: If your dog is nervous in new environments, a carrier will prevent them from running off.
- Anxiety: If travel causes your pet anxiety, a comfortable, familiar carrier can make them feel safe and help them (and in turn, you!) relax.
How to Choose the Right Dog Carrier
Everyone likes to travel in comfort and style – pups included! Here’s what to consider when choosing the perfect dog carrier for your pet:
- Your dog’s size: Your pet should be able to stand up, lie down, and turn around comfortably while in the carrier. A too-small carrier will be uncomfortable for your pet, while a carrier that’s too large may not feel safe.
- Your destination: Where are you taking your pet, and how are you getting there? Carriers are designed for different uses (airlines, cars, hiking, walking, etc.) so be sure to pick a product that suits your travel needs.
- Materials: Talk about precious cargo! Select a carrier made from quality, durable materials that provide plenty of ventilation and security for your pup. Padded handles and/or straps are a bonus for pet parents!
- Care & cleaning: Traveling with pets can be a messy business. Select a carrier that’s easy to deep clean.
- Storage: If you’re tight on space, consider a carrier that folds up for easy storage when not in use.
Top 5 Dog Carriers
Best Overall Dog Carrier: Sherpa Original Deluxe Pet Carrier
- Multiple sizes available; accommodates dogs up to 22 lbs.
- Soft-sided carrier with handles and a crossbody strap
Complete with machine-washable sherpa bedding and padded straps and handles, this carrier is popular among pups and pet parents alike. Ideal for all forms of travel, it meets airline specifications, and has a patented spring-wire frame that allows it to slip easily and safely under your plane seat. (In fact, Sherpa partners with major airlines through its Guaranteed on Board program.) When traveling on land, the handy luggage strap acts as a seat belt pass-through, ensuring that your pet is secure during car rides.
Highlights:
- Airline-approved dog carrier dimensions
- Padded strap and handles
- Machine washable bedding
- Mesh side panels
- Seat belt-compatible
- Escape-proof locking zippers
Things to consider:
- Some reviewers recommend sizing up
Best Expandable Dog Carrier: Petsfit Expandable Dog Carrier
- Multiple sizes available; accommodates dogs up to 20 lbs.
- Soft-sided carrier with handles and a crossbody strap
When fully zipped, this clever carrier meets airline size regulations. However, the mesh window can fold out to create a screened-in “porch” giving your dog a little extra space once safely stowed under the seat. It’s also ideal for downtime at the airport, allowing your pet to stretch out and enjoy the view while waiting to board. Once you arrive at your destination, it’s seat belt-compatible for an equally enjoyable car ride.
Highlights:
- Machine washable bedding
- Interior leash
- Mesh side panels
- Locking zippers
- Side pockets for storage
- Can be strapped to rolling luggage
- Seat belt compatible
Things to consider:
Airline rules vary; some may require you to keep the carrier fully zippered.
Best Tote-Style Dog Carrier: Wagwear Classic Boat Canvas Carrier
- Multiple sizes available; accommodates dogs up to 20 lbs.
- Tote-style carrier with reinforced straps
If your itinerary includes subway rides and boutique shopping, this trendy tote-style carrier may be the perfect fit. Crafted in the USA from durable, tightly woven duck canvas, it looks like a classic shopping tote, but includes plenty of dog-friendly modifications: a U-shaped cutout where dogs can rest their heads, an attached leash, and a sturdy base.
Highlights:
- Machine washable
- Interior leash
- Cinch-buckle closure
- Made in the USA
- Available in 5 colors
Things to consider:
- Tote-style handles may not be ideal for carrying long distances
- Premium price
Best Hands-Free Carrier: SlowTon Adjustable Sling Carrier
- Accommodates dogs up to 13 lbs.
- Hands-free, sling-style carrier
Made of soft, breathable cotton, this sling-style carrier is fully adjustable to suit pet parents of any height. It makes for a great hands-free option when walking with your dog, and features a generously padded shoulder strap, as well as a safety clip that attaches to your pet’s collar. As an added bonus, you can leave your own bag at home – this carrier comes equipped with a large, zippered front pocket for storing personal items (and, of course, poo bags).
Highlights:
- Machine washable
- Adjustable padded shoulder strap
- Front zipper pocket
- Available in 4 colors
Things to consider:
- One size only; only suitable for small dogs
How We Choose the Pet Carriers to Include
We considered a number of factors when selecting our top dog carriers. Here’s how these products made our list:
- User reviews: These dog carriers are highly rated by expert reviewers and satisfied pet parents.
- Brands: With a proven track record of making safe, quality products, these are brands that pet parents (like us!) know and trust.
- Areas of use: When selecting these products, we sought out carriers that served a number of different modes of transportation.
- Comfort & safety: We evaluated the comfort and safety features of each carrier with dogs and pet parents in mind.
- Accessibility & availability: Each included product is appropriate for a wide range of dogs and available at major retailers.
Travel can be stressful, especially with pets. Fortunately, there are a number of dog carriers to make the journey safer and more comfortable. Now all that’s left to do is keep calm and carry your pup on!
***
Feature image via SlowTon
