The best trailer for dogs: we compare the best solutions for you

If you’re a pet owner who loves outdoor activities and wants to bring your furry friend along, a trailer for dogs is a fantastic investment. Whether it’s commuting, leisurely biking, or full-on bike-packing; there are heaps of options to include your canine companion.

With numerous options available on the market, it can be time-consuming to learn about each model. In this article, we will compare and highlight some of the leading trailer for dogs. Our aim: Assisting you in making an informed decision that ensures comfort, safety, and convenience for both you and your pup 🐕

Why invest in a trailer for dogs? 5 main benefits for pet parents

1. Better & facilitated mobility

Trailers for dogs are a remarkable solution for transporting a pet by bike. They can easily attach to any bike and greatly improve its charging capacity.

They offer a cheap & convenient way to commute and enjoy the outdoors in complete freedom, fostering a stronger bond between pet and owner. Even large-sized and/or multiple dogs can fit, so your car can easily be replaced by a dog trailer for short distance trips.
For example, no need to get the car to go to the park or to the vet. Big plus? Almost anyone can ride a bike and it’s very convenient for city-dwellers!

2. Safety and Comfort

One of the primary concerns for pet owners is the safety and comfort of their dogs during outdoor excursions. Dog trailers are typically equipped with sturdy frames, durable materials, and secure harness attachments to ensure the safety of the canine passenger. Additionally, most trailers feature comfortable interiors with padded flooring, ventilation windows, and sunshades, providing a cosy and protected space for dogs to relax in while on the move

4. Trailer for dogs= versatility

Dog trailers are available in various sizes and designs to accommodate different breeds and weights.
Some trailers can even be converted into strollers, providing versatility for pet owners who may need to switch between biking and walking. This adaptability ensures that trailers for dogs can meet the unique needs of different pets and their owners.

A great plus of this accessory is the extra space! When the dog is not there, the trailer can be used as a cargo space for groceries & other loads.

5. It’s a quality time booster!

Involving your pup in your daily life & outings, equals a happy dog!
It’s well known that dogs are human’s best friends and they love to be around us. By using a trailer for dog you won’t have to leave him at home anymore. He’ll be able to join you on your trips and experience the beauty of the outdoors alongside you.

On top of that, frequent exposure to the outside will keep them healthy and content. How?
Dogs require outdoor time as an outlet to express themselves: running, playing, following scents and so on… if a dog doesn’t have enough enrichment, he’ll likely feel bored and stressed which often results in inappropriate behaviours.

By cycling with a pet, you’ll offer them a stimulating activity that will keep their day interesting!
To know more about dog health and enrichment, we advise having a read at this article on how to make your dog’s life more fulfilling.

Things to consider before buying a bike accessory for your pet

When choosing the best trailer for your dog, consider factors such as material quality, comfort, versatility, and portability. Remember to assess your dog’s size, breed, and specific requirements to ensure a perfect fit. By making an informed decision based on comparisons like these, you can find the ideal dog trailer to enhance your outdoor adventures.

Here are the main point to keep in mind:
 
✅ Proper Sizing: It is crucial to select a trailer that is appropriate for the size and weight of your dog. Ensuring sufficient space for your furry friend to sit, stand, and turn around comfortably is essential for their well-being.
 
✅ Training: Before embarking on outdoor adventures with a dog trailer, it’s advisable to train your dog to become accustomed to following your instructions. It’s essential that your dog is able to sit and stay still on command. Moreover, it’s advisable to slowly introduce the object to your dog. This will help alleviate any potential anxiety or discomfort and ensure a positive experience for both you and your pet.
 
✅ Safety Measures: Always prioritise safety by securing your dog inside the trailer using a proper harness or attachment. Inform yourself beforehand about the type of attachment of the accessory you’ve chosen. You might have to purchase new harnesses in some cases.

Which accessory fits your pup better? Comparing trailer for dogs

Once you’ve taken this in consideration, we can pass on having an overview on the most used add-ons. You can find an extensive read on this guide on the best solutions for small dogs and puppies. If your dog is on the larger side, this article will cover the topic with large breeds only.

When considering options for transporting pets while cycling, three popular choices are: the back trailer, a front trailer model & a cargo bike. Let’s examine each option to help you determine the best fit for your needs.

1. Purpose:

A dog trailer is specifically designed to transport dogs comfortably and securely at the back of your bike. It offers a separate compartment with proper ventilation and secure harness attachments. A front trailer, as the name suggests, works just the same but it attaches to the front. This key feature allows the dog to have a full view on the road, which makes them feel more in control of the situation and therefore, enjoy the adventure more. Also, by having the pet at the front you’ll always have full supervision on them which can be reassuring for many owners.

Cargo bikes, on the other hand, are built to carry various items and may include a front or rear cargo platform or container.

2. Capacity:

Dog trailers are typically designed to accommodate one or two dogs, depending on their size. They come in different sizes to cater to various breeds. Cargo bikes generally have the highest load capacities among the three options, capable of carrying multiple dogs or items.
 

3. Manoeuvrability:

Dog trailers attach to the rear of a bicycle and follow the bike’s path. They may require a slightly wider turning radius and add some extra weight to the rear of the bike. Front trailer models, on the other hand, attach to the front of the bike, which can affect steering and balance. Cargo bikes, with their built-in cargo area, have a different centre of gravity that can take some time to adjust to but offer good manoeuvrability once mastered.
 

4. Flexibility:

Dog trailers provide flexibility as they can be easily detached from the bike, allowing the cyclist to continue riding without the trailer when not needed. This flexibility makes them suitable for pet owners who want to alternate between cycling with their dogs and riding solo. Front trailer models are fixed attachments, and while they can be unloaded, they remain connected to the bike. Cargo bikes, as a complete unit, are always ready to carry freight whenever needed. However, their bulkiness can come as a challenge for many as they need a large storage space, which is not very common for city-dwellers.
 

5. Versatility:

When your dog is not out and about with you, you can still use the trailer for dogs or cargo bike to transport grocery shopping, running errands, commuting, or even transporting large items such as parcels and household items.

Thus, when deciding between a dog trailer for bikes, a front trailer model, and a cargo bike, consider your primary transportation needs, load capacity requirements, manoeuvrability preferences, and the versatility you seek. Each option has its advantages, so evaluate these factors to determine the best choice for your cycling lifestyle.

Let’s summarise:

To conclude 🐾

Ultimately, the choice between a trailer for dogs and a cargo bike depends on your specific requirements. If you primarily need to transport your dog and value the ability to separate the trailer from your bike, a dog trailer is a great choice. If you have a need for carrying at the same time a dog and groceries or other items, a cargo bike offers a versatile solution. Consider your priorities, load capacity needs, intended usage and of course budget to make the best decision for your cycling adventures.

With the right trailer and careful considerations, you and your dog can embark on memorable journeys together 🙂

Happy cycling!