Canine Wheelchair – Things You Need to Know About Dogs in Wheelchairs

Have you considered getting your canine bestie a set of wheels to help them cope with their increasing infirmity or disability (or even do the dog wheelchair DIY)? I’m sure you’ve got some questions about how to choose between a full support dog wheelchair or a 4-wheel dog wheelchair, and as you dive deeper into the incredible world of doggy wheelchairs, you’re sure to have more questions.

So here’s a concise guide to help you learn more about wheelchairs, chariots, carts, and other mobility assistance devices for dogs so you can make the best possible decision for your dog’s benefit.

What Is a Canine Wheelchair?

If you walk down the street and someone rolls past you in a wheelchair, you’re probably not going to pay them much attention as we take it as a given that wheelchairs are there to help people handle their mobility challenges. However, if a dapper pupper comes rolling past you with a hip set of wheels and an expression of pure joy, you are sure to pay closer attention.

A canine wheelchair is a wheeled mobility device that allows dogs to cope with various physical challenges, from hip dysplasia to spinal weakness and amputated limbs. Sadly, many dog breeds are prone to debilitating conditions like damage to the vertebrae, poor hip health, arthritis, and more.

A wheelchair, which can support a dog’s front legs or back legs, is a real game changer as it allows them to move without pain where they may previously have been completely immobile.

Unlike a human wheelchair, a dog or canine wheelchair straps to the dog’s body with a harness that helps them stay securely in the device for their safety and to prevent injuries.

Why Would You Use a Canine Wheelchair for Your Dog?

Chances are that you are already considering a canine wheelchair, and there’s definitely an increasing market for these life-improving devices for dogs. You can even order a basic wheelchair on Amazon for your dog.

Your main considerations when deciding whether or not to get your dog a rollin’ can include:

Your dog’s physical health and strength (as it takes some strength to move the wheelchair)
Their unique mobility needs (a rear supporting or front supporting wheelchair or drag bag)
Their temperament (not all dogs adjust to the restriction of being strapped into a wheelchair)
Their overall health (blind dogs would need special training to accommodate not only their adjustment to the wheelchair but also how to cope in a moving device when they can’t see)

You would also have to consider whether you are around enough to help your dog get into the wheelchair. Or, if you can’t be there during the day, you would have to find a suitable doggy daycare center or sitter that is trained to help special needs dogs.

Types of Canine Wheelchairs

There are several different kinds of canine wheelchairs. Some support the dog’s back legs, while others carry the weight of their front end and the dog pushes from behind with their back legs.

Still others are cart-like, allowing the dog to “walk” with their legs but the cart carries the dog’s weight.

Alternatives to Canine Wheelchairs

If a wheelchair doesn’t work for your dog, you can consider a walking sling, which you attach to your dog via a body harness, which allows you to hold your dog upright and assist them when walking.

Another alternative is the drag bag, which is a strap-on canvas bag that allows your dog to drag themselves forward. The bag protects their hind limbs from rubbing and being hurt.

Canine Wheelchairs Up Close

There are some canine wheelchairs that just look amazing, and your pupper will look truly “bad-ass” in their set of wheels. But there are also other considerations to keep in mind besides the looks of the doggy mobility aid.

Pros of Canine Wheelchairs

So what are some of the pros of a canine wheelchair?

Provides mobility to an immobile dog (they can walk and run again)
Assists in maintaining correct posture to dogs who are recovering from surgery or injury
Enriches your dog’s life as they can go places they previously couldn’t because of their disability
Helps prevent further injuries from a sudden disability (such as when your dog’s leg is amputated)
Allows your dog to play and enjoy life again

Cons of Canine Wheelchairs

Unfortunately, canine wheelchairs aren’t all moonlight and roses for dogs, and there are a few cons to contend with.

Your dog may be injured if the wheelchair malfunctions
It can be costly to maintain a canine wheelchair, and it will have to be cleaned regularly
You need to help your dog into their wheelchair and ensure they are securely strapped into the wheelchair
Your dog shouldn’t be left in the wheelchair without supervision, which requires more time to be with your dog
Purchasing a canine wheelchair can be expensive, and the fitment of the device requires expertise to ensure it fits your dog correctly

My Dog Needs a Wheelchair: A Case Study

If you’re still on the fence whether your dog requires a wheelchair, perhaps you’ll benefit from the case study of Jamie, a 13-year-old Yorkshire terrier who had lost the full use of her back legs due to knee disc deterioration.

Jamie had become unstable on her paws, and she struggled with walking into things because of her balance being severely affected by her “goose-stepping stride” from her knees no longer being able to bend. Due to her age and the physical nature of her knee disc degeneration, she was not a good candidate for surgery.

A canine wheelchair was considered, which would improve her balance and keep her upright if she should lose her balance. After careful consideration, Jamie was fitted with a canine cart-style wheelchair that supported her whole body, while allowing her to still use all four legs. Since she can’t lose her balance in the cart, she can move with greater confidence and speed.

A few cons have challenged her transition to the cart. For starters, the other dogs in Jamie’s family don’t quite understand her new set of wheels, and they had to be trained not to push her over or play rough. Jamie also developed some rash lines from the cart’s securing straps, which require constant management.

However, Jamie’s overall quality of life has improved significantly, and she is living a fuller life, thanks to her 4 wheel dog wheelchair.

FAQs

What is the best wheelchair for a dog?

The best wheelchair for a dog is the type that fits the dog comfortably, allows them to move in as natural a way as possible, and keeps them safe while providing them better movement. A dog’s wheelchair should be fitted to them and correctly adjusted to ensure their limbs don’t become lazy or they suffer muscle atrophy.

Can a dog go to the bathroom in a wheelchair?

Dogs can pee and poo in a canine wheelchair. Disabled dogs can do this even more comfortably in a canine wheelchair than without one. The wheelchair allows the dog to enjoy some support to keep their weak hind legs from folding while squatting for a potty break. The wheelchair design allows for dogs to squat enough for number 2, while letting liquid through when they do number 1.

Can dogs in wheelchairs go up stairs?

Dogs with disabilities shouldn’t move up or down stairs to prevent tripping and injury. When in a wheelchair, dogs shouldn’t cross obstacles or jump up or down as this can lead to sprains, accidents, and injuries. Instead, carry your dog and their wheelchair down or up the steps with a sling or harness.

The Final Wheelchair Race

A canine wheelchair can make all the difference in your disabled dog’s life. If your dog has undergone serious surgery, a wheelchair can help them better recover so they won’t suffer complications or post-surgery injuries. A wheelchair for your dog is a beautiful thing, and it can bring real joy to your four-legged bestie.

If you don’t believe me, check out this video of a dog shelter in Thailand where mostly disabled dogs are all given canine wheelchairs to enjoy a trip to the beach. It’s sheer joy on their faces and pure frolick as they enjoy their outing.

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