A stroller is something you expect to see a beaming baby in, with their proud parents in tow, but why not keep your fur baby safe and comfortable in their stroller? Since a stroller helps you move a precious pet baby from one point to another, it can also help transport your dog in areas where it might not be safe for them to be walking next to you.
I discovered the value of a stroller when I was walking to the dog park a few blocks from my new apartment, only to be set upon by a couple of dogs that didn’t take kindly to my dog intruding on their territory. It almost ended in a fight, so I decided to order my boy his first stroller so I could safely move him to the park without having to deal with other dogs along the way.
What’s more, with a stroller, I could take my Beeno anywhere in the city that I wouldn’t normally be able to take him. For me and Beeno, a stroller just made sense, and we love our outings with the stroller. Isn’t it time to pick your dog’s first stroller?
What Is a Dog Stroller?
A dog stroller looks exactly like a human stroller, with a few essential differences. There are many different styles of dog strollers, but they all have a frame with wheels, a basket where the dog sits or lies, a closure or canopy that keeps the dog safely inside the stroller, and a range of features that let you tote with your shopping, picnic blanket, and more.
With a dog stroller, you don’t have to play tug-of-war with a dog that’s not quite used to walking on the lead, and you also don’t have to carry your dog everywhere (which can get heavy).
Benefits of Using a Dog Stroller
There are many benefits to using a stroller, and few (if any) cons to using a dog stroller. A dog stroller is:
- Convenient
- Safe for your dog
- Helpful and enables quicker transportation of your dog
- A way to contain your dog and prevents them from causing trouble with people or other pets
- A window for the world, as your dog can see everything when you travel with them
- Better on your body than carrying a heavy dog carrier
- Excellent at allowing dogs to enjoy their outings, and a stroller lets you take them to more places
How to Choose a Dog Stroller
Of course, there are many different strollers on the market, and choosing one for your dog isn’t as simple as upcycling your human baby’s stroller to be dog-friendly.
When you consider different dog stroller options, here are a few things to look for in the best dog strollers:
Size of Stroller
The size of your dog stroller needs to work in your life. Whether you have a large or small dog, the stroller needs to be functional for you to transport in the car, up steps, into your home, and more. Check whether you can fit the dog stroller in your car if you can get it onto the bus or train, and whether you can manage it up the steps to your apartment building on your own.
Some strollers fold down, enabling easier transportation and storage. Consider the weight of the stroller, as you’d have to move the stroller around a bit more than just pushing it down the street.
Size of the Dog
The next big consideration is the size of your dog. Your dog’s length and height are important to consider when choosing a size stroller.
Next, their weight will factor into the equation too. If your dog is heavy, you need to consider heavy-duty strollers that have special reinforced baskets and frames with at least four wheels to fully support your dog. A sturdy set of brakes will also be a huge benefit unless you want to chase after your dog (in their stroller) on the next downhill.
Quality
A stroller can be quite an expense, especially if you’ve bought a high-end model. So the quality is essential to keeping your dog stroller in working condition for longer. The quality of the mechanisms, frame, padding, dome, and screens are vital for the best dog stroller around.
Four or Three Wheels
Dog strollers come in three-wheel setups or four-wheel setups. With the three-wheel type, the stroller can have two wheels on the front axle or two on the back axle. Knowing which to choose depends on your dog’s size, weight, and level of activity. A happy and bouncing dog will need a sturdy base to keep the dog’s antics under control.
The size of the wheels will determine what terrain your dog stroller can tackle.
Special Features
Each dog stroller has its unique special features, from different storage compartments and containers to keep water or juice to access ramps and more. The features your dog stroller has should meet your routines and daily habits.
So, if you like to go to the park with your dog and sit and work while they romp, your stroller needs to have space to carry your laptop bag and a blanket. Perhaps you want to go shopping at the local market with your dog and their stroller, then having extra storage space for your parcels is ideal.
Breathability
A dog stroller can get hot if the sides are closed up, so choosing a stroller that has features to allow better ventilation is essential. Your dog should be comfortable in their stroller, whether it’s winter or summer. Having the option to unzip panels that let more air in is a real winner.
Are you ready to meet the best dog strollers on the market?
5 Best Dog Strollers for Your Paw-Friend
Let’s dive right into the best dog strollers.
What are the particular plus points of each, and whether it will be suitable for your dog? It’s time to go for a stroll!
Wedyvko Pet Dog Stroller
The Wedyvko pet stroller is great. It’s super sturdy and comes in many fun colors. Small dogs can be lifted into the stroller basket from the top, or you can drop the small access “hatch” so your dog can climb in on their own.
The wheels are ultra strong, and with a double set of brakes on the rear axle, you know the stroller isn’t going anywhere without you. The reinforcing bar under the basket helps carry your dog’s weight, while the bottom basket is really handy for storing toys, treats, a blanket, or your work stuff—perfect for a day in the park with your pooch.
The front wheels have a full 360-degree swivel action, making maneuvering the stroller very convenient. When you’re done with the stroller, simply fold it down and store it in a cupboard or pop it into the trunk of your car.
Technical Specifications:
- Assembled Size: 17.7″ x 32″ x 38.9″
- Folded Size: 17.7″ x 9.5″ x 37.4″
- Weight Bearing: 33 pounds
- Basket Dimensions: 11.5″ x 18″
Pros
- Available in 10 colors with black trim
- Upholstered in Oxford cloth, which makes it waterproof, scratch-proof, and tear-resistant
- Large, 6-inch wheels in front for easy movement
- Mesh window promotes ventilation of the basket and gives your dog a view
- Can carry a maximum animal weight of 33 pounds
- Use the safety tether to ensure your dog doesn’t jump out
- Great price at $89.99
Cons
- The zipper access points can become damaged
- The assembly instructions are not clear
What I Like About It
I like the improved wheels on the Wedyvko dog stroller. They are rugged and ready for any terrain, which means I can take my dog on a park run or hit the trails too. Plus, the Wedyvko is a budget-friendly stroller.
Kenyone Pet Stroller
For a more versatile stroller, opt for the Kenyone pet stroller. This stroller has it all. It features a detachable basket, a restraining arm that can swivel across so the basket can face forward or backward, huge rubber wheels, and a storage basket., It also folds away neatly.
As a plus, the basket is much bigger, and it has clip closures, which eliminates the risk of zipper stripping. When you arrive at your destination, simply remove your dog’s basket (with them in it) to enable easy movement to and from your car or into your home. No risk of your beloved dog running off while you fidget with collapsing the stroller.
With a weight-bearing capacity of 60 pounds, your options are much better to fit a larger or heavier dog into the stroller. For first-time dog-stroller doggos, the spring fittings on the front wheels help take some bumps out of the road, ensuring your dog enjoys their stroll and so much more.
Technical Specifications:
- Assembled Size: 22.8″ x 29.5″ x 47.1″
- Folded Size: 2.7″ x 9.8″ x 19.6″
- Weight Bearing: 60 pounds
- Basket Dimensions: 14.2″ x 21″ x 25.2″
Pros
- Made from quality steel alloy (frame) and 600D Oxford cloth (body)
- Easy assembly
- Folds away for easy storage
- Lightweight (20.7 pounds) without pets
- Spring-mounted wheels for shock absorption and a single pedal brake on the rear axle
- Fold down dome on basket for sun protection and mesh dome for ventilation and containment
- Easy access for your dog via two-entry hatches
- The basket is removable, enabling easy folding of the carrier frame
Cons
- Instructions for assembly are not quite as easy as toted
- The price is somewhat more expensive than other strollers at $199.99
What I Like About It
I love the mesh and UV pull-downs to secure the basket, and the clip closure on the basket is a winner as there’s no messing about with a zipper.
Gen7Pets Regal Plus Dog Stroller
The Gen7Pets Regal Plus dog stroller is very nifty, and I enjoyed zooming down the promenade with Beeno inside. The stroller comes in three colors, and it is one of the first 3-wheel strollers on our list.
The Gen7Pets Regal Plus is one of the lightest strollers on the list, and it’s very easy to carry (with one hand if needed). Despite the lightweight frame and construction, the stroller can carry an impressive 25 pounds of pet, and it’s ruggedly equipped to go off-roading too.
The double front wheel has a spring mount to help reduce vibrations and ensure a smooth ride.
Technical Specifications
- Stroller Dimensions: 38″ x 17″ x 38″
- Item Weight: 11.5 pounds
- Maximum Capacity: 25 pounds
Pros
- Lightweight design
- Easy to use
- Safety tether
- Easy-to-clean nylon fabric
- Alloy metal frame
- Good quality rubber wheels
- Step down brake system on each rear wheel
- Lockable front wheel
- Reinforced pet basket
- The mesh dome folds away completely
- Zipper closure on all domes and access points
Cons
- The stroller isn’t ideal for tall people due to its low height
- Not made from a rip-proof material like other strollers
What I Like About It
I like the sporty appearance and great price ($122.95) of the stroller. Beeno likes to jump out of the stroller, so the zipper closure is a bit slow in opening or closing for him, but for an elderly pet, this would be an ideal stroller.
Tetesol Dog Stroller for Medium Dogs up to 100lbs
Beeno is a lightweight dog, and he’s quite tiny, but what about my sister’s large breed German Shepherd? What stroller can handle a dog with almost a hundred pounds of weight? Enter the Tetesol Dog Stroller.
The Tetesol Dog Stroller is more like a shopping cart than a typical baby stroller, and it’s perfect for large breed dogs as it can carry up to 121 pounds without missing a beat. It’s strong and has a reinforced basket area with carry space at the back of the load basket for your essentials when you take “Large Larry” for a stroll.
The strong wheels are tough enough for most terrain types, and with a brake on each back wheel, you don’t have to worry about the stroller going off on its own. The Oxford cloth and mesh of the stroller body are durable and generously sewn for added strength.
You don’t have to worry about your large dog feeling claustrophobic or heat-stressed in the stroller as five mesh windows aerate the stroller, and you can pop the sunroof open to let them shoot the breeze while you jog with the stroller.
To finish the range of great features, the stroller has an adjustable push bar handle, which means you can find an angle that’s most comfortable for you.
Technical Specifications
- Assembled Size: 31.1″ x 31.1″ x 42.5″
- Folded Size: 32.3″ x 25.2″ x 9.4″
- Basket Size: 24″ x 31.1″ x 25.2″
- Stroller Weight: 11 pounds
- Carry Capacity: 121 pounds
Pros
- Dog length of 31.1 inches will fit comfortably
- Full rotation on front wheels, brake system on back wheels
- Large load basket for large breed dogs
- Made from quality material
- Easy to fold (just pop off the handle and flatten)
- Adjustable handle for comfortable pushing power
- A height of 42.5 inches is ideal for medium to tall people to push comfortably
- The sunroof allows taller dogs to sit comfortably
Cons
- The price is quite high at $249 without discount
What I Like About It
I enjoyed having a zip down the road in the Tetesol dog stroller when my sister got one. Her dog was urging me to run faster, which was a whole new dynamic to taking your dog for a “stroll.” Few dog strollers on the market can accommodate large breed dogs, so this is a winner in my book.
SKISOPGO Dog Cat Pet Gear 3-in-1 Foldable Pet Stroller Detachable Carrier
The detach-and-go functionality of the Skisopgo dog carrier is quite something else. The dog basket is an independent carrier that easily clips closed so your precious pupper won’t fall out. When you reach your destination, simply lift the carrier from the frame, and you’re good to go.
A bonus is that there’s an existing seat belt buckle attached to the bottom of the carrier, with space to thread a second seat belt from the car to secure both ends of the carrier basket on the back seat. No more driving on eggshells because you’re scared the carrier will upend and shake your dog around, as this carrier is road-ready.
The double wheels on all four wheels are a nice touch, and the usual 360-degree turning front wheels and brakes on both back wheels are a great peace of mind. The 600 denier Oxford fabric is resilient and holds up well against small dog nails or kitty claws.
Best of all, the carrier lifts completely from the frame, which greatly reduces the bulk of the stroller when it’s folded. Enjoy further convenience with the easy slide hook closure for the carrier, eliminating the need for zippers.
Technical Specifications
- Assembled Stroller Dimensions: 25″ x 18″ x 39″
- Folded Frame Dimensions: 18″ x 10″ x 31″
- Carrier Dimensions: 20″ x 11″ x 16″
- Stroller Weight: 12 pounds
- Maximum Weight Capacity: 30 pounds
Pros
- High-strength steel alloy body
- 600D Oxford fabric (ripstop and water repellent)
- Three mesh windows
- The car seat belt attached
- Accommodates a 20-inch-long dog
- Directional lock on front wheels
- The brake system on the back wheels
- Available in three color combinations
- Affordable at $115.79
Cons
- The wheels can be a little sticky, given that lifting engages rotation on the front wheels while pressing down locks the front wheels
- The basket depth is not great
What I Like About It
I liked the overall design of the stroller, and while it’s not the one I ended up purchasing for Beeno, it certainly offers many great features. The easy-to-detach carrier is a real winner, and it’s well-made.
Caring for Your Dog Stroller: Essential Care
Now that you’ve purchased your dog stroller, it’s vital to care for it so you and your dog can enjoy it for many years to come.
Here are a few tips to keep your dog stroller in tip-top shape:
- Wipe spills immediately with wet wipes.
- Wash your stroller once a month in summer to remove saliva and any other biologicals such as bacteria.
- Check the stroller weekly for signs of damage.
- If your stroller has inflatable wheels, keep these correctly inflated.
- Line the stroller with potty pads if your dog is incontinent.
- Ensure your dog’s nails are correctly clipped and filed to prevent damage to the stroller.
- Clean and inspect hinges and folding mechanisms weekly.
- Store the dog stroller in a safe and out-of-the-way place.
- Never place heavy items on the folded stroller.
FAQs
Should you put your dog in a stroller?
Most dogs are happy to fit in a stroller, and there are many benefits to using a dog stroller instead of walking your dog on a lead or carrying them in a dog carrier or crate. Let your dog adjust to the stroller, ensuring they aren’t scared. Stay with them, praise them, and teach them a specific cue to get into the stroller and when you let them out.
Can you convert a baby stroller into a pet stroller?
Baby strollers can be used as pet strollers, especially for smaller pets such as cats and small dogs. Ensure the dog can’t simply jump out by securing them to the stroller or using a screen to prevent them leaving without you letting them out. Heavy dogs can’t use a regular baby stroller as the frame isn’t reinforced to carry their weight.
Do dogs like riding in dog strollers?
Dogs love being able to go with their owners, and your dog will enjoy your outings if you make it fun for them. To help them relax and enjoy the stroller, ensure you start them off on even terrain and that you keep initial trips short.
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Conclusion
A dog stroller can be a really valuable investment, and if you approach the training with the right attitude, your dog will love riding in the stroller. Ensure your dog fits well into their stroller, keep it in good condition, and make every trip an adventure, and your dog will thank you.
Which dog stroller is your favorite? Let me know in the comments section.