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No matter the age, breed, or physical capabilities of your dog, a dog bike trailer can come in handy for biking, running and walking, and traveling.
They greatly improve your dog’s quality of life, are super convenient for injuries, age-related mobility issues, and dangerous areas such as city streets that aren’t ideal for rambunctious puppies.
There are so many uses for a dog bike trailer, especially since so many of them convert into a pet stroller as well. Modern enhancements to bike trailers ensure your pet’s safety and comfort for all of your cycling activities. The trailers are compatible with any type and size of bike and are designed to fit small to large dogs.
While a variety of choice is always useful to find just what you need, it can also make it more difficult to narrow down your choices and find the perfect dog bike trailer for your pup and your needs.
To help with your search and purchase decision, we spent 24 hours using 759 consumer reviews to analyze 22 products for user friendliness, quality, safety, versatility, and more.
Our efforts have led to this list of the best dog bike trailers in Canada, giving you plenty of great picks for your new pet trailer.
Following our last update, we recommend the Schwinn Rascal 13-SC315 Pet Trailer for its stability, durability, quality, and value.
Our Top Pick Dog Bike Trailer in 2023
Overall, the Schwinn Rascal pet trailer is our top choice for a number of reasons. It is durable, easy to use even for total beginners, and keeps your pet safe at all times. Its user-friendly, safety-conscious features make it a top choice for everyone.
Pros:
- Excellent airflow for your pet
- Universal coupler works with any type and size of bike
- Sturdy frame for stability at higher speeds
- Internal leash and safety flag keeps your pet safe at all times
Cons:
- Lower weight limit
Our selection of the best models available right now:
- Schwinn Rascal 13-SC315 Pet Trailer
- Burley Tail Wagon
- PawHut 5663-0062 Pet Trailer
- PawHut 2-in-1 Dog Bicycle Trailer and Stroller Pet Carrier
- PetSafe Bicycle Trailer
- PawHut Tri-Wheel Pet Bicycle Trailer
- Aosom Elite-Jr Dog Bike Trailer Review
Dog Bike Trailer Comparative Table
| Image | Product | Features | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Top Pick
|
Schwinn Rascal 13-SC315 Pet Trailer
|
9,4
|
Check Price on Amazon |
|
Upgrade Pick
|
Burley Tail Wagon
|
9,7
|
Check Price on Amazon |
|
Budget Pick
|
PawHut 5663-0062 Pet Trailer
|
9,1
|
Check Price on AmazonCheck Price at Best Buy |
Our Pick for The Best Dog Bike Trailer
Presentation of the Schwinn Rascal 13-SC315 Pet Trailer
The Best Overall
Schwinn
We all love a good balance of quality and value. If you’re looking for a combination of affordability and durability in your next bike trailer, the Schwinn Rascal 13-SC315 pet trailer is the best choice since it’s a value-packed, high-quality pick suitable for every purpose and most dog breeds.
Schwinn Rascal 13-SC315 Pet Trailer Video Review
What We Think of the Schwinn Rascal 13-SC315 Pet Trailer
The Schwinn Rascal pet trailer is the ideal choice for a wide variety of applications such as traveling, trails, and a quick jaunt around the neighborhood. This bike trailer has a universal coupler that makes it a compatible fit for any type and size of bike you may have. It is very easy to attach to your rear tire and won’t budge once it’s affixed. The tires are a desirable 16” in diameter, providing great balance and stability.
This trailer accommodates any dog weighing less than 50 lbs. the front cover extends to the very near back of the carriage and has three coverage options: weather shield, mesh only, or no coverage. The top halves of the sides of the carriage are a breathable mesh so your dog has unobstructed airflow during transit. Since the trailer only weighs 26 lbs, it is relatively easy to tow your pooch around behind your bike.
This is the perfect trailer for my Maltese pup. It has a little pocket on top for treats or a leash, has ventilation all the way around, has a rubber mat for a better grip, and a lead that hands from the top bar for strapping in your pup. The rain cover can be folded up unless you need it and the two entrances make loading and unloading easy.
Michelle M.
For safety, the bike trailer comes with a tall, brightly coloured safety flag to alert vehicles as well as an internal leash that attaches to your dog’s harness to keep them safely inside the carriage at all times, so you can feel secure that your dog isn’t a flight risk even when you stop for a break. The carriage has a door on the back for exiting and entering the carriage, though you could also use the front if your dog is too wide for the rear door. The interior floor liner is removable and washable in case your pet’s muddy paws make a mess.
Schwinn Rascal 13-SC315 Pet Trailer Specifications
- Dimensions: 25.5” x 27” x 31”
- Colour: Orange and grey
- Weight: 25.9 lbs
- Wheel Size: 16”
- Universal Coupler: Yes
- Max Load: 50 lbs
- Leash Compatibility: Internal adjustable leash included
- Frame Material: Alloy steel
Schwinn Rascal 13-SC315 Pet Trailer Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Excellent airflow for your pet
- Universal coupler works with any type and size of bike
- Sturdy frame for stability at higher speeds
- Internal leash and safety flag keeps your pet safe at all times
Cons
- Lower weight limit
Our Final Opinion About the Schwinn Rascal 13-SC315 Pet Trailer
Quality 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 5.0 out of 5.0 stars
Overall, the Schwinn Rascal pet trailer is our top choice for a number of reasons. It is durable, easy to use even for total beginners, and keeps your pet safe at all times. Its user-friendly, safety-conscious features make it a top choice for everyone.
Our Upgrade Pick for a Dog Bike Trailer
Presentation of the Burley Tail Wagon
The Advanced Choice
Burley
If you want a dog bike trailer that offers superior performance and durability, the Burley Tail Wagon is the perfect choice. This trailer is compatible with most breeds, is incredibly durable, and more stable than most lower-end options, giving you all the quality you expect for a higher price.
Burley Tail Wagon Video Review
What We Think of the Burley Tail Wagon
The Burley Tail Wagon is one of the highest end dog bike trailers currently available. It has a high weight capacity of 75 lbs so it is strong enough to handle most dog breeds. It has a universal coupler to make bike attachment a breeze, and it is made of a lightweight but durable aluminum to make travelling easier on you. 16” wheels guarantee a well-balanced trailer and safety even during tight turns.
Although this dog bike trailer does not come with a built-in leash, it does have loops to attach your personal leash to the trailer to keep your dog secure, even those pesky escape artists. A 3-year warranty period protects you from having to repair or replace the trailer if it is not performing as is expected, or things break prematurely.
Loving our tail wagon! Our dog is 75 lbs but can easily lay down if he wants to. It is very easy for him to get in and out of and is well weighted to turn with the bike smoothly. It is extremely well balanced and I feel confident that my dog is safe in it while we travel. It folds down flat when not in use and is highly convenient to use.
Ronald C.
A couple features really make this bike trailer stand out from the others on the market. First of all, the weatherproofing on this trailer is second to none. No matter the weather conditions, your dog will be comfortable during bike travel, even when you aren’t. Secondly, the flex connecter keeps the trailer upright even when the bike is laid flat. If you need a break and don’t have a kickstand, your dog will still be sitting pretty in the trailer.
Burley Tail Wagon Specifications
- Dimensions: 25” x 37” x 13”
- Colour: Black and Yellow
- Weight: 19.4 lbs
- Wheel Size: 16”
- Universal Coupler: Yes
- Max Load: 75 lbs
- Leash Compatibility: Loops for external leash
- Frame Material: Aluminum
- Warranty: 3 years
Burley Tail Wagon Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Flex connector keeps the trailer upright even if bike is laid flat
- Very stable
- Withstands all weather to keep your dog comfortable
- Great warranty period
Cons
Cons
- Doesn’t come with a leash built-in
Our Final Opinion About the Burley Tail Wagon
Quality 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 4.0 out of 5.0 stars
Overall, the Burley tail wagon is a high-quality choice that is the best choice if you can afford to splurge on a more expensive trailer. You won’t have any complaints with the performance, safety, or durability of this reliable dog bike trailer thanks to its innovative, thoughtful design.
Our Budget Pick for a Dog Bike Trailer
Presentation of the PawHut 5663-0062 Pet Trailer
The Affordable Choice
PawHut
Not everyone can afford to spend a few hundred on a trailer to tow their four-legged friends, and the PawHut 5663-0062 pet trailer is the perfect budget-minded option for those who need quality on a limited budget.
PawHut 5663-0062 Pet Trailer Video Review
What We Think of the PawHut 5663-0062 Pet Trailer
This PawHut pet trailer is the perfect combination of affordability and rich features. Although not the most stable pet trailer out there, it is still very safe for small to medium sized dogs as long as you take a few precautions around corners and obstacles. This trailer comes with a leash inside to save you the hassle of attaching, detaching, and reattaching your own leash every time you need to take your dog in and out of the trailer during a long ride.
We enjoy that this PawHut model has quick release wheels, as it makes storage and portability a much easier task. The entire trailer is also collapsible, so with a total weight of 15.6 lbs, this is the ideal pet trailer for transport. If you are someone who frequently takes your dog to stay away from your home but you still want to go on bike rides, you won’t find a pet trailer that fits better in your car to get there.
This is the perfect pet trailer for our small 25 lb dog. We enjoy bringing her on longer bike rides and she is content to sit or lay down and enjoy the ride. Seems to be pretty stable, though you can’t go very quickly around corners and the slightest curb could cause a tip. My 8-year-old can pull the trailer on his bike and it is still performing well after 4 months. Very happy with it.
Wendy T.
This pet trailer has a protective screen to protect your dog from unfavorable weather conditions during biking, so while you may end up covered in rain, your pet will stay comfortable. This model does also have a dual entry design, so you have options that allow you to choose the more convenient entry point for your pet or the one better suited to your environment.
PawHut 5663-0062 Pet Trailer Specifications
- Dimensions: 51.2” x 28.8” x 37”
- Colour: Red and Black
- Weight: 15.6 lbs
- Wheel Size: 20”
- Universal Coupler: Yes
- Max Load: 66 lbs
- Leash Compatibility: Internal leash included
- Frame Material: Alloy steel
PawHut 5663-0062 Pet Trailer Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Lightweight and collapsible for portability
- Protective screen for weather protection
- Quick-release wheels for instant storage
- Dual entry design
Cons
- Less stable than other options
Our Final Opinion About the PawHut 5663-0062 Pet Trailer
Quality 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 5.0 out of 5.0 stars
Overall, the PawHut option isn’t as reliable and long-lasting as higher-end options, but it offers a great safe space for your dogs to enjoy the same biking trails and higher speeds as you. We really appreciate the safety features and user-friendly design of this affordable dog bike trailer.
Alternative Products to Consider
Presentation of the PawHut 2-in-1 Dog Bicycle Trailer and Stroller Pet Carrier
The Compatible Alternative
PawHut
This PawHut 2-in-1 dog bicycle trailer and stroller pet carrier is the best choice for those who are looking for a trailer that will easily hold your multiple small breed dogs for a bike or run. This bike trailer makes it easy to take multiple pooches with you thanks to its helpful design.
What We Think of the PawHut 2-in-1 Dog Bicycle Trailer and Stroller Pet Carrier
The 2-in-1 dog bicycle trailer and stroller by PawHut is ideal for small to medium sized dogs. It has a 55 lb weight capacity, so you’ll want to stay under that limit to ensure the safety of your pet(s). It has a universal coupler to make attachment to any bike type a very easy task. The most notable feature of this dog trailer is that it can be converted into a stroller type device to allow you to push it without the need for a bike. Wherever you’re going, you will be able to take your dog with you.
This 2-in-1 dog trailer weighs just over 25 lbs, so while heavier than other bike trailers, it is still very easy to move around with the help of its 12” wheels. There isn’t a leash included in this trailer but it does come with a heavy-duty D ring to allow you to secure your dog while it is in the trailer/stroller and prevent runaways. No matter what physical activity you are doing with your animal, you can be confident in its safety.
My 12-year-old poodle mix has spinal stenosis and can’t walk further than down the street to get the mail. I got this bike trailer so I could help him keep loving his walks around the neighborhood and local parks. He loves it! This carriage easily fits both him and my smaller dog. This is very easy to maneuver on foot and on bike and is very stable. The price also couldn’t be better!
Donny E.
This bike trailer/stroller is protective in all weather conditions and is stable enough for off road use; if you like to adventure with your dog and aren’t worried about some rough weather or terrain, this bike trailer will withstand the additional wear and tear with ease. The trailer also folds flat, so it is easy to take with you when camping or driving to a hiking trail, and its also very easy to find a storage place in the off season.
PawHut 2-in-1 Dog Bicycle Trailer and Stroller Pet Carrier Specifications
- Dimensions: 42” x 23.3” x 38.3”
- Colour: Blue and Grey
- Weight: 25.3 lbs
- Wheel Size: 12”
- Universal Coupler: Yes
- Max Load: 55 lbs
- Leash Compatibility: D-ring built-in, no leash included
- Frame Material: Alloy steel
- Warranty: 90 days
PawHut 2-in-1 Dog Bicycle Trailer and Stroller Pet Carrier Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Can be pulled by a bike or pushed while walking/jogging
- Weather shield for all-weather use
- Off-road friendly
- Folds flat for easy storage
Cons
- Lower weight capacity
Our Final Opinion About the PawHut 2-in-1 Dog Bicycle Trailer and Stroller Pet Carrier
Quality 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 5.0 out of 5.0 stars
The PawHut 2-in-1 trailer is the best choice for those who want to seamlessly transition between all types of activities with their dogs in tow. Though not compatible with larger breeds, this bike trailer will help you make the most of your summer activities without ditching your smaller furred friends.
Presentation of the PetSafe Bicycle Trailer
The Large-Breed Alternative
PetSafe
If you have a big dog that believes its still a lap dog and wants to be with you every second of the day, you’ll probably need a larger, sturdier dog bike trailer to bring them with you on your cycling adventures. The PetSafe bicycle trailer with extended weight limit is the perfect fit.
PetSafe Bicycle Trailer Video Review
What We Think of the PetSafe Bicycle Trailer
There are so many things we love about this PetSafe Bicycle Trailer. The only downside of it is that it is fairly expensive (rightly so), but this does limit the number of people that can enjoy the benefits of this trailer. The best thing about this bike trailer is its weight limit; it can carry dogs up to 110 lbs comfortably, so nearly any dog breed can be safely towed behind your bike.
Safety is really at the forefront of this model. It has a universal coupler to allow secure attachment to any bike; this way, there won’t be anyone trying to self attach the trailer and risking the safety of their dog. There is also an interior safety tether in the trailer to ensure your dog is securely attached and cannot fall or run out of the trailer at any time.
This trailer is so great! My king German shepherd fits perfectly in this large bike trailer and absolutely loves going for rides. I hated the idea of making her run while we biked but didn’t want to leave her at home either, so this is the perfect solution. She didn’t like the crunchy noise of the mat so we put a blanket in there instead which she much prefers. VERY happy with this!
Amy U.
Another few awesome features include pockets to store your treats, leash, poop bags, water, etc. during biking, a design geared towards optimal airflow, and its collapsible for storage and convenient transport. Wherever you will be travelling with your dog in tow, and no matter how big said dog is, this trailer will keep you both comfortable and safe.
PetSafe Bicycle Trailer Specifications
- Dimensions: 33” x 33” x 22”
- Colour: Blue
- Weight: 25 lbs
- Wheel Size: 20”
- Universal Coupler: Yes
- Max Load: 110 lbs
- Leash Compatibility: Interior safety tether
- Frame Material: Aluminum
PetSafe Bicycle Trailer Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Outstanding weight capacity for larger breeds
- Excellent airflow
- 3 pockets for leash, treats, poop bags, etc.
- Collapses for storage
Cons
- Expensive
Our Final Opinion About the PetSafe Bicycle Trailer
Quality 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 4.0 out of 5.0 stars
We’re very impressed with the inclusivity of this PetSafe bike trailer. Its incredibly high weight capacity and user friendliness make it a great choice for large breeds who don’t often fit into bike trailers comfortably. For your big-boned fur babies, this is the best choice.
Presentation of the PawHut Tri-Wheel Pet Bicycle Trailer
The User-Friendly Alternative
PawHut
If you want a versatile pet trailer that can just as easily be used with a bike as for running, the PawHut tri-wheeled pet bicycle trailer is the best choice. This trailer is easily interchangeable from stroller to trailer and is ergonomically designed for walking and running with your pet as well.
What We Think of the PawHut Tri-Wheel Pet Bicycle Trailer
The tri-wheel bicycle trailer by PawHut is the ideal choice for people looking to do different activities with their dog. Its three wheel design is great for stability whether you are pulling your dog with a bike or pushing them in stroller mode. Its stability does come with a heavy load for you though, as this trailer weighs 41 lbs. Silver lining, it’s an even better workout for you as a result.
It’s a good thing the weight limit for this trailer is 44 lbs, otherwise you’d have a hard time pushing your dog or getting starting with your bike. The smaller wheel on the front helps with balance and maneuverability as well. There is an adjustable safety leash inside the trailer to keep your dog secure during travel.
This bike trailer/stroller is giving our aging dog his freedom back. He loves his walks but can’t go very far anymore, so this stroller lets us stretch our legs while he rides in comfort. Assembly was easy and my Boston terrier loves the wind on his face while we ride. The safety leash is a great touch and my boy has lots of room to move and lie down.
Jason Y.
As most trailers do, this one has a universal coupler to allow you to easily attach the trailer to any style and size of bike you may have. Since safety should be your number one priority, this will prevent any corner-cutters from trying to use the trailer with a bike that isn’t compatible.
PawHut Tri-Wheel Pet Bicycle Trailer Specifications
- Dimensions: 55.1” x 23” x 42.1”
- Colour: Blue and Grey
- Weight: 41 lbs
- Wheel Size: 20” on the back and 10” on the front
- Universal Coupler: Yes
- Max Load: 44 lbs
- Leash Compatibility: Adjustable safety leash inside
- Frame Material: Alloy steel
PawHut Tri-Wheel Pet Bicycle Trailer Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Excellent balance and stability
- Affordable
- Three wheels for walking and running with your dog
- Numerous safety features
Cons
Cons
- Heavy
Our Final Opinion About the PawHut Tri-Wheel Pet Bicycle Trailer
Quality 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 5.0 out of 5.0 stars
If you’re new to towing your pooch with a bike, the user-friendliness of this PawHut is essential. Its easy to assembly, attach to your bike, introduce to your dog, and use in all kinds of weather. As far as ease of use goes, its hard to beat this PawHut model.
Presentation of the Aosom Elite-Jr Dog Bike Trailer
The Long-Lasting Alternative
Aosom
If you’re looking for a durable bike trailer for your dog that is safe for all terrain types, the Aosom Elite-Jr dog bike trailer is the right pick for you. It has thick tires and a durable cover that will keep the trailer balanced and comfortable for your dog at all times. Its reasonable price is a bonus you’ll appreciate.
Aosom Elite-Jr Dog Bike Trailer Video Review
What We Think of the Aosom Elite-Jr Dog Bike Trailer
This 2-in-1 Aosom dog bike trailer is a great pick for any owners of small-medium dogs. With a weight capacity of only 44 lbs, it doesn’t have the same breed versatility as some other models out there. However, dogs that fit the recommendations will ride in comfort while staying safe. The thick 12” tires ensure the trailer stays balanced on any terrain type.
While this bike trailer does not come with a leash for safety, it does have a D ring that you can tie your dog’s leash to in order to keep them secure and unable to escape. The 2-in-1 functionality lets you take your dog with you anywhere, whether you want to tow them behind a bike or push them in the stroller mode. For travelling, the trailer folds flat and stores easily.
I love this bike trailer quite a bit. I got it for my two Maltese pups, and they absolutely love riding in the trailer. They get really excited every time they see it. They self-load really quickly through the back entrance, and they stay secure by either sitting or laying down. They sniff the wind the whole time I’m riding, but they also stay dry if its drizzly out. Highly recommend to all small dog owners with bikes!
tracey c.
The heavy duty polyester cover on this trailer is water-resistant to keep your pets dry in rainy weather, but they will still have the ventilation and visibility that keeps them comfortable. Tow entry points ensure that your dog will always be able to get in and out of the trailer in any location. If you want a trailer that will last a long time and hold up to various conditions, this is the one to choose.
Aosom Elite-Jr Dog Bike Trailer Specifications
- Dimensions: 38.3” x 42.3” x 23.3”
- Colour: Red and black
- Weight: 28 lbs
- Wheel Size: 12”
- Universal Coupler: No
- Max Load: 44 lbs
- Leash Compatibility: Has a D ring for leash attachment
- Frame Material: Alloy steel
Aosom Elite-Jr Dog Bike Trailer Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Functions as a bike trailer or stroller
- Two entry points (front and back) for easy loading in any environment
- Heavy duty polyester fabric is durable and water-resistant
- Folds down easily for storage
Cons
Cons
- Low weight capacity
Our Final Opinion About the Aosom Elite-Jr Dog Bike Trailer
Quality 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 5.0 out of 5.0 stars
Overall, the Aosom Elite-Jr dog bike trailer that you won’t have to replace any time soon. It doesn’t have the capacity for larger dogs, but if your pup fits the weight limit and compartment size, you’ll be able to explore every kind of new environment with them safely in tow.
Why Should You Trust Us?
All the recommendations we make on The Good Choice are the result of many hours of research, comparisons, analysis of consumer reviews and, if necessary, expert feedbacks.
The products we recommend here are the ones that will best perform their daily tasks, passing all security, reliability and efficiency tests while having an appealing price-quality ratio for everyone.
What are our criteria for judging the products reviewed and selected by The Good Choice?
- Quality: Does the product have a solid construction? Will it be reliable over time? Does it have a good warranty?
- Efficiency: Is the product efficient in its task or do you need to give it some help? Is it for example powerful, fast, quiet?
- Usability: Is the product easy to handle, easy to use and maintain?
- Price: Is the price of the product and/or accessories and/or spare parts reasonable compared to the rest of the market?
In addition to these main criteria, we then establish a list of specific criteria for each product category, detailed a little further down in this article.
In the end, the products we recommend are the ones we would want to buy, and the ones we would also choose for our friends and family.
Things to Know Before Buying a Dog Bike Trailer
Benefits of Having a Dog Bike Trailer
There are many benefits to owning a dog bike trailer. The most obvious, of course, is that you can take your dog with you when you go biking.
Though many people choose to let their dogs constantly sprint to keep up with a bike, no dog should be forced to do so and it is definitely considered cruel. Since running alongside a bike has so many risks, a trailer allows you to bring your pup with you in a safe manner.
These trailers are also great for dogs that don’t have the stamina to go running with you since they can be used in the stroller style and pushed in front of you for the duration of your run.
Plus, since dogs tend to be distracted and easily-excitable beings, you don’t run the risk of being tripped or knocking over by your dog suddenly darting in front of your legs while you’re on the move.
Most other benefits have to do more with quality of life than with speed. Pet trailers are a perfect solution to elderly or injured dogs that don’t have the mobility to enjoy their daily walks. Especially for energetic dogs, an injury can be very frustrating and lead to some unwanted behaviours out of boredom.
To keep your pet’s mind active and engaged, taking them for a “walk” in a trailer/stroller is often enough to keep their curious minds busy and happy. A trailer is also an ideal option to bring puppies on longer journeys since they’re kept safe at all times.
We often choose to abstain from walking our dog in the extreme heat since the sidewalk and roads can burn their paws, but putting them in a trailer gives us the freedom to continue the routine without hurting their paws.
Finally, using a bike trailer is easier and safer for your pup in busy downtown areas where the slightest stray from a sidewalk can result in catastrophe with oncoming traffic.
How to Properly Choose Your Dog Bike Trailer
- Price.
Dog bike trailers are a bit of investment. At a minimum, you’ll be looking at more than $100 for the lowest end trailers.
More reliable options can cost more than $400, though there are many great options in the $200-$300 range as well if you want a balance of quality and affordability. No matter what your budget is, make sure you’re choosing a trailer that is suitable for your needs and your dog.
- Weight Capacity.
The weight capacity you need depends on the breed of dog you have, or if you have multiple dogs you want to take with you. Most dog bike trailers have a maximum of 50-80 lbs, though some can support as much as 110 lbs or more.
For best results, choose a dog bike trailer that has a maximum weight that is reasonably higher than your dog’s weight for safety and longevity of the trailer.
- Dimension.
While the outer dimensions aren’t as important, you’ll want to pay attention to the interior dimensions since they have a direct impact on your dog.
No matter your pet’s size, they should be able to lie down comfortable if they need to. While this isn’t a hard thing to accomplish with smaller breeds, not all trailers will accommodate a German shepherd or similar sized dog.
- Wheels.
The wheels of your dog trailer are important as well. Most wheels are between 16 and 20 inches, though some smaller trailers have 12” tires. Larger tires are typically more reliable, and they’ll support more weight if you have a large dog. You should also consider the spokes; aluminum spokes are more durable since plastic can break easily.
- Universal Coupler.
Some couplers are universal while others are limited by your bike’s tire size (20”-29” is typical for limited couplers). If you want to use your dog bike trailer with different bikes owned by various family members, a various coupler is crucial to ensure compatibility.
- Safety.
The safety of our four-legged friends is always our top priority. When we’re pulling them behind us at high speeds, safety is even more essential. Many dog bike trailers come with a safety flag that extends above the height of the carriage so cars notice the trailer immediately thanks to the bright colours.
It’s also important to have a way of securing your dog inside the carriage – whether with a built-in safety tether, loops for your own leash, or another type of harness, make sure you can secure your pet inside the carriage in case of an accidental zipper opening or a jumper.
- Portability.
In most cases, you’ll want to take the bike trailer somewhere with you, whether that’s going camping or heading to a trail for some off-roading fun.
If you plan on using the trailer someplace other than your neighborhood, you’ll want a foldable model. Most dog bike trailers collapse to a third or quarter of their height with the wheels removed easily via quick-release latch.
If you’ll be doing this often, the quick-release wheels are a key component to look for.
- Suspension.
If you’re riding your bike on your neighborhood roads, suspension may not be a priority, but you’ll want a good suspension system if you’re doing a bit of off-roading with your dogs in tow.
A good suspension system will increase your pup’s comfort when on bumpier trails, though it will be a heavier load for you to pull as well. While some bike trailers can handle bumpy terrain without a suspension system, they’re a good idea for durability.
- Materials.
The materials that make up your dog bike trailer are incredibly important. Most trailers include mesh somewhere in the design for breathability and airflow, which is crucial, but it also isn’t very durable and may not stand up to a scratching pet. Stronger materials will last longer, but your dog may not have 360 airflow.
The material of the frame is also important. While aluminum is lighter and easier to pull, steel is stronger and necessary for larger breeds with higher weights.
- Weight.
Considering you’re pulling the trailer weight plus your dog’s weight, you may instinctively want to choose the lightest possible bike trailer.
However, this may not be a great idea when it comes to stability if you’re riding at higher speeds and taking corners. A heavier trailer is harder to tip over, but it’s also harder to tow up hills or on rough terrain, so it is certainly a balancing act.
- Stroller.
Many dog bike trailers can be transformed into a dog stroller with a third wheel at the front for walking or running. This versatility comes in handy if you want a slower pace or want to go for regular walks with an elderly or injured pet.
Usually, the handlebar and third wheel are easy to set and collapse for total ease of use, though you’ll want to ensure that the trailer is balanced if you’re pushing a larger dog.
- Weather Proofing.
In most areas, you’ll be dealing with rain or snow at some part of the year.
If you wish to protect your beloved pup from all types of weather, you’ll want a bike trailer with adjustable covers and waterproof zippers so your pet is protected from the rain while inside the carrier. A clear plastic cover at the front also keeps your pet safe from bugs and debris that may be shot up from your back bike tire.
We do our best to provide you with a comparative guide of dog bike trailers allowing you to choose the best product possible. If we are missing information or new models, do not hesitate to leave a comment below or to send us a message.
