Dog bicycle trailers are a must-have for active pet parents who like to bring their pups wherever they go. These incredibly versatile, convenient canine accessories are ideal for dogs who like the great outdoors but lack the discipline or physical ability to jog alongside their owner’s bike. To help you find the right pet bicycle trailer for your pooch, we reviewed dozens of different trailers, including the folding and fixed types, single and double models, and so much more. We also put together a handy little buying guide, so read on!
The 14 Top-Rated Dog Bike Trailers
1 Schwinn Rascal Pet Trailer
- Quick-release wheels and folding steel frame
- Non-slip trailer liner
- Bug screen
- Rear door entry point
- Aluminum rims with pneumatic tires
- Universal hitch or couple
- Adjustable safety leash attachment
- Maximum weight capacity: 50 pounds
The first pet bicycle trailer on our Top List is the Rascal from Schwinn. This is one trailer that is both comfy for your pooch to ride in and is easy to attach to practically any bike. Thanks to the adjustable bug screen and internal adjustable leash, the trailer ensures comfortable and safe rides for you and your pup no matter where you’re going. Additionally, 16-inch aluminum rims, air-filled tires, and steel frames provide stability, so the rides should be smooth sailing even on slightly bumpy terrains.
With a large rear door, you’ll be able to pop your pup inside the trailer easily and quickly, no matter their size. That said, the model has a 50-pound capacity. Overall, this is a simple but durable and secure bike trailer priced just right for its design and sturdy construction – guaranteed to last for years!
2 PetSafe Happy Ride Aluminum Dog Bicycle Trailer
- Corrosion resistant and lightweight aluminum design at 25 pounds
- Waterproof front door with mesh paneled back door
- Folding sunroof screen
- Fully adjustable pet leash
- Maximum weight capacity: 110 pounds
One thing that makes the HoundAbout quite expensive is the use of aircraft-grade aluminum, which gives its frame superior strength and lightweight. It is the only canine bicycle trailer on this list that weighs only 25 pounds yet is so strong that it can hold a 110-pound hound. The design is excellent, too, complete with a sunroof screen that you can use as an access point to its spacious interior.
The trailer attachment differs from conventional bike attachments in that it is located on one side of the transporter before folding well toward the other. Mesh panels and screen windows help improve ventilation while protecting your pooch against bugs. Honestly, if you’ve got the money to spare, this is one of the best pet bicycle trailer systems on the market!
3 Aosom Elite Pet Bike Carrier
- Lightweight yet durable construction at 32 pounds
- Foldable design, easy to store
- Removable weather protection cover
- Front and back mesh panels
- Interior leash hook attachment
- Pneumatic tires
- Maximum weight capacity: 66 pounds
Weighing only 32 pounds, the Aosom Elite Pet Bike Carrier is a joy to use. It can be easily folded and stored wherever you have extra space, making it ideal for small apartment owners. The construction is pretty strong, too, capable of carrying the weight of a 66-pound puppy, although we don’t recommend pushing it beyond this limit. There’s also a leash hook attachment inside and one you can easily latch your dog’s leash on.
The pneumatic tires ensure a smooth ride, while the universal hitch guarantees attachment to almost any other bicycle. As a bonus, the Elite’s steel spokes rim goes great with most bikes’ wheels.
4 InStep Bike Trailer for Pets
- Fully foldable frame requiring no tools to assemble
- Quick releasing wheels
- Universal hitch or coupler
- Pneumatic tires
- 2-in-1 canopy with a weather shield and insect screen
- Maximum weight capacity: 40 pounds
Let’s get this straight: the InStep Sync Single Bicycle Trailer is not intended for puppies but small children. It comes with a dedicated kid’s seat complete with safety seat harnesses. However, this doesn’t mean that it can only be used by kids – fully capable of holding a kid who weighs 40 pounds or less, we believe the InStep Sync makes for a great pet bike trailer, too!
The InStep Sync comes with a bug- and weather screen to help protect your furry passenger against the elements. It easily folds, too, so transporting and storing shouldn’t be a concern. Available in 3 color designs, this model makes its way into our list primarily for its durable, adorable, and budget-friendly design.
5 Best Choice Products Pet Stroller And Trailer
- Panel constructed of waterproof polyester
- Weather resistant canopy with bug screen
- Integrated hand-lock brakes
- Pneumatic tires with steel spoke rims
- Safety flag
- Maximum weight capacity: 66 pounds
It may be priced higher than most competitive models, but Best Choice Products has multiple reasons for its steep price tag. First, the BCP contraption works like any bicycle trailer you mount onto your bike. This way, you get to transport your pooch while giving it a go for the next Tour de France. Second, the BCP comes with a handlebar that spans the width of its back. This is what you’ll be holding onto when you’re out jogging.
Technically, this model is more like a baby stroller that you’ll be pushing forward. The good thing is that the BCP comes with a unique braking mechanism, so you don’t have to worry about safety on the streets. There will be no bumpy rides, as the BCP is integrated with a unique suspension system. All in all, a durable and sturdy trailer and jogger in one.
6 Aosom Elite Jr. Dog Pet Bike Trailer
- Water resistant, heavy duty polyester construction
- Front and back entry panels
- Sturdy pneumatic tires with quick release feature
- Super lightweight design at only 28 pounds
- Easy to assemble and fold
- Maximum weight capacity: 44 pounds
Comfy, secure, and durable, the Elite Jr. by Aosom doesn’t look particularly different from other pet trailers on the market. However, what separates the Elite Jr. is its price tag – a very affordable price tag. You get the same trailer-jogger convertible design, excellent comfort, and security. The only difference is that the Aosom Elite Jr. is primarily positioned as a stroller, not a jogger.
Nevertheless, the ergonomic handlebar located at the rear should make strolling quite a breeze. And if you’re already tired of walking, you can always attach the Elite Jr. to your bike. The universal hitch should make it relatively easy to mount on any bicycle. The Elite Jr. also comes with dual entry points, so you can easily load your pet in the front or the back. It is easily assembled, too.
7 Instep Double Seat Dog Bike Trailer
- Durable and lightweight construction
- Spacious interior
- Foldable design
- Weather shield and bug screen canopy
- With universal coupler
- Fully pneumatic tires mated to molded rims
- Maximum weight capacity: 80 pounds
The InStep Take 2 is not a dedicated small dog bike trailer – the model is designed to carry and transport two young kids with a combined weight of 80 pounds. However, the InStep Take 2 should make for an amazing large dog bike trailer since it has a spacious interior and sturdy construction.
The model comes with a host of useful features, including a couple of passenger protections: a weather shield plus an insect screen. The windows have mesh panels for optimum ventilation. Ensuring a comfy, non-bumpy ride are two oversized pneumatic 16-inch tires. We would have preferred the steel-spoke rims. However, the model does boast excellent strength, durability, and weight capabilities, so there’s nothing to worry about. Overall, this is a great kid and dog bicycle trailer in one.
8 Instep Quick-N-EZ Dog Bike Trailer
- Bike and stroller kit included with purchase
- Easily converts from cycling to walking
- Uses a patented hitch for more security
- Weight capacity is 100 pounds
- Large capacity for more room and movement
The Thule Coaster XT is designed for children – but can easily be adapted to suit the needs of any dog lover. Being large and tall, it has plenty of room to allow your dog to move around when in use. At the same time, it has a lightweight design that makes it easier for cyclists to pull without added effort.
With a large weight capacity of up to 100 pounds, this is a great choice for most breeds. Better still, a patented hitch allows for additional peace of mind in the connection’s security. You’ll never have to worry about any accidents with this option! As an added benefit, you’ll find that this option easily converts to a stroller when needed and can also be compacted for popping in your car, too.
9 TRIXIE Premium Quick Fold Dog Bike Trailer
- Easily folds away when not in use
- Easy to assemble and set up
- Viewing mesh can be covered to become rain-proof
- Uses a foam cushion for added comfort
- Converts from cycling to walking
The biggest selling point of this dog bike trailer is its adaptability. As well as being able to quickly and easily fold down when not in use for both storage and travel, it’s also easy to assemble. The wheels attach using a quick-fix system and can be assembled and disassembled within minutes.
The mesh inserts along the top and front provide plenty of breathing space for your dog and allow them to see the world as you travel. However, when it rains, these can easily be covered using rain-proof inserts, which simply roll across the space. Finally, there’s an added level of comfort, thanks to the foam cushion across the base of the bike trailer.
10 Sepnine Dog Bike Trailer
- Combination of stroller and trailer
- Large windows with mesh and cover
- Anti-slip PE board floor design
- Lightweight yet durable and sturdy steel construction
- Includes universal bike hitch
- Front and rear pneumatic tires with bicycle wheel spokes and rims
- Bicycle reflectors and safety flag
- Maximum weight capacity: 66 pounds
- Available in 4 colors: blue, orange, red, and yellow
The Sepnine 2-in-1 is an unpretentious pet bike trailer that doubles as a nifty stroller. The brand calls it the jogger, but if you’re going to load your 66-pound hound inside its spacious interior, even its fully pneumatic tires won’t make it easy for you to push along the jogging path.
Nonetheless, its design is thoughtful enough to include bike reflectors up front and a flag for increased safety while riding. The push handlebar comes with an exceptionally long arm, ensuring your feet don’t hit the back edge of the Sepnine during walks or jogs.
The frame is made of durable steel, while the floorboard is made of PE with anti-slip material, so your pet won’t be bouncing around inside its mobile shelter. The openings up front and rear are large, ensuring your dog gets on and off easily. As a bonus, the bike hitch arm looks thicker and sturdier than most.
11 Klarfit Husky Vario 2-In-1 Dog Trailer
- Maximum capacity of 88 pounds
- Squarer design to allow for more movement
- Converts from cycling to walking, easily
- 3-way adjustable handle for better comfort
- Warning flag included with build
This option is slightly less aerodynamic and is quite heavy, sitting at 44 pounds. However, the taller edges provide greater room for your dog to move while you’re on the move. With a maximum capacity of 88 pounds, this is a great choice for small and medium breeds.
Again, this dog bike trailer is easy to set up and use, with a range of features making it adaptable for anyone. The trailer converts easily from cycling to strolling, while the three-way handle provides better height comfort for any user. As a bonus, it also comes fitted with a warning flag for better security and peace of mind.
12 Ibiyaya Bicycle Trailer For Pets
- Stroller and bike trailer in one
- PVC all-weather cover with ventilation holes
- Front and rear access
- Foldable design for easy storage
- Reflecting panels
- 3 adjustable safety leashes included
- Large storage pocket
- Max storage capacity 50 pounds
Looking for an ultra-high-quality dog bicycle trailer that’s also a stroller? Look no further than Ibiyaya’s 2-in-1 pet stroller and bicycle trailer. Made of strong, durable materials with various useful features, this item is as ideal for taking a stroll around the neighborhood as it is for biking with your dog.
The trailer comes with a rain cover that fits the entire carrier, which, coupled with the spacey interior, makes for comfortable rides no matter where you’re going. In addition, three adjustable leashes are included for your pet’s safety, and removable and washable padding for ultimate comfort.
Two access points – front and rear – allow the pet to hop in and out quickly and easily. Importantly, the trailer is super-safe too. Its floor is sturdy, providing strong support, and there are reflecting plates for night visibility. Thanks to its foldable design, the carrier is also easy to store, carry and transport in a vehicle.
13 Burley Tail Wagon Dog Carrier
- High-quality, sturdy trailer
- 2-in-1 heavy-duty mesh cover with lots of airflow
- Removable floor for easy cleaning
- Foldable for compact storage
- Safety flag and reflective material
- Max weight capacity 75 pounds
- Spacey cargo pockets
The Burley Tail Wagon is a well-known name in the bike trailers market, and this model shows why the company continues to enjoy an excellent reputation. The Tail Wagon Bike Trailer is sturdy, long lasting, comfortable, and easy to use and clean – basically, everything you want from a pet bike trailer and some.
The unit has a maximum capacity of 75 pounds and is roomy so that it can take either one large dog or two small or medium-sized dogs with no issues. It’s specifically designed to be both comfortable and durable, so it sports 16-inch quick-release alloy wheels, which provide smooth rides regardless of the road.
There’s also a removable floor padding that makes cleaning a piece of cake, plus a 2-in-1 mesh cover with zippers for all-season convenience.
The Burley Design pet bicycle trailer can be folded quickly, making for easy and compact storage. The carrier is also leash-friendly, so you can loop it through the rings on the side or front to secure your pet. That said, the leash is not included.
14 COPILOT Bicycle Trailer & Stroller Conversion Kit
- Bike trailer and stroller in one
- 5-point harness
- 15-second fold flat design for easy storage
- 2-in-1 all-season cover
- Front and rear light clips
- Extra trunk storage with a beverage holder
- Max weight capacity 100 pounds
Durable, stable, versatile, and comfy, the CoPilot’s Bicycle Trailer & Stroller will allow you to enjoy outdoor adventures with your furry companion for years to come. The model is Astm and CE-approved and comes with a 5-point harness, providing maximum safety for pets and children.
Thanks to its collapsible and compact design, the trailer is easy to store and maneuver in tight spaces. To make your pup as comfortable as possible, the carrier has a padded seat, a shade screen, and a roll-up rain cover.
The maximum weight capacity is 100 pounds, so you can freely take two medium-sized dogs or even three smaller ones with you. And if you’re up for a relaxing stroll instead of an exciting ride? Just attach the small front wheel, and off you go.
Although on the pricy side, this unit is well worth the money as it’s highly versatile – you can use it as a bike trailer or a stroller for your kids and pets. The only minus we could find? The seat is not removable, which can make cleaning a bit of a hassle.
Best Dog Bike Trailers: Buying Guide & FAQs
Buying a pup bicycle trailer is like picking the right trailer for your truck or SUV – it doesn’t have to be difficult as long as you know what you’re looking for. In this part of our article, we will talk about pup trailers in-depth and the things that need to be considered before buying one.
What are Dog Bike Trailers?
A dog bicycle trailer is similar to the trailer you connect to your truck or SUV whenever you feel like transporting your boat, jet ski, or even a camper. The point is that it is a non-motorized vehicle that resembles a cart but is built with a canopy to protect the cargo – in this case, a canine passenger – inside. Technically, it is like a mini wagon, a coach that you connect to a specific part of your bicycle so that when you start riding your bike, the trailer moves along with you.
A pet trailer is a transporter for dogs, turning them into passengers on the said coach or wagon. The pulling vehicle, in this case, is the bicycle, with your legs providing the power of movement.
But why would you want your dog to become a passenger inside this contraption? Can it not just run along while you pedal your way through the bicycle lanes?
Dogs can indeed run great distances. However, if you time your biking endeavors in the summer, letting your dog run under the sun can have disastrous consequences. Dogs don’t have a highly efficient body cooling system like their human parents, who can sweat a lot to cool down. As such, it is important to let them ride on a dog bike trailer so they can keep you company. They can also run alongside you, but once they get tired, you can easily put them in the pet trailer and continue with your biking.
Another reason you may want a bike attachment of this sort. Most of these products typically weigh about 30 pounds. And we haven’t factored in the weight of your pooch yet. Let us say you’ve got a canine that weighs 40 pounds. That means you have an additional 70 pounds of resistance behind your bicycle that you need to pull. This increases the work of your leg muscles, especially at inclines. You are essentially adding resistance to your biking which can do a lot of good for your fitness goals. Indeed, the wheels of the trailer will somehow negate the resistance afforded by the weight of the trailer and your dog. However, there will still be some form of resistance that you will have to work against.
The same is true if you use the trailer as a jogger. The weight of the device plus that of your dog will present formidable resistance to your arms, so you’ll be pushing harder. This can also lead to stronger arm muscles, not to mention the leg muscles.
Things to Consider When Buying Dog Bike Trailers
Now that we have an idea of what a canine bicycle trailer is and why you would want to get one for your pooch, it’s time to brush up on your knowledge of the things to consider when buying such a canine contraption. Remember, not all bike trailers are created equal.
Size
The size of the canine camper is a very important consideration. You don’t want to get a tiny trailer as it will be uncomfortable for your pup. A good rule of thumb is to get a trailer with enough space to allow your pooch to sit and move around easily.
Coupler or Hitch
This will help define the quality of the ride. The quality of the coupler or hitch can affect stopping and cornering, so you have to choose those with high-quality hitches. This is especially true if you’re running at high speed. Low-quality hitches are known to pull on the bike, exposing you to accidents.
Handling
Unfortunately, you will never really be able to gauge this without taking the trailer for a test run with your pooch in it. If you can request a trial run, try to evaluate how the trailer handles the movement of your bicycle. If this is not possible, read the reviews about how the trailer behaves on uneven terrain.
Portability and Ease of Assembly
It is one thing to have a product already preassembled; it’s another matter to get something that requires some assembly. Many products today offer portability in their design, allowing you to fold the device without needing any hand tools. This is a great option since you will no longer have to worry about bringing plenty of tools to assemble the contraption. However, while it is easy to assemble, ensure that the joints or connectors are made of high-quality materials so they don’t undermine the trailer’s structural integrity.
Flooring
A non-slip liner or flooring is very important when buying dog bike trailers. As a rule, the flooring should stay in its place regardless of how bumpy the road is. While you can always apply a blanket on the floor, this has the tendency to curl up and pose some problems for your pooch.
Other Features
Many of today’s bicycle trailers come with various useful features such as safety flags, brake systems, and even suspension systems for a much smoother ride. Consider where and when you typically go biking to get the right model for your and your dog’s needs.
Related: Dog Baskets for Bikes and Dog Bike Leashes
Safety Tips when Using Canine Bike Trailers
Biking is healthy and fun, especially with your dog in tow. However, it can also be risky, especially if you’re biking on unfamiliar territory, uneven terrain, or super-busy city streets. You simply don’t want your biking activities to end on a sad note. We’re here to share some safety tips when using bicycle trailers.
Train Your Pooch on How to Enjoy a Ride with the Trailer
Safety starts with a well-trained pooch. You need a canine friend that can sit still inside the trailer while you’re in motion. You also need a dog that will not feel claustrophobic inside and begin tearing the trailer apart. That is why, even before you start on your bike trailing journey, you need to spend ample time training your dog to love its trailer. This also means they need to learn how to get in and out of the bike attachment with a simple command from you.
Know Your Bicycle Course
Rocky and uneven terrain increase the risk of the trailer tipping over. Slippery roads and bumpy surfaces can also increase the risk of accidents. Make sure you have a clear mental picture of where you will be biking so you can accurately map out in your mind where you will be pedaling. This also means you must be extra vigilant in identifying obstacles on the road.
Get an Appropriate Trailer
Even with the best intentions for safeguarding your dog, you’re inviting disaster if you cannot get your hand on a sturdy and reliable dog bicycle trailer. Take the time to look into the various features of a safe bike trailer.
Remember the Laws of Physics
It pays to keep in mind that you are towing a heavy object, which will significantly impact your momentum and balance. If you’re going downhill, you can expect the momentum to be exceptionally great, which means it will be much more difficult to control when you want to stop. Stopping will also take considerable time. On an uphill climb, the object’s weight will be pulling you backward, which can throw off your momentum and your balance.
Use Safety Features on Your Bike Trailer
Always use built-in safety features in your bike trailer. There are those with reflective trims and high visibility flags to announce your presence even from afar. Brakes are important, too, and so are LED lights.
Don’t Push the Weight Limit of the Trailer
If the manufacturer says it can hold up to a maximum of X pounds, then don’t exceed this weight limit. The stability and reliability of the vehicle are tested based on this weight limit. While it is theoretically possible to go beyond what is called for, don’t tempt it as accidents generally occur in unchartered waters.
In choosing the best trailer, it is important to look at its size, handling, hitch, flooring, and portability. Equally important is knowing how to use it so that accidents can be avoided safely. And with our 10 best dog bike trailers, we’re hopeful you can start selecting the most appropriate one for your canine friend.
Training Your Dog to Ride in a Bike Trailer
Dog bicycle trailers may be an excellent way to get your dog to join you in biking. But if your pet simply hasn’t been properly trained to ride this mobile gadget, you’re courting danger as your pet can jump out of the moving carriage anytime. It may come with a leash, but it will only worsen it. The trailer doors may be secure, but this will only agitate your dog if they’re afraid. As such, it is important to train your dog even before you start biking with your chosen trailer.
The best way to start is by assembling the dog trailer right in your dog’s presence. Let it sniff through all the different components as you put everything together. Just don’t put the wheels on yet. Once assembled, open the door flaps and just leave it there. Some dogs will get the idea that they can enter through the door. If not, just let your dog be. The important thing is for your pet to become acclimatized to the presence of the dog trailer.
Try tossing your pet’s favorite dog toys inside the cabin and see if they will go inside. If it does, then praise it and give it its treats. You can also place some treats at the foot of the trailer door and then a few more inside just at the door. However, don’t carry your pet into the cabin -it should go in on its own. Be patient and ready with positive reinforcement once it gets inside. Do this several times until your dog is accustomed to staying inside the trailer.
Next, install the trailer wheels and hitch them to your bike. Call your dog to get inside. At first, it may hesitate since the door is now higher than what it was accustomed to. You can still use dog toys or treats to entice your pet to get inside. Practice this step repeatedly until your pet is comfortable with it.
The next stage is to acclimatize your pet to being secured inside the cabin. Let your dog go inside and secure its leash. Open the windows and close the access door. Give it a few seconds in this situation. Gradually increase the time your pet is secured in its leash inside the trailer. Once it’s comfy, you can go for a short ride. Keep it slow the first time and avoid bumps and potholes. Make the ride as pleasant as possible. Dog toys or treats should keep it busy while you’re biking.
If your pet is more than confident riding the trailer, you can gradually increase the distance of your ride. This should help prepare your pet.
Sources:
- Mikkel Becker, Teach Your Dog to Ride in a Stroller, Vetstreet
- How to Train Your Dog to Ride in a Bike Trailer, WagWalking
Frequently Asked Questions
Dog trailers have the same fundamental mechanism of attaching a trailer or second unit to your vehicle. So, you’ll need to install the universal hitch right onto your bike’s axle.
If your bike comes with a quick-release axle, you’ll have to remove the skewer and insert this through the hitch opening. Push the skewer into the bike axle and secure it well. Push the latch securely. Don’t worry about the positioning of the hitch, as it will naturally correct itself.
If your bicycle comes with bolted axes, you need to remove the axle bolt. Put the dog trailer bike hitch onto it and secure the bolt. You need a hitch adapter if your bike has internal gear within the wheel hub.
It all depends on the recommended maximum load capacity of the dog trailer manufacturer. The idea is the sturdier the construction, the greater the maximum load capacity. It is always safe to check the owner’s manual of the bike trailer to know its weight limits.
Plastic frames should always be avoided unless your passenger weighs less than 20 pounds. Generally, you should go for steel frames, especially if you have a dog weighing 50 pounds or more.
Cleaning a dog trailer is not difficult. Most manufacturers come with removable canopies or panels which you can easily throw in the washing machine. Most fabric materials can be easily machine-washed unless otherwise specified. It’s the joints and the moving metal parts that you’ll have to manually clean, such as the hub, rim, and spokes of the wheels. Thankfully, these can be easily wiped clean with a rag.
Not all dogs like riding inside a trailer that can get especially bumpy over uneven terrain. While you can always train your pet to ‘behave’ inside the trailer, there will be instances when it’ll be very anxious. It is a good idea to include dog toys and treats inside the bike trailer cabin to keep your pet occupied. That said, dog treats and toys should never be considered replacements for good ‘ol training, of course.
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