If you don’t like leaving your little furry bud at home, then a dog carrier purse is the way to go. With the fashionable looks of a carry purse and all the functionality of a mini dog bag, these smart purses are a great buy, for both you and your pooch.
Ideal for short trips around town, visits to the vet, for taking less mobile small dogs on a walk and even on plane if they have a canine jet set life, a dog purse is easy to use and looks great. With so many to choose from, we have put some of the best dog purse carriers to the test so your little bud can travel in style.
The Best Dog Carrier Purse
Super-stylish, with its candy stripe exterior and leopard print lining, this dog purse makes a statement. And sized for toy and small dogs less than 10 pounds, it’s a comfortable home from home. Made from durable man-made materials that are pretty easy to wipe clean, there’s also a lot of detailing for your money.
You get a large top access that closes with a mesh panel plus a roll over fabric for when your pup needs a little more privacy, as well as an end mesh window that zips open to let your pooch’s head out. Inside there’s a mat and a leash hook to keep your mini pet comfortable and secure. The handles are not adjustable, however, and there’s no option of a shoulder strap to make carrying more comfortable. But with the added side pockets for all those essentials and gilt edging to the zippers and double handles and this is a smart way to transport your fashionable pooch!
Striped outer with leopard print interior
Sized for very small dogs
Mesh windows for ventilation
Inner pad and leash hook
- Brand: Kenox
- Model: bag0213-stripe
- Weight: 2 pounds
With a lovely understated style, MG Collection’s soft-sided pet purse is a versatile carrier that will also keep your small dog safe and comfortable on their travels. The two-tone design is also a delight, enhanced by the lovely quilted, easy to clean fabric. Sized for toy dogs, this carrier can also be used for cats and rabbits so a good addition to the pet-loving household. When it comes to accommodating your little dog, it works really well, thanks to the large open top, that also includes a plastic mesh flap for security and ventilation. The zippers are sturdy too, and you also get two side pockets, secured with Velcro to keep those essentials safe. Add in eight reinforced ventilation holes for airflow and studs on the base and this is a well-made dog purse that is both durable and stylish. There is no shoulder strap, but you do get two large top handles for easy carrying, making this a smart choice for pet travel around town.
Quilted two-tone design
Top opening with mesh flap
Eight reinforced air holes
Velcro pockets and bottom studs
- Brand: MG Collection
- Model: TB-PET0006BLK
- Weight: 1.4 pounds
With its classic styling, this is a smart dog purse that is also practical, as it comes complete with a collapsible bowl for when your small dog needs refreshment mid-travel. Made from durable Oxford cloth that is also easy to spot clean, you also get a removable and washable inner cushion and a safety leash. Designed to hold small dogs up to 13 pounds, this is a pretty roomy carrier, and offers excellent ventilation, thanks to the six air holes and roll back zippered panel top. The top panel also includes mesh for visibility and easy access to your pet. You get two handles as well as an adjustable shoulder strap, so this bag is comfortable to carry and there are four decent sized pockets for all your doggy essentials. We think the Hubulk is a good purse option for day trips and long weekends, when you and your little dog need to travel in comfort and style.
Made from durable Oxford cloth
Inner removable and washable cushion
Two top handles plus shoulder strap
Includes a dog leash and collapsible bowl
- Brand: Hubulk
- Weight: 4.23 ounces
Casually stylish, this neat dog purse from Noble Duck gives your pooch the freedom to stick his head out and see where he is going. And as it is made from durable polyester cotton fabric, this tough little purse will give you and your pet plenty of use. Sized for pets weighing up to 15 pounds, there is plenty of inner room, although it doesn’t have a full top zip, relying on hooks to close it across. But this does mean your dog can pop his head out and have plenty of ventilation. Plus, there is an inner leash hook so you can secure your pooch and stop them from unexpectedly leaping out. There is also a zippered large pocket on the outside of the tote for all your essentials. As a straightforward and well-designed shoulder bag for dogs, this is also well-priced, giving you quality as well as value for money.
Made from durable polyester
Inner dog leash hook
Large zippered side pocket
For dogs up to 13 pounds
- Brand: NOBLE DUCK
- Weight: 1.2 pounds
Our premium pick is this gorgeous waterproof tote bag made from real-look PU leather for a classy dog about town! We love all the detail on this dog purse, which successfully combines style with function. The inner dimensions are large enough for dogs up to 17.5 pounds, although this is a more comfortable ride for dogs that are a little smaller. As well as a spacious top entry, which is a full zip open roof, you also get three breathable mesh side panels for viewing and air flow. And there is an inner fixed leash to keep your pet safely in place. Add into the mix a super-soft pad that is removable and machine washable, as well as an outer pocket and easy carry handles and you have a premium dog carrier that will certainly turn heads.
Durable and waterproof
Removable pad and inner leash
Versatile fold-away design
For dogs up to 17.5 pounds
- Brand: PetsHome
- Weight: 4.1 pounds
Comfortable to carry, thanks to the shoulder pad, and roomy enough for small dogs, this pet carrier is a great choice for frequent fliers. It meets the requirements for most airlines and offers plenty of additional features to keep you and your pup happy on your travels.
A safety loop keeps your dog secure when you’re travelling in the car, or bringing your pup along with you in the airport. Meanwhile, the side pockets mean you can keep dog treats or necessities close to hand. Finally, removable pads make this option super easy to clean when necessary, too.
Meets airline requirements
Safety belt loop adds additional security
Side pocket for essentials
Removable pad for easier cleaning
Side access and additional zipper opening
- Brand: JESPET
- Model: grey-m
- Weight: 2.11 Pounds
Practical, durable and smart, the Django Dog Carrier is made for the outdoor life which you and your little dog enjoy. Made from waxed canvas, with leather handles and detailing, this is a lovely looking dog purse, and is pretty spacious inside, with enough room for a dog up to 15 pounds. We think the Django is a great choice for daily commutes as well as weekend retreats or outdoor adventures. The bag is water-resistant and the engineered leather handles are designed for optimum carrying comfort. Inside you also get the comfort carried through for your dog, with a silky, water-resistant lining and a Sherpa pad, which can be removed for machine washing. While there are no side mesh panels, the zipped top includes a ‘comfort scoop’ cut out for your dog to rest his head, while watching the world go by. Add in four external zippered pockets and inner harness leash and you have everything to take your pooch wherever you go.
Waxed canvas and leather dog tote
Scoop design for your dog to look out
Inner washable Sherpa pad
Leash hook and external zip pockets
- Brand: DJANGO
- Weight: 2.5 pounds
For the jet-setting pooch that likes to travel in style, then the PetAmi airline-approved dog purse carrier totally fits the bill. Made from 600D durable polyester, that can take the rigors of travel, this is a practical choice, without having to compromise on good looks. Sized to carry toy dogs up to 12 pounds, there is plenty in the PetAmi your little pal will like. Inside they get a spacious area, softened by a lovely Sherpa bed which can be removed for cleaning. A Large top mesh opening plus mesh ends means there is plenty of airflow, plus a zipped mesh window means your little dog can securely pop his head out. When it comes to air travel, the back frame is adjustable so it can fit under an airplane seat while still keeping your pet comfortable. Add in a collapsible bowl for food and water, leash hook and long straps for shoulder or hand carrying and you have a top dog purse choice for going on your travels.
Sherpa-lined pet carrier
Mesh openings for easy viewing
Airline-approved design
For dogs up to 15 pounds
- Brand: PetAmi
- Weight: 2.2 pounds
Betop House have come up with an edgy-looking dog purse that is as fashion-forward as it is practical when it comes to carrying your tiny dog. However, it is only for the smallest small dogs, catering for breeds up to 8.8 pounds in weight. But for the smallest pooch, this is a big style statement, thanks to the black PU leather and part-chain shoulder strap. So, how does it perform as a dog carrier? Well, it is airline-approved so good for those weekends away and is durable enough to keep your pet safe. The end panels are mesh for airflow and viewing, plus your pet can pop his head out at the top. For those journeys when dog owners and their dog need to look good, this is the stylish option.
Made from durable PU leather
Wide top opening and side mesh panels
Airline-approved
For dogs up to 8.8 pounds
- Brand: BETOP HOUSE
- Weight: 2.8 pounds
Who doesn’t love an animal print, and when it is combined with a dog purse, this is a pet carrier to take notice of. With its styling looking more expensive than its best value price-tag, you get a lot of carrier for your money. Available in a choice of colors and with cute leatherette handles and detailing, you also get large mesh windows for your small dog to look out from. The bag is deep so your pet can travel in privacy and security plus there is a removable fleece lining for extra comfort. Add in a top pocket for your travel essentials and the fact that it is airline-approved and the Pet Gear Tote Bag is an essential for any well-traveled mini-pooch.
Animal print and leatherette design
Removable fleece lining
Zipped top pocket
Sized for most small dogs
- Brand: Pet Gear
- Model: PG7450SN
- Weight: 1.5 pounds
Best Dog Carrier Purse Buying Guide & FAQ
What to Consider When Buying a Dog Purse
Size: This is the essential consideration when buying a dog purse so always measure and weigh your dog before you buy as they need to be able to comfortably sit, stretch, and lie down inside. But it also can’t be too big as you need your small dog to feel safe and secure. As a rule of thumb, the best dog purse is one with interior dimensions that are a few inches bigger than your dog, horizontally and vertically, should be the ideal size and fit.
Material and design: You need to like the look of your dog bag, as it is to be carried like a purse, after all! And the beauty is that dog purses come in a wide range of styles, colors, and designs, with additional features such as quilting and bows. There are two main designs – a purse that looks and closes like a more traditional handbag and a tote style which includes a cut-out for your dog’s head as well as an open top. As well as looking the part, you also need to make sure it is made from materials that are durable and comfortable so that it creates a safe, cozy space for your little fashion dog.
Security: You want your little dog to feel safe inside his dog purse as well as kept secured, so look for quality closures, including zippers or Velcro flaps as well as an internal leash loop or built-in leash so you can attach it to your dog’s collar and prevent them from escaping while you travel.
Comfort: As well as having enough space to sit, lie and turn around, your new dog purse carrier also needs to comfortably support your pet, especially when they are being carried. Many models include a padded mat or cushion, as well as a base insert for support. And, for dog owners, you need comfort when you carry the tote bag, so look for easy to grip, padded handles as well as an optional shoulder strap so you can take the weight.
Ventilation: The dog carrier purse also needs to be well ventilated so your dog can breathe easily and not get too hot inside. Look for mesh panels and grommets to let the air flow through, with flaps that can cover the mesh if the weather takes a turn for the worse.
Accessibility: When on the move with your dog, you need to also have easy access to inside their tote bag, especially if you are on a longer trip, so you can comfort, feed and lift them out, especially when they need some exercise or a pee break. Look for a dog carrier purse which has a wide enough opening for your dog to get in and out, ensuring it can be secured with a quality zipper or closure.
Extra features: When you are on the go with a pooch, you need to be able to take their supplies, so look for a dog purse with zippered pockets to store dog treats and dog poop bags as well as your own essentials.
Easy to clean: As well as looking good, your fashion dog purse also needs to be practical and easy to clean. Look for materials that can be spot cleaned and ideally washed, with removable inner pads that can also be machine washed.
Airline approved: If you are wanting to travel further afield with your dog or are planning an overseas trip, then make sure you choose a dog carrier purse that is airline approved, so you can take your pet onboard with you.
Check out Airline Approved Pet Carriers.
Benefits of a Dog Carrier Purse
Designed to look like a fashionable tote bag, there are many benefits to having a dog handbag, other than looking good. Intended for small dogs, typically no more than 15 pounds, a dog purse can make the life of dog owners so much easier. They can be used if you don’t want to leave your pet at home or if they suffer from anxiety or stress when left alone. They are also an easy way to transport your little pooch, for a vet visit say, or if you want to take them with you when you go out and about. For older dogs who may not be as mobile as they used to be, a dog bag is the perfect solution, as they can go outside and explore, with you safely carrying them where they want to go. And for airline travel with your pet, many dog handbags are also airline approved, meaning your little friend can become an international jetsetter!
Best Dog Purse FAQ:
Q: Are dog carrier purses safe?
A: Dog carrier purses are designed to safely carry your small dog, as long as you take some key considerations on board. Always get a dog purse that is correctly sized for your pet, and that you don’t use it for a dog that is over the maximum recommended weight capacity. Always secure your dog inside the carrier purse, most come with a built-in leash loop, and never leave your dog unattended in their dog purse.
You May Also Like: Dog Backpack Carriers
Q: Is my dog too big for a pet purse?
A: While they are handy to have, a dog purse is not suitable for larger pooches, with most pet handbags suitable for small dogs up to 15 pounds in weight. But you also need to take the size and shape of your dog into consideration, as they may be a lightweight but have long legs or body that doesn’t make for a comfortable fit. If in any doubt, measure and weigh your pet and check against the maximum weight and size dimensions of the dog bag carrier you are looking to buy. And even if they do fit nicely inside, also think about whether you are able to carry both the bag and dog comfortably and safely.
Q: Can I take a pet carrier purse on a plane?
A: As long as it is airline-approved, then you can take a pet carrier purse with you when you fly. To be allowed onto the airplane, a dog carrier purse needs to be able to comfortably fit underneath an airline seat. To be sure, check the label on your new pet carrier to ensure it meets the FAA regulations. You’d also be wise to check the bag’s dimensions with your airline carrier before you fly as each airline can be different.
Our Top Pick
For sheer style alone, the Kenox Fashion Dog Carrier Bag stands out, but with its core features, finishing touches and a great price, this dog tote bag scoops our top pick. It may not have shoulder strap options, but the handles are nice to use and there’s an inner pad and leash hook for pooch comfort and safety. To carry your mini-dog while making a fashion statement, we love the sass of what is also a very practical and easy-to-use dog carrier bag.
Sources:
- Rebecca Desfosse, What Type of Dog Carrier Do You Need?, PetMD
- Travel Safety Tips, The ASPCA
