Just like us human riders, our four-legged friends need all the protection they can get when it comes to hitting the open road. If your pooch likes to ride alongside you when you hop on your motorcycle or scooter, they should always wear the correct safety gear. This includes goggles, an appropriate jacket, booties, and, of course, a helmet.
Dog motorcycle helmets are a simple but effective way to protect your pooch on the road. Not only do they soften the blow in the event of an accident, they also keep your pet safe from rocks and other debris which can be flicked up from the road on a journey. Choosing a dog bike helmet is an important decision – getting it right could make the world of difference if something goes wrong on your journey. To help you find the safest option for your canine companion, we’ve compiled this buying guide. We’ve scoured the market for the five best dog helmets available right now, so you can rest assured your pooch has the best possible protection. We’ve also answered some common questions about these helmets, so you and your pup can enjoy the safest journey possible.
The Best Dog Motorcycle Helmet
The last helmet to earn itself a spot on our list is this adorable pink design from Gorgester. The versatile helmet is suitable for cats, dogs, and puppies – protecting their heads against wind, rain, sun, projectiles, and minor trauma on the road. It’s made from sturdy and durable ABS plastic, known for its resistance to impact and corrosion.
The helmet also features a layer of padding inside, providing an extra layer of comfort and protection for pooches. It’s available in three different sizes, ranging from small to large, so whatever breed of dog you have, you can rest assured they’re covered. Owners say that the helmet fits well, thanks to its dog-friendly shape and adjustable chin strap. Its bright color also looks extremely cute, and helps dogs be seen on the road.
Dog motorcycle helmet, available in 3 different sizes
Made from impact resistant ABS plastic
Features a layer of padding for comfort and protection
Features an adjustable chin strap for a snug fit
Protects dogs against wind, rain, projectiles, and minor trauma
Small visor at the front of the helmet protects dogs against the sun
- Brand: Gorgester
- Weight: 3.2 ounces
As a total package, this riding cap and googles is the cutest buy, and one that that offers your pooch protection, including from UV rays that can be harmful to your pet’s eyes. Made from ABS hard plastic, the hat is available in three sizes which means it can fit even the widest head and the goggles can be attached to the hat or used on their own. Windproof, UV-resistant and durable in the rain, the glasses will keep their precious eyes safe from debris and irritation, while the mirror tint deflects the sun’s glare. The helmet is peaked and fits securely to your dog, thanks to the adjustable webbed strap. The helmet, however, is not the toughest and is perhaps best suited to slow rides or blasts out on the mountain bike.
Helmet and goggle set
Suitable for wide-faced breeds
UV-resistant coating
Protects eyes from debris and wind
Can be worn together or separately
Secured with an adjustable strap
- Brand: ShopTrend
- Weight: 4 ounces
The next piece of dog motorcycle gear to make our list is this tough and versatile helmet from Lifeunion. The well-known petcare company have channeled their expertise into keeping your four-legged friend safe on the road. Their eye-catching helmet is available in four fun colors, and three different sizes, making it easy to find the fit and style that’s right for your pet.
The helmet not only looks good – it’s functional, too. Made from high quality ABS plastic, which is known for its impact resistance and anti-corrosion properties, the helmet provides a protective barrier between your dog’s head and the hazards of the road. The helmet offers protection against sun, wind, flying objects, and minor trauma. It also features a small visor, which helps to keep the sun out of your pet’s eyes. Because it’s lightweight and padded, the helmet is comfortable to wear too, so you can rest assured your dog will quickly get used to it. Finally, an adjustable chin strap helps the helmet stay firmly in place.
Dog motorcycle helmet available in a variety of colors and sizes
Made from impact and corrosion-resistant ABS plastic
Protects dogs from sun, wind, rain, flying projectiles, and minor trauma
Features a small visor to keep the sun out of your dog’s eyes
Features a lightweight design and padding, for comfortable wear
Adjustable chin strap helps the helmet stay firmly in place
- Brand: Lifeunion
- Weight: 4 ounces
If you’re looking for an easy way to protect your pet against the weather on the go, look no further than this helmet by Braceus. The lightweight design is ideal for dogs who need a little help against the wind and rain when you’re running or cycling together.
The ABS plastic keeps the rain, wind, and sun off your pet’s head – helped by a small visor at the front. It can also protect against minor bumps and scrapes, all without weighing your pet down. Strategically placed padding in the helmet’s interior, along with an adjustable chin strap, make it comfortable for pets to wear, and provide a snug fit that won’t come loose. The helmet is available in three fun colors, and three different sizes, so you’re sure to find a version which meets your pet’s needs. Owners say the fit is great, and the simple design looks cute on almost any pooch.
Protective helmet for dogs, available in 3 sizes and colors
Protects your pet’s head against wind, rain, projectiles, and minor bumps and scrapes
Ideal for cycling
Lightweight and padded for comfortable wear
Adjustable chin strap makes for a snug fit
Cute design
Built-in visor keeps the sun out of your pet’s eyes
- Brand: Braceus
- Weight: 0.32 ounces
For a cool, easy rider look, this dog helmet from Enjoying is the real deal, that will also keep your pooch safe and secure. Made from high-quality ABS material, this is a versatile helmet too, and can be used for both motorbike and cycle rides with your pooch. Available in small and medium, this hat is more for the smaller end of dog breeds and fits well, thanks to the adjustable chin strap and inner soft sponge padding. It also has a small peak to shield their eyes and vent holes at the back for sufficient ventilation. However, when buying this motorcycle helmet make sure you measure your dog first so you can be sure of the optimum fit.
Durable, high-quality ABS material
Adjustable strap for comfort
Inner sponge padding
Ventilation holes and protective peak
Ideal for small to medium dogs
- Brand: Enjoying
- Weight: 1.9 ounces
Yes, it looks adorable, but this cute helmet from LESYPET is actually tough enough to protect your furry friend if you both go for fun motorbike ride. Made from durable ABS, with a lovely soft padding interior, the design works to fit comfortably while offering a high level of protection. Ideal for smaller dogs and even cats, it is also lightweight so won’t distract your pooch and is kept securely in place thanks to the fully adjustable nylon chin strap and the easy close buckles. You also get a choice of two sizes – small to fit dogs with a four-inch head width and medium which works with head diameters up to five inches. You just pop it on, adjust to fit and then sit back and smile, as your cute furry biker enjoys his time on the open road.
Ideally sized for smaller dogs
Made from durable ABS material
Inner sponge padding for protection
Adjustable nylon chin strap
Easy open and close buckles
Available in small and medium
- Brand: LESYPET
- Weight: 1.9 ounces
The Stock Show Dog Helmet is the cap your furry friend needs for protection from harm and the extremes of weather. It is also ideal for safeguarding your little one from those hostile animals it dreads the most such as insects and flies. It is also perfect for use on your biking trips as this kit has been constructed from an ISO certified ABS material and is lightweight, high quality and robust. The inner part is lined with spongy soft material to make your little one feel most at ease. It comes with an adjustable chin strap to ensure just the right fit. Being durable and comfortable, it guarantees your pet total safety and convenience anytime when worn. Sizes range from small to medium for such dog breeds as Maltese, Teacup Poodle and so on. It also doubles as a funny costume for your pet.
Cushion lining inside to make your pet feel most comfortable
Fully adjustable chin strap to get the right fit for your pet
Ideal for dogs that travel a lot
Effectively protects pets from sun rays and heat
Unbreakable ABS material
The plastic used is non-hazardous
It is very easy to wear on pet
Very easy to adjust and fix the strap
- Brand: Stock Show
- Weight: 3 ounces
Ideal for smaller dogs, these helmets come in two sizes – 3.5 inches or 4.5 inches – making them a great choice for toy breeds and even cats, too. Made with a high quality material, this helmet remains breathable. It even comes with additional padding to help your pet feel more secure, while remaining comfortable for their needs.
The adjustable straps help to provide a secure fit that will keep your pooch safe, should the worst happen. As well as all of these features, this helmet is remarkably lightweight, which will help reduce stress on your dog’s neck and shoulders.
Made with high quality ABS material
Padded interior for added comfort
Adjustable for a comfortable, yet secure, fit
Two sizes available
Lightweight yet safe
- Brand: NVTED
- Weight: 2.57 ounces
Best Dog Motorcycle Helmet Buying Guide & FAQ
These five helmets are the best of the bunch when it comes to keeping your dog’s head safe and sound as you ride. To help you work out which one is right for your pet, we’ve put together this handy buying guide. Below, we discuss some key factors to consider when choosing a helmet for your pup.
We’ve also taken the time to address some common questions and concerns about this handy piece of safety equipment, so you and your canine companion can get the most out of it.
What to Consider When Buying a Dog Motorcycle Helmet
As you pick out a motorcycle helmet for your dog, there are a few key factors to bear in mind:
- Protection
The first thing to consider when choosing a helmet for your four-legged friend is exactly how much protection it can offer. Not all helmets are created equal, and some are designed to be tougher than others. If your dog rides with you on your motorcycle or scooter, look out for as much protection as you can get. A good motorcycle helmet will protect your dog against sun, wind, rain, projectiles from the road, and minor trauma. Look out for helmets made from a good quality ABS plastic, as this material is known for its impact resistance. A good layer of padding is also desirable, since this will cushion your dog’s head in the event of an impact.
- Sizing
Even the toughest helmet is no good to your pooch if it doesn’t fit. Before you commit to a helmet, make sure it’s the right size for your dog. Each manufacturer will handle sizing slightly differently, but they should provide dimensions to help you work out which size is best for your pet. We’ll run through how to properly measure your dog for a helmet below.
- Comfort
As much as we love them, dogs can be tricky – if they don’t like wearing something, they’ll put their Houdini-esque escape skills to the test in trying to squirm out of it. Motorcycle helmets are no exception! To help prevent this from happening, it’s important to choose a helmet that was built for comfort. Look out for plenty of padding, a sun visor, and an adjustable chin strap when picking out a helmet for your pooch. It’s also a good idea to choose a lightweight helmet, so your dog doesn’t feel weighed down.
- Appearance
Although it might seem trivial, appearance can be important when choosing a motorcycle helmet for your dog. If you and your pup like the way a helmet looks, you’re much more likely to remember it whenever you hit the roads. Luckily, there are plenty of colors and styles to choose from, so you’re sure to find something that reflects your pet’s unique personality – and looks adorable of course.
Check out our guide on Motorcycle Dog Carriers for more info.
Why You Should Use Dog Motorcycle Helmet
Just like us humans, dogs should always wear motorcycle riding apparel to stay safe on the road. Helmets are an important part of this. Having your dog wear a motorcycle helmet helps protect them in a few different ways:
- A good helmet will keep the sun off your dog’s head, protecting them against UV waves
- Doggie helmets will protect your dog from other harsh weather, such as wind and rain
- A good quality helmet keeps your dog’s head safe from projectiles, such as small rocks
- In the event of an accident, dog helmets cushion your pooch’s head against the impact
- Helmets can also protect your pooch from banging their head in general
With all these benefits, it’s no surprise than many owners are turning towards dog helmets in various scenarios. When you first try to put a helmet on your dog, remember that it’s important to be patient: the new sensation of wearing it will be frightening at first, so it’s a good idea to introduce them to it gradually.
First of all, just let them sniff and interact with the helmet, providing treats and praise to forge positive associations. When they’re comfortable, put it on their head for a short period of time, gradually increasing how long they wear it for. Again, every time your pooch wears their helmet, they should be rewarded with a dog treat. Finally, when your dog is fully comfortable with the helmet, you can take them for a ride while wearing it.
Best Dog Motorcycle Helmet FAQ:
Q: Do Dog Motorcycle Helmets Really Protect Your Pup?
A: The level of protection will vary from product to product, but yes: dog motorcycle helmets really do provide some benefits when you and your pooch hit the road.
At the moment, most doggie helmets are primarily made with novelty value in mind, but this doesn’t mean they can’t protect your pet at all. A properly fitted dog helmet shields your dog from rain, hail, and sun, as well as minor bumps, scrapes, and flying projectiles which can be flicked up from the road.
For optimal protection, helmets should be doubled with protective eyewear. This prevents your dog’s eyes from drying out, and shields them from UV rays, flies, dirt, and other debris. You may also like our article on dog sunglasses and goggles.
Q: How do I choose the right size?
A: Measuring your dog’s head for a helmet is a fairly straightforward affair – all you’ll need is a tape measure, and a little patience from your pooch:
- Measure Width
Use your tape measure to record the distance between your dog’s earns on the top of their head. To ensure the an accurate measurement, don’t bend the tape.
- Measure Circumference
Wrap your tape measure around your dog’s head, from forehead to the back. If your dog has floppy ears, measure around them. If they have pointy ears, fold them down and include them in your measurement.
Head width and circumference are the most common measurements manufacturers use to describe the fit of their helmets. Armed with these two measurements, you’ll be able to work out whether a helmet will fit your dog fairly easily.
Q: How should I maintain my motorcycle helmets?
A: Like any piece of safety equipment, you’ll need to look after your dog’s helmet to keep it in tip top condition:
- Replace the helmet if it has been exposed to a significant impact
- Store the helmet in a cool location, to prevent any glue inside melting
- Wipe down the helmet with soapy warm water if it gets dirty – stay away from solvents
- Inspect the helmet now and then for signs of wear and tear
Our Top Pick
For us, the best motorcycle helmet your dog can get is this cute but tough design by Prima Dog. With its strong ABS shell, and comfortable layer of padding, the helmet offers your dog protection against some major road hazards: rain, wind, sun, flying projectiles, and minor trauma are all kept at bay by this handy piece of gear.
It’s comfortable to wear too, thanks to its soft interior, lightweight design, and adjustable chin strap. The helmet is ideal for smaller breeds, such as Yorkies and other Terriers, weighing around five to 10 pounds. Not only does this helmet help your dog stay safe on the road – it also helps them look good doing it. The fun skull and crossbones design looks great on all dogs, and will give owners a chuckle! Overall, the safe and comfortable helmet is a must-have for pooches who were born to ride.
Source:
- Vivien Bullen, Motorcycle Pet Traveling Guide, howstuffworks
