Are you a dog and bike lover who wants to bring the two together? There are few ways you can make this happen, and the most common ones are the use of dog bike trailers, dog baskets or having your dog run alongside your bike. This article focuses on introducing you the best dog baskets / best dog bike trailers / best dog backpacks and here are the few reasons why, even if your ultimate goal is to have great exercise with your pup together, that you will need one of these anyway:
1. It’s suggested to first get your dog used to being around a bicycle because some dogs are afraid of the bike and can even be wary of the noises it makes. Starting your training by just having your pup around the bike to get her used to the sounds and movements before trying to go for a run together is what we recommend.
2. Like humans, dogs need to build stamina to bike together with you since their muscles and paw pads are not used to running in this way. When you are starting off with shorter rides the first few weeks (5 - 15mins), you may want to have a dog bike trailer or a dog bike backpack ready so your own enjoyment won’t be compromised.
3. Some dog breeds or smaller dogs may take up to a year for their bones to be fully formed, and others may simply be exercise intolerant or have mobility issues that don’t suit such intense activity. For situations when your dog is not fit to run with your bike, a dog carrier like a dog bike trailer or a dog basket that hooks onto the bike is a good alternative for your pup to sit comfortably while you are having your ride. In this way, both of you can enjoy the journey together.
Here are a few options for carrying your dog on your bike.
Dog basket / carrier for bike:
Dog bike baskets are mainly designed for smaller dogs as they are too destabilizing for big hounds and they have a weight limit of 14 pounds or even less.
They give you the best visibility to your pup’s response to the ride and allow you to make sure your lovely one is safe and secure. Other benefits are the low cost to get one, the numerous materials to choose from and it’s easy to install / remove and easy to clean.
Our recommended bicycle basket for dogs are:
Our top choice is Babeyer Dog Bike Basket for it comes with 4 opening entrances and 4 ventilated mesh windows. You can access your pup easily, and your pup has a good view while on the journey with you. The multi-function of Babeyer is another reason we recommend the product. You can attach it easily to your bike and make it a dog bike basket, or you can turn it into a dog shoulder bag or dog backpack. This dog bike basket can also be used in the car as a dog car seat. If you have a small dog of 12lbs or less, Babeyer Dog Bike Basket is a good investment to make.
Very similar to Babeyer, we’re highlighting Petsfit as well for the brand is famous in producing quality canine products. On top, this model slips on and off your bicycle in seconds and it folds down when not in use so it won’t take up too much storage space.
RuddyLyfe is not exactly a dog basket, but a DIY Crate conversion that comes in 2 sizes for either front or rear mounting on a bike. So if you are looking for a rear mounted dog basket, this is one of the rare options available in the market.
Unlike a normal dog bike basket, RuddyLyfe can accommodate dogs of up to 45lbs. The custom-built cushion is water-resistant and washable, making cleaning a breeze. The system comes with 4 Point safety harnesses that guarantee a safe and secure adventure for your pup, and it takes no tool to set up or assemble.
Dog carriers or dog backpacks for bikes are yours to zoom in if you want to pack up the dog and hit the road quickly. These designs best suited those who are constantly on the go and are carrying the dogs not only on bike but for hiking or touring around.
K9 Sport Sack is a popular backpack among canine owners and it comes in four sizes, with its largest holding dogs up to 35lbs. If you are looking for a large dog carrier for bike, this is one to look into. Your pup’s head and front paws are visible while their lower half is tucked in safely, sitting on a rest pad. Zippered vents, a collar hookup and a chest strap provide extra comfort and security.
K&H works as a dog backpack and can also be attached to your bike through a front mount. You can top it up with a rear bicycle mount if you prefer to have your dog sitting at the back. Attaching and detaching it from your bike is easy, and if you are going on a bike trip topped with hiking or fishing, K&H Dog backpack for bike is a good travel accessory for you and your pup.
For those of you who are planning on a long tour, riding regularly on gravel roads and other bumpy terrain or simply thinking of biking with your large dogs before they’re ready for bikejoring, Dog bike trailer is something you should consider.
Schwinn dog bike trailers can be easily attached to almost any bicycles. No other dog bike carrier or backpack can fit large dogs like it does, as it holds canines of up to 50lbs. Get one and bring your fuzzy friend on bike rides to get them familiar with the movement before having them run alongside your bike!
The Burley is a high end dog bike trailer for long distance touring. This Tail Wagon is a top pick in bike trailers for dogs because of the spacious interior with 75lbs carrying capacity. The all-weather cover comes with waterproof zippers which are highly durable and breathable. It also features a flip-down tailgate for quick loading and a suspended, removable floor for easy cleaning, making it one of the most easy to use and versatile dog trailers in the market.
When your pup is used to riding on your bike, it’s good to start introducing running alongside your bike or even bikejoring. Do note that bikejoring is an exercise that is different from normal walking or running with your pup. There are numerous products specially designed to tailor for it and if you are interested in the setup to enhance your experience and prevent injuries, check out our suggested bikejoring starter kit with all that you will need to start this new hobby.
