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Whether you’re traveling the world or simply going to the vet, a dog carrier is a useful tool that prioritizes your pet’s comfort and safety. A dog carrier (or travel crate) keeps your dog safe while riding in a vehicle and makes it possible for your small dog to fly on most commercial airlines. Yet, with so many options and features, it can be difficult to narrow your search and choose the best one. Here, we discuss the different types and features of dog carriers, so you can make an informed choice when traveling with your dog.
Consider the Dog Carrier’s Intended Use
It’s important to consider your goals when using a dog carrier. For example, if you frequently go on short trips, you may consider something lightweight that’s easy to carry and pack. Your convenience and dog’s comfort would be your priorities in these instances.
On the other hand, if you’re taking your dog on a long road trip, you may purchase a heavy-duty option that’s similar to a crate you have at home. These carriers are more suitable for hours-long trips, and ideally, they would have room for your dog’s toys, blankets, and other items that remind them of home. In essence, a heavier-duty travel crate would be your dog’s “home away from home” while in transit.
If you plan to fly, airlines have stringent regulations for pet carriers, and you should always check the latest airline or FAA regulations beforehand. Be sure to confirm the specific size and construction requirements for your specific travel plans. You don’t want to get to the gate only to discover that the airline won’t allow the carrier you chose for your dog.
Understand the Different Types of Dog Carrier Styles
Just like there’s no one-size-fits-all dog breed for every person, there isn’t a universal carrier for every dog. Dog carriers come in several basic styles, including:
- Hard-sided dog carriers. While not as malleable as fabric-based carriers, hard-shell dog carriers are sometimes preferred for their hardiness and durable construction. A benefit of these carriers is that the sides won’t be crushed by suitcases, boxes, and tight spaces.
- Soft-sided dog carriers. One of the most popular styles for transporting small dogs, these carriers offer features that hard-sided dog carriers don’t. For instance, these carriers often have mesh side panels that unzip to increase ventilation. Some designs even have flaps that fold out to increase how much space the dog has to stretch.
- Wearable dog carriers. These hands-free devices come as backpacks, front packs, and shoulder slings. They make it easy to take your dog virtually anywhere. What’s more, they’re washable, lightweight, and some come with zippers for added security. Wearable carriers are generally intended for puppies and small dogs.
- Rolling dog carriers. A dog may feel jostled inside its carrier as you trek through a crowded airport or busy hotel lobby. Dog carriers with wheels keep your dog stabilized during their travels, which can ultimately work to quell anxiety and motion sickness.
Your travel goals, along with your dog’s measurements, temperament, and breed, should guide your decision when choosing a suitable carrier. Above all else, you want to ensure that your dog’s carrier correlates with their size and offers a stress-free travel experience.
Know Your Dog’s Measurements to Ensure a Right-Sized Carrier
Just because a dog can squeeze inside a carrier doesn’t mean that it’s the right size. A dog should be able to stand up, turn around, and stretch when lying down. They shouldn’t be expected to stay in the same position for hours on end for the sake of travel. This can ultimately stress a dog and even lead to injury.
Understanding your dog’s exact size is key to choosing the right carrier. Measure your dog’s back from their neck (where their collar sits) to the base of their tail. Also, measure the height of your dog’s shoulder to where their paws touch the ground. Add a few inches to each measurement to ensure the carrier has enough room. For example, if your Dachshund measures 9 inches tall, and the carrier itself is nine inches, they’ll feel pretty cramped. Here, a carrier that’s at least 12 inches tall would offer enough room for different positions while traveling.
Many pet stores allow customers to experiment with different carriers before purchasing. Be sure to check to see whether your dog can enjoy a full range of movement while in the carrier. Consider whether there’s enough room for a blanket and toys, as these items work to help the carrier feel more like home.
Identify the Features of Dog Carriers That Meet Your Pet’s Needs
Some features of dog carriers intended to make travel efficient and stress-free include:
- Mesh panels. Even if your car or airplane’s cabin is air-conditioned, it can get hot inside a travel carrier. Mesh panels allow for proper airflow and prevent heat exhaustion.
- Multiple entry points. Some pet carriers have multiple openings on the top and sides, allowing more flexibility for placing or removing your dog during travel. For instance, your dog may walk into the carrier from the side. Then, while in the car, you may unzip the top and remove them when necessary.
- Removable/washable bedding. Ensuring your dog’s comfort in the carrier creates a positive experience and encourages them to use it again. Washable pads not only promote comfort but are also easily cleaned alongside regular loads of laundry.
- Side pouches for storage. If you’re using a front pack or backpack to transport your dog, zippered side pouches offer space for collapsible dog bowls, treats, and leashes.
- Wheels. Dog carriers on wheels keep your dog stabilized while traveling long distances indoors. Look for spinner wheels, as these offer more range of motion than in-line wheels, which don’t rotate on a 360° axis and can impede mobility.
A secure dog travel carrier should also ensure that your dog remains safely inside. While zippers offer security, some carriers instead rely on latches, Velcro, and interlocking clips. Assess the integrity of these mechanisms and consider whether your dog could break through them when making an informed purchase.
Getting Your Dog Comfortable in a Pet Carrier
While dogs aren’t den animals in the traditional sense, many enjoy the comfort and security that comes with enclosed spaces. So, upon being put in a travel carrier, a dog may curl up and fall asleep the same way they would at home. But some dogs need more encouragement to enter and stay calm in a carrier. You can do this through the power of positive reinforcement. This training modality involves creating a positive association with the pet carrier with time, patience, and high-value rewards.
First, introduce the carrier to your dog in a neutral setting, like your living room. Leave the entry points open, allowing your dog to explore inside. Place familiar items with your scent in the carrier to encourage them to go inside. Every time your dog interacts with the carrier, offer a reward, whether that’s verbal praise, petting, or a treat.
With time, place your dog in the carrier in short increments. This offers the perfect opportunity to observe your dog’s behavior while inside. Do they seem uncomfortable? Do they have enough space to lie down? The answers to these questions will help you decide how to choose the best carrier for your dog.