If you want to take your dog on as many outings as possible, biking is an excellent way to enjoy an exhilarating adventure with your pup. But is biking with your furry friend safe and easy? Most certainly, with the ideal gear. I found a surprising number of dog carriers for bikes on the market, and some are much safer and easier to use than others. See which products I’ve uncovered from my thorough research to help you find your best options, and I also share our team’s personal experience.
| Front Basket | Rear-Mounted | For Large Dogs | Backpack |
|---|---|---|---|
 |  |  |  |
| BABEYER | Snoozer Lookout | Schwinn Rascal Trailer | K9 Sport Sack Air 2 |
| View on Amazon | View on Chewy | View on Amazon | View on Chewy |
| Read Review | Read Review | Read Review | Read Review |
7 Best Dog Carrier For Bikes
I chose my top picks for the best bike dog carrier based on several factors, including safety, ease of use, comfort for your pup, customer feedback, pricing, and more. I’ve broken them into specific categories to help you decide what’s best for your biking needs.
Best Dog Basket For Bikes: BABEYER Dog Bike Basket Review
This BABEYER dog bike basket is a multi-functional product that’s easy to install and fits securely on your bike’s handlebars. It also has many fantastic features that make it excellent value. Plus, it comes in two sizes to fit dogs 6-18 pounds. Your dog can stay safe and comfortable with the inner tether that clips to their collar or harness. There are four ventilation mesh windows for ideal airflow and an inner pad that’s fleece on one side and suede on the other for comfort. It also has reflective strips and covers to shield your pup from rain.
With four different openings, it’s easy to place your pup inside however you choose. And you can store treats, poop bags, and other necessities in the zippered side pouch. Another huge plus is that this product can be used as a car booster seat, dog backpack, or pet shoulder bag. It is available in four colors and gets fantastic customer reviews. The only complaint is that customers wish it came in a bigger size for their larger pups.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Adjustable safety tether | It requires at least 13″ to fit above the wheel, so it doesn’t work with some bikes |
| Easy to install and remove | The storage pouch is fairly small |
| Spacious for dogs 6-18 pounds | |
| Excellent ventilation | |
| It is also useful as a pet backpack, shoulder bag, and car seat | |
| It has an expandable side | |
| It folds up for easy storage |
Price
Best Rear-Mounted Dog Carrier For Bikes: Snoozer Lookout Dog Rear Rider Review
View on Amazon | View on Chewy
If you’d prefer your dog to ride behind you or have a slightly larger dog (up to 24 pounds), this Snoozer rear-mounted dog bike carrier could be your best solution. It fits on top of a standard rear bike rack (not included), and the multiple buckles attach easily and tightly to the bike frame.
This carrier has a foam-form plywood base to keep it sturdy and secure. The quilted/fleece cover is removable, machine washable, and can be put in your dryer. The adjustable three-point safety strap keeps dogs safe from slipping out. The large reflective strips make biking with your pup at night or in low-visibility environments safer. The only downside is that this is not the safest option for dogs who fidget or try to jump out. If this is your pup, you should consider a contained carrier instead.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Adjustable 3-point safety strap | The safety strap may not adjust short enough for very small dogs who are prone to jumping out |
| Easy to install and remove | Pricey for a dog bike basket |
| Fits dogs up to 24 pounds | |
| Roomy and airy | |
| The cover is machine washable |
Price
Best Large Dog Carrier For Bikes: Schwinn Rascal Bike Pet Trailer Review
View on Amazon | View on Walmart
Don’t leave your medium-sized or large furry friend out of all your biking adventures. This Schwinn Rascal Bike Pet Trailer holds dogs up to 100 pounds. It connects easily to almost any bike’s rear wheel hub. Safety features include a non-slip surface inside, an adjustable leash to prevent leaping out of the trailer, and quick-release 20″ air-filled tires to ensure a smooth ride. The low-to-the-ground entrance also makes this bike dog carrier ideal for senior pups.
With plenty of mesh windows, your dog has more than enough ventilation and a great view. The front panel has a zippered weather and bug shield screen to protect your dog from the elements. The top is also zippered, allowing you to protect your dog from the sun or inclement weather exposure or let your pup ride with the breeze in their face. It also has a folding frame for compact storage when not in use.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Excellent for large dogs, seniors & those with joint problems | On the pricey side for a dog trailer |
| Adjustable safety tether | Requires assembly |
| Easy to connect and disconnect from the bike | |
| 2 sizes fit dogs up to 100 pounds | |
| Plenty of ventilation | |
| Solid waterproof floorboard with a removable cushion mat | |
| Folding frame for compact storage |
Personal Experience With Dog Bike Trailers
I have used a rear attaching bike trailer for my dogs similar to the Schwinn Rascal Trailer. Mine was originally a trailer for me to tow my kids around in. While they loved it, the dogs also took a liking to it. This was a great fit for my senior Chihuahua Cookie, who often grew tired and could not walk long distances. We would load the trailer up with a soft blanket, and water bowl, and go off for a great adventure. This trailer was also helpful when my larger dog, Bear, injured his paw by stepping on a cactus. He was heavy, about 85 pounds, and I was able to transport him home safely without any trouble in the trailer.
Using a trailer allowed me to cover longer distances, and because it was attached to my bike, it was less strain on my back when walking my bigger dogs. I would definitely recommend using one for any dog owner that has back trouble or wants to go on longer adventures with a dog than has mobility issues.
– Danielle DeGroot, Large Dog Owner & Research & Writing For Canine Journal
Price
- Starting at: $227.98
Best Dog Backpack For Biking: K9 Sport Sack Air 2 Review
View on Amazon | View on Chewy
The combination of quality materials, comfort, and safety features make the K9 Sport Sack Air 2 backpack a favorite among pet parents for hiking, bike rides, and other outdoor adventures. Your dog sits snugly on a thick rest pad surrounded by well-ventilated fabric, but their head and front paws are free from constraint. It has a built-in safety D-ring you hook to your dog’s collar for added protection and two storage pockets for essentials.
The long, well-constructed zipper has a fur flap to keep your pup’s hair from getting snagged. A clip fits around your dog’s body to keep them secure. It’s also comfortable for bikers, with its compact design and padded, adjustable chest and shoulder straps. It comes in four sizes to accommodate dogs from 4 to 30 pounds. Some customers feel an additional waist strap is needed to keep their pup secure.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Sturdy, comfortable design for dogs & owners | On the pricey side |
| Built-in D ring for collar hookup | It doesn’t have a waist strap |
| Good side ventilation | |
| 4 sizes for dogs 4-30 pounds | |
| Veterinarian-approved design |
Price
- Starting at: $84.95
Other Dog Carriers For Bikes
So, what about Petsfit, PetSafe Happy Ride, and RuffLyfe? Although these front and rear-mounted bike carrier dog baskets didn’t make my top picks, you may find one of these products a better fit for your pup.
Petsfit Dog Bike Basket Review
The Petsfit front bike basket could be a good option if your dog is on the smaller side (up to 15 pounds). With solid bottom and side panels and a built-in safety tether, your pup can stay secure and happy. The top window can be left open so they can poke their head out and see the world. Or you can close and fasten it with the zippers for added safety. Some owners find this feature a safer option than an open-topped basket.
It has reflective panels, which make low-visibility bike rides much safer, and a larger front pocket for storage. It also requires less room above the wheel to fit than the BABEYER dog bike basket (by approximately three inches). However, some customers complained that this means the basket isn’t deep enough for pups on the higher end of the weight spectrum. You can also use it as a shoulder bag or a car seat.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Adjustable safety tether | It only fits dogs up to 15 pounds |
| Easy to install and remove | Some customers felt it wasn’t deep enough |
| Sturdy side and bottom panels | |
| It has an optionable open or closed top window | |
| It is also useful as a pet shoulder bag and car seat |
Price
PetSafe Happy Ride Wicker Basket Review
Are you looking for a classic and stylish dog bike basket? The traditional look of this wicker dog bike carrier could be a perfect fit. The wicker basket is weather-resistant and includes a small sun shield. It is sturdy and can hold dogs up to 13 pounds. The soft faux sheepskin liner is super comfy for dogs and machine washable.
It also has a safety tether clip, and customers say the basket is sturdy when attached to the handlebars and bike frame. Only a few customers found that after several months of use, the bottom of the basket became slightly loose. However, most customers are delighted with this stylish dog bike carrier.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Classicly stylish wicker design | It only fits dogs under 13 pounds |
| Safety tether strap | There are a few complaints that the bottom of the basket came loose after a few months |
| Easy to install | |
| Weather-resistant resin wicker | |
| Machine-washable liner | |
| Removable sunshade |
Price
RuffLyfe CrateMate Review
This innovative kit is amazingly cool. In just a few easy steps, you can transform an ordinary 16-quart or 24-quart milk crate (not included) into a fully functional rear or front-mounted dog carrier on your bike rack (also not included). It supports dogs up to 45 pounds; however, dogs over 20 pounds should be rear-mounted.
This DIY bike carrier for dogs kit includes 20 heavy-duty fasteners to secure the crate to your bike’s frame, a four-point safety harness, and a water-resistant seat and side cushion. Customers say that installation was simple, with no tools needed. A few mentioned that the padding could be thicker, but most pets found this option comfortable.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 4-point safety harness | Not intended for dogs under 15 pounds |
| Easy installation with no tools required | A bit pricey for what you get in the kit |
| Fits dogs up to 45 pounds | |
| Airy and roomy | |
| 100% satisfaction guarantee |
Price
Safety Tips To Bike With Your Dog
You should follow some basic safety measures whenever you carry a dog on a bike. Even if you think your doggie bike carrier is safe and secure. First, keep in mind that biking isn’t ideal for every dog. Anxious or highly active dogs may not do well on bike rides. All dogs are at risk of injuries on a bike ride gone wrong.
The safest and best way to carry a small dog on a bike is using a basket with a safety clip. Although a backpack is another method, having your dog attached to your back can make some bike riders unstable, so make sure you’re confident with your ability to control your bike. Here are some other tips:
- Make sure you follow weight limit guidelines
- Ensure your pup is comfortable with the basket, trailer, or backpack before going on a ride
- Always use a safety tether or harness
- Use dog goggles on your pup to shield their eyes from debris and wind
- Avoid high-traffic roads
- Don’t take your pup biking on rough terrain
- Bring a portable water bowl with you and take plenty of water and potty breaks
Watch this short video of Crusoe’s bike journey and how cool he looks.
Frequently Asked Questions
We know some of our readers still have questions about riding a bike with their dog. If you have a question that we haven’t included below, let us know in the comments section, and we’ll find the answer for you.
What Is The Safest Way For A Dog On A Bike?
The safest way to ride a bike with your dog is to ensure that the dog carrier you choose is suitable for their weight and size. They should also be restrained with the safety clip that comes with the carrier or another suitable restraint. It’s equally important that you are a confident rider and your pup is comfortable with their bike carrier before heading out on a ride. Heavier dogs are usually best at the rear of the bike, and smaller pups are best at the front.
Is It Safe To Put A Dog In A Bike Basket?
Yes, putting a dog in a bike basket is safe as long as you take the safety measures I listed above. Ensure the bike basket is the right size for your dog and that you follow the installation instructions correctly.
How Do I Get My Dog Used To A Bike Carrier?
There are several steps to follow to ensure your dog becomes comfortable with their bike carrier. First, set up the carrier inside the home and leave it out so your pup can see, smell, and check it out on their terms. If they won’t climb inside, tempt them with their favorite blanket and praise them when they do, giving them their favorite treats. Once comfortable, slowly take them for a short stroll around your yard or street. And then you’re ready for a short ride, and you can build up from there.
Keep Your Pup Safe On Outings
If you enjoy taking your dog on all your adventures, ensure you have a safe car space for your pup. Our reviews of the best dog seat belts, car seats, and vehicle harnesses can help you narrow down the safest options for your needs. And if you take your pup on outdoor outings, check out our ultimate guide on hiking, camping, or backpacking with your dog.
Have you used any of these dog bike seats? If you use another that you think should be on my list, let us know in the comments below, and we’ll check it out.
Why Trust Canine Journal?
Sally has over 20 years of experience in human health sciences communications, including ten years as an expert on pet health conditions and treatment. Sally enjoys outdoor adventures with her dog. She’s part of a team of dedicated canine professionals and long-time dog owners at Canine Journal. We test and research the best pet products, not only for our own pups but for all of our readers.
