A holiday isn’t quite the same without our furry friends by our side. Whether it’s a staycation somewhere nearby or a sojourn a little farther afield, it’s important to ensure your pup’s safety and comfort. That’s where finding the right dog carrier comes in.
When looking for the right carrier, there are a few things to keep in mind. In this article, we’ll take you through the ins and outs of pet carriers, why you need one, and the best ones available right now.
Do I need a dog carrier?
You might be wondering whether or not you actually need a dog carrier. Depending on the size of your dog, the size of your car, and the length of your trip, a dog seat belt, crate or barrier might be a better fit.
While dog seat belts are good for short trips (for example, driving to the local dog park or vet), pet carriers are a better choice for longer journeys. They work particularly well for small to medium-sized dogs, restraining them and protecting them while still being comfortable.
Credit: K9 Sport Sack Australia
There are a few different types of dog carriers, each with its own set of pros and cons. The most common ones you’ll find are the following:
- Hard-sided dog carriers. Typically made from plastic, these carriers are very sturdy, making them the go-to choice for Owners needing to transport their pets via plane. The downside is they can be quite heavy and don’t pack away as easily as other types of carriers.
- Soft-sided dog carriers. These lightweight carriers are popular among frequent road-trippers thanks to their versatility and ease-of-storage, as they’re often also collapsible. Products like the SASH Dog Car Bed are perfect if you need a portable bed and a carrier in one.
- Dog backpacks. No, we don’t mean a backpack for your dog (though that would be extremely cute). These backpacks are designed for Owners who love bringing their pup on all their adventures, from hiking to mountain biking and everything in between. Of course, the downside is that, if your pooch is on the heavier side, carrying them can become quite fatiguing.
As for those times when taking your pup on holiday with you isn’t an option, you can always rely on an experienced Dog Sitter to keep them company. Even better, it gives them a fun holiday of their own!
Considerations when choosing the perfect dog carrier
Regardless of what type of pet carrier you opt for, there are a few things to keep in mind when making your choice.
- Safety. The most important factor to consider is, of course, the safety of your fur baby. Dog carriers are not much use unless they’re secured to the vehicle (or, in the case of a backpack, to you). Look for a carrier that can be fastened to the seat – ideally using the car’s seat belts – to prevent it sliding around.
- Comfort. Once safety is taken into account, it’s all about making your four-legged friend comfortable. If you opt for a hard-sided carrier, you’ll want to get some blankets (or even cushions) to keep them snug. Soft-sided carriers are a bit more comfortable by nature, and some even have padded walls.
- Size. Speaking of comfort, you’ll want to measure your dog’s height from the ground to the top of their shoulders when standing. Use this measurement to ensure the carrier isn’t too big or too small.
- Budget. You don’t have to spend much money to get a decent dog carrier, but you may find that spending more gets you a more durable, higher quality carrier. Generally speaking, prices range from $50 to over $300 for a large carrier.
- Airline approval. Air travel with pets isn’t nearly as common in Oz as it is in other parts of the world, but if you’re transporting your pup across states (or perhaps even countries), you’ll need to ensure your chosen carrier is airline-approved.
Our top picks for the best dog carriers in Australia
Now we know everything there is to know about dog carriers, it’s time to reveal our picks for the best ones available!
- Best hard-sided dog carrier: Lexi & Me Airline Carrier. This carrier is built to last, with reinforced walls, durable construction, a steel front door, and lockable wheels which can also be removed completely. Comfort-wise, it has plenty of vents for air flow and a small bowl for water or even treats! Prices start at $148, with four sizes available: small, medium, large, and extra-large.
- Best soft-sided dog carrier: SASH Premium Dog Car Bed. Designed as a 2-in-1 bed and car seat, your dog will thank you for this luxe but safe travel companion. It has generous side bolsters, built-in safety buckles, and even has carry handles for when taking in and out of the car. The best bit: it protects your car from pet hair, dirt & scratches!
- Best dog backpack: K9 Sport Sack. K9 Sport Sack’s dog carrier backpacks are comfortable and ergonomic for both you and your furry friend. Each back evenly distributes your dog’s weight, with a padded bottom for extra comfort. It’s safe, adjustable, and washable – basically, totally adventure-proof. There are a range of models available, ranging between $115 and $150 and supporting dogs up to 13 or 18kg in weight.
There you have it! Now, all that’s left is to get planning that next camping trip with the knowledge that your pupper pal can be included safely and easily.
