FAQ: Carriers & Crates for dogs

A chewer can swallow pieces of fabric or stuffing, so for now use a tough, chew-resistant mat or leave the crate without bedding. Provide safe chew toys and make sure the dog gets enough exercise.

Put the crate in a shaded, well-ventilated place, do not cover it with thick fabric and leave plenty of water. On hot days a cooling mat helps, but if signs of overheating appear, let the dog out and cool it at once.

For most dogs a thicker bed or blanket is enough, as the car is heated during the trip. Short-haired, small or older dogs benefit from warm bedding in the cold, but only use electric heaters made for the purpose and under supervision.

In a cold car the temperature drops quickly, and a dog, especially a small, short-haired or older one, can get chilled. It can be left only briefly with warm bedding, and for longer it is better to take the dog with you.

A closed fabric bag can quickly become stuffy in summer, so choose models with mesh on several sides and keep the dog out of direct sun. On a hot day, take frequent breaks and offer water.

Yes, a plastic or metal crate standing in the sun heats up quickly, especially a dark one. Never leave a dog in a crate in the sun, and in the car use window shades and keep it well ventilated.

A puppy is safest in a small carrier with soft bedding and something that smells of its litter, so it feels calmer. Bring towels and absorbent pads, and on a long journey stop at safe places for breaks.

Carrying a puppy in a bag or in your arms lets it get used to sounds and people while it still cannot walk in public places. Do not let it touch other dogs or the ground until your vet says it is safe.

Large breeds need a sturdy XL or XXL plastic or metal crate that fits in the car. For car travel, large dogs often use boot cages or car harnesses, since a big crate is hard to carry.

An older dog needs soft, thick bedding in the crate or boot, a ramp to get in and more frequent breaks to stretch. Avoid letting it jump down from a high boot, as this strains the joints.

It is safest for each dog to have its own crate or a divided cage, so they do not crash into each other or squabble when braking. If the dogs travel in safety harnesses, the straps must be short enough that they cannot get tangled.

Holding a small dog in your arms in a car is unsafe, as you cannot hold on to it in sudden braking and an airbag can injure it. A secured crate, bag or booster seat with a tether is best for a small dog.

Carry a pregnant dog in a roomy crate with soft bedding where she can lie comfortably, and avoid long, tiring journeys close to whelping. A mother with young puppies is best transported all together in a large, warm crate.

Check the maximum weight the manufacturer states and the inside dimensions, so the dog can lie down and sit comfortably. For large dogs there are sturdier strollers with big wheels and a low entry.

Brakes, an inner safety tether, mesh windows for ventilation, a closable canopy and easy folding all matter. Large wheels with suspension handle gravel and uneven pavements better.

First let the dog sniff the stationary stroller and get treats in it, then sit it inside and push it a little at home. Only once the dog is calm, go outside for short rides.

Yes, a stroller lets the dog be outside and get fresh air when it is not allowed to walk much. Ask your vet how much and how it should move during recovery.

In many places a stroller with the dog zipped inside is treated much like a bag, but the rules depend on the operator or shop. Check their pet rules before travelling or shopping.

For a healthy dog, a stroller should not replace walking, as exercise is essential for its health and wellbeing. A stroller is meant to supplement walks when the dog is tired, old or recovering.

The dog should sit or lie with support for its back and rear, its head can poke out but its body must be clipped to the inner tether. Adjust the straps so the weight sits close to your back, and take breaks.