Looking for the best dog stroller for hiking?
Do you want to get out and about across some new landscapes with your furry friend in tow? Perhaps you are a fan of hiking but your pooch needs a helping hand to make it all the way, enter dog strollers. The easy way to get out and about when you need a bit of support.
What is a dog stroller?
Exactly what it sounds like, a stroller built for a canine. Most models are typically lower to the ground than the traditional style for babies to allow dogs to easily get in and out, but some styles look more like you would expect for a small child.
Read on for suggestions on features, safety concerns to look out for, specialist models, and a few recommended top buys to get you started.
What to look for in a dog stroller
Different models will have different features to take into consideration, so take a moment to think about what your priorities are and what your dog might like as well.
From a product point of view, you want something that is durable, easy to handle, and simple to set up (or put away), and from your pet’s point of view it needs to be comfortable, smooth, and safe.
Durability – if you are going to be climbing up rocky mountain tracks then the product you will be looking for will need more stability and suspension than someone going for a stroll through a forest terrain. When entering the market, it is best to look for something like an all-rounder until you are familiar with yours and your dogs preferences. The main thing to keep an eye on is the wheels – it is also worth speaking to a sales representative to find out how these products can be serviced, or what the process is when you require new tires.
Handling – be sure to check the reviews of the product you are looking to buy, or ask the retailer for any anecdotes they may have been given to work out what is best for you. Perhaps you want something that is going to adapt to different terrains, or be streamlined and speedy for when you want to go jogging.
Set up – no one wants to spend their entire trip faffing with knobs and levers so it is important to look for something that is easy to set up, and put away when you have finished your stroll, trek, or run. Many brands will provide guides online so you can read about the different procedures online before purchasing. Be sure that it feels sturdy once assembled, take a moment to check all the fastenings before setting off on your journey.
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Comfort – the ‘cabins’ of the strollers should be spacious enough to give your pet enough room to get comfortable, enjoy the view, and make the most of the fresh air. If it is the first journey out it might be worth taking a few familiar objects to ensure that they are settled and enjoying the journey. While it will be more enjoyable than something like a trip to the vets, it is still an unknown the first time around and might make your pet anxious so take a moment to pick up a toy or two in order to keep them calm.
Smooth – think about when you are out and about riding a bike, it is all about the suspension that helps to keep you comfortable while seated, that is the sort of thing we are looking for when it comes to ensuring your dog enjoys a smooth ride through the countryside. Many will list the different features to help keep everything under control, but be sure to double check the reviews to make sure that products live up to their claims.
Safety – there are many different things to keep in mind when it comes to ensuring that your hound is kept safe while venturing out and about; what keeps them tucked away in the basket, how easy is the stroller to keep control of, how about the brakes? All of these aspects, and more, should be taken into consideration when reviewing your product choices and keep them in mind when making your final purchase.
Safety concerns
The overall consensus is yes, it is perfectly safe to take your dog out for a trip in a stroller. Keep safety in the forefront of your mind when choosing a product with the above criteria and you will be on to a winner.
If you are planning a series of heavy excursions or going for a run then consider a model with safety harnesses in order to minimise any bumping around and to keep them safely tucked away in the basket.
All dogs are different, but if yours struggles to get about then look for a model that is lower to the ground so they can get in and out easily with minimal aid, or one that has plenty of room to allow them to sit comfortably however suits them.
If your dog is unwell then it is also a very good method to get them out and about and making the most of the fresh air to get them on the mend, but for healthy dogs nothing beats a good bit of walkies.
All in all, it is a very safe way of getting out and about with your furry pal, just be sure to keep an eye on them throughout the first few journeys to make sure they are enjoying the process, comfortable at all times, and relaxed with the situation as a whole.
Which is the best for jogging?
The best models for jogging will be those that offer boosted features such as suspension, shock absorbers, safety harnesses and enclosed baskets to keep dogs safe. It will also need to be lightweight, while remaining sturdy, so it does not slow you down if you are looking to make a good pace but not something that will collapse when you start picking up speed.
The best model will be one that suits you and your dog best so keep your different requirements in mind when shopping around and ensure that yours is an informed purchase.
Are there any negatives?
As far as we can see, the world of dog strollers is plain sailing for those that need it and will benefit from their usage. However, it is important to ensure that you do not rely on this as an alternative to not exercising your dog while still taking them outside.
Ensure that they are still receiving a good amount of physical activity during the day, or as much as they are able to handle given any conditions they might be subject to. Strollers should not be used as an alternative to taking your dog for the proper exercise that they require.
Our top buys
Here are a selection of products that we have reviewed in order to give you an overview of the market and some of the best options currently available on the market. We have also taken user reviews into consideration as no one knows a product better than those who are using it from day to day.
Pet Gear No-Zip NV Pet Stroller for Cats and Dogs
The Pet Gear No-Zip NV Pet Stroller for Cats and Dogs boasts zipperless entry, easy folding with one hand, air tires, a plush pad (giving a cushioned base), and also comes with a washable weather cover (not included on some of their other models) and an optional divider if you have more than one furry friend to transport on your journeys.
How big is it? The dimensions for this model are as follows: 28 inches long, 12.5 inches wide, and 22.5 inches high, with three 12 inch tires.
What is so special about it? Manufacturers, Pet Gear Inc., specialize in designing new and innovative products for pets all over the world. No-Zip is one of its key features, providing an easy locking latch system allows simple access to your dog when you need it, while also keeping them safely stored in the basket.
This model is available in two different color options (black with a blue trim, and black with a pink trim), or a special edition dalmation print option, and holds up to 70 pounds, with the stroller weighing in at 27 pounds. Transport your pooch in style with the bolstered seat pad and raised paw rest, keeping them comfortable while enjoying a panoramic view along the way.
It also features a small basket underneath the main carriage where you can store any belongings (supporting weight up to six pounds).
What do the reviews say? This is a firm favourite for many users, with some even claiming that it is the best purchase they have ever made. It has been tested well over all terrains and many have commented on how easy it is to assemble and disassemble before and after your walk.
Best for? Those looking for a mid-market option but also luxury and comfort for their dog. One of the pricier options, it is a premium option but offers lots of features for the investment.
Pet Gear No-Zip Expedition Zipperless Entry Pet Stroller
The second entry from Pet Gear on the list features a slightly bigger cabin than the No-Zip NV Pet Stroller and has two entry options so your dog can either walk in from the front, or be placed in from above. Featuring Pet Gear’s innovative No-Zip locking technology your pet can always be easily accessed without leaving them at risk of escape.
How big is it? The dimensions for this model are as follows: 32 inches long, 22 inches wide, and 23 inches high. It features plastic and EVA tires, the front pair measure 6.25 inches and the rear measure 11 inches.
What is so special about it? This is the largest stroller that Pet Gear offers, and holds up to 150 pounds in the main cabin. Contrary to its size, it is not the heaviest option, coming in at 26 pounds for the frame it is actually lighter than the No-Zip NV Pet Stroller. The multi position handle also means you can control it in a way that suits you.
Has a few different color options available including boysenberry, candy red, dark platinum, fog, midnight blue, and mountain lilac. Unlike the previous model on the list, the weather cover is an additional optional add-on for this model.
As this model has a dual entry system, pets can enter and leave from the front and the back of the model, meaning if your pet currently has an injury or mobility issues, there is no need to worry about them having to turn around in order to get in, out, or comfortable.
What do the reviews say? This is popular with many different pet owners. Many have found its lightweight model easy to transport and use when required if a pet can’t quite make it the whole way around the walk. There’s a handy hole that can be opened up at the top of the basket for those taller dogs that want to pop their heads up and see outside of the mesh that surrounds the cabin.
Best for? Owners who have dogs with reduced mobility as the dual entry system means there are no awkward manoeuvres getting in or out of the stroller.
Pet Gear No-Zip Happy Trails Pet Stroller
Another entry for Pet Gear on our list, the masters of pet merchandise have shown that they really understand the market for dog strollers and are able to provide a variety of different options to suit different sized animals, different purposes, and different owners.
How big is it? The dimensions for this model are as follows: 24 inches long, 11 inches wide, and 22 inches high. A smaller stroller for the smaller pooch, this model supports dogs up to 35 pounds, and the frame comes in weighing just 13 pounds making it the lightest Pet Gear model on offer.
What is so special about it? Other than being the most lightweight option in the Pet Gear catalogue, it also features a panoramic view, a three-position canopy, a cup holder and tray for your smaller items, and a storage basket underneath for larger items.
As with other Pet Gear models, the lining is both removable and machine washable, meaning it could not be simpler to keep fresh and clean. It features six plastic and EVA wheels, four at the front and two at the back, each measuring six inches in diameter, for slick control over direction.
It is currently available in the following colors: emerald, pink diamond, and sapphire. The Happy Trails Pet Stroller features the brand’s innovative No-Zip technology.
What do the reviews say? Similarly to the Pet Gear No-Zip Expedition Zipperless Entry Pet Stroller. Many happy customers cite how easy to use the lightweight frame is, as well as how comfortable it is in warmer climates thanks to the breathable mesh of the panoramic view.
Best for? Those with smaller pooches who want to go on longer strolls than these breeds are typically able to manage.
VIVO Four Wheel Pet Stroller, for Cat, Dog and More
One of the more traditional looking strollers on the market, you will need to lift your dog into this model as there is no option for them to stroll in, much like the Pet Gear No-Zip Happy Trails Pet Stroller. Available in four color options of black, blue, green, and orange, this stroller has a large protective compartment and easy access storage space underneath.
How big is it? The interior is 19 inches long, 12 inches wide, and 19 inches high, and the storage basket underneath is 16 inches long, 12 inches wide, and 7 inches high – the perfect size for a backpack or handbag.
What is so special about it? This is another of the strollers on the market that is suitable for lightweight dogs, holding up to 30 pounds in its main cabin. It also has various zipper points for easy access, a removable screen, and mesh windows. The canopy can be easily opened for inquisitive heads to pop through.
Perfect for those of you on the go, it also features dual cup holders and a tray for holding smaller belongings like your phone or car keys whilst out and about. The four wheeled model provides a smooth ride and is perfectly safe for jogging as well as walking. It features simple release buttons on either side to help collapse into a compact form that will fit easily into a car or packing up for longer term storage.
The padded foam bottom provides adequate comfort in the basket and the handle is padded for your comfort too. It can also be parked using the lockable brakes on the back wheels.
What do the reviews say? Many have highlighted how it works for other small pets as well as dogs – one has even used it for their duck. It’s the perfect stroller for those who have pets in busy towns, or have a few stairs to deal with whilst out and about that older or arthritic pets might struggle with.
Best for? Someone looking for an entry level product at the inexpensive end of the market for a lighter dog, a great option for those seeing if hiking with a dog is right for them.
What do the dogs think?
It is not just dogs that enjoy these strollers, many have reported using them with cats, bunny rabbits, birds, and more. The heavier options also allow us to take multiple pets out in one trip, just in case one gets jealous of the other’s ride, they can bunk up and share. Some models come with dividers, but often if your animals are happy to live together, then this often is not required.
Some dogs are better suited than others, if your dog is keen to get out and about, run around, and fetch that ball, then these strollers might not be best for you. Small to medium-sized dogs often benefit most as they often cannot walk as long or as far as larger breeds. Those who are injured, or have recently been operated on, find them a nice way to get out and about without taking part in too much strenuous activity. Elderly dogs are the other group that will benefit the most from having a stroller – they can still enjoy the outdoors without having to walk too far, and allow you to continue bonding with your pet by doing something you have always enjoyed together.
Other considerations to keep in mind
There are a few other questions it might be worth asking yourself while reviewing the different options in the dog stroller market, to make sure that you make the best purchase for both yourself and your dog.
Is this something I will need to travel with? How will I travel with it?
What is my local climate? Do I need something suitable for heavy rains etc.?
How many dogs do I need to transport? Will I take them all out at once?
Where am I going to keep it when it is not in use?
How long are my typical walks? How often will I use it?
There is no reason why you cannot take your dog with you when you want to go hiking, walking or jogging, and no reason why they cannot get involved in the fun. The secure baskets also mean that in the busy summer seasons, you can ensure your dog is kept out of harm’s way, shaded from the midday sun, and able to enjoy a cooling breeze through the breathable mesh designs that the majority of strollers on the market offer.
Are there any other benefits?
Perhaps you have a dog that is particularly anxious when it comes to going outside? Giving them a safe space, with familiar objects, will help to keep them calm when venturing into the great outdoors. The smells and textures that they are used to will mean that they have something consistent in the process, and you might want to do a few practice runs around your house and garden to make sure they fully understand what is going on before venturing outside where they may not have spent a lot of time previously.
If your dog is easily distracted while out and about in busy town centres, it can help shorten the length of shopping trips if they are not able to pull off in different directions to investigate all those tantalising smells that might be floating around.
Got a new puppy and want to get outdoors safely? Many owners like to use the strollers as an option to get younger dogs acclimated to the outdoors without getting them in direct contact with the outside world or other dogs. Do use caution though when going outdoors with an unvaccinated puppy.
Choose what is best for you
It might feel strange at first if you’ve not pushed your pooch around before, but once you get into the habit of it we are sure that you will find it relaxing and engaging, as well as being able to enjoy the excitement it brings to your pup.
