Dog carriers are used to make the transportation of your dog easy, safe and comfortable. Carriers can be used for travel in a vehicle and by airplane. The dog may need transporting to the vet or you may have a short drive to a favourite walking spot. The use of a dog carrier in a car will protect the dog from injury as well as the people traveling in the car. Your new car will also be kept in better condition if the dog is kept in a carrier. Dog carriers for airplanes and air travel are also available.

The comfort of dogs during travel is important as it helps the journey to be a relaxing one for everyone. The carrier will provide a comfortable and secure place for the dog. It also allows dogs that like to sleep in the car to do so comfortably. Should your dog ever suffer from an injury, a carrier will aid in providing that vital secure journey when going to the vets. If your dog gets upset by the surroundings, you may wish to consider purchasing a solid plastic or solid cloth carrier as screening out the view will help to keep the dog calm.

Both hard and soft dog carriers are available. The soft ones can be easy to handle but may get warm in hot weather. A key factor to consider when looking at pet carriers is size. The carrier must be large enough for the dog to turn around and to lie down. If you have a puppy it may be cost effective to purchase a carrier that will be big enough for your dog once it is fully grown. The ventilation of a carrier is very important, particularly as the dog may become excited or hot during the journey. Many carriers have vents on at least three sides to allow for a good flow of air. For long trips an attached water bowl will be needed. If your dog likes to chew material, consider a plastic or metal carrier instead. The security of the carrier also needs to be considered if your dog is an escape artist. Check that both the latch system and the overall construction of the crate are strong enough to withstand possible jolts.

Introducing Your Dog to a Carrier

Your dog may take a little time to get used to a dog carrier, but it will become a safe and familiar place once they have been introduced correctly. It is best not to force the introduction but let it happen in the dog’s own time. Your dog may be unsettled by being lifted off the ground or may not like the confined space. It helps to acclimatise your dog to the carrier by leaving it open in your house. Place the carrier on the floor at their level and leave treats inside. A favourite dog blanket or toy can also be placed inside the carrier. Treats can be used to persuade the dog to approach and enter the carrier. Once the dog is used to sitting in the carrier you can feed him there in order to reinforce the idea that it is a safe and good place to be. You may wish to repeat a command when putting your dog into the carrier and reward this behaviour with treats. This should result in a pet that happily enters their carrier upon command.

Types of Dog Carrier

There are several different types of dog carrier available. The main divide is between hard or soft sided carriers. Each type has its advantages, depending on your needs and preference. There is a wider selection for small dogs, with options such as carrier bags and backpack carriers (some of which convert into car seats). Carriers for larger dogs tend to be made from rigid material such as plastic, but portable crates made of soft material are available and have the option of folding up when not in use for easy storage. Additional extras to look out for with dog carriers include attachable wheel sets, drinking bottles or bowls and pockets for storing essentials such as dog treats.