One of the best things about having a dog is that you can have the fun of enjoying days out together. Smaller pets can be carried in a backpack, but what do you do if you prefer to travel by bike? If you’re a keen cyclist and want your four-legged friend to join you on your travels, a dog basket that attaches to your bike could be the perfect solution.
Designed to keep your pet safe and secure while you pedal, these innovative baskets fit easily onto the frame of your bicycle so that you can enjoy a pleasant ride in the great outdoors. Here, we look at ten top sellers and why they’re so popular with dog-loving cyclists everywhere.
The 10 Top-Rated Dog Bike Baskets
1 PetSafe Happy Ride Wicker Dog Bicycle Basket
- Weather-resistant
- Fitted faux-sheepskin liner provides added comfort
- Breathable construction
- Adjustable safety leash for stability
This traditional-looking wicker basket is one of the most stylish on the market today and is perfect for anyone who wants their pooch to travel along in classic style. Made using durable and weather-resistant rattan wicker, this basket suits pets weighing up to 13 lbs, allowing them to ride in complete comfort thanks to the soft faux-sheepskin lining, which gives your dog a cozy place to rest during their journey.
The wicker construction allows air to circulate freely, so your pet stays comfortably cool as you ride. Security is always paramount. However, this basket comes with an extra adjustable leash so your furry friend will be completely secured, and as the sheepskin liner can easily be removed and washed, it’s a breeze to clean should it get dirty.
- Sheepskin liner for comfort
- Easy to clean for low maintenance
- Breathable construction for coolness
- Stylish traditional basket appearance
- Secure extra leash
- Weather resistant and durable rattan construction
- Suitable for pets weighing up to 13 lbs
- The basket bounces a little with heavier pets in it if it isn’t firmly secured to the frame
2 ANZOME Dog Basket For Bikes
- Lightweight
- Contemporary design
- Multipurpose usage
- Available in a variety of colors
The Anzome’s bike dog basket can be attached to the bicycle’s handlebar and is a great find for many cyclists. With this dog basket attached to your bicycle, you do not have to contend with the heart-wrenching look of disappointment on your dog’s face when you leave it behind when out riding. Multipurpose as this pet bike basket is, it could just as easily be used to carry food for a picnic or hats and sunscreen for a fun day at the beach. With its quick-release handlebar mount, you can easily remove and reattach the dog bicycle basket. Lightweight as the basket makes for a smooth ride without added drag.
- Easy to dismount and reattach to handlebar with quick release adapter
- Built onto a solid metal frame
- Made with easy to clean material
- Waterproof
- Can be used to carry only small dogs weighing 11 pounds or less
- No restraint to secure your dog in the basket
- Assembling basket can be difficult
3 Travelin K9 Pet-Pilot Dog Bike Basket
- Comes in 10 colors
- Built-in safety leash
- Designed with a patented handlebar to prevent swaying
- Suitable for pets weighing 8 pounds or less
With its deep side walls and large top opening, this bike basket carrier is easy to use. Its floor is well padded and comfortable and gives pets plenty of room for movement. At the same time, the integrated two-point safety leash with a strong chrome clasp ensures that your furry friend will remain securely fastened in place throughout the ride.
The steel frame handlebar mount has rubber bushings for a secure fit, and the carrier features a mesh vent to the front to allow adequate airflow. Available in five colors, this model also features side mesh pockets for holding essentials such as water bottles, leash, and keys, as well as a reflective strip on the sides and front for added safety.
- Reflective strips
- Safety leash for added security
- Front air vent for excellent airflow
- Carries additional weight with no swaying when compared with similar models
- Fast attachment method ensures speedy fitting
- When this basket is mounted to the bike there is no room for a safety lamp
4 Snoozer Sporty Bike Basket For Dogs
- Chinrest for your pup’s comfort
- Offers multiple storage compartments
- Includes a rain cover found in the side pocket
- Designed with an easy-clean microfiber fabric
With its removable inner pad and its comfortable chin rest, the Snoozer Sporty bike basket allows pups to ride along in style and comfort. Packing completely flat to allow for easy storage and transport, this basket comes equipped with an inner leash clip as well as several handy storage pockets for keeping accessories intact. There is even a rain cover which comes supplied and stored inside one of the side pockets.
Thanks to the durable microfiber construction, it can easily be wiped clean for easy maintenance, and since this basket also comes in a choice of colors, it is easy to find one to suit.
- Inner removable pad with chin rest
- Packs flat for storage
- Rain cover supplied for added protection
- Wipe clean microfiber construction
- Secure inner leash clip for safety
- Handy storage pockets
- The water bottle mesh pocket is at a strange angle
- If the bike has curved handlebars the fit may not be so secure
5 Petsfit Dog Basket For Bicycle
- Designed with a drawstring and safety leash to secure your pet when on the move
- Solid base to prevent sliding
- Breathable mesh top
- Reflective, high visibility strip attached
Suitable for dogs weighing up to 10 pounds, this dog carrier is comfortable and easy to clean, thanks to its removable, machine washable pad. It features an inner leash clip for security and several storage pockets allowing food and accessories to be easily transported. It also packs flat, allowing for easy storage when not in use. Super simple to install, it fits securely to any standard bike rack. It also features an elastic mesh cover that allows for adequate cooling airflow while keeping pets safely inside. Simple to remove from the bike, it also effortlessly converts to a standard dog carrier with a padding shoulder strap for easy carrying.
- Easy to clean thanks to machine washable removable pad
- Inner secure leash clip
- Storage pockets for water bottle and accessories
- Easy to install on any standard bike rack
- Mesh cover for better airflow and security
- Converts to a standard dog carrier
- Has a lower maximum weight than many of its rivals
6 PetSafe Happy Ride Sport Dog Bicycle Basket
- Comes with an adjustable pet safety leash
- Fitted with a bracket system to mount and unmount the dog bike seat
- Comes with an adjustable shoulder carrier
- Comes with a sunshade
In the case of this dog carrier basket from Petsafe, the name is a reminder of your beloved pet being in safe hands. Users are raving over this product with a safety leash to secure your pet during rides, especially as the leash is adjustable. Able to carry up to 13 pounds, your pet does not have to be too small. With this bicycle dog carrier, you have less to worry about with the little hood to protect your dog from drizzling. Coming in at about $42.00, though a little pricey, is not too much a price to pay for one of the best dog bike basket money can buy.
- Sunshade is detachable
- Can carry pets weighing up to 13 pounds
- Can be used as a shoulder carrier
- Comes with zippered side pouches
- Pricey
- Comes in only one color
- Bracket attachment to basket could come loose
7 BARKBAY Dog Bike Basket Carrier
- Easily removed and installed
- Foldable and easy to store
- Lightweight but durable
- Waterproof with additional coverings
- Breathable with mesh windows
An adaptable and easy to use option, that happily works with most bikes. This dog bike basket carrier is easy to install and can quickly be removed when necessary. When not in use, it can fold up for easier storage and placed in your backpack or cupboard, without issue. Lightweight, with mesh fabric, it’s highly breathable too.
Durable enough to withstand regular use, it has the added benefit of utilizing some drizzle-proof covers to help guard your pet against wind and rain. Finally, an extendable mesh side allows this soft-sided carrier to give your pet some wiggle room if they want or need it.
8 BARKBAY Dog Basket For Bikes
- Fitted with breathable mesh for optimal cooling
- Comes with an adjustable safety leash
- Has a drawstring mesh cover
- Comes with storage pockets
This next dog carrier for bikes, with its multi-dimensional ways of usage ranging from being used as a shoulder bag to carry your pet or grocery carrier, is a must-have for any pet owner cyclist. Made with breathable mesh, your pet enjoys optimal ventilation during rides and there is no risk of overheating with this pet bike basket. With exciting views of the outdoors and cool air rushing through its fur while riding, pets can very easily get excited and end up falling out of the basket. This dog bicycle basket comes through and saves the day with an adjustable safety leash to keep your pet securely in place. The safety leash can be attached to the dog’s collar while the drawstring feature protects your dog from falling out.
- Safety leash can be attached to the collar
- Foldable
- Doubles as a grocery carrier
- Can carry loads up to 18 pounds
- Pricey
- Side straps could give way when weighted
- Available in one color only
9 FUNSPORT Dog Bicycle Basket
- Made with waterproof fabric
- One button basket dismount system
- Made with wear-resistant Oxford cloth
- Comes with inbuilt zip pockets
This number from Funsport is an excellent dog bike seat for cyclers enjoying some canine company while on the trail. Made with wear-resistant Oxford cloth and waterproof fabric, this dog basket for bikes would be perfect for your pet, especially when riding in wet conditions. While mounting and dismounting the basket can be a challenge (with some models of bicycle dog carriers), it is not the case with this basket from Funsport. It is built with a one-button release system to dismount the basket. This spacious basket can be used for a grocery run or picnic, not just for carrying pets. At about $24.00 for this basket, it sure is a steal with all these perks.
- Moderately priced
- Zip pocket has a rope tightening system
- Can be used as a shopping basket
- Made with wear-resistant fabric
- Loading capacity of 11 pounds
- Does not work with every bike’s handlebars
- Drawstring cover may not restrain a larger dog
10 Petall Dog Bicycle Basket
- Can be used as a carrier handbag
- Comes with zipped inner and side pockets
- Made with waterproof fabric
- Fitted with a reinforced aluminum frame
With its vibrant purple color and aesthetically pleasing design, this dog carrier for bikes has managed to walk the fine line of beauty with sturdiness. This beauty can fit on most bikes while carrying weights of up to 11 pounds. With a side and inner zipped pocket, there is plenty of room to carry all your goods. A drawstring closure design helps keep your pet or any load you may be carrying safely locked in. Moreover, a frame made of reinforced aluminum makes for a sturdy basket capable of supporting your pet’s weight. Available in five different colors, there is an option that would appeal to everyone.
- Easy to install
- Fits with most bikes
- Drawstring closure provides for pet safety
- One button for detachment
- Instructions for assembly not provided
- Could be unstable when carrying active dogs
- Little breathability
Best Dog Basket For Bikes: Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the right dog bike carrier for you, there are several different styles to choose from as well as various features to consider.
Which Type of Dog Bicycle Basket Is Best?
The type of dog basket you need will depend on the size and weight of your pet and the type of bicycle which you have. Here, we look at the different types of baskets on the market today:
Hard Baskets
These are made from high-quality plastic and heavy-duty polypropylene. Featuring ventilation to the sides, they are simple to clean with a simple wipe down. Ideal for smaller dogs, they are safe and sturdy.
Read here our article on the Best Motorcycle Dog Carriers.
Soft Baskets
These carriers are similar in shape and size to a gym bag being made from a soft nylon fabric with a bottom that is hard. Mesh material to the sides offers ventilation and sometimes they feature a zip opening. Usually, they feature shoulder straps to allow for easier transportation.
Check out our guide on Dog Backpack Carriers.
Cardboard Baskets
These are made from cardboard and feature holes to allow air to circulate. The construction features a water-resistant coating with glued joints for added strength.
You may also like our article on the Best Dog Bike Trailers.
Which Types Of Dogs Do Best In Dog Bike Baskets?
Clearly, only small dogs under 20lbs should be riding in dog bike baskets, but if you have a larger pet you could always invest in a bike trailer instead to allow your furry friend to join you on bike rides. Dogs who are anxious or very lively may not do well in a bike carrier since they may try to jump out and will not enjoy themselves. It may take a little time for your pet to learn to enjoy riding in the bike carrier, so try encouraging them a few times until they feel safe and secure.
Things To Consider When Buying The Best Dog Baskets For Bikes
There are several factors to bear in mind when choosing the right dog basket for you and your pet. Some of the features you may wish to consider include:
Harness Hookups
Most of the best bike dog baskets have a dog harness or leash attachment so your pet can stay safe and secure inside the basket without being able to jump out.
Mesh or Dome Top
Some baskets for dogs have a mesh opening or a dome to prevent your pet from escaping mid-ride.
Handy Pockets
If you’re heading out for the day you will probably need to take some food, a dog water bottle, a dog leash, and some dog treats with you. Many carriers have handy integrated pockets to allow you to take these things along easily
Positioning
There are some baskets for dogs that fit the handlebars while others sit on the back rack. There are also some models which can fit either. You need to decide which would be the right choice for your pet and their own temperament. A handlebar fixed basket will allow you to keep a close eye on your pet, but if your dog is larger they will need to sit at the rear of the bike.
Multi-Use Baskets
Some baskets can not only be used as a bike carrier, they can also be put into service as a portable carrier, dog bed, or car seat. If you’re keen to maximize your investment you should get a multifunctional product, but remember that ease of fitting and removal is also important.
You may also like our article on Car Seats for Dogs.
Safety Tips When Using the Best Dog Baskets for Bike
If you’re taking your dog out for a bike ride there are a few things to consider when it comes to safety measures:
- Ensure your carrier is correctly attached and is secure. You don’t want the basket to fall off mid-ride. Take some time to work out how the carrier attaches and make sure you secure it properly before setting off
- Make sure that your pet is securely fastened into the basket with the leash attachment
- Ensure that your pet will not accidentally get their feet, fur or tail trapped in any of the bicycle’s moving parts for their own safety and well-being
- Make sure your dog stays well hydrated. They will probably get thirsty on the ride and a basket with storage compartments built-in will ensure that you can conveniently take water along for them to drink
- Protecting your pet from rain and snow is important for their comfort, and a hood or cover is a good idea for keeping your pet dry and warm. It will also be useful for calming them down if they get over-excited. Some baskets also have a sunshade to protect from the hot rays too
For short distances, your pet may be able to run alongside you, however, if you’re going on a long journey you need to find a safe and comfortable way to bring your dog along. If you have a small pup that you’re keen to take out and about, whether around town or on a country jaunt, you could benefit from investing in one of these handy baskets that have specifically been designed for this purpose.
A dog bike basket is an affordable and safe way to allow your small dog to accompany you while your cycle, making them a perfect choice for pet-loving cyclists on a budget. Investing in a bike dog carrier is an incredibly convenient way to ensure your pet can come along with you on bike rides anywhere, whether in the city or country.
When you choose the right basket to suit your own needs and those of your pet you can both enjoy many exciting and fun days out together in the great outdoors. Here, we have looked at five of the best models on the market today, examining their features, pros, and cons so that you can determine easily which is the best one to meet your requirements. Also, consider the breed of pooch you have so you can determine if they’ll even fit in a basket!
Make sure to take your time and check out all of the different features and advantages that each basket can offer before you make a final decision so that you and your furry friend can enjoy many fun excursions on the road.
Benefits of a Pet Bike Basket
- Dog bicycle baskets are a great way to get your dog some outdoor time while cycling without the added burden of having to tug on a leash, your pet slowing you down while you get in some exercise.
- Most pet bike baskets come with a restraint that helps keep your dog in place while riding. These restraints can often be attached to the dog’s collar. Some dog carriers for bikes even come with a harness-type safety feature.
- A pet bike basket is often built for a dog’s comfort with most models offering cushioning and breathability with mesh vents for cooling.
FAQs:
Excited as you may be to ride around with your dog safely ensconced in a bicycle dog carrier, doggy might not be as eager as you might have hoped to be in a confined space without you first training it to enjoy it or at least give it a shot. First off, introduce your dog to the basket by firstly placing it in it without mounting it on the bike. Walk around with it in the pet bike basket speaking soothingly and reassuring it should it get frightened and attempt to jump out.
Next, mount the basket on the bike and push it slowly not riding all the while petting and soothing your pet till it relaxes and gets used to the bike’s movement. Once that is accomplished, it is time for an actual ride. Keep the rides slow and short as you break your dog into the world of cycling. As your dog acclimatizes, you will see it begin to enjoy the ride, taking in the sights and sounds as you go along. As part of the process, introduce your pet to a bump. It is not always smooth riding. Go over a few small bumps and watch as your securely harnessed dog reacts. Talking softly to it, keep it calm. Riding slowly, build upon the length and speed of the ride till your dog gets fully settled in.
Bicycle dog carriers typically come with weight limits letting you know how much weight it can carry. Weigh your dog first before picking out a dog seat. Look out also for features such as reinforced steel frames for added support.
Dog bike seats can fit well on most bikes but even better on a hybrid or utility bike. The logic behind it is pretty simple. These two models feature more space between the tire in the front and the handlebars. That space not only makes for a perfect nesting spot for a dog bike seat but also reduces the possibility of the seat getting entangled in the brake cables. That being said, as the dog basket for bikes is designed to hang off the bicycle’s rack, every bike can carry one.
