Do you have a small dog that you like to take with you wherever you go? Would you like to ride a bicycle but feel your dog is too small to keep up with you at your side? A dog bike basket allows you to bring your small dog with you on your outdoor adventures.
For information on the best dog bicycle leashes, check out our post HERE.
To find out about dog bike trailers, read THIS.
Here is a quick rundown of our selections:
| Best Overall Dog Bike Basket: PetSafe Happy Ride | |
| Best Dog Bike Basket For Dogs Up To 11 lbs.: COFIT Collapsible Bike Basket | |
| Alternative Best Dog Bike Basket For Dogs Up To 11 lbs.: Apollo Walker Bike Basket | |
| Best Dog Bike Basket For Dogs Up to 24 lbs.: Snoozer Pet Products Lookout Dog Rear Rider Bicycle Seat | |
| Best Waterproof Dog Bike Basket: Sportneer Bike Basket | |
| Best Splurge Dog Bike Basket: Beach & Dog Co. Cape May Large Willow Bicycle Basket |
What Is A Dog Bike Basket?
A dog bike basket is a basket that attaches to the handlebars or back rack of your bicycle. Your dog sits inside the basket while you ride your bike around town.
Is It Safe To Put A Dog In A Bike Basket?
It is safe to put a dog in a bike basket as long as it is installed correctly and your dog is safely secured inside. There is usually a tether inside the basket to secure your dog to be sure they are not able to jump out while you’re riding.
How Can I Carry My Dog On A Bike?
A dog bike basket allows you to carry your dog on the front or rear of your bike. It is up to you to decide which would be better for you and your dog.
Front Dog Bike Basket
A front dog bike basket attaches to the handlebars of your bicycle. Check to be sure the one you are interested in will fit the handlebars of your bike.
Also check the length of the basket to see that it won’t hit your front tire as you ride. Measure the distance between the handlebars and the front tire to check this.
Front dog bike baskets can be easily removed and used for other purposes, like a tote or grocery bag.
If you decide on a front basket, be aware that the heavy load in the front may cause the bike to be a bit unbalanced while you ride. It may take some practice to become accustomed to how differently your bike handles with your dog there.
Rear Dog Bike Basket
Rear dog bike baskets attach to the rack in the back of your bike.
It is more permanent than a front basket. Once it is installed it is not easily removable and cannot be used as anything other than a bike basket.
Also, If you opt for the rear basket, you will not be able to keep an eye on your dog while you ride.
How Do You Put A Dog Basket On A Bike?
First, make sure your bicycle is appropriate for the basket you want to buy. This includes paying attention to the type of handlebars on your bike. Some bike baskets only work with certain types of handlebars, so be sure to check that out before you buy.
There is assembly required to attach a dog basket to a bicycle. Your bike basket might come with mounting brackets and straps or clamps that attach the basket to the handlebars or rear rack. There may also be screws or nuts that will need to be tightened.
All of the supplies you need to secure your basket, including a wrench, will be provided by the manufacturer of your bike basket along with directions on how to properly install it.
What To Look For When Choosing A Dog Bike Basket
There are a few things you will want to look for before deciding which bike basket is right for you and your dog.
Size
Make sure the basket will fit on your bike. Measure the distance between your handlebars and your front tire. Some bike baskets need 9.8 inches and some may need more in order to fit.
Weight Limit
Check the recommended weight limit of the bike basket. Dog bike baskets only accommodate small dogs. Some will hold only up to 11 lbs. and some can accommodate up to 30 lbs. Make sure the one you choose will be able to hold your pup.
Handlebars
Check that your handlebars are able to fit the bike basket you wish to buy.
Safety Tether
Is there a safety tether to keep your dog inside the basket while you are riding?
Material
What is the bike basket made of? Some are made of aluminum while others are made of wicker or willow. If there is a liner, is it made of durable material?
Padding
Is the basket padded enough for your dog? Having just a liner may not be comfortable enough for your dog.
Reflective Stitching
This will help your basket be seen in low light conditions.
Quick Release
Do you want to be able to use the bike basket for other purposes? Some are removable and can be used as a tote bag as well.
Washable Liner
Is the liner it comes with easily removed and can it be washed?
Easy To Store
If you plan on using your basket only briefly is it foldable and easy to store?
Pockets
Will you need to carry any supplies with you? Pockets will enable you to a few extra things you may need, like waste bags.
Non-Slip Bottom
Helps to avoid sliding around on slippery surfaces.
How Do I Get My Dog To Ride In A Dog Bike Basket?
Just like starting anything new with your dog, it is important to get them used to the product before taking them for a ride. Use positive reinforcement and reward them for good behavior throughout.
Let your dog smell it and sit in it before you mount it to your bike.
Once your dog gets comfortable with it, you can start to sit them inside the basket after you have attached it to your bicycle.
After your dog becomes comfortable being in the basket, you can then wheel them a bit for short rides.
If this is good, then it is time to try a short bike ride. Gradually increase the time of your rides.
Best Dog Bike Basket For Small Dogs
These are the top dog bike baskets for small dogs according to users. Product information is according to the manufacturer.
Each of these bike baskets are praised for being sturdy enough to carry user’s dogs without any issues. If there are any additional pros or cons, we will list them.
Best Overall Dog Bike Basket
The PetSafe Happy Ride bicycle basket is a front mounted basket. It has a removable sun shield to protect your dog from the harsh sun, a safety tether to keep your pup secure, and a machine washable liner.
PetSafe Happy Ride Wicker Dog Bicycle Basket
- For dogs up to 13 lbs.
- Attaches to the front handlebars.
- Weather resistant resin material.
- Removable sun shield.
- Safety tether.
- Machine washable liner.
- Measures 15 x 11x 9.5 inches.
Pros/Cons:
- Easy to assemble.
- Roomy.
Best Dog Bike Basket For Dogs Up To 11 lbs.
This COFIT bike basket is front mounted. It is water resistant, tear resistant, and has 2 side pockets for extra supplies.
COFIT Collapsible Bike Basket
- For dogs up to 11 lbs.
- Tear resistant.
- Water resistant.
- Foldable.
- Quick release.
- 2 side pockets.
- Aluminum frame and handle.
- Oxford cloth.
- Measures 13.8 x 8.3 x 9.4 inches.
Pros/Cons:
- Easy to install and remove.
Alternative Option For Dogs Up To 11 lbs.
The Apollo Walker bike basket has a removable fleece pad, an adjustable leash, and non-slip foot pads.
Apollo Walker Bike Basket
- For dogs up to 11 lbs.
- Removable fleece pad.
- Adjustable leash.
- Reinforced support bar.
- 4 non-slip foot pads.
- Foldable.
- Metal frame.
- Oxford fabric.
- Measures 12.4 x 9 x 10 inches.
- Distance between basket and handlebar should be 10.2 inches or more.
Pros/Cons:
- Some users had difficulty assembling.
- Long. If there is a lot of weight it may touch the front tire.
Best Dog Bike Basket For Dogs Up To 24 lbs.
The Snoozer Pet Products bicycle seat is a rear mounted basket. It has a safety tether, reflective stitching for increased visibility, and a washable interior and exterior liner.
Snoozer Pet Products Lookout Dog Rear Rider Bicycle Seat
- For dogs up to 24 lbs.
- Removable, washable black quilted exterior and a faux fur interior.
- 3 point tether.
- Reflective band for visibility.
- Belt buckles in front and bottom to secure to bike.
- Measures 19 x 16 x 10 inches.
Best Waterproof Dog Bike Basket
The Sportneer bike basket is front mounted. It has a zipper closure and is foldable for easy storage.
Sportneer Bike Basket
- For dogs up to 11 lbs.
- Quick release.
- Foldable.
- Waterproof.
- Aluminum frame.
- Oxford cloth.
- Zipper closure.
- Suitable only for T shaped handlebars.
- Measures 12 x 8.9 x 9.6 inches.
Pros/Cons:
- Some users had difficulty installing it.
- Easy to get on and off.
Best Splurge Dog Bike Basket
This basket is rear mounted. It is handmade of willow with reinforced double weaving, a wood bottom, and 2 leashes to keep your dog secure.
Beach & Dog Co. Cape May Large Willow Bicycle Basket
- For dogs up to 25 lbs.
- Reinforced double weaving.
- ½ inch solid wood bottom.
- Includes 2 basket leashes.
- Accommodates racks 5 or 6 inches wide.
- Measures 19 x 10 x 11.5 inches.
Pros/Cons:
- Very thin cushion.
A bicycle ride around your neighborhood is great. Taking your dog with you is even better. A dog bike basket allows you to take your small dog with you on bicycle rides around your neighborhood.
Please check out our other posts on Health, Indoor, Outdoor, and Travel accessories for your dog, as well as Reviews of various products and travel destinations.