I love the idea of being able to take my dog out on adventures with me but one thing that’s important is the safety of your pet. Not to mention you need a way of transporting them that’s convenient for you and comfortable for them.
For this reason, I’ve spent some time looking at bike carriers that are designed to attach to the front of the bicycle. Your pet can sit comfortably inside and they’re packed with clever safety features to ensure you don’t find yourself putting up missing pet posters.
While there are lots of different options on the market, there were five that really stood out to me. You can read my full reviews on each of the carriers I’ll discuss but in this guide, I’d like to give an overview of the pros and cons of each product. I’ve also got some helpful tips to consider when choosing a front bike pet carrier.
Ownpets Dog Bike Basket
The Ownpets dog bike basket is favoured by many people for its incredible ease of use. There are no fiddly fixtures; it simply clips onto the front of the bike and you’re ready to go. What’s more, it’s got a decent weight capacity of 7.5 kg so it’s ideal for various small to medium dog breeds.
I also really like that the Ownpets dog bike basket is made from superior materials. The primary outer material is Oxford fabric which is not only extremely hard wearing but also offers a degree of water resistance; perfect for rainy days!
I should point out that the top drawstring opening might not be ideal for everyone but it is good if your pet wants a good view of the world while still being safe. Safety is further enhanced by the internal leash.
With padded shoulder straps for you and a soft inner cushion for your pet, this carrier is super comfortable whether you decide to leave it on your bike or carry it like a regular bag.
Trixie Front Bicycle Basket
One of the best things about the Trixie front bicycle basket, in my opinion, is how robust it is. If you’re looking for something that’s going to easily withstand heavy use then the EVA materials will really benefit you.
Not only is the Trixie front bike basket durable, it’s also super comfortable for your pet thanks to the mesh layers that promote excellent airflow, even in warm weather. What’s more, for pets up to 6 kg, there’s plenty of space.
I love that the basket can be easily removed and used as a standalone pet carrier, improving its versatility. However, I think it is worth pointing out that this bike carrier isn’t as easy to store as others as it doesn’t fold down.
BABEYER Dog Bike Basket
The BABEYER dog bike basket is another excellent choice if durability is at the top of your list. But the hard wearing materials certainly don’t compromise comfort and you’ll find a dual-sided pad inside the basket to keep your pet cosy and snug.
Another feature that really stood out to me was the user-friendliness of the BABEYER dog bike basket. It attaches to the bicycle frame, using strong velcro straps, in seconds so you can spend more time enjoying the outdoors with your furry friend.
That said, one of the downsides of this basket is that it isn’t waterproof so it’s not ideal for rainy days. But it makes up for this in other ways such as heaving reflective strips for night time use as well as the handy side pockets which can be used for treats, your keys or any other bits and pieces you might need to take out with you.
Redlution Bike Pet Basket Carrier
The Redlution bike pet basket carrier is designed for easy, everyday use. It features simple clips that allow you to get it set up in quick time as well as quick release straps for when you need to remove it and use it as a handheld carrier.
I should point out that this basket is only designed for bikes with straight handlebars which can limit who would be able to use it. That said, it does come with inserts to adjust the size of the clips according to the bicycle frame.
I also noticed that the Redlution bike pet basket carrier has an easy-open drawstring top. But it lacks an internal safety leash so it may not be suitable for pets that have a tendency to wander off.
That said, it’s a super stylish carrier that comes in a choice of three colours and also boasts durable materials that offer water resistance so it can be used in wet weather. I also love that the Redlution easily collapses for storage.
Pecute Pet Carrier Bag
The Pecute pet carrier bag is one of the best choices if you’re looking for something versatile. Not only does it attach to the front of your bike but it can be easily removed for use as a handheld carrier or even in the car.
One of the things that really caught my attention was the Oxford fabric used in the outer part of the carrier. This offers durability and water resistance in equal measures and there’s even a wind curtain to protect your pet on those blustery days.
This is a spacious pet carrier designed for dogs and cats weighing up to 6 kg. There’s a handy inner safety leash and an easy to use drawstring closure. Although, I should mention that there have been some reviews stating that the drawstring does tend to come open as you’re moving around.
The carrier folds down for easy storage and also comes in a choice of colours, allowing you to express your style when you’re out and about.
Tips On Buying A Pet Bike Carrier Basket
I’m super confident in the pet bike carriers that I have talked about in this guide but it’s important to keep in mind that not all products will be suitable for all users. Having different features and a variety of pros and cons, you may find that a particular carrier suits your needs more than the next.
That’s why I think it’s essential to research your options and consider the following points before making a decision.
Size And Weight Capacity
Front bike carriers are typically designed for smaller pets; after all you’re not going to put a great dane on the front of your bike!
But even so, each basket comes with different dimensions and its own weight limit. I cannot stress the importance of paying attention to this, primarily for safety reasons. Putting a dog that’s too heavy into a carrier that can’t handle it could result in the basket sagging or worse, falling off the bike.
Moreover, even where the weight limit is suitable, you’ll need to make sure that the dimensions are large enough to allow your pet some movement. The last thing you want is for them to feel confined and cramped.
Materials
Opting for heavy duty materials is essential when purchasing a pet bike carrier as you’re likely going to put it through some challenges. Simply being out and about comes with the potential for lots of wear and tear. By choosing stronger materials like Oxford fabric, you can feel confident that the carrier will stand the test of time.
I’d also recommend considering whether you need something water resistant. If you take your pet out most days then there’s always a chance of rain. On the flip side, this might not matter as much if you only plan to go for a pleasant cycle when the sun is shining.
But in warm weather, looking for breathable fabrics like mesh can promote additional comfort for your pet. In terms of comfort, I’d also recommend looking for carriers that have internal padding so that your pet has something soft and cosy to sit on.
Additional Features
Pet bike carriers come with a whole host of extra features and it’s a good idea to look over these before you buy.
Which features you need really depend on you, your pet and how you plan to use the carrier. For example, if you don’t want to have to take additional bags then something with side pockets will be very handy.
For pets that are likely to want to go off and explore, an inner safety leash is a must while things like a wind or rain cover are ideal if you know you’re going to be out in all kinds of weather.
Some pet carriers come with a reflective strip which is a fantastic safety feature for those that will be cycling at night.
I would also suggest checking whether the carrier can be easily stored and features a foldable body. If you’re short on storage space, this is an absolute necessity.
Ease Of Use
Nobody wants to buy a pet carrier that’s going to take an age and a day to set up which is why I always look for products that can be quickly and easily attached. That said, it’s important to make sure that the clips are secure and there’s no chance of them slipping or coming undone while you’re on the move.
Another important factor to consider is how easy the basket is to take off the bike. If you’re going to be using it for other things or if you only require it some of the time, you’ll need to find one that quickly detaches without a fuss.
In terms of straps and leashes, I would recommend looking for something adjustable yet simple. I’ve seen some products whose adjustable straps are very fiddly and this can end up being extremely frustrating.
Versatility
Having a carrier on the front of your bike is a great way to get your pet out and about but let’s face it, there are other ways to enjoy an adventure. For this reason, I think multifunctional bike carriers are the way forward.
Many of the products I have featured in this guide can be removed and used in other ways such as a handheld carrier, an over the shoulder bag or even your pet’s very own car seat!
Alternatives To Front Pet Bike Carriers
A front bike pet carrier is ideal for some people but it might not work as well for others. These carriers are designed for smaller dogs but if you have a larger breed then you might be better off choosing a bike trailer. These offer more space and have a greater weight capacity for those chunkier loveable animals.
If you don’t use your bicycle a lot then having a carrier that attaches to it means that you probably won’t get a lot of use out of the product. In this case, you might consider a pet backpack which is again designed for smaller dogs. However, I would urge you to keep in mind that the weight of the loaded pack will literally be on your shoulders so it’s essential that you choose something with good stability, sturdy straps and excellent shoulder padding.
Are Pet Bike Carrier Baskets Good for my Pet’s Health? – A Veterinary Professional’s Perspective
As a veterinary professional, I often encounter pet owners who are eager to involve their furry companions in various activities, including cycling. Pet bike carrier baskets can be a delightful way to include your pet on your cycling adventures, but it is crucial to consider the health implications for your pet. From a veterinary standpoint, these carriers must ensure the safety and comfort of the animal to be deemed beneficial for their health.
Firstly, the design of the carrier basket plays a significant role in determining its suitability for your pet. It should be sturdy, well-ventilated, and of an appropriate size to accommodate your pet without causing undue stress or discomfort. A cramped or poorly ventilated basket can lead to overheating or anxiety, which are detrimental to your pet’s well-being. Additionally, the basket should have a secure fastening mechanism to prevent any risk of your pet escaping or falling out during the ride, which could lead to injury.
Moreover, the pet’s temperament and health status should be taken into account. Not all pets are suited for travel in a bike carrier basket; some may find the experience overwhelming or frightening. Pets with certain health conditions or physical limitations may not cope well with the motion or the duration of a bike ride. It is advisable to gradually acclimatise your pet to the carrier and undertake short trips to begin with, monitoring their response closely. If your pet exhibits signs of distress or discomfort, it would be prudent to reconsider this mode of transportation.
In conclusion, while pet bike carrier baskets can be a fun and engaging way for pets and their owners to explore together, they must be selected and used with the utmost consideration for the animal’s health and safety. Always consult with your veterinary professional before embarking on new activities with your pet, especially those that involve a significant change in their environment or routine.
Being a 5th year Vet student and having a passion for improving the health and welfare of all animals, I am providing AblePaws.co.uk with a veterinary perspective / insight into the real word applications, including strengths and limitations of the products it reviews. This will allow you to make an informed decision as to the suitability of the pet products reviewed on the site to keep your pet mobile, comfortable and full of life!
