Furiends, we may receive a small commission if you purchase products or services through our affiliate links.
But what do you do when your dog is unable to walk because they're getting older or had an injury? Or just because it’s a hot summer day? A dog stroller might be just the thing you need! In this article, we will explore the various benefits of a dog stroller and how it can improve your dog’s quality of life.
Furiends, we may receive a small commission if you purchase products or services through our affiliate links.
Our sweet girl Maizee turned 14 last year. She is a West Highland “terror” and is always active and getting into everything. With her advancing age, we decided she might benefit from using a stroller, especially for long walks or family excursions. And it was the best decision we could have made! Maizee loved it from the start, although she did ride standing up in the beginning. She also tried to jump out, so it was handy to have the tether attachment hook on the stroller. We wondered why we didn’t get a stroller sooner? Last year, we went on a girl’s vacation to Cape May and the stroller allowed us to go just about everywhere, including outdoor restaurants and a ferry ride, where Maizee eventually fell comfortably asleep.
We were a bit surprised by some of the strange comments, mostly from people who are not dog parents. Comments included: “what a spoiled dog! why can’t your dog walk? why is your dog in a baby stroller? etc. At first, we explained that Maizee was elderly but after a while we just ignored them. Most people were very kind and wanted to say hello! The other benefit of the stroller was for us humans because we can go out for longer (and faster walks) in the evening with the stroller. Maizee still takes a walk in the mornings but at night, she can walk a little and then get in her cool pink ride!!!
A dog stroller provides your dog with increased mobility and accessibility, making it easier for them to explore their surroundings. Whether your dog is recovering from an injury, has arthritis, or is simply can’t walk long distances, a stroller allows them to enjoy the outdoors without putting undue strain on their body. This is particularly beneficial for older dogs who may have lost some of their mobility. A stroller is also a great alternative to carrying your dog, which can be very tiring during long excursions.
Dogs can get stressed and anxious in unfamiliar environments. A dog stroller can help reduce these feelings by providing a familiar and comfortable space. You can use a stroller to help your dog adjust to new environments gradually by starting with short trips around the neighborhood. You can then head out to new locations. This gradual approach can help your dog feel less anxious in new and unfamiliar places.
Aging or injured dogs may require special care to maintain their health and well-being. A dog stroller can provide them with the fresh air they need while minimizing discomfort, pain or further injury. It can also provide an alternative for dogs who are healing from injuries or surgery because they don’t need to stay cooped indoors. Whether you have a senior dog or a dog in recovery, they can enjoy outings without putting undue strain on their bodies,
Dogs may not be able to walk outdoors on a hot day, when the sun is blazing and the ground could scald their feet. Or they might not enjoy walking in the rain. A dog stroller provides them with protection from these elements, ensuring their comfort and safety during outdoor activities. The stroller's roof and sides can shield your pet from rain, while its mesh windows allow for proper ventilation during hot weather. Dogs are also susceptible to sunburn while exposed to the sun. A dog stroller protects them from direct sunlight while allowing for airflow. Additionally, a stroller can protect your dog's feet from salt that may have been used to melt ice and snow during the cold weather seasons.
Dogs are generally social animals and may enjoy meeting new people and animals. A dog stroller allows you to take your dog on outings and meet new people and animals while keeping them safe and secure. It can also give them access to locations where they might not otherwise be allowed. For example, your dog may be allowed to sit at a table at an outdoor restaurant while sitting in the stroller. They could also commute on a train while sitting in a stroller, especially one that allows you zip up or latch the cover to fully enclose your dog.
Whether you're a repeat pet parent or a newbie, finding the right dog stroller can be overwhelming with so many options, choices and variations available! We've done the research for you and narrowed down the list to the top picks based on factors such as durability, ease of use, size, and price. And based on our own experiences!
When using a dog stroller, there are a few tips to follow to ensure your pet's comfort and safety:
1. Measure and weigh your pet to ensure they fit comfortably in the stroller. Most strollers have weight limits which should not be ignored.
2. Allow your dog to explore the stroller and get in it on their own terms. This will help them feel more comfortable and less anxious when you take them out for a walk. Gradually get them used to the stroller by starting with short walks around the block.
3. Use the safety tether strap in your pet. This will prevent them from jumping out or running away.
4. Always supervise your pet while they're inside the stroller. Confirm that they're comfortable and not getting too hot or cold.
5. Use the brakes when stopping the stroller, especially when on an incline.
The use of a dog stroller has many benefits that can greatly improve your pet's quality of life, whether they are elderly, injured or disabled or simply can’t walk far. It can prevent further injuries and provides more options for including your dog during family excursions. Finally, the use of a dog stroller is an effective way to enhance the well-being and happiness of your pup.