Dog Transport Buying Guide
Some people use dog carriers 
every day, while other households never need to buy anything more than a simple leash and collar . Before buying anything to transport your dog, think about your specific needs.
What to Keep in Mind When Shopping for a Dog Carrier or Crate
- Do you really need one? Are you just making a trip to a veterinarian or going for a car ride? Taking your dog on a leash is sufficient for most small trips.
- Are you traveling on an airplane? If so, make sure your carrier meets their regulations. Check with your airline, as these rules vary and change often.
- Are you traveling in a car, bus, boat/ship, or train? You'll want your carrier to be as small and easy to carry as possible. Look for comfortable handles or roller carriers .
- Size. Obviously your dog will have to fit in the carrier, but it's a good idea to make sure your dog can move in it too. Dogs should be able to sleep, spread out (at least a little. We all like extra leg room when traveling), stand up, and turn around completely. If you have a puppy or young dog, get a carrier with enough room for him or her in a few years! Forget a purse carrier if you have a large dog.
- Comfort. Longer trips require extra comfort! Look for a carrier or crate with a soft and warm bottom or put down a pillow, blanket, or towel. Make sure you bring his or her favourite toy to make the trip more pleasant.
- Price. Crates and carriers can range dramatically in price. Some cost little more than orange juice, while designer dog carriers can cost more than your car. The average person should go for the best quality they can afford.
- Do you have multiple dogs? Smaller dogs that get along well will enjoy a carrier large enough for both of them.
- Your dog's weight, strength, and temperament. Look for the maximum weight the carrier holds. Just because your dog fits in the carrier doesn't mean it can hold him! If your dog is strong, you may not want to get purse-like carriers or carriers made out of cloth. Watch out for mesh ; dogs that want to break out of mesh usually are strong enough to do so. Does your dog get nervous when left alone or is he afraid of the dark? If so, make sure the carrier has plenty of areas that are see-through.
- Protection. If you are going to a crowded place or if your dog needs extra protection (recovering from surgery, elderly, or young), go for a crate or carrier with a hard shell. Avoid soft purse carriers and backpacks .
Crates for Larger Dogs
| Crates |
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Soft Crates - Great for train, bus, and car rides.
- Not good for airplane trips.
- More comfortable for your dog.
- Easier to carry.
- Lighter.
- The shell isn't very hard, so make sure nothing can fall on top of it!
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Wire Crates - Great for housebreaking.
- One of the only options for extra large dogs that are heavy.
- Easy to clean.
- Durable.
- Easy for you to see your dog and your dog to look around.
- Not as attractive as other options.
- Uncomfortable.
- Usually less expensive.
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Plastic Crates - Great for dogs ranging from extra small to medium-large.
- Easy to clean.
- Not as durable as wire crates.
- Comfortable.
- Plenty of ventilation.
- Dogs can see well.
- Protects your pooch and keeps him contained.
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Carriers for Smaller Dogs
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