Best Front Bike Baskets for Dogs – Buyer’s Guide
As many dog owners would agree, incorporating you dog into as many of your favourite outdoor activities can be lots of fun whether that is swimming, hiking, jogging, etc. Have you ever thought: I want to bike ride with my dog? Or maybe you’ve seen dogs riding along in their owner’s wicker bike baskets in the movies and decided that you want a front bike basket for your dog.
There are plenty of front bike baskets for dogs on the market and each of them have varying specifications from size limits to materials they are made of. Cycling with your dog can be a very rewarding and fun experience if you do it safely for both yourself and your dog.
Read the guide to find out what dog breeds can travel in a front bike basket, how to ride a bike with a dog in the basket, the best safety tips, what to look for in a dog basket and my recommendations!
Table of Contents
Quick Picks
Cutest Design: PetSafe Solvit Tagalong Wicker Bicycle Basket
Best Multi-Purpose Design: Walky Basket Pet Dog Bicycle Bike Basket & Carrier
Cheap Option: Lixada Bike Basket
What Dog Breeds Can Travel in a Front Bike Basket?
Front bike baskets are meant for small or toy dog breeds that are under 10 kilograms (the weight capacity depends on the basket and some can carry more weight).
These are some breeds off the top of my head that would be suited to basket bike travel include:
- Chihuahuas
- Pomeranians
- Toy Poodles
- Pugs
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniels
- French Bulldogs
- Dachshunds
Just to name a few.
Dogs any larger will not fit, be too heavy and be a safety risk in a basket but this does not mean they will miss out on all the cycling fun! Larger breeds can chill out in rear bike trailers that attach to the back wheel of your bike. They look very similar to kid bike trailers that you might see at playgrounds or parks.
Safety Tips for Front Dog Bike Baskets
As with many outdoor activities there are risks that surround taking your dog out cycling in a front dog bike basket. The biggest concern for dog owners is that their dog will either fall or jump out of the basket and/or that the basket will fall off the bike. To reduce these risks it is vital to:
- Use a lead clip attachment
- Never go over the basket weight limit
- Make sure the basket is secure before riding with your dog
- Make sure your dog is calm and comfortable when riding in a basket
Most dog baskets come with lead clip attachments which are there so you can clip your dog’s leash onto the basket, acting like a seatbelt. I suggest you buying a short dog leash to go with your dog basket so you can hold onto the leash while riding for maximum security.
A good way to test if the basket is secure is to go riding with some weights (similar weight to your dog) inside it before you try riding a bike with your dog.
How Do You Train A Dog To Ride A Bike In A Front Mounted Basket?
It takes quite a lot of time and patience to train a dog to ride in a bike basket but once your dog masters it you can enjoy countless leisurely bike rides together.
The most important things for successful dog bike basket riding are building trust and confidence with your dog. Riding in a basket can be scary for a dog because they are up in the air and have no control.
To train a dog to ride in a bike basket you need to:
- Slowly introduce the basket to your dog by putting it on the ground and encouraging your dog inside it with some treats. Once he/she is inside ask him/her to sit. Reward with treats again. Repeat this step until he/she is very comfortable.
- Attach the basket to the bike. Lift your dog inside. Reward him/her with treats. If he/she is calm and happy being in the basket start walking your bike around so he/she can get used to the movement.
- Once your dog has completed the previous two steps you can start riding the bike very slowly and for short periods of time. Build up the length of the journeys and then the speed. Also increase the difficulty of the ride, go over speed bumps, go up hilly roads etc. Reward your dog at the end of each bike ride.
What To Look For In A Front Dog Bike Basket
Secure Design
The number one most important aspect of a front dog bike basket is security. The basket needs to be fixed onto your bike in a very secure way. It should not be wobbly or look like it’s going to fall off. The basket also should be tall enough that your dog can not easily jump out and maybe feature a cage dome top for extra security. Finally the basket needs to be able to carry your dog’s weight. If your dog is heavier than the specified weight you are putting him/her at risk. It is also vital to look for baskets that have lead or harness attachments so you can lock your dog inside the basket.
Comfort
Comfort is another thing you need to watch out for in a dog bike basket. Not all dogs will find the texture of a wicker basket or plastic basket under their paws pleasant. Theses surfaces are uneven and hard which can be uncomfortable if the ride is bumpy. Some dogs also don’t like baskets that have holes in them. These generally come as wire baskets. A dog’s reaction might be similar to walking over boardwalks that have holes in them. Dogs are uncomfortable with this because they think they will fall through and do not have a good enough grip. Look for boxes that have plush cushions or soft fluffy interiors. This will ensure maximum comfort.
Roof or Rain Cover
You will notice that some dog baskets feature roofs or rain covers. If you are going to be transporting your dog in your bike very often in wind, rain or sun you should look for one with this. It will protect your dog from all sorts of weather conditions. It won’t only act as a rain cover but also protect your dog from the sun. If you are considering this feature, make sure the cover is high enough that your dog can comfortably sit in the basket.
Pockets
Now that the basket space is all taken up for your dog there is no storage space, luckily many designs have incorporated pockets. This is handy if you are riding your bike to the local shops and need space to put a few groceries or it can hold your dog’s toys, balls leads etc.
Fits Lots Of Bikes
You want to look for a basket that can fit lots of different bike types. This is good if you are going to upgrade your bike in the future or if multiple people are using the one basket in your family.
Multi-purpose
Some front dog bike baskets are multipurpose and can act as a dog booster seat, dogs beds or dog carriers. If you are looking for value in a product I suggest one of these however consider the extra time it will take to assemble and disassemble a basket on and off your bike everytime you want to use it for another purpose.
Frequently Asked Questions About Front Bike Baskets For Dogs
Are bike baskets safe for dogs? Yes, dog bike baskets are safe for small dogs who are within the weight capacity of the basket. Most bike baskets for dogs have a lead attachment located inside so you can secure your dog. Additionally, if you ride your bike carefully your dog will be safe.
How do you secure a dog in a bike basket? The majority of bike baskets for dogs have a lead attachment inside. You can secure your dog inside the bike basket by attaching this to the back clip of this harness. The lead attachment looks similar to a dog seat belt.
How can I take my dog on a bike ride? The best way to take a small dog on a bike ride is to put him in a dog bike basket that can be clipped onto the front of your handle bars. For a larger dog, a dog bike trailer is the best way to take your dog on a bike ride.
Read Also: The Best Dog Bike Trailers – Buyers Guide
Are dog bike baskets foldable? The majority of dog bike baskets are not foldable as they are made out of a sturdy material such as metal or wicker. Nevertheless there are some designs that are foldable, making them easier to pack up and store inside your house.
Is it safe to put a dog in a basket on a bike? Yes, in most cases it is safe to put a dog in a basket on a bike, especially if it is a dog basket specifically designed for dogs. To make the experience safe for your dog make sure they are secured on the lead attachment.
Do dog bike baskets fit all bikes? No, dog bike baskets do not fit all types of bikes. Each dog bike basket has different measurements so it is vital to check the manufacturing specifications or product description before purchasing to see if it will fit your bike.
How do you put a dog basket on a bike? Most dog baskets have a bracket that loops around and attaches to your handle bars with screws. The basket is then securely attached to the bracket.
Front Bike Basket Recommendations For Dogs
1. Travelin K9 Pet-Pilot MAX Dog Bicycle Basket Carrier
Rating
4 Stars on Amazon
Price
Check Amazon For The Current Price
Review
The Travelin K9 Pet Pilot MAX Dog Bicycle Basket can hold dogs up to 25 pounds (11.3kg) which makes it one of baskets that can hold the heaviest weight. This is because of its patent metal mounting system. I really like this rectangular basket design because it comes in a diverse range of colours including: cherry red, purple passion, turquoise, blue, orange, neon yellow, neon green, pink and silver. This is great so you can match the basket to the colour of your bike. Other features are it’s mesh windows for ventilation, safety lead, fluffy interior and it’s side mesh pockets.
Specifications
| Dimensions | 9.5″(H) x 3″(W) x 10.5″(L) 24.1cm(H) x 7.6cm(H) x 26.7cm(L) |
| Weight Capacity | 25 pounds 11.3 kilograms |
| Lead Attachments | Yes, safety leash included |
| Comfort | Black furry interior |
| Roof | No |
| Pockets | Side mesh pockets |
| Bike Types | Not specified |
| Multi-purpose | No |
| Other | Mesh windows for ventilation No sway design |
2.Walky Basket Pet Dog Bicycle Bike Basket & Carrier
Rating
3 Stars on Amazon
Price
Check Amazon For The Current Price
Review
The Walky Basket is a navy blue bike basket and pet carrier that converts between the two. It is oval in shape and has a front zippered pocket and two mesh side pockets that can be used for drink bottles. The stand out features of this product is the lead that is sewn inside the basket that can be used like a dog seatbelt and the easy clip unclip mounting system. This system allows you to take the basket off your bike when not in use or so you can use it as a pet carrier with the included adjustable shoulder strap. One of the complaints on Amazon is that sometimes it unclips too easily which compromises the safety of the product.
Specifications
| Dimensions | 15.5″ wide x 10″ inches deep 39cm wide x 25.4cm deep |
| Weight Capacity | 15 pounds 6.8 kilograms |
| Lead Attachments | Sewn-in leash |
| Comfort | Padded nylon floor |
| Roof | No |
| Pockets | Zippered front pocket Mesh side pockets |
| Bike Types | Two sizes of mounting rings for different handle bars |
| Multi-purpose | Works as pet carrier with shoulder strap |
| Other | Mesh cover top to zip pet inside Reflective front strip for safety Quick release system to take on and off |
3.PetSafe Solvit Tagalong Wicker Bicycle Basket
Rating
4 ½ Stars on Amazon
Price
Check Amazon For The Current Price
Review
The PetSafe Solvit Tagalong Wicker Bicycle Basket is a super cute dog basket design because of it’s furry interior and wicker style. It would match a retro bike very well. The basket can hold up to a 13lb (5.9kg) dog and has a three way bracket adjustment system so it can fit on many types of bikes. The stand out feature of this product is the addition of a sun roof which can protect your dog from the sun’s damaging UV rays. Don’t be worried about the white fluffy liner getting dirty because it is removable and can be washed in cold water.
Specifications
| Dimensions | 15 in. x 11 in. x 9.5 in 38.1cm x 27.9cm x 24.1cm |
| Weight Capacity | 13 lb 5.9kg |
| Lead Attachments | Yes, adjustable safety leash |
| Comfort | White faux sheepskin interior |
| Roof | Wicker roof |
| Pockets | No |
| Bike Types | Three-way adjustments on the bracket allows for a good fit on lots of bikes |
| Multi-purpose | No |
| Other | Liner is removable and washable |
4. Pet Carrier Bicycle Basket Bag
Rating
4 Stars on Amazon
Price
Check Amazon For The Current Price
Review
The Pet Carrier Bicycle Basket Bag is a very versatile design as it can be a dog bike basket, pet shoulder bag carrier, pet backpack carrier and a dog car booster seat. It comes in two colours either grey or pink and can hold a dog up to 18lbs (8.2kg). The basket has padding and a sheepskin liner on the bottom for comfort. It also has a lead tether system for safety and a drawstring mesh top fabric piece that your dog’s head can pop out for extra security. It also is a very deep design if you are concerned about your dog jumping out.
Specifications
| Dimensions | 11″L x 12″W x 14.5”H 27.9cm x 30.5cm x 36.8cm |
| Weight Capacity | 18lbs 8.2kg |
| Lead Attachments | Tether system |
| Comfort | Padded design, sheepskin liner bottom |
| Roof | There’s a mesh cover with drawstring circle for your dog’s head |
| Pockets | Large side pockets |
| Bike Types | Bicycle head must extend to 14” (35.5cm) or more |
| Multi-purpose | Yes. Can be used as a pet backpack, pet shoulder bag and pet car seat carrier. |
| Other | Mesh venting roll up and down window Collapsible design for storage |
5. Lixada Dog Bike Basket
Rating
3 ½ Stars On Amazon
Price
Check Amazon For The Current Price
Review
The Lixada Bike Basket is a cheaper option for travelling by bike with your dog compared to other models listed above. It is a rectangular design can come in either dark grey or bright blue fabric. The basket can hold up to 22lbs (10kg) which is good for most small breeds. The stand out feature of this basket is it’s clean minimalistic design and it’s options for storage with it’s pockets.
Specifications
| Dimensions | 14 x 10 x 9 inches 35.5 x 25.4 x 22.8 centimetres |
| Weight Capacity | 22 lbs 10kg |
| Lead Attachments | Yes |
| Comfort | Cushion bottom |
| Roof | No |
| Pockets | Front flap pocket Side bottle pockets |
| Bike Types | Not specified |
| Multi-purpose | No |
| Other | Reflective strips for night visibility Waterproof Soft handle straps |
Further Reading
What's Your Reaction?
