The Best Dog Bike Trailers for Cycling Adventures 2023
Undoubtedly, one of the most common questions we get from readers is our opinion on the best dog bike trailer on the market. There are several to choose from to suit different needs with varying price ranges and qualities.
However…
There are just a few brands that make quality dog bike trailers that will last for years and that can handle a beating, which is why this list may seem short. I don’t just look at the top sellers on Amazon. I do the research and only recommend what I would use myself.
You can trust my pick because I biked across Europe and South America with my dog for two years. We put our trailers to.the.test.
This guide highlights my picks for the best bike trailer for dogs and will help you choose the ideal one for your adventures.
Top Picks for the Best Dog Bike Trailer
- Overall Best Dog Bike Trailer: Burley Design Tail Wagon – New and improved in 2022, the Tail Wagon is hands down the best dog bicycle trailer for everyday transportation and paved bicycle touring.
- Best Dog Bike Trailer for Mixed Terrain: Burley Design Bark Ranger – The newest addition to the Burley Design pet bike trailer line up, this all-terrain and multi-sport trailer will fulfill all of your needs.
Considering bringing your dog along on bike tour, or even just a day ride? See How to Bike with a Dog for our best tips and helpful information on getting started.
How to Choose a Dog Bike Trailer for Bike Touring
Sit down and really consider what kind of riding you will be doing. Think about the terrain and the climate. Consider your dog’s comfort level.
This section outlines what we believe are the most important features for a dog bike trailer. Above all, you want a high-quality, durable item that will handle the sort of adventures you have in mind.
Handling
Biking with a bike dog trailer significantly alters the way you ride your bike. It takes a few spins to get used to the feeling.
A few things to keep in mind:
- You have to take wide corners
- Acceleration takes a bit of effort
- Cruising downhill is like towing a parachute
- Pedaling uphill feels like, well, like you’re towing a trailer
The weight of your dog, bike, and trailer will all affect the handling, so depending on how you plan to use the trailer, choose accordingly.
Materials
Some dog bike trailers are made of mesh panels for breathability, while others are made from a more solid fabric. Mesh can be more prone to tearing if your dog tends to scratch, but allows fresh air to flow through the trailer.
Also consider the material of the frame as well. Aluminum frames are lighter, yet less durable than steel frames.
Steel weighs more than aluminum, but can be easily welded back together if it breaks. Additionally, steel can handle more weight, which is important if you have a large dog.
We recommend avoiding plastic frames as they’re inexpensive and easily break.
Durability
As with most gear, you get what you pay for. A high quality dog bike trailer can last thousands of miles, whereas a less expensive one may fail easily.
Things to look out for include:
- Materials – aluminum and steel vs plastic
- Wheels – are the spokes made from plastic or aluminum? Plastic wheels are done if they break, but spokes can be replaced.
- Skewers – Are they easy to remove?
- Tires – What is the likelihood of getting a flat on the factory tires? (We always replace our tires with Marathon Schwalbe (20” X 1.75”) (we had just 3 flats over the whole trip).
Take a look at bike trailer reviews online to get an idea of the durability of the various options.
Suspension
Some dog bicycle trailers come with suspension, which we found infinitely useful cycling over gravel roads in South America.
If you stick to roads and paved bike paths, then you can forgo the suspension. Many bike trailers can handle some bumpy terrain even without suspension.
Suspension softens the impact of riding on rough or bumpy terrain. The trade off is heavier trailer, but your pup will feel considerably more comfortable on rocky roads.
Warranty
We highly recommend considering buying a trailer with a warranty. If you’re unsure how your dog will handle the trailer, or if it ends up collecting dust in the garage, it’s not a bad idea to have some added protection.
We love REI’s generous return policy which allows returns for up to one year after purchase.
Size / Weight
The size of the trailer you need depends on the size of your dog, of course. If you’ve got a large dog, you’ll want a large dog bike trailer.
Measure their length, width, and height and compare the interior dimensions to make sure they will be comfortable in their rig.
REI carries many of the trailers listed in this guide. We suggest stopping by to test the fit before committing to a purchase.
For a small dog, you’ll want to maximize the interior space for your pup while keeping weight at a minimum.
Versatility
Some pet bike trailers come with separately-sold attachments that enable use for other sports.
Many include a wheel and handle to use as a stroller or jogger, which comes in very handy if your dog has surgery or an injury or if you just want to continue the adventures with your senior dog.
Others come with ski attachments, so if you would like to pull your dog for a change, then you can!
Other Important Features
Safety Flag: A tall safety flag is not necessary, but nice to have for riding in urban settings or on busy roads.
Brake System: some trailers have a hand break, which can come in handy when you are stopped on a hill and want to take some of the pressure off the load.
Rain Covers: It will rain at some point if you plan to bike tour with your dog. Make sure to get a trailer that includes rain protection.
Pockets: Interior pockets keep dog gear organized and prevent your dog from swimming in a sea of water bowls, treats, and other gear in the trailer.
Entrance: Consider whether the trailer is designed for kids or specifically for dogs. The entrance will differ.
The entry point for pets is located in the back or above so there is more space for your pet to enter compared to kids trailers where the entrance faces the back of the bike.
Visibility: Bright colors are easier to see on the road, alerting drivers that you’re carrying special cargo. Also, choose a trailer that includes a spot to snap on a red blinky light if night falls mid-ride.
Best Dog Bike Trailers for Paved Roads
If you plan to stick mostly to roads and paved bike paths, then these will do the job.
Top Pick: Burley Tail Wagon Pet Bike Trailer
MSRP: $399
Best for: Road cycling, bicycle touring, paved paths, city riding
Maximum weight: 75 lbs
Full Review: Burley Tail Wagon
We used the Burley Tail Wagon for eight months straight during the European leg of our bicycle tour. The Tail Wagon has since been updated and the new features are pretty sweet.
Designed specifically for dogs, the Tail Wagon keeps your pup in mind with every aspect of this trailer, making it a top pick in bike trailers for dogs.
New additions include a removable floor for easy cleaning and the
There is ample storage on the backside of the trailer giving you plenty of space to store leashes, water bottles, and other pet supplies, plus the new attachments to accommodate the pet trailer pouch can store additional gear.
The $400 price tag makes this trailer affordable for most aspiring riders and won’t break your bank.
Pros:
- Highly breathable mesh fabric keeps the dog cool with fresh airflow while riding
- Rear facing front door make entry and exit easy for your dog
- Quick closure straps
- Lightweight (21 lbs)
- Price is low for entry level riders
- Designed by a company whose sole focus is bike trailers
- Aluminum wheels with spokes
- Rain covers over front and back mesh
- Lots of pockets
- Folds down easily
- BLUESIGN and recycled materials
Cons:
- No rain covers to protect water from entering through the side mesh
- Tires will spray some water on the side of the trailer in the rain.
- No longer comes with a stroller attachment
Thule Cadence 2 Bike Trailer
MSRP: $379.95
Best for: Road cycling, bicycle touring, paved paths, city riding
Maximum weight: 100 lbs
Conversion kit: Stroller (included)
Though designed for children, you can modify the trailer to remove the kid seats and provide more space for your dog.
The weight capacity is high, making the Cadence ideal for larger dogs who need a bit of extra space to move around.
Pros:
- Easy folding for storage and transporting
- Aluminum wheels
- Includes flag and has roll down rain cover
- Well-known brand with strong reputation
- Limited lifetime warranty
- Great price
Cons:
- Padding is limited on the floor. Consider putting a dog travel bed to line the bottom.
- No sun protection
- Velcro is used for closing the door
- Limited interior space or leash hooks
Best Dog Bike Trailers for Mixed Terrain
If your bicycle tour involves both paved roads and trails, then these are the best dog trailers for bike touring on mixed terrain.
Top Pick: Burley Bark Ranger
MSRP: $599.95-$699.95
Best for: Mixed terrain
Maximum weight: 75lb | 100 lbs
Conversion kit: Stroller (included), jogger, ski, sand and gravel
The Bark Ranger is the newest addition to the Burley pet trailer family and it’s pretty exciting. Think of it as a mix between the Tail Wagon (above) and the D’Lite (below).
Available in regular and XL, the Bark Ranger offers a roomy interior, exterior pockets to store gear, and a low-clearance tailgate for easy entry.
The 2-in-1 bike trailer and stroller is great for long term travel and easily converts to a kennel for training.
The Bark Ranger is essentially my dream dog bike trailer. It is also compatible with larger tires for more rugged terrain or snow, and converts to a ski kit with added accessories.
Pros:
- Tons of space (36.2 liters)
- Easy to break down
- Lightweight (26.6 lbs)
- Built-in and adjustable handlebar so you can push the trailer as needed
- 20” wheels with push button quick releases
Cons:
- Pricey
Top Pick: Burley D’Lite X
MSRP: Single: $899.95 | Double: $999.95
Best for: Off-road, gravel grinding, sand, dirt roads
Maximum weight: 75lb | 100 lbs
Conversion kit: Stroller (included), jogger, ski, sand and gravel
Full Review: Burley D’Lite
We used the Burley D’Lite (discontinued, this is the alternative) in South America and were over the moon impressed with the durability and suspension.
Single or double versions are available and, while designed for kids, with a few minor modifications make it completely suitable for dogs.
This trailer was put to the test with the bumpiest of gravel roads, crappy asphalt, and cobblestone. It never failed us.
The spring-based adjustable suspension made for a smooth ride on rocky roads and is absolutely worth the extra weight when taking the back roads.
Pros:
- Suspension for a smoother ride
- Tons of space (40 liters, single)
- Built in sunshade and tinted side and rear windows
- Easy to break down
- Lightweight (28.4 lbs)
- High visibility yellow and green colors available
- Built-in and adjustable handlebar so you can push the trailer as needed
- 20” wheels with push button quick releases
Cons:
- Rear window does not open
- Zippers stick a little on the front window
- Better OEM tires
- Pricey
Thule Chariot Lite Multisport Trailer
MSRP: $999.95
Best for: Road cycling, bicycle touring, paved paths, city riding, multi-sport
Maximum weight: 98 lbs
Conversion kit: Stroller (included), jogger, skiing, hiking sold separately
Thule is known in the car accessory industry world as being a pioneer of product design and high quality. They also happen to make quality bike trailers.
As a comparison to the D’Lite, the Thule Chariot Lite Multisport is designed for four different activities: biking, jogging, strolling, and skiing. Both the jogger and the ski kit are sold separately.
Pros:
- Lightweight, weighing in at 27 lbs. 8 oz.
- UV protected windows
- Full sunshade and rain cover protects from elements
- Lightweight carrier makes for easier use
- Compact folding design
- Click n’ Store system allow you to convert between different activities in one outing
Cons:
- Pricey
- Jogger and ski kit are pricey
- Stroller arm only has two adjustments
Best Budget Dog Bike Trailers
I have not tried out the two dog bike trailers listed below, however, I have determined that if you are on a budget, or unsure whether biking with your dog is something that you will want to do long term, these would make good entry-level options.
These options would be good for short trips around town or weekend bike tours on paved roads.
Solvit Houndabout Aluminum Frame Dog Bike Trailer
MSRP: Medium: $224.99 | Large: $254.95
Best for: Road cycling, bicycle touring, paved paths, city riding
Maximum weight: 50 lbs | 110 lbs
Conversion kit: None
The Solvit Houndabout trailer is designed for pets by a pet brand company (Pet Safe). It includes an adjustable safety leash to ensure your pup stays in the trailer.
There is plenty of breathable mesh and outside storage on this trailer. The dog bike trailer frame is also available in steel or aluminium.
Pros:
- Cushion for comfort
- Designed with maximum airflow for your dog
- Sunroof. Your dog can sunbathe while you do the hard work
- Aluminum wheels
- Foldable storage
- Front door with waterproof layer
Cons:
- Specific trailer hitch that can be difficult to fit to all bikes
- No flag
- Small interior length for larger dogs
- Designed for bikes with 26” wheels. There is a slant used for bikes with 700cc front and rear wheels.
- Can be difficult to assemble
- Not compatible for bikes with a Shimano gear set
Schwinn Rascal Tow Behind Pet Trailer
MSRP: $244.49
Best for: Road cycling, bicycle touring, paved paths, city riding
Maximum weight: Rascal: 50 lbs | Rascal Plus: 100 lbs
Conversion kit: None
Pros:
- Easy to assemble
- Sun roof lets pets enjoy the scenery
- Lined with a removable non-slip surface
- Leash attachment to prevent dogs from leaping out
- High weight capacity
- Universal coupler attaches to most bikes
- Lightweight at 23 lbs
Cons:
- Reports that trailer can tip easily if larger dog moves around
- Not as durable as others on this list
- Larger dogs won’t be able to turn around easily
Have you used a trailer not listed here that you recommend?
What are your must have features for a dog bike trailer?
PIN FOR LATER!
Disclaimer: Burley Design provided the D’Lite and Tail Wagon dog bike trailers as part of a ambassador agreement. The opinions expressed in this post are entirely our own and we were in no way compensated for this review. We genuinely love our Burley trailers think they they are the best on the market.
Small typo in the Rain Cover section…We have always considered a trailer that will keep our dog _dry_ when touring or living in the rainy Pacific Northwest.
Now I just need to decide whether I want the extra exercise of pulling a trailer with a 90 lb Labrador behind me!
David
Thanks for the help on the typo. Have you pulled your lab before? It’s not as bad as you’d think!
Great article here! I’m interested in the Solvit Houndabout. Can I hitch it to a 29er? Is there a ‘slant’ I would need and where would i get that from?
Cheers
Hi Richard,
I’m not 100% sure the Solvit will work on a 29er. I’m inclined to say yes, and, please ask Solvit directly. They’ll know for sure as I’d hate for you to buy one and find out it doesn’t work. Most the “slant” issues can be solved with a dog bed and a few towels.
Best,
-dave
the solv-it houndabout will fit 29″ and 700cc wheels with no slant. the hitch is universal and easily mounts to the bicycle. i have used it for over a year now with both sizes of wheels and i carry a 65lb dog. the trailer is very easy to set up and take down as with everything…the more you do it the easier it becomes. i purchased this trailer because my dog outgrew the tail wagon. the solv-it large has plenty of space for her to lay down. the trailer weighs 25lb compared to the burley at 23.5lb. the sunroof is great and i leave it zipped 1/2 of the way to offer her some shade. the airflow is awesome.
i have the large solv-it and i pulled my 65lb dog 490 miles with a fully loaded 29er. was no problem hitching the trailer to this bike.
@susen-marie, hi Susen… Im thinking of a trailer for my ridgeback who is 65-70 pounds…is the burley too small ?
I don’t think it would be too small. The trailer fits dogs up to 100lbs.
Dave, Finding your bike trailer reviews and also your adventure blog is like finding the honey pot! So very cool! We’re a forever dog family and we have a large Doodle who would love to go on more adventures with us. Suspension is super important to me though. I have a Brooks Saddle for myself, and I want to be sure my fur pal will riding as comfortably as I am. Especially if he’s to have fun too. If you were placing ride suspension as a rating, do you know which trailer you would point to?
…suspension as a priority… because your reviews certainly did mention suspension.
But pointing to a trailer which would you say, “this one has a great suspension for urban folks looking for fun recreational rides (not epic rides :)”
Hi K,
What type of terrain are you riding in the urban environment? If it’s lot of bumps and something like dirt or cobble stone, then the Burley D Lite is the best out there. If you don’t want to break the bank, then the the Tail Wagon will suffice.
Wondering about converting a BOB trailer for my dog? Seems like it would be easier to pull. Thoughts about this idea?
I thought about this to when starting to plan pulling a dog. Ultimately, the hassle of finding a secure way to keep my dog on a bob, even in a kennel, and waterproofing it just became too much. I think getting an intro trailer is way easier.
Thanks for the article Dave. Another piece of equipment I’ll be buying for my pooch!
Glad you found the article helplful!
Just discovered your site and am well impressed! I’m wondering, does the burley tail wagon tip over easily in corners? We wouldn’t want the trailer to fall over with our (rather hyper excitable) doggo in it. And also, does it hook to a shimano nexus 7 internal hub?
The Tail Wagon is seriously rugged! While not designed for off-roading, we definitely took on dirt paths, over curbs, on cobblestone streets and it never once tipped over. Regarding the hub, I’m not sure! You’ll have to ask Burley!
I need stroller trailer for two terriers and shopping each 20 lbs and love to ride
Good morning! Just adopted a little 22# female mutt from the streets of Puerto Rico and hope to haul her around behind my bike along the Erie Canal trail (combo of paved, gravel, dirt) ! Funds are limited so I am weighing decisions carefully – have you tried out the Dutch Dog Design trailers that used a “britch” system to connect to the bike?
Thanks for all the great info!
Aw yay! I love that you brought home a dog from PR! I’ve not tried the Dutch Dog Design trailers. Depending on how much riding you want to do, I’d maybe save up or look for a used trailer to get the higher quality that will last longer.
Hi Jen and Dave, great info here, thank you!
We adopted an 8 mo old, deaf cattle dog almost 2 yrs ago. He is finally hitting his stride with us running trails and alongside the bike. Sadly, we cannot let him run free due to lack of recall ability, but we would love to take him longer distances than reasonable physical limitations. Comparing the Burley D’Lite X (he is 55 lbs of love), and the Encore X. The descriptions look so similar, but the price difference suggests major differences. Do you have any thoughts on this? We ride/run Forest Service dirt/bumpy roads and trails. Thanks in advance! Lisa, Dave and Sky:)
Hi Lisa! I took a look at both the Encore and the D’Lite and they look pretty comparable, actually! I think that you could accomplish all the terrain you want in the Encore!
Does the bark ranger have suspension? I see that listed in this article but I am not finding those details in Burley’s website. Thanks!
I’ve emailed Burley to ask. I thought that it did, but maybe I made it up! I’ll make the change if so!
I only tried a few but some of the links are dead or mis-directs.
Thanks for letting me know! Ugh, I had just gone through all of them to test, too. The perils of gear posts!
Thank you for this great article! I’m wondering if you have any information about how you converted the Burley D’Lite for doggo? I found one for sale used, and love the idea of taking the older pup along on bikepacking trips that probably would include trails. I’m concerned that the Burley trailers without suspension might be a rough ride. Thanks!
All we did was remove the child seats! That’s it! If you see a used one for sale, I’d nab it!
I have two corgi dogs, each weigh about 25-30lbs. What’s the best trailer for both my pups together. Will be mostly on a gravel trail
Hmm, I’d go with the Bark Ranger or the D’Lite X!
Great article! I’m looking at the Bark Ranger XL for long-haul trips over gravel/some pavement, and the only negative is the no suspension. Has anyone taken the D’lite suspension (or any suspension) and added it to the bark ranger? It appears that both models can use the accessories (16″ tires, skis), so the setup should be similar. thanks
Reddit might be a good place to find and answer. Otherwise bicycle touring FB groups might be another good place! Good luck!
Why are Croozer trailers so much more expensive??? any specific details?
Also, PailioShop Zeta is not in your list, any reasons why?
Thank you for this page, its brilliant!
I’m not familiar with Croozer trailers. When I looked them up, they seem to be only available in Europe, so that’s likely why I’ve not heard of them. The dog trailer does have shocks, so that is one reason they’re more pricey, but otherwise, the price does seem steep. Burley trailers are available in Europe! I’ve also not heard of the PailioShop Zeta either, but thanks for putting it on my radar as another recommendation for European residents!
Thanks so much for putting this together! Ive done moto touring with my doggies in a sidecar and am so excited to tour with them on bikes, this article is so helpful! happy tails!
Ah moto touring sounds like fun! Hope you find a chance to get out with them on a bike soon!