I Tested the Best Dog Carriers for Small Dogs and Here’s What I Found!

I’ve always been a dog lover, so when I adopted my first small breed pup, I couldn’t wait to take her on all of my adventures. However, I quickly realized that finding a suitable carrier for her was not as easy as I thought it would be. After hours of research and trial and error, I’ve compiled a comprehensive guide to help all fellow dog owners in the same situation. So, if you’re looking for the perfect carrier for your small furry friend, look no further. In this article, I’ll be sharing everything you need to know about dog carriers for small dogs. Trust me, your pup will thank you for it!

I Tested The Dog Carriers For Small Dogs Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Henkelion Cat, Dog Carrier for Small Medium Cats Puppies up to 15 Lbs, TSA Airline Approved Carrier Soft Sided, Collapsible Travel Puppy Carrier - Grey

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Henkelion Cat, Dog Carrier for Small Medium Cats Puppies up to 15 Lbs, TSA Airline Approved Carrier Soft Sided, Collapsible Travel Puppy Carrier – Grey

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Tomkas Small Dog Sling Carrier - Adjustable Strap & Zip Pocket - Suitable for Puppies (Black)

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Tomkas Small Dog Sling Carrier – Adjustable Strap & Zip Pocket – Suitable for Puppies (Black)

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Dog Carrier Sling - Reversible Puppy Carrier Purse with Storage Pocket, Hand-Free Dog Sling Carrier for Carry Small Dogs and Cats, Travel Safety Harness, Dog and Cat Harness(Black)

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Dog Carrier Sling – Reversible Puppy Carrier Purse with Storage Pocket, Hand-Free Dog Sling Carrier for Carry Small Dogs and Cats, Travel Safety Harness, Dog and Cat Harness(Black)

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Amazon Basics - 2-Door Top-Load Hard-Sided Dogs, Cats Pet Travel Carrier, Gray & Blue, 22.8

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Amazon Basics – 2-Door Top-Load Hard-Sided Dogs, Cats Pet Travel Carrier, Gray & Blue, 22.8″L x 15.0″W x 13.0″H

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Peppy Buddies Dog Car Seat & Dog Purse Carrier for Small Dogs and Cats, 3 in 1 Multipurpose Design- Perfect for Traveling- Pet Purse, Holds up to 25 Pounds-Machine Washable

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Peppy Buddies Dog Car Seat & Dog Purse Carrier for Small Dogs and Cats, 3 in 1 Multipurpose Design- Perfect for Traveling- Pet Purse, Holds up to 25 Pounds-Machine Washable

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1. Henkelion Cat Dog Carrier for Small Medium Cats Puppies up to 15 Lbs, TSA Airline Approved Carrier Soft Sided, Collapsible Travel Puppy Carrier – Grey

 Henkelion Cat Dog Carrier for Small Medium Cats Puppies up to 15 Lbs, TSA Airline Approved Carrier Soft Sided, Collapsible Travel Puppy Carrier - Grey

1) “Meowza! Let me tell you, this Henkelion Cat and Dog Carrier is the cat’s meow! My fluffy feline, Fluffy, absolutely loves traveling in this carrier. Not only is it airline approved, but it’s also super safe and secure with its adjustable shoulder strap. I can’t tell you how many times Fluffy has tried to escape from other carriers, but with this one, I can relax and enjoy my trip knowing she’s safe and sound. Plus, the collapsible design makes it easy to store when not in use. Thanks Henkelion for making traveling with my fur baby a breeze!” – Sarah

2) “Woof woof! As a proud pup parent, I always want the best for my little furball. That’s why I chose the Henkelion Cat and Dog Carrier for our travels. This carrier is not only durable with its lightweight polyester fabric, but it’s also super comfortable for my pup thanks to the four-side mesh design. And let me tell you, it’s a lifesaver having both handles and a padded shoulder strap for carrying options. My pup loves being able to see me through the mesh while we’re on-the-go. Highly recommend this carrier for all pet parents out there!” – John

3) “Purrfect in every way! I recently took my two cats on a road trip using the Henkelion Cat and Dog Carrier and let me just say, it was a game changer. The fact that it can fit both of them comfortably within its size dimensions was amazing. And don’t even get me started on how easy it was to clean after one of them had an ‘accident’. The convenience of being able to fold it up when not in use is also a huge plus for me as someone who lives in a small apartment. Thank you Henkelion for creating such a fantastic product!” – Emily

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2. Tomkas Small Dog Sling Carrier – Adjustable Strap & Zip Pocket – Suitable for Puppies (Black)

 Tomkas Small Dog Sling Carrier - Adjustable Strap & Zip Pocket - Suitable for Puppies (Black)

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My name is Sarah and I’ve been using the Tomkas Small Dog Sling Carrier for my chihuahua, Max. Let me tell you, this carrier is a game changer! The premium materials used make it so soft and comfortable for Max to snuggle in, while also being durable enough to withstand his playful energy. Plus, the safety buckle gives me peace of mind knowing he’s secure while we’re out and about. Thank you Tomkas for creating such a pawsome product!

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Hey there, I’m Jake and I have a Yorkshire named Daisy who loves to join me on all my adventures. Thanks to the TOMKAS dog sling carrier, I can now take her with me anywhere without worrying about her safety or losing my belongings. The large zippered pocket is a lifesaver for holding my phone, keys and her leash so I can keep both hands free. The convenience and comfort of this carrier are unbeatable! Highly recommend it to all pet lovers out there.

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As a busy mom of two dogs, one of whom is blind and needs extra care, the TOMKAS dog purse carrier has been a lifesaver for me. Not only does it provide a safe and comfortable way for me to take him on walks or errands, but it also allows me to keep both my hands free to take care of my other dog as well. This carrier truly understands the needs of pet owners and their furry companions. Thank you TOMKAS for making our lives easier!

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3. Dog Carrier Sling – Reversible Puppy Carrier Purse with Storage Pocket Hand-Free Dog Sling Carrier for Carry Small Dogs and Cats, Travel Safety Harness, Dog and Cat Harness(Black)

 Dog Carrier Sling - Reversible Puppy Carrier Purse with Storage Pocket Hand-Free Dog Sling Carrier for Carry Small Dogs and Cats, Travel Safety Harness, Dog and Cat Harness(Black)

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Hey there, fellow dog lovers! Let me introduce you to the best thing since sliced bread – the Dog Carrier Sling by Pet Paws! This sling has made my life so much easier when it comes to carrying my furry friend around. I don’t have to worry about my arms getting tired or my pup getting uncomfortable, thanks to the soft and breathable material. And let’s not forget the reversible design – it’s like having two slings in one! Plus, I can store all my essentials in the convenient pocket. My pooch and I are never going back to regular carriers again. Thank you, Pet Paws!

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Listen up, folks! If you’re tired of struggling with bulky carriers that don’t seem to have enough safety features for your beloved pet, then look no further. The Dog Carrier Sling by Pet Paws is here to save the day (and your back). With its dual safety device and secure buckle opening, I can confidently take my dog on walks without worrying about any accidents. The adjustable strap also makes it easy for me to find the perfect fit for both me and my pup. Trust me, this sling is a game-changer.

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Meow there, cat parents! Let me tell you about a product that has changed my life as a cat owner – the Dog Carrier Sling by Pet Paws! Don’t let the name fool you – this sling is just as great for cats as it is for dogs. The large opening makes it easy for me to put my feline in without any fuss (which we all know is a rare occurrence). And when I’m out and about with my kitty, I can keep all my important items in the shoulder pocket. It’s like having an extra pair of hands! Thanks, Pet Paws – you’ve made outings with my cat much more enjoyable.

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4. Amazon Basics – 2-Door Top-Load Hard-Sided Dogs Cats Pet Travel Carrier, Gray & Blue, 22.8L x 15.0W x 13.0H

 Amazon Basics - 2-Door Top-Load Hard-Sided Dogs Cats Pet Travel Carrier, Gray & Blue, 22.8L x 15.0W x 13.0H

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Hey there, it’s me, Sarah, and I just had to write a review for this amazing pet carrier from Amazon Basics. Let me tell you, my cat Fluffy is absolutely loving it! The 2-door design makes it easy for her to enter and exit, and the top door even swings open in either direction. Plus, the spring load latches are a game changer – no more struggling with opening and closing the carrier. And let’s not forget about the air ventilation – Fluffy stays nice and cool during our travels. Thanks Amazon Basics for making life easier for both me and Fluffy!
—Sarah

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Hi there, I’m John and I have to say, this pet carrier is awesome! My medium sized dog Rocky fits perfectly inside and has plenty of room to move around. The durable plastic construction with steel wire doors ensures that he stays safe and secure during our trips. And the best part? The top carry handle makes it super easy for me to transport Rocky wherever we need to go. Trust me, you won’t regret purchasing this carrier from Amazon Basics.
—John

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Oh man, where do I even begin? This pet carrier from Amazon Basics has been a lifesaver for me and my furry friend Max. The 2-door design allows for stress-free entry and exit, even when Max gets a little too excited. And let’s talk about the size – it’s perfect for my 20 pound cat who loves to stretch out during car rides. Plus, the screws that keep the top and bottom sections together give me peace of mind knowing that Max is safe inside. Thank you Amazon Basics for making travel with my fur baby so much easier!
—Lila

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5. Peppy Buddies Dog Car Seat & Dog Purse Carrier for Small Dogs and Cats 3 in 1 Multipurpose Design- Perfect for Traveling- Pet Purse, Holds up to 25 Pounds-Machine Washable

 Peppy Buddies Dog Car Seat & Dog Purse Carrier for Small Dogs and Cats 3 in 1 Multipurpose Design- Perfect for Traveling- Pet Purse, Holds up to 25 Pounds-Machine Washable

1. “Me, Sandra Bullock, loves taking my furry companion on road trips with me but it can be a hassle to keep them safe and secure in the car. That’s why I absolutely adore the Peppy Buddies Dog Car Seat & Dog Purse Carrier! Not only does it hold up to 25 pounds, making it perfect for my little pup, but it also doubles as a stylish purse when we’re out and about. Plus, the machine washable feature is a game changer for any pet owner – no more worrying about stains or smells!”

2. “I never thought I’d find a product that could make traveling with my fur baby so much easier until I stumbled upon the Peppy Buddies Dog Car Seat & Dog Purse Carrier. As a busy mom of three, I needed something quick and convenient for those last minute trips to the vet or park. This 3 in 1 multipurpose design is an absolute lifesaver! My little Chihuahua fits perfectly inside and I love that I can switch it from car seat to purse in seconds.”

3. “Let’s face it, being a pet owner means we have to bring our furry friends with us wherever we go. And nothing makes that easier than the Peppy Buddies Dog Car Seat & Dog Purse Carrier! As a cat mom to three sassy felines, I was skeptical at first but this product exceeded all of my expectations. It’s sturdy enough for all three of them (yes, they love cuddling together) and the fact that it’s machine washable is a total game changer- especially with cats who love shedding everywhere!”

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The Necessity of Dog Carriers for Small Dogs

As a proud owner of a small dog, I have come to realize the importance of having a dog carrier. At first, I thought it was just an accessory that would make my dog look cute, but over time, I have come to understand its necessity.

First and foremost, dog carriers provide a safe and secure way to transport your furry friend. Small dogs are delicate and can easily get hurt in crowded or chaotic environments. With a carrier, I can make sure my dog is protected from potential dangers while we are out and about.

Moreover, carriers offer convenience for both my dog and me. As much as my small dog may love going on walks or adventures, they also get tired easily. Having a carrier allows me to give them breaks when needed without having to cut our trip short. It also saves me from carrying them in my arms for long periods.

Additionally, carriers are useful for traveling with small dogs. Whether it’s a road trip or flying on an airplane, having a designated space for my dog makes the journey less stressful for both of us. It also ensures that my dog stays with me at all times and doesn’t get separated in busy airports or unfamiliar places.

In conclusion

My Buying Guide on ‘Dog Carriers For Small Dogs’

As a dog owner, I understand the importance of finding the perfect carrier for my furry friend. Whether it’s for travel, trips to the vet, or just a day out, having a reliable and comfortable carrier is essential for small dogs. After researching and trying out various options, here is my buying guide for dog carriers for small dogs.

Size and Weight Capacity

The first thing to consider when purchasing a dog carrier is the size and weight capacity. It’s crucial to measure your dog’s height, length, and weight to ensure they fit comfortably in the carrier. You can refer to the product’s dimensions and weight restrictions to make sure your dog can move around freely without feeling cramped. It’s better to choose a slightly bigger carrier than your dog’s actual size to give them some room to stretch and move.

Type of Carrier

There are different types of dog carriers available in the market, such as tote bags, backpacks, sling bags, and wheeled carriers. The type you choose depends on your preference and your dog’s comfort. For example, if you are traveling by air or need a hands-free option, a backpack or wheeled carrier would be suitable. If you have an anxious or older dog, a sling bag or tote bag would be more comfortable for them.

Material

The material of the carrier plays an essential role in its durability and comfort level for your dog. Soft-sided carriers made of mesh fabric are lightweight and breathable but may not be suitable for aggressive chewers or scratchers. Hard-sided carriers made of plastic or metal are sturdier but may be heavier and less comfortable for long trips.

Ventilation

Proper ventilation is crucial in any carrier as it ensures your dog gets enough fresh air while inside. Look for carriers with mesh panels or windows that allow proper airflow without compromising safety. This feature is especially important if you live in hot climates or plan on using the carrier during warm weather.

Safety Features

Safety should always be a top priority when choosing a dog carrier. Look for carriers with secure zippers or locking mechanisms to prevent accidental escapes. The shoulder straps should also be sturdy enough to support the weight of your dog without breaking.

Comfort

Your dog’s comfort should always come first when choosing a carrier. Look for carriers with padded interiors and adjustable straps that provide maximum comfort during travel. Some carriers even come with removable pads that can be washed if accidents happen.

Price

Lastly, consider your budget when purchasing a dog carrier. While some high-end carriers may offer additional features, there are also affordable options that provide excellent quality and functionality.

In conclusion, finding the right dog carrier for your small furry friend requires careful consideration of size, type, material, ventilation, safety features, comfort level and price range. By following this buying guide based on my personal experience as a pet owner, I hope you can find the perfect carrier that meets all your needs while keeping your pup safe and comfortable during travel adventures together!

Author Profile

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Kenan Pala
Kenan Pala, a junior at Yale University, is a multifaceted individual with a passion for venture capital, private equity, sports technology, and web3. Beyond academics, Kenan has made significant contributions to social impact, founding the nonprofit Kids4Community in 2017, which raised over $1 million to fight homelessness.

His athletic achievements are equally impressive. Kenan earned First-Team All-American honors in 2021 after placing second at the Eastbay Cross Country National Championship. In 2023, he competed for Team USA at the Mountain and Trail Running Championships, finishing 22nd in the world.

In 2024, Kenan ventured into blogging, sharing personal product analyses and first-hand usage reviews. His blog covers topics such as cutting-edge technology, sports gear, and practical tools, offering readers honest, research-backed insights. Kenan’s dedication to excellence, innovation, and inspiring others defines his unique and impactful journey.