Best Bike Basket For Dogs (Are Any GOOD?)
People who love riding bikes may find it tough to leave their dog behind every time they head out. And although it is fun to take your dog on runs alongside your bike, many tire easily, and some are so adorably tiny that their small paws can never keep up the pace.
However, with bike baskets, bikers no longer need to feel guilty about enjoying bike rides. They can take their furry friends along on the adventure.
But are bike baskets any good? Let’s find out more about some of the best baskets available on the market.
Are Bike Baskets Any Good?
Putting your dog in a basket can come in very handy and offers an amazing way of spending some quality time together. Dogs are not just pets; they are lifelong companions who want to be a part of everything we do. They are adventurous and don’t like being left out.
However, whether a bike basket is good for your dog will depend on its temperament and how well it adapts to the basket.
Here are some things to keep in mind when buying a bike basket:
- Consider the weight limit: Most baskets are appropriate for small breeds. And while some baskets house larger dogs, maneuvering the bike may become an issue.
- Biking is not for anxious or skittish dogs: Some dogs get nervous on bikes. It may be because of the height or because they feel exposed. In such cases, bike rides are not safe as the animal may try to jump out and may even distract the biker or disrupt the balance.
- Bike rides are not for unhealthy pets: Taking animals for a bike ride may not be safe if they have any congenital health conditions or respiratory issues.
- Consider the positioning: Whether the basket is installed in the front or rear will also determine how well the dog accepts it. While it is good to have the dog directly in sight, it is not possible to do that with large dogs. But if your large dog refuses to ride at the back, biking may not work.
- Consider comfort: Some baskets are crafted from naturally comfortable fabric. Others might be made of materials that are too hard for extended rides. So keep an eye out for comfortable liners that guarantee your pet has a cozy place to sit.
- Securing your dog: Some baskets come with harnesses that hook the dog to the basket. Others have domed or meshed tops that form a closed enclosure. Both prevent the dog from jumping out, but the ideal one will depend on whether your dog is comfortable being harnessed or kept in a closed box.
- Easy cleaning: Your dog may have a peeing accident during the first few rides. This is only natural. It is a good idea to have a bike basket that is easy to clean so it is not a host for bacteria and who knows what else. Look out for washable baskets to make cleaning easy. If not, look for easy-to-clean liners that are removable and machine-washable.
- Weather-resistant: Opt for a water-resistant basket and one with sunshades.
- Multipurpose function: Many baskets come with convertible functions. They double as carriers, car seats, and sometimes, even as a dog bed. However, if you regularly detach and attach it for other uses, make sure its disassemble/reassemble function is straightforward.
Tips To Keep Your Dog Safe In A Basket
Biking is fun, but it can soon go downhill if you do not take precautions. Keep the following tips in mind when biking with your fur buddy:
- Firmly secure your pet: Make sure your dog is firmly tethered so it does not jump out and get hurt.
- Invest in some dog goggles: Wind brings with it foreign elements, some of which can hurt your dog’s eyes. Get your dog some protective glasses for your special dates.
- Obey road and bike laws: Follow road and bike rules to avoid unnecessary inconveniences.
- Opt for reflective material: Reflective material makes you more visible, which is necessary in low-light conditions.
- Stay hydrated and take breaks: You and your fur friend need hydration, especially during summer. Carry clean drinking water for both of you, and do not push too hard. Take breaks and go slow.
It is also worth noting that you need to test your friend first. Put your dog in the basket and see how it reacts. If it is skittish, do not proceed further.
If your dog reacts well, give it a slow ride around the driveway. Once it is stable, take it for longer rides.
8 Best Bike Basket For Dogs
1. PetSafe Happy Ride Wicker Bicycle Basket (Best Overall)
The PetSafe Wicker basket is stylish, comfortable, and classic. The basket comes in gender-neutral colors, and the basket’s shape and in-built shoulder strap beautifully convert the basket into a carrier.
The basket is made of synthetic weather-resistant resin. It has a sheepskin liner that is machine washable and keeps the dog comfortable. The basket also has a removable sun shade for extra comfort.
The basket is installed with brackets. With the 3-way adjustability of the bracket system, you can attach the basket to any bike. The basket also includes safety tether clips that you can attach to your dog’s harness for additional security.
Pros
- Easy to install
- Easy one-hand removal ability
- Weather-resistant wicker basket
- Washable liner
- Removable sunshade
- 3-way adjustable brackets
- Safety tether clips
- Available in a cloth version as well
- Converts to carrier
Cons
- Only for small dogs weighing 13 pounds or less
- Some customers complain that the traps securing the basket to the cycle broke after a couple of uses.
- Insufficient storage space
2. ANZOME Bike Basket (Most Affordable)
The ANZOME Bike basket is the best budget-buy pet basket that can hold small dogs under 11 pounds. The basket is compact and offers easy storage as it is foldable. It is easy to install and remove with a quick-release handlebar mount.
The basket is durable and made of a sturdy metal frame and waterproof fabric. Thanks to the built-in handles, the basket is stylish and can serve as a picnic basket or carrier. It has a minimalist, sleek styling that appeals to many customers.
Pros
- Removable and foldable
- Affordable
- Sleek style
- Includes storage pocket
- Quick release handlebar mount
- Waterproof
- Lightweight
- Converts to carrier
Cons
- The bottom drops onto the tire
- Cheap material
- Only for small dogs weighing up to 11 pounds
3. BARKBAY Pet Carrier Bicycle Basket (Best For Big Dogs)
The BARKBAY pet carrier is a multi-use item that converts to a dog backpack, a dog shoulder bag, and a pet car seat booster. The basket has a removable sheepskin liner that is soft, comfortable, and easy to clean.
Installing and removing the basket is easy with quick-release buckles. The dog is harnessed to the basket with a tether. For additional security, you can close the drawstring mesh, which is also a convenient way to put in and remove your dog from the basket.
It also has a roll-up front window that provides access to mesh venting. So, your dog has extra relief during those hot days. The basket also has mesh pockets on the sides, giving you a little storage space.
Pros
- Can carry dogs up to 19 pounds
- Multi-use basket
- Comfortable sheepskin liner
- Tether and drawstring mesh to secure the dog
- Storage
- Collapsible–easy to store
- Enough ventilation
- Easy to install and remove
Cons
- Not waterproof
- Not very durable
- The interior leash is long
- Steering is a bit difficult
4. Travelin K9 Pet Pilot (Most Sturdy)
Travelin K9 Pet Pilot is a super sturdy pet basket, and unlike other baskets, it has a size limit instead of a weight limit. So, if your dog can fit in the basket, its weight will be supported. Customers claim to have comfortably traveled with their 15-pound pets with this basket.
The basket is mounted two inches away from the handlebar, so it does not sway or tip. It has a 2-point, chrome clasp safety leash that attaches to the dog’s harness. The basket has a front mesh and small storage pockets on either side.
Pros
- Patented handlebar mount ideal for skittish dogs
- 2-point tether
- Mesh ventilation
- Storage pockets
- Comfortable
- Comes in 5 colors
- One-step easy installation
Cons
- Expensive
- Not compatible with e-bikes
- No padding on the sides
5. PetSafe Happy Ride Trailer (Best For Large Dogs And Senior Dogs)
This trailer is perfect for large dogs, dogs that are nervous in a handlebar basket, and older dogs that have trouble getting in and out. The trailer is available in 2 sizes: medium, for dogs weighing up to 50 pounds, and large, for dogs weighing up to 110 pounds.
The trailer connects to the rear wheel hub. Assembly is quick and easy. It is strong with a steel frame and has a safety tether that attaches to the dog’s harness.
The trailer is weather resistant and has reflectors and front and side ventilation for improved visibility and air-flow.
The trailer offers a fantastic view and flexibility for dogs to ride with their head bobbing in the wind. The trailer protects your dog from weather and wind while providing ample space and ventilation. However, as the trailer is expensive, it is not worth the investment if your outings are limited.
Pros
- Removable and collapsible
- Ventilation
- Storage pockets
- For large dogs
- Comes in two sizes
- Closer to ground
- Weather resistant
- Reflectors
Cons
- Very expensive
- Heavy
6. SUNLITE Racktop Bike Basket (For Excited Dogs)
The basket has a cage top, so you do not have to worry about your easily excitable dog jumping out. The basket is sturdy as it is made of steel, so you do not have to worry about the basket sagging and drooping on the tire. The steel mesh is also great for ventilation and cleaning.
It has a handlebar mounting system that is easy to assemble and disassemble. The basket also has two spring-loaded clamps that allow you to mount the basket to the rear of the bike as well.
The basket is very stylish, durable, and spacious. However, it does not have any padding at the bottom. If you want your dog to be more comfortable, you will need to spread something soft for it to sit on.
Pros
- Sturdy, durable, spacious
- Front and rear mounting
- Easy to install and disassemble
Cons
- No padding at the bottom
- Expensive
7. Snoozer Rear Dog Bike Basket (Best Rare Mount Basket)
If you have a large dog that won’t fit in most front mount baskets, the Snoozer rear bike basket is the perfect solution for you. It can carry dogs weighing up to 24 pounds and sits snugly and securely on most standard rear bike racks with its multiple buckles.
The black basket is stylish and spacious and has a reflective strip and a 3-point security strap taking care of the safety requirements. It has a plywood base and foam sides. The basket comes with a removable and machine washable fleece cover.
Pros
- Fits large dogs up to 24 pounds
- Secured with 3-point safety strips
- Removable and washable liner
- Reflective strip
- Spacious
- Easily installs on most bikes’ existing rack
Cons
- Expensive
- As with rare baskets, you cannot see your pet
8. RuffLyfe DIY Crate Conversion Kit (Best Front And Rear Mount)
This is a unique DIY kit that helps you convert your milk crate into a dog basket. The resulting basket can carry dogs weighing up to 45 pounds and can be mounted to the front or the rear of the bike. However, dogs weighing more than 20 pounds must be rear mounted.
The kit comes with 20 heavy-duty fasteners that secure the crate to your bike, a water-resistant seat, side cushions, and a four-point safety harness.
Pros
- Sturdy and comfy
- For dogs weighing between 15-45 pounds
- 20 heavy-duty nylon fasteners
- 4-point universal harness
- Water-resistant
- No tools required
Cons
- Not for dogs weighing under 15 pounds
- No sun shade
- Additional expenditure if you need to buy a crate or bike rack
Conclusion
Take your furry friend along on your bike adventures with bike baskets. Bike baskets are a safe and secure way to enjoy a ride with your dog without a fuss. There are many types of baskets available that are versatile in several aspects.
Take your pick from our list of 8 best bike baskets for dogs.
