Skip to content

Top Navigation

Martha Stewart Martha Stewart
  • FOOD
  • HOLIDAYS
  • ENTERTAINING
  • HOME
  • GARDENING
  • CLEANING & ORGANIZING
  • WEDDINGS
  • SHOP
  • DIY
  • BEAUTY & WELLNESS
  • LIFE
  • NEWS
  • MARTHA'S BLOG
  • About Us

Profile Menu

Martha's Blog
Your Account

Account

  • Join Now
  • Email Preferences
  • Newsletter
  • Manage Your Subscription this link opens in a new tab
  • Manage Your Subscription this link opens in a new tab
  • Contact Us
  • Your Content
  • Logout

More

  • Enter to Win $10,000 to Makeover Your Home!
  • Martha's Blog
  • Weddings
Login
Pin FB

Explore Martha Stewart

Martha Stewart Martha Stewart
  • Explore

    Explore

    • 7 Things to Do in the Morning to Be Healthier and More Productive

      7 Things to Do in the Morning to Be Healthier and More Productive

      Kick-start your day by making habits out of these mood-boosting tips. Read More
    • Should You Refrigerate Bananas?

      Should You Refrigerate Bananas?

      It's one of your favorite fruits, but does it belong on the counter or in the refrigerator? Read More
    • This 3-Ingredient Homemade Weed Killer Uses Vinegar to Safely Remove Pesky Growths from Your Garden

      This 3-Ingredient Homemade Weed Killer Uses Vinegar to Safely Remove Pesky Growths from Your Garden

      A few easy-to-find ingredients are all you need to create a powerful formula that squashes weeds. Read More
  • FOOD

    FOOD

    See All FOOD
    Our 20 Most Popular Recipes for Summer

    Our 20 Most Popular Recipes for Summer

    • Breakfast & Brunch Recipes
    • Lunch Recipes
    • Dinner Recipes
    • Appetizers & Snacks
    • Dessert Recipes
    • Drink Recipes
    • Salad Recipes
    • Side Dishes
    • Soup Recipes
    • Healthy Recipes
    • Quick & Easy Recipes
    • Vegetarian Recipes
    • Cooking How-Tos
    • Baking
    • Menu Planning
    • Food News & Trends
    • Wine
    • Mastering the Holiday Meal
    • What's for Dinner
    • All Recipes
  • HOLIDAYS

    HOLIDAYS

    See All HOLIDAYS
    The Most Patriotic Flowers for the Fourth of July, According to Symbolism

    The Most Patriotic Flowers for the Fourth of July, According to Symbolism

    Show your love of country by displaying these varieties on America's birthday.
    • Father's Day
    • Fourth of July
    • Halloween
    • Thanksgiving
    • Hanukkah
    • Christmas
    • New Year's Eve
    • Valentine's Day
    • St. Patricks Day
    • Passover
    • Easter
    • Mother's Day
  • ENTERTAINING

    ENTERTAINING

    See All ENTERTAINING
    How to Start Entertaining Friends and Family More Regularly

    How to Start Entertaining Friends and Family More Regularly

    Make gathering with loved ones a priority.
    • Seasonal Entertaining & Decorating
    • Baby Shower Ideas
    • Dinner Party Ideas
    • You're Invited
  • HOME

    HOME

    See All HOME
    We're Putting Up Walls Again—Is the Open Floor Plan on Its Way Out?

    We're Putting Up Walls Again—Is the Open Floor Plan on Its Way Out?

    We asked the experts to weigh in on this popular home design concept.
    • Home Design & Decor
    • Paint Colors & Palettes
    • DIY Home Projects
    • The Well-Kept Home
  • GARDENING

    GARDENING

    See All GARDENING
    A Month-by-Month Hydrangea Care Guide

    A Month-by-Month Hydrangea Care Guide

    Confused about when to do what to your favorite flowering shrubs? We have you covered.
    • Container Gardening
    • Flower Gardens
    • Houseplants
    • Landscaping
    • Vegetable Gardens
  • CLEANING & ORGANIZING

    CLEANING & ORGANIZING

    How to Wash Pillows

    How to Wash Pillows

    They're an essential element of a comfortable bed, so keep yours fresh and in their best shape ever with these expert-approved tips.
    • Cleaning
    • Storage & Organization
    • Laundry & Linens
  • WEDDINGS

    WEDDINGS

    See All WEDDINGS
    Who Pays for What for the Wedding?

    Who Pays for What for the Wedding?

    Get the traditional rules for who pays for the wedding details.
    • Real Weddings
    • Wedding Party
    • Wedding Planning & Advice
    • Wedding Ceremony & Reception
    • Wedding Jewelry
    • Dresses & Style
    • Wedding Beauty & Wellness
    • Wedding Registry
    • Wedding Showers & Parties
    • Love & Marriage
    • Wedding Travel
  • SHOP
  • DIY

    DIY

    See All DIY
    How to Melt and Reuse the Leftover Wax from Candles

    How to Melt and Reuse the Leftover Wax from Candles

    Our easy melt-and-pour method saves the last bit of this home essential.
    • Dyeing
    • Holiday Crafts
    • Kids' Crafts
    • Knitting
    • Paper Crafts
    • Sewing
    • Rescue & Revamp
  • BEAUTY & WELLNESS

    BEAUTY & WELLNESS

    Can Rice Water Really Encourage Hair Growth?

    Can Rice Water Really Encourage Hair Growth?

    This buzzy ingredient is a star player in many new-age hair care products.
    • Beauty
    • Health & Wellness
    • Live Well
  • LIFE

    LIFE

    See All LIFE
    • Family
    • Pets
    • Travel
    • Net Worth
  • NEWS
  • MARTHA'S BLOG
  • About Us

Profile Menu

Martha's Blog
Your Account

Account

  • Join Now
  • Email Preferences
  • Newsletter
  • Manage Your Subscription this link opens in a new tab
  • Manage Your Subscription this link opens in a new tab
  • Contact Us
  • Your Content
  • Logout

More

  • Enter to Win $10,000 to Makeover Your Home!
  • Martha's Blog
  • Weddings
Login
Sweepstakes

Follow Us

  1. marthastewart.com
  2. Life
  3. Pets
  4. Dogs
  5. How to Choose the Best Dog Carrier for Your Pet—Plus, Some of Our Favorites on the Market Right Now

How to Choose the Best Dog Carrier for Your Pet—Plus, Some of Our Favorites on the Market Right Now

Caroline Biggs, Freelance Writer portrait
By Caroline Biggs June 30, 2020
Each product we feature has been independently selected and reviewed by our editorial team. If you make a purchase using the links included, we may earn commission.
Skip gallery slides
Pin
small dog being carried in plaid carrier
Credit: Johner Images / Getty Images

Headed somewhere? We asked an expert to weigh in on what to look for in a quality carrier for your four-legged friend including slings, hard-case kennels, and mesh-walled carriers.

Start Slideshow

1 of 11

Pin
Facebook Tweet Email Send Text Message
small dog being carried in plaid carrier
Credit: Johner Images / Getty Images

A well-designed dog carrier should be secure and comfortable for both you and your pet. "Don't compromise on your pet's safety or comfort, or your own, and think about your entire journey, not just certain legs," says Minali Chatani co-founder of Wild One. "It should be sized properly, compliant with airlines requirements, and snug but with ample room for the dog to shift around."

So, how does one separate the stellar from the so-so when shopping for a dog carrier? Chatani suggests looking for carriers with your pooch's specific needs in mind. "If you have a pet that is squirmy and doesn't love being in a carrier, get one with mesh walls and zip-open flaps that's more breathable and has a way to 'buckle' them in," she suggests. "Also ensure it has easy access points (between you and them), so they know you're there and can provide them with constant reassurance." Of course, you'll also want to make sure that whatever carrier you settle on is easy for you to tote around, too. Chatani recommends seeking out a carrier with adjustable handles or one with both short handles and a shoulder strap, so you can carry it around comfortably depending on your commute. "This way both you and your pet have a pleasant on-the-go experience," she adds.

We rounded up the most reliable dog carriers in a range of styles and functions for your perusal. From a backpack-style carrier to one with a removable dog bed, here's what we found.

1 of 11

Advertisement
Advertisement

2 of 11

Pin
Facebook Tweet Email Send Text Message

Handbag-Style Carrier

dog sitting in beige PetsHome Leather Dog Carrier
Credit: Courtesy of PetsHome

Why settle for a bulky dog carrier when you can have one that looks like a designer purse instead? This cute leather carrier boasts mesh side panels, a padded interior cushion, and a built-in leash for added security, and will only set you back less than a hundred dollars to boot.

Shop Now: PetsHome Leather Dog Carrier, in Beige, $59.99, amazon.com.

2 of 11

3 of 11

Pin
Facebook Tweet Email Send Text Message

Monogrammed Carrier

small dog sitting next to Mark & Graham ivory Buddy Pet Carrier
Credit: Courtesy of Mark & Graham

Prefer a dog carrier with a personal touch? Along with a built-in leash and a removable fleece liner, this chic nylon carrier can be monogrammed with your furry friend's name on the top for added flair and sophistication.

Shop Now: Mark & Graham Buddy Pet Carrier, in Ivory, $169, markandgraham.com.

3 of 11

Advertisement

4 of 11

Pin
Facebook Tweet Email Send Text Message

Collapsible Carrier

small dog inside Pet Magasin Collapsible Dog & Cat Carrier Bag
Credit: Courtesy of Pet Magasin

If storage is a problem at home, then we found the carrier for you. This lightweight carrier is designed with a zippered hard top, bottom, and sides that quickly fold down when not in use so you can save space when storing it at home.

Shop Now: Pet Magasin Collapsible Dog & Cat Carrier Bag, $26, chewy.com.

4 of 11

5 of 11

Pin
Facebook Tweet Email Send Text Message

Versatile Carrier

tan Wild One Air Travel Carrier
Credit: Courtesy of Wild One

The only thing better than a dependable dog carrier is one that's design-savvy, too. This super stylish travel carrier is roomy enough for dogs weighing up to 16 pounds, and it features an interior safety clasp (that attaches to your dog's collar), privacy panels (that zip up whenever your dog gets anxious), and an interior cushion that folds out to become a comfortable bed.

Shop Now: Wild One Air Travel Carrier, in Tan, $125, wildone.com.

5 of 11

6 of 11

Pin
Facebook Tweet Email Send Text Message

Expandable Carrier

Pet Peppy Flex Carrier
Credit: Courtesy of Pet Peppy

Owners with a restless dog, this one's for you: Designed with breathable mesh side panels that expand and contract, this transforming carrier provides your dog with enough room to lay down and move around when it's inside.

Shop Now: Pet Peppy Flex Carrier, $43, amazon.com.

6 of 11

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

7 of 11

Pin
Facebook Tweet Email Send Text Message

Daily Commute Carrier

woman carrying white poodle in light blue Fable Pets Carrier
Credit: Courtesy of Fable Pets

Dreaming of a durable carrier that's fashionable enough to carry on your daily commute? This all-weather carrier looks more like a snazzy carryall that an actual pet tote, but boasts a soft cushioned interior, reinforced straps, and cut-outs (so your pup can see). 

Shop Now: Fable Pets Carrier, in Light Blue, $150, fablepets.com.

7 of 11

8 of 11

Pin
Facebook Tweet Email Send Text Message

Extra Cozy Carrier

arctic white Sleepypod Mobile Pet Bed
Credit: Courtesy of Sleepypod

Looking for a carrier that your anxious dog won't mind spending time in? This zippered nylon carrier features a removable bed you can use at home, so that your pet is familiar with the feel and the smell of it so traveling goes more smoothly.

Shop Now: Sleepypod Mobile Pet Bed, in Arctic White, starting from $150, amazon.com.

8 of 11

9 of 11

Pin
Facebook Tweet Email Send Text Message

Outdoor Carrier

Olive & Oak Waxed Canvas Pet Tote
Credit: Courtesy of LoveThyBeast

This utilitarian tote is made with a double-layered waxed cotton duck canvas and is double topstitched for extra durability. There is a comfortable scoop for your dog's head and has two outside pockets in the front for you. The inside features a collar-to-leash attachment with solid nickel hardware and a removable sturdy foot pad. 

Shop Now: Olive & Oak Waxed Canvas Pet Tote, $270, lovethybeast.com.

9 of 11

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

10 of 11

Pin
Facebook Tweet Email Send Text Message

Wheeled Carrier

dog inside Petluv Pull-Along Rolling Cat & Dog Carrier & Travel Crate
Credit: Courtesy of PetLuv

In the market for a carrier that pulls double duty? This clever soft-sided carrier features a detachable fiber board roller bottom, so it can transition from a sturdy wheeled travel carrier to a comfy portable crate in seconds.

Shop Now: Petluv Pull-Along Rolling Cat & Dog Carrier & Travel Crate, $90, petluvshop.us.

10 of 11

11 of 11

Pin
Facebook Tweet Email Send Text Message

Backpack-Style Carrier

black Timbuk2 Muttmover Backpack
Credit: Courtesy of Timbuk2

If you like to travel with your pooch on your back, then this is the carrier for you. Designed with custom fit straps to evenly distribute the weight of your dog and a ventilated back panel, this waterproof zippered backpack carrier also offers an on-strap bottle opener and a foldable water bowl so you can both stay hydrated on the go.

Shop Now: Timbuk2 Muttmover Backpack, $118, timbuk2.com.

11 of 11

Replay gallery

Share the Gallery

Pinterest Facebook

Up Next

By Caroline Biggs

    Share the Gallery

    Pinterest Facebook
    Trending Videos
    Advertisement
    Skip slide summaries

    Everything in This Slideshow

    Advertisement

    View All

    1 of 11
    2 of 11 Handbag-Style Carrier
    3 of 11 Monogrammed Carrier
    4 of 11 Collapsible Carrier
    5 of 11 Versatile Carrier
    6 of 11 Expandable Carrier
    7 of 11 Daily Commute Carrier
    8 of 11 Extra Cozy Carrier
    9 of 11 Outdoor Carrier
    10 of 11 Wheeled Carrier
    11 of 11 Backpack-Style Carrier

    Share & More

    Facebook Tweet Email Send Text Message
    Martha Stewart

    Learn More

    • Contact Us
    • Customer Service
    • Media Kit
    • Martha's Blog
    • Advertise
    • Content Licensing
    • FAQ
    • Corporate
    • International
    • Accolades this link opens in a new tab

    Connect

    Subscribe to Our Newsletter
    Sign Up
    MeredithMartha Stewart is part of the Meredith Home Group. © Copyright 2022 Meredith Corporation. All Rights Reserved. Privacy Policythis link opens in a new tab Terms of Servicethis link opens in a new tab Ad Choicesthis link opens in a new tab California Do Not Sellthis link opens a modal window Web Accessibilitythis link opens in a new tab
    © Copyright Martha Stewart. All rights reserved. Printed from https://www.marthastewart.com

    Sign in

    View image

    How to Choose the Best Dog Carrier for Your Pet—Plus, Some of Our Favorites on the Market Right Now
    this link is to an external site that may or may not meet accessibility guidelines.