We Reviewed Some Dog Bike Trailers!

Written by Abby Parks
Updated: November 26, 2022
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Dog bike trailers are one of the safest ways to take your furry friend on the road. Models like Schwinn Rascal and Burley provide name recognition, along with high quality. Finding the right dog bike trailer, from a quick-fold version to the types with UV-protected windows, is easier said than done. Deciding whether you want a large bike trailer or a lightweight option is one of several choices you’ll need to make. Is having a sunshade or being foldable more vital to you as a buyer? You might want to think about whether a sports option that works as a jogger stroller in addition to a trailer is helpful.

We’ve put together a list of the dog bike trailer options that may work best for your needs. Hopefully, one of these trailers will be the right option for taking your dog along on biking trips. We’ve also covered which features are the most practical, possible safety concerns, and how to make sure the trailer supports your dog’s weight.

  1. Schwinn Rascal Bike Pet Trailer
    • Bike pet trailer for dogs up to 50 lbs
    • Folding frame and quick-release wheels for easy transport and storage
    • Coupler attaches to almost any bike
    • Internal leash prevents pet from exiting
    Check Amazon
  2. Burley Design Tail Wagon Bike Trailer
    • Premium bike trailer holds pets up to 75lbs
    • Made of recycled polyester and sustainable materials
    • Foldable for easy transport and storage
    • Mesh windows for ventilation
    Check Amazon
  3. Retrospec Rover Waggin' Pet Bike Trailer
    • Dog bike trailer carries pets up to 50lbs
    • Weather resistant fabric
    • Easy-fold design for transport and storage
    • Built-in safety reflectors
    • Rear doggy door and open-top option
    Check Amazon
  4. Aosom 2-in-1 Dog Bike Trailer and Stroller
    • Dog bike trailer converts to a stroller for walking or jogging
    • Carries pets up to 66 lbs
    • Easy entry/exit through front or back zipper doors
    • Sunroof opens for pet to enjoy breeze
    • Quick release wheels for easy transport and storage
    Check Amazon

The Top Picks for Dog Bike Trailers: Ranked

#1 Best Overall: Schwinn Rascal Bike Pet Trailer

The Schwinn Rascal Bike Pet Trailer is our number one choice of dog bike trailer. It comes in two color choices and two sizes, making it stand out as one of the most versatile trailers on the market. The frame folds easily for storage, and the wheels feature a quick-release feature allowing them to pack up quickly.

One of the helpful things about the coupler is the ability to attach the trailer to any bike. An internal flash and safety flag offer extra security. This design provides maximum airflow, necessary for hotter days.

Some buyers were displeased because the zipper had plastic, not metal teeth. Others reported that the mesh/fabric isn’t tough enough to withstand sharp dog claws. Another concern is that some larger dogs who weigh over 50 pounds may not ride as comfortably in this trailer without tipping concerns. Upgrading to the larger trailer may be worth the expense.

Pros and Cons of the Schwinn Rascal Bike Pet Trailer

ProsCons
This bike pet trailer is available in two colors and sizes.The zipper’s teeth are plastic, not metal.
It folds easily for storage and the wheels have a quick-release feature that facilitates quick packing.Sharp dog claws can easily rip the trailer’s mesh/fabric.
The coupler is designed so you can attach the trailer to any bike.Larger dogs may cause the smaller bike trailer to tip over, so upgrading to the larger version may be prudent.
The trailer is more visible to other drivers thanks to an internal flash and safety flag.
The design provides maximum airflow for comfort on hot days.
Best Overall Dog Bike Trailer
Schwinn Rascal Bike Pet Trailer
  • Bike pet trailer for dogs up to 50 lbs
  • Folding frame and quick-release wheels for easy transport and storage
  • Coupler attaches to almost any bike
  • Internal leash prevents pet from exiting
Check Amazon

2. Best Premium Option: Burley Design Tail Wagon Bike Trailer

The Burley Design Tail Wagon Bike Trailer is one of the highest quality trailers available for dog owners with conversion to a stroller possible. A tailgate makes it easier to get your dog in and out. With a 75 pound carrying capacity and tie-downs, you can feel confident about your dog’s safety.

An all-weather cover helps keep your dog comfortable and happy in all kinds of weather and temperature conditions. Heavy-duty mesh on four sides provides the airflow that your dog needs to adjust. This system folds quickly, which we greatly appreciated.

Some pet parents said that there are no “attachment points” to secure a dog’s leash to the inside of the trailer. Others reported that, while there is an “all-weather cover,” there is no “rain fly” to prevent precipitation from entering the trailer. And, from a security standpoint, the brake and hitch’s functions, as well as a lack of a kickstand may make the trailer wobbly.

Pros and Cons of the Burley Design Tail Wagon Bike Trailer

ProsCons
This pet bike trailer folds quickly and can convert to a stroller.There are no attachment points inside the trailer to secure a dog’s leash.
It features a tailgate for easy entry and exit.There is no rain fly to prevent rain and snow from entering the trailer.
This trailer can safely accommodate dogs weighing up to 75 pounds.The lack of a kickstand, as well as issues with the brake and hitch, may make the trailer wobbly.
It features an “all-weather cover” to protect your pup from the elements, while heavy duty mesh on four sides provides airflow.
Best Premium Option
Burley Design Tail Wagon Bike Trailer
  • Premium bike trailer holds pets up to 75lbs
  • Made of recycled polyester and sustainable materials
  • Foldable for easy transport and storage
  • Mesh windows for ventilation
Check Amazon

3. Best for Easy Folding: Retrospec Rover Waggin’ Pet Bike Trailer

Retrospec Rover Waggin’ Pet Bike Trailer features a quick-fold design that makes it an optimal choice for smaller and medium dogs. This design makes the trailer one of the most easily portable options when you go on a trip. The compatibility with any bike opens up the range of options as you go out on the road.

A canopy and mesh shielding provide maximum protection from the elements, as well as annoying insects. The floor is non-slip, and an internal leash helps keep your dog secure. One of the helpful features that we enjoyed about the trailer was a pouch perfect for storing treats.

Per verified reviewers, larger dogs may cause the trailer to flip. Some buyers reported that tires were delivered flat and/or they wouldn’t remain inflated. Another frequent complaint is that the trailer was difficult to assemble due to misaligned holes in the foldable frame.

Pros and Cons of the Retrospec Rover Waggin’ Pet Bike Trailer

ProsCons
This pet trailer features a quick-fold design for convenient portability.This pet bike trailer is best for small to medium dogs; larger dogs may cause it to flip.
It’s compatible with any bike.Tires may be delivered flat or not remain inflated.
A canopy and mesh shielding will protect your pup from the elements and insect.Assembly may be difficult due to misaligned holes in the frame.
An internal leash will keep your dog secure and the floor is non-slip.
Best for Easy Folding
Retrospec Rover Waggin' Pet Bike Trailer
  • Dog bike trailer carries pets up to 50lbs
  • Weather resistant fabric
  • Easy-fold design for transport and storage
  • Built-in safety reflectors
  • Rear doggy door and open-top option
Check Amazon

4. Best 2-in-1 Trailer: Aosom 2-in-1 Dog Bike Trailer and Stroller

The Aosom Dog Bike Trailer 2-in-1 Pet Stroller and Jogger offer maximum versatility to sports enthusiast dog owners by doubling as a jogger. Connecting the trailer to your bike is effortless. Lightweight design helps make the trailer easy to maneuver.

Multi-layer mesh and plastic foldable screen windows plus a sunroof option help give your dog an excellent vantage point no matter where you go on your journey, as well as plenty of ventilation. Reviewers found the wheel size comparable to most large bike trailer options, making the road much smoother for the dogs. Safety leash, front and exterior reflectors, and a safety flag also help make everything safer during your journey.

According to some pet parents, larger dogs may not be able to stretch out comfortably inside the trailer, which could cause the trailer to tip over. And the front wheel didn’t align correctly on some customers’ dog bike trailers.

Pros and Cons of the Aosom 2-in-1 Dog Bike Trailer and Stroller

ProsCons
This dog bike trailer can also be used as a stroller/jogger.Larger dogs may not be able to stretch out comfortably inside the trailer, which could pose a safety hazard.
Connecting the trailer to a bike is effortless and the lightweight design makes it easy to maneuver.The front wheel may not align correctly.
The trailer features multi-layer mesh and plastic foldable screen windows as well as a sunroof so your pup can enjoy the view, be protected from the elements, and savor ventilation on warm days.
This dog bike trailer also includes the following safety features: an internal safety leash, front and exterior reflectors, and a safety flag.
Best 2-in-1 Trailer
Aosom 2-in-1 Dog Bike Trailer and Stroller
  • Dog bike trailer converts to a stroller for walking or jogging
  • Carries pets up to 66 lbs
  • Easy entry/exit through front or back zipper doors
  • Sunroof opens for pet to enjoy breeze
  • Quick release wheels for easy transport and storage
Check Amazon

What Are the Most Helpful Features in a Dog Bike Trailer?

One of the most important considerations that many dog bike trailer users have when selecting a model is the material, which needs a balance of comfort and durability. The style is also essential, as some dogs may prove resistant to loading into a trailer without a tailgate.

Dog bike trailers, also known as boki trailers, are best for dogs comfortable being on the road with you. If your dog has anxiety issues, you may want to consider a different option. A trailer will only serve its purpose well when the dog feels comfortable during rides.

What Are Some Dog Bike Trailer Safety Concerns?

Regardless of your dog’s comfort level, you will want to ensure that the frame is stable, especially if it is a quick-fold model. Having the trailer tip over during a ride is distressing for a dog and no picnic for the owner, either! Your dog may also be at risk of escaping from the trailer.

Making sure that the safety harness fits is also essential to a safe, comfortable ride. The last thing you want is for your dog to get loose in traffic. When the harness fits properly, your dog will be a lot more comfortable during the journey.

How Do I Make Sure the Bike Trailer Safety Supports my Dog’s Weight?

The trailer that you buy will have a maximum weight capacity in the description. Making sure you choose by the number of pounds ensures that the vehicle will take the dog’s weight. Even if you need to select a trailer that holds dogs slightly larger than yours, you will be making a safer choice.

Maximum weight according to your dog’s size is a more accurate assessment than going by breed. For example, some dogs’ height, length, and weight, like Shepherds, can vary. Knowing how much your dog weighs will make your choice easier.

Verified Review: Users’ Experience

One of the things that we like the most about dog bike trailers is how many large bike trailer options on the market feature a relatively lightweight design. UV-protected windows or sunshade options are features that provide extra protection for your dog. We also appreciate the availability of sports models that you can use while jogging instead of biking.

There were a few complaints with these trailers, however. Customers might find that the models that they purchased are smaller than they anticipated. Another possible concern is the possibility of trailers tipping over in certain conditions, especially if you have a larger dog.

Overall, most reviewers found the excellent traits to outweigh the bad. These trailers provide a safe way to include your dog on bicycling trips. Choosing your trailer wisely will minimize potential problems.

Features and Other Considerations

User-Friendliness

You don’t want to waste a whole day figuring out how to assemble and connect your bike to the trailer. You just want the set-up to be quick and painless so you and your doggo can get out there and enjoy a day on the trail or at the park.

Compactness

If you’ve got your bike, your dog, and a trailer in tow, that’s a lot to bring with you on the go. So a good dog bike trailer should be light and compact and/or easily foldable to minimize the hassle and maximize the enjoyment!

Safety

Safety features like dog seat belts, brakes, non-slip surfaces, durable materials, lights, reflectors, and other high-vis stuff are some more important considerations. You also want the trailer to be designed well so there’s no rogue movement or tip-over risk.

Comfort

Your dog will want enough room to get comfortable and enjoy as smooth of a ride as possible. It’s also smart to look for features like breathability, protection from bugs and dirt/gravel kick-back, and ways to make the trailer water resistant.

Nifty Features

Storage compartments are a big plus so supplies like treats, food, and water are easily accessible when you and your pup need a break. UV protection is another useful feature. One of the options on this list also dually functions as a sort of jogging stroller!

Up Next…

About the Author

Abby Parks has authored a fiction novel, theatrical plays, short stories, poems, and song lyrics. She's recorded two albums of her original songs, and is a multi-instrumentalist. She has managed a website for folk music and written articles on singer-songwriters, folk bands, and other things music-oriented. She's also a radio DJ for a folk music show. As well as having been a pet parent to rabbits, birds, dogs, and cats, Abby loves seeking sightings of animals in the wild and has witnessed some more exotic ones such as Puffins in the Farne Islands, Southern Pudu on the island of Chiloe (Chile), Penguins in the wild, and countless wild animals in the Rocky Mountains (Big Horn Sheep, Mountain Goats, Moose, Elk, Marmots, Beavers).

We Reviewed Some Dog Bike Trailers! FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) 

Are bike trailers safe for dogs?

Bike trailers are safe for dogs if they are specifically designed for use by dog owners.

Can I use a kid bike trailer for dogs?

Although there are trailers that hold kids or dogs, a trailer designed for dogs will offer the safest, most comfortable fit.

What should I look for in a dog bike trailer?

Some of the things to look for in a dog bike trailer include a foldable frame, an adjustable safety harness, and material that is easy to clean.

What is the largest dog bike trailer?

The largest of the bike trailers that we reviewed was the Schwinn Rascal Bike Pet Trailer, which accommodates dogs up to 100lbs.

Thank you for reading! Have some feedback for us? Contact the AZ Animals editorial team.