The Best Motorcycle Dog Carrier That Will Make Travelling With Your Pets Easier: Ranked and Reviewed

Taking your pet along as a companion while travelling has become quiet a common sight now-a-days, as people want their fur babies to have the same experience and joy that comes with exploring. Leaving your dog at home or in a boarding facility while you hit the open road is a thing of the past and dogs are a frequent sight on the highways today.

How Can You Travel Safely With Your Four Legged Companion?

• Cars are the safest transport for dogs, but there is no reason why they can’t join you on a motorcycle trip.
• As long as you have the right equipment and your dog is the right size and temperament to join you on your motorcycle, there is nothing stopping you from going on the road together.

We’ve researched all the possible options and come up with the best motorcycle dog carriers available as well as some fantastic alternatives to suit different dogs and lifestyles.

1. Overall Best: Kuryakyn Pet Palace

Our choice for the #1 Best Overall motorcycle dog carrier is the Pet Palace from Kuryakyn, due to its high safety, comfort, and convenience ratings. Two options are available: one is suitable for dogs weighing up to 20 pounds and the other is perfect for larger dogs up to 35 pounds.

What makes this product especially suitable for motorcycle travel is its sturdy rigid frame. The carrier is covered in a 1,200 denier textile material that resists UV exposure and there is an additional rain cover, so this carrier is suitable for all weather conditions.

It comes with plenty of accessories for convenient mounting and has a shoulder strap so you can carry it around when you’re not on your bike. For your dog’s comfort, there is plenty of room inside, a removable foam cushion and four mesh windows that provide a great view and plenty of ventilation.

While reviews for this product were overwhelmingly positive, users reported a variety of issues with the straps and zippers. We recommend that you read these reviews to determine whether the reviewers’ complaints are a concern for you.

Pros and Cons of the Kuryakyn Pet Palace

Overall Best

Kuryakyn 5288 Grand Pet Palace

• Has a rigid and sturdy frame
• Made from 1200 denier textile material
• Suitable for all weather conditions
• Features four mesh windows for ventilation

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2. Best for a Great View: Kemimoto Motorcycle Dog Carrier

If you’ve got a nosy pooch who likes to see what is going on at all times, we recommend the Kemimoto Motorcycle Dog Carrier. What makes it stand out from other carriers is its unique combination of safety and a superb viewing dome for your dog!

It has an impressive weight capacity of 33 pounds and a metal frame that keeps its shape, although this can be removed if you wish.

It comes with everything you need to attach it securely to your motorcycle, a rain cover, a storage bag, and some travel bowls. There is plenty of ventilation and a removable cushion for comfort. The unique feature is the transparent viewing dome that fits on the top, but you can remove this and replace it with a ventilation panel if you would prefer.

A couple of buyers said this bag was too small for their dogs even though they weighed 33 pounds or less.

Pros and Cons of the Kemimoto Motorcycle Dog Carrier

Best for a Great View

kemimoto Motorcycle Dog/Cat Carrier

• Features a safe viewing dome
• Weight capacity of 33 pounds
• Plenty of ventilation
• Metal frame to keep its shape

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3. Best Budget Carrier: Outward Hound PoochPouch

This frontward-facing dog carrier from Outward Hound is our recommendation for dog owners on a limited budget. It costs less than $40, which makes it stand out from the other carriers.

You get a lot for your money. It fits pets up to 20 pounds and has weather-resistant fabric and mesh for ventilation. It is more suited for cycles than most other carriers because of its drawstring top that secures around the dog’s neck for a safer carry and the internal safety clip that fastens to your dog’s harness.

A few reviewers reported that this bag runs small. Some pet parents said that their dogs couldn’t get comfortable in this carrier.

Pros and Cons of the Outward Hound PoochPouch

Best Budget Carrier

Outward Hound PoochPouch Dog Front Carrier

• Made from weather-resistant fabric
• Features an internal safety clip
• Has mesh for ventilation
• Frontward-facing

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4. Best Carrier for Small Dogs: Yudodo Pet Dog Sling Carrier

The Yudodo Pet Dog Sling Carrier is our top choice for owners of small dogs. It stands out because its design is uniquely suited to the needs of small dogs on the move. There are three sizes to choose from, so you can choose the exact size for your dog and carry them in comfort and safety. The small size would fit a Yorkshire terrier or a Maltese but the large size can accommodate a greyhound! (Though we wouldn’t recommend carrying the latter around!)

It’s made from durable leather and mesh. Safety features include a safety hook to attach to a harness and a zipper that is secured in the closed position with a reinforced flap. The shoulder strap is adjustable and the carrier fits securely around your dog’s neck.

A number of reviewers reported that this bag was appropriate only for very small, inactive dogs.

Pros and Cons of the Yudodo Pet Dog Sling Carrier

Best Carrier for Small Dogs

YUDODO Reflective Pet Dog Sling Carrier

• Suited for small dogs when traveling
• Comes in three sizes
• Made from durable leather
• Safety hook attach to the collar

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5. Best Backpack Carrier: PetAmi Deluxe Pet Carrier Backpack

We know that some owners prefer to carry their dogs on their backs when they are on a cycle and the PetAmi Deluxe Pet Carrier Backpack is uniquely suited for this purpose. It is very roomy compared to many other carriers and can accommodate a dog that weighs up to 18 pounds.

The variety of colors is impressive (12) and it has a firm structure with useful side pockets. It scores highly on convenience with three openings, and adjustable straps. The safety features make it more suitable for cycle riding and these include chest and waist straps to hold the carrier securely against your body, safety buckles, and a safety strap inside to stop your pet from leaping out. For your dog’s comfort, there is a Sherpa-lined interior and plenty of ventilation.

Some reviewers reported that this bag “caved in” during use, indicating that the structure may not be as firm as the vendor says.

Best Backpack Carrier

PetAmi Deluxe Backpack Dog & Cat Carrier

• Can accommodate a dog up to 18 pounds
• Comes in a variety of colors
• Features three openings and adjustable straps
• Sherpa-lined interior

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How to Choose the Best Motorcycle Dog Carrier: Suitable for your Pet

When choosing the best motorcycle dog carrier for your precious pooch, it is important that you think about the size of your dog and their safety and comfort as priorities. Also, you should consider design, durability, and price. Before you choose, think carefully about the journeys that you want to make on your motorcycle with your dog in terms of distance, terrain, types of highway, and weather.

Size of Dog the Carrier Can Accommodate

This is an important safety consideration especially if you are taking the carrier on a motorcycle. Each carrier will have a maximum weight — some can accommodate dogs weighing up to 35 pounds. Also, make sure that you are physically able to support this weight on the motorcycle.

Comfort Features

To make sure that your pooch is comfortable on the journey they need enough room, a comfortable lining (Sherpa fleece is popular), and a lot of ventilation (usually provided by mesh).

Safety Features

To keep your dog safe, there must be a means of securing the carrier to you or to the motorcycle. There must also be secure zippers to stop them from leaping out and an attachment for a safety strap that also attaches to your dog’s harness.

Weather Protection

Some carriers that are fixed to a motorcycle have waterproof covers and strong UV-resistant material so they can be used in all weather. This is an important feature if you are going on long journeys.

Design

This is a personal choice. You may prefer for the carrier to be securely strapped to your motorcycle. Other owners prefer a backpack design and some like a sling design where your dog is strapped to your front.

Durability

The carrier should be made out of durable materials that can stand up to life on the road. Zippers must be robust enough to withstand the constant opening and closing and buckles and clips must be strong and durable.

Price

There is a wide range of prices. For a simple dog sling, you can expect to pay under $50. For a secure motorcycle carrier with multiple attachment straps and a firm structure, you can expect to pay hundreds of dollars. If you are planning a long road trip with your dog, it is always worth investing in the most expensive carrier that you can afford.

The Different Motorcycle Dog Carriers: Pros and Cons Compared

You will be able to choose from two types of motorcycle dog carriers. The first is one that attaches to your motorcycle and is a more rigid structure. The second is a soft carrier that attaches to your body. These look very different and have very different features so let’s review the pros and cons in more detail.

• Rigid dog carriers that attach to your motorcycle — These are the safest and most secure of the carriers. They can accommodate slightly larger dogs (up to 35 pounds) in comfort and have a more rigid structure. They come with everything you need to fix them to a bike. On the downside, they are more expensive and your dog will essentially be alone during the journey. These carriers are most suited to longer trips on busy highways.
• Soft body-slung dog carriers — These are cheaper options and your dog will enjoy being close to you during the journey. The disadvantage is that they may not be as safe, particularly if a collision occurs. You need to be very careful that they do not impair your ability to drive and that your dog doesn’t distract you. Also, they are only suitable for very small dogs.

Our Criteria for Choosing the Best Motorcycle Dog Carriers

While researching motorcycle dog carriers, we came across a lot of products that could have made the list had it not been for our strict measuring criteria. After studying the customer requirements and industry standards, we rated our products based on safety and security, design, quality of material and finish, value for money. Here are our comments on each criteria and why they were so important:

• Safety and Security — For us, the most important factor the safety and security that the carrier would provide while being strapped on to a speeding motorbike (or to your body while you ride said motorbike). For this, we verified that the clamps, straps, and buckles and ensured were sturdy and durable.
• Design — Next, we ensured that the design aspect of the carriers had taken the comfort and well-being of your pet into consideration. Some of the design aspects were the size and placement of the carrier.
• Quality — The quality of materials used were our next priority, as we had to ensure that each and every material used was durable, weather protected, sturdy and yet comfortable. The manufacturing was also a huge concern as poorly made products could result in your carrier getting detached or damaged while your beloved pet was still in it.
• Value for money: All of these features had to come within a reasonable budget.

Safety Tips for Taking Dogs on Motorcycles

There are obviously inherent risks associated with taking a dog on a motorcycle. Here are our top tips to help you both stay safe:

• Weight limits: Always abide by the weight limit for the carrier. However, also think about the weight that you are personally able to carry safely without it adversely affecting your balance.
• Dog training: Not all dogs like carriers. You may need to spend some time training your dog to get into the carrier and stay still once they are in there. A dog that is moving around is a danger to itself and to you.
• Condition: Check the condition of the carrier before each trip. Before you head off, check that the buckles, clasps, and zippers are in good condition. Also, check that the structure of the carrier is intact.
• Secure your dog: Don’t rely on the carrier to restrain your dog. You need an internal D-ring so that you can secure it to their harness.
• Practice: Have a go at using the carrier in a quiet area before you take it on the open road.

How to Make a Dog Comfortable on a Motorcycle Trip

The key to a successful motorcycle journey with your dog is to put their comfort first. Here’s what you need to do:

Start With Short Journeys.

Introduce your dog to motorcycle journeys gradually. Start with just 10-minute trips and build up to longer journeys. If you start with a long journey that your dog hates, you could put them off motorcycle trips altogether! You may need to use some tasty treats to coax them into the carrier, to begin with. Perhaps, do this in your home with the carrier on the floor.

Take Frequent Breaks.

It is quite hard work for a dog to travel in a carrier. so they need plenty of breaks. Some dogs may need you to stop every half an hour so that they can have some water and stretch their legs.

Ventilation

Choose a transport method that gives your dog plenty of air. This will allow them to get sufficient oxygen and keep them cool.

Padding

Soft carriers or carriers that have a padded cushion are always most popular with dogs. It also helps if it is washable.

Take Everything You Need

Don’t forget that for longer journeys you will need a leash, water, and food. This is why carriers with pockets are so convenient!

Ways to Carry a Dog on a Motorcycle

As a dog owner and a keen motorcycle rider, you have these options for taking your four-legged friend with you on journeys:

• Motorcycle dog seat: Mainly suitable for larger dogs that are very well trained. Your dog is restrained in a seat (it looks a little like a baby seat) at the rear of the motorcycle. You may want to invest in a pair of motorcycle goggles for your pooch.
• Sidecar: Probably the most expensive option and most suitable for the very large dog breeds and longer journeys. Your dog has plenty of room but must be restrained by a harness.
• Motorcycle carrier: A box-shaped carrier that is secured to the rear of the bike. Accommodates dogs up to about 30 pounds. Not all dogs are happy to go into them.
• Backpack or front-pack carriers: Only for very small dogs on short journeys. You have to make sure that wearing it won’t affect your ability to safely drive.

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