Dog Carriers

A dog carrier gives smaller dogs a secure way to travel when walking isn't practical, vet trips, public transport, busy streets, or the middle stretch of a long walk when a small dog runs out of legs. This collection covers backpacks, slings, shoulder bags and hard-sided travel carriers, in sizes suited to small breeds and puppies. The two things that decide whether a carrier works are weight limit and interior dimensions, and neither is guessable from a photo. Check both on the product page against your dog before ordering.

Types of Dog Carriers

Four main shapes, each suited to a different situation. Most owners who carry regularly end up with two.

Carrier Backpacks

A dog carrier backpack distributes weight across both shoulders, which makes it the most comfortable option for carrying any distance. That matters more than people expect, a few kilos on one shoulder becomes unpleasant within twenty minutes.

Designs vary between enclosed mesh panels and front-facing or legs-out styles where the dog's head and forelegs sit outside. Ventilation is the detail to check on enclosed models, and a secure internal tether stops a dog leaning out too far. Padded straps and a chest clip make a noticeable difference on longer outings.

Sling Carriers

A dog sling carrier sits across the body like a messenger bag, with the dog resting against your hip or chest. They're the lightest option and the quickest to get a dog in and out of, which suits short trips and dogs that need lifting intermittently rather than carrying throughout.

The trade-off is weight on one shoulder. Slings work well for very small dogs and short durations, less well for anything heavier or longer. Look for an adjustable strap and a safety clip that attaches to a harness rather than a collar.

Tote and Shoulder Bags

Carrier bags look closer to a regular bag, which suits places where a visible pet carrier draws attention. Most have mesh panels on one or more sides and a zip or magnetic closure.

Structure is what to check here. A bag with a rigid or reinforced base keeps its shape and gives the dog a stable surface to sit on; one that collapses around them is less comfortable and harder to carry evenly.

Hard-Sided and Travel Carriers

Rigid carriers offer more protection and hold their shape under load, which matters in a car or in transit. They're bulkier and heavier than soft-sided options, and less convenient to carry by hand for long.

Soft-sided pet carriers sit between the two, some structure, more give, and usually collapsible for storage. For longer road trips where the dog stays in one place, a travel crate may be the more practical choice than a carrier.

Choosing the Right Size and Fit

Two figures decide this, and both are on the product page.

Weight limit. Stated by the manufacturer for the carrier's structure and straps. Stay within it, exceeding a stated limit puts stress on seams and clips, and it's uncomfortable to carry besides.

Interior dimensions. Your dog should be able to stand without their back touching the top, turn around, and lie down. Measure from the base of the neck to the base of the tail for length, and floor to top of head while standing for height. Compare those figures against the interior measurements, not the external ones, padding and structure take up more room than you'd think.

If your dog is between sizes, err towards more room rather than less. A carrier that's slightly roomy is manageable; one that's slightly tight won't get used twice.

Carriers for Travel and Flying

Air travel is where carrier requirements get specific, and where it's worth being careful. Airlines set their own rules on maximum dimensions for in-cabin carriers, weight limits including the dog, whether soft or hard sides are required, and which routes and aircraft allow pets at all. Those rules differ between airlines and change periodically.

Check directly with your airline before booking, and confirm the specific carrier's dimensions against their published under-seat allowance. No carrier is universally accepted, so treat any general claim about airline suitability with caution, including on other retailers' listings.

For car journeys, the considerations are different: securing the carrier so it doesn't slide, ventilation with windows up, and something familiar inside. A blanket from home does more for a nervous traveller than anything bought specially.

Carriers for Everyday Outings

Beyond travel, carriers earn their keep on ordinary days, vet visits where a nervous dog is better contained, city streets with heavy foot traffic, shops and cafés that allow carried dogs, and long walks where a small dog tires before you do.

For regular use, prioritise how quickly you can get the dog in and out, and whether the carrier is washable. Keep a lead clipped to a collar or harness when you lift the dog out, since that's the moment most escapes happen. Our walk and outdoor range covers the rest of the kit.

Shop Dog Carriers at Pawtons

Browse the range above, start from how you'll use it, and check the weight limit and interior dimensions against your dog. There's more for travel and everyday use in our dog accessories range.

Dog Carriers — Frequently Asked Questions

What is a dog carrier?

A bag or pack designed to transport a dog securely, as a backpack, sling, shoulder bag or hard-sided case. Most are made for small breeds and puppies, with mesh panels for airflow and a closure that keeps the dog contained. Weight limits vary by product.

How do I choose the right carrier size?

Check two figures: the manufacturer's stated weight limit, and the interior dimensions. Your dog should stand without touching the top, turn around, and lie down. Measure back length and standing height, then compare against the interior measurements rather than external ones.

What's the most comfortable way to carry a dog?

For any distance, a backpack distributes weight across both shoulders and is easier on your back than one-sided options. Slings are lighter and quicker for short trips but put the load on one shoulder. Comfort for the dog depends on room to change position and adequate airflow.

Are dog carriers safe?

A well-fitting carrier used for reasonable periods is generally fine for dogs that tolerate it. Look for adequate ventilation, a secure closure and an internal tether. Keep trips within your dog's comfort, and if your dog has mobility or breathing concerns, check with your vet first.

Are legs-out and front-facing carriers suitable?

Opinions differ, and it depends on the dog and the design. The things worth checking are whether the dog's weight is supported rather than hanging from the legs, and whether they can shift position. If you're unsure whether a style suits your dog's build, ask your vet.

What carrier is best for a small dog?

Small breeds have the widest choice. Slings and shoulder bags suit very small dogs and short trips; backpacks work better for longer outings. Prioritise a secure closure and a stable base, small dogs are more affected by a carrier that sags around them.

What makes a carrier airline approved?

Airlines set their own requirements for in-cabin carriers, maximum dimensions, combined weight, and whether soft or hard sides are allowed. These differ between airlines and change periodically. Check the carrier's dimensions against your airline's published under-seat allowance before booking.