dog-carrier-purse

Pets are more than a furry friend. They’re a part of your family, and who wants to leave their cuddliest member at home? Dog carrier purses let you travel across the globe or take your dog on a lunch date. If you’re worried about getting a few stares, today’s dog carrier purses disguise your little bestie with style. These carriers take fashion to a new extreme that includes plenty of storage and organization along with fixed leashes, ventilation panels, and zipper protection so you don’t accidentally catch fur when you’re a hurry.

We reviewed dozens of dog carrier purses to identify the best of the best. From airline approved models to those with the best breathability as well as the carrier purses that are easy to clean. Of course, we couldn’t research carrier purses without an eye for fashion. You need plenty of room for your pooch, but you can look fabulous while you do it.

Top Pick

BETOP HOUSE Pet Carrier

A beautifully-designed, airline-approved carrier purse with excellent ventilation and two size options.

The BETOP HOUSE Pet Carrier beat out the competition with its sleek design and choice of sizes. Mesh paneling provides plenty of ventilation for your dog, but you’ve got the option of disguising everything with flaps and the little details that take it from carrier to fashion accessory. It’s hard to beat a carrier with both a shoulder strap and carrying handles. There’s just so many ways to carry and use this bag, making it a clear winner.

 

The 5 Top-Rated Dog Carrier Purses

Editor’s Picks Brand Rating
Best Overall BETOP HOUSE Pet Carrier 4.5
Runner Up Kenox Fashion Dog Carrier Handbag 4.3
Best Budget Buy MG Collection Soft-Sided Travel Tote 4.2
Best Small Dog Carrier Purse PetsHome Dog Carrier Purse 4.4
Best Dog Tote Bag Carrier DJANGO Dog Carry Bag 4.7

*Ratings are from Amazon at the time of publication and can change

Our Top Pick: BETOP HOUSE Pet Carrier

The BETOP HOUSE Pet Carrier holds your pup and looks amazing to boot. First, it comes in two sizes—large and small. There are a couple of design differences between the two, but their basic structure and aesthetic are the same. The rigid structure gives your dog some wiggle room, including a removable bottom for easy cleaning. However, it doesn’t feel like you have a hard-shell dog carrier on your hip.

They both feature fade-resistant faux leather in a stylish check pattern. Both the large and small have carrying handles and a removable shoulder strap for when you need to travel hands-free. If you’re worried about your dog jumping (or sneaking) out when you’re not looking, it includes an interior safety leash. Finally, they both feature exterior storage with a front snap pocket and a hidden zipper pocket in the back for a cellphone, keys, and ID.

The BETOP is truly designed with your pet’s comfort in mind. The small, which fits dogs up to 8.8 pounds, has two mesh ventilation panels while the large, which fits dogs up to 12 pounds, has one mesh ventilation panel and three ventilation holes on the opposite side. The large also has a double layer top closure with a mesh or covered option. Both sizes look amazing, are versatile, and keep your dog safe and comfortable.

BETOP HOUSE Dog Carrier Top Features:

  • Two size options
  • Ventilation panels
  • Interior leash
  • Faux leather exterior
  • Removable bag bottom
  • Shoulder strap and carrying handles

Our Runner Up Pick: Kenox Fashion Dog Carrier Handbag

Runner Up

Kenox Fashion Dog Carrier Handbag

A stunning dog carrier purse with extra storage, excellent ventilation, and fun prints inside and out.

The Kenox Fashion Dog Carrier Handbag has a look and feel that’s far above its budget. It’s a visual stunner that includes extra storage with two front snap pockets and a zippered pocket for dog treats or your extras. You can’t skimp on ventilation when it comes to your pup, and this bag answers that problem with two zippered mesh panels at either end and a two panel top closure with a mesh option. Of course, you can always leave it open so he can peak his head out for a treat.

A removable, rigid bottom panel adds overall structure and cleaning ease. And, speaking of structure, this isn’t a collapsible model. It’s designed to protect the smallest family member from getting squished while you travel, which can be nice when you’ve got him dangling from your shoulder in a crowded airport.

Finally, there’s the prints. A stripped exterior definitely doesn’t look like your typical dog carrier. When it’s placed against the interior animal print, both fabrics pop, turning you from a pet owner into a style-savvy traveler.

Kenox Fashion Dog Carrier Handbag Key Features:

  • Interior leash
  • Two (2) panel closure with mesh option
  • Two (2) snap pockets
  • One (1) zippered pocket
  • Removable, rigid bottom panel
  • Carrying handles

Best Budget Pick: MG Collection Soft-Sided Travel Tote

Best for Budget

MG Collection Soft-Sided Travel Tote

This dog carrier purse straddles the line between a purse and a tote with a simple design, soft framework, and a sturdy bottom.

If you want simple and affordable, the MG Collection Soft-Sided Travel Tote would be a good choice for you. The quilted exterior comes in three color combinations—black, purple, turquoise—to fit your (and your pooch’s) personality.

This carrier crosses the line between a purse and a tote. The closable two-panel cover and carrying handles are decidedly like a purse while the soft, quilted cover most definitely reminds us of a tote. It really gives you both options because you can leave the mesh panel open for a tote or zip it up when you need your little bestie to stay hidden.

Do you like to keep dog treats with you? Two Velcro pockets give some extra storage. On the bottom are four metal studs to keep it out of the dirt or off the airport floor. This carrier has four grommet ventilation holes, two on either end, and, of course, the mesh panel on top if he needs some extra airflow.

MG Collection Soft-Sided Travel Tote Key Features:

  • Quilted exterior
  • Two (2) panel closure, including mesh panel
  • Two (2) Velcro closure pockets
  • Metal studs on bottom
  • Four (4) ventilation holes
  • Soft handles

Best Small Dog Carrier Purse: PetsHome Dog Carrier Purse

Best Small Dog Carrier Purse

PetsHome Dog Carrier Purse

Your dog’s comfort comes in stylish faux leather and 15 color choices but doesn’t compromise on ventilation and carrying ease.

The littlest of dogs have a cozy ride in the PetsHome Dog Carrier Purse. It has style but doesn’t skimp on features or design. It’s hard to know where to begin with this purse. From the outside, it’s got contrasting stitching and some color options also include contrasting color patterns. The faux leather exterior definitely gives it a high-end feel without an over the top price.

This purse is well designed. Hard-sided construction comes together with a soft interior for a comfortable ride. The interior also includes a fixed leash to keep your pup secure even when the top panel is open. Speaking of the top panel, it can be locked into three different positions. One side panel can also be completely unzipped, creating a makeshift crate for your dog while you’re away from home.

Your dog won’t overheat with plenty of ventilation from the mesh panels on every side. While we love the small size for the teacup crowd, this purse also comes in a medium size for slightly larger dogs. And, once you’re home, the bottom panel can be removed and the purse folds down for easy storage.

PetsHome Dog Carrier Purse Key Features:

  • Fixed leash
  • Three (3) top panel positions
  • Faux leather exterior
  • Four (4) mesh ventilation panels
  • Foldable construction
  • Removable bottom panel

Best Dog Tote Bag Carrier: DJANGO Dog Carry Bag

Best Dog Tote Bag Carrier

DJANGO Dog Carry Bag

This classy carrier comfortably fits small and mid-sized dogs, provides extra storage space, and looks amazing wherever you go.

Tote carriers often provide extra space for your pup, and that’s especially true with the DJANGO Dog Carry Bag. This bag combines durability with a classic tote cut. It’s made of waxed canvas accented with a leather bottom and handles, making an incredibly durable carrier that fits into the rugged but classy category.

A scoop front gives room for your pup’s head and lets you both enjoy the ride together. We also love the four, large zippered pockets on either side. There’s plenty of room for dog treats, your wallet, phone, and other essentials. It also has a fixed leash so your pup can’t jump out. But why would he want to when the footpad is Sherpa lined and removable for easy cleaning?

Unlike some totes, the opening can be zipped shut but still leave your pup’s head in clear view. He’ll be protected from the elements while staying safe and secure. And, here’s our favorite part—it’s designed for dogs up to 30 pounds. Now, will all 30-pound dogs be able to fit? No, but this carrier is an option for those mid-sized pets that you’d like to bring along.

DJANGO Dog Carry Bag Key Features:

  • Scoop front
  • Four (4) zippered pockets
  • 30-pound maximum weight
  • Waxed canvas/leather exterior
  • Zippered top closure

Who Should Buy a Dog Carrier Purse

For many people, leaving their beloved pet at home can be anxiety-inducing. If you want some more discrete than a dog carrier backpack or a full-on dog carrier, dog carrier purses give a discrete way to take your pup with you for a day trip or to travel further afield.

Dog carrier purses are also a great way to tote your pet along on your daily adventures. Airline-approved carrier purses can go through security with some models being small enough to fit underneath an airline seat. However, check the dimensions with your preferred airline before committing as each airline is different.

But dog carrier purses walk the line between utility and fashion. Many of them have details that make them far more than a pet carrier. Faux leather, contrasting stitches, patterned liners, bows, and quilting turn the corner and make these carriers a statement piece that the fashion conscious will love.

Top Pick

BETOP HOUSE Pet Carrier

A beautifully-designed, airline-approved carrier purse with excellent ventilation and two size options.

Important Features to Consider

A dog carrier purse should have a few important features. Here’s what to consider when selecting a dog carrier purse for your dog:

  • Purse versus tote. The distinction between the two styles can be hard to detect at times and it doesn’t really matter except in appearance and how you want to use the carrier purse. “Purse” models look more like a traditional purse with a zippered closure, design features like bows, hardware, and quilting. Totes usually have a cut out for the dog’s head and an open top. However, some have a zippered closure that still leave the dog’s head exposed.
  • Dimensions and weight limit. Dimensions vary from purse to purse, but what’s important is that the purse is big enough for your dog. Measure your dog from chest to tail for length and floor to the top of his head for height. Many manufacturers also include a maximum weight limit simply because weight usually corresponds with size to some degree. You don’t want your dog to be squished. At the same time, you don’t want him rattling around in a purse that’s far too big.
  • Fixed leash. Some dogs may not like to ride in a carrier purse while others may want to explore if you stop moving. A fixed leash helps keep him safe and in place while you travel.
  • Airline-approved. Carrier purses that are airline approved meet FAA standards for carry-ons. However, you’ll need to check with your airline if you plan to stow the purse under the seat.
  • Ventilation panels and/or holes. The more ventilation the better, whether it’s mesh panels or holes. However, you may want to look for a model with flaps that can cover any ventilation features so that when it’s cold outside, your dog stays warm.
  • Pockets and storage. Many dog carrier purses can function like a regular purse with pockets and storage for your wallet, cellphone, and dog treats.
  • Carrying options. Carrying handles are nice, but models that also include a shoulder strap provide an extra hands-free option. Shoulder straps are often removable so you can get rid of the extra strap when you don’t need it.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a dog carrier purse?

A dog carrier purse is a dog carrier that’s small enough to be carried on your shoulder via carrying handles or straps. Dog carrier purses are designed to look more like a purse or tote than your average dog carrier, which disguises the precious cargo. Most are made for dogs under 15 pounds with some specialized for breeds under 10 pounds and those between 15 to 30 pounds.

Is my dog too big for a dog carrier purse?

That, in part, depends on the size of your dog. There are dog carrier purses made for dogs up to 30 pounds. However, it also depends on your dog’s dimensions. A tall, skinny dog may be under 30 pounds, but he might not fit within the confines of a dog carrier purse. You ‘ll have to measure your dog and compare his dimensions to that of the dog carrier purse.

Can I take a dog carrier purse on a plane?

Yes, you can, but it should be an airline-approved model. These models are designed to meet FAA regulations and many fit underneath an airplane seat.

Where can you take your dog in a carrier purse?

You can take a dog carrier purse anywhere you can carry it. Hiking, to the beach, on a plane, out to dinner—you’re really only limited by how much weight you can comfortably carry and locations that allow dogs.