Getting your dog from point A to point B can be difficult for any number of reasons. He could have anxiety in social situations, you could struggle to keep him from running off if he sees another animal or he could have health concerns that prevent him from keeping up with you. Having a dog stroller could make each of those problems (and then some!) a thing of the past. If you’ve thought about getting a dog stroller in the past but have no idea what’s available and what to look for, don’t stress; we’ve done the legwork for you.
We reviewed dozens of dog strollers to identify the best of the best. We looked at the number of wheels, the size of those wheels, weather resistance, frame composition, undercarriage, owner’s console and so many more features to make sure you get the best option for your pup.
In our research, we found quite quickly that the HPZ Pet Rover Premium Dog Stroller stood out as a clear winner. With its oval frame made of aviation-grade aluminum, you’ll never worry about the durability and the compact folded size makes it ultra-portable.
The 5 Top-Rated Dog Strollers
| Editor’s Pick | Brand | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Best Overall | HPZ Pet Rover Premium Dog Stroller | 4.6 |
| Runner Up | Paws & Pals 3 Wheeler Elite Jogger Pet Stroller | 4.3 |
| Best Budget Buy | Pet Gear Ultra Lite Travel Stroller | 3.7 |
| Best Jogging Stroller | Pet Gear No-Zip NV Pet Stroller | 4.3 |
| Best Stroller for Large Dogs/Multiple Pets | Pet Gear No-Zip Expedition Zipperless Entry Pet Stroller | 4.3 |
*Ratings are from Amazon at the time of publication and can change
Our Top Pick: HPZ Pet Rover Premium Dog Stroller
The HPZ Pet Rover Premium Dog Stroller is a heavy-duty stroller with convertible compartments and zipperless entry to make traveling with your dog fun and easy no matter where the road takes you. But, don’t let its heavy-duty construction scare you: this stroller maintains a lightweight, durable stainless steel and aluminum alloy frame.
The stroller can be folded and unfolded using only one hand and the rear braking system adds to the ease of use in a big way. The front wheels rotate a full 360-degrees which makes steering a breeze and the two pet compartment pads that come with it will make sure your pup’s ride is a comfortable one. You can use this stroller for virtually any dog, small, medium or large; the weight capacity is an impressive 75 pounds.
The wheels are covered for full replacement for three years while the entire stroller has a limited lifetime warranty. With an Amazon rating of 4.6 stars with nearly 300 reviews you can buy this dog stroller with confidence in your satisfaction.
HPZ Pet Rover Premium Dog Stroller Key Features:
- Premium-grade suspension with comfort-ride wheels
- Convertible internal compartment gives you the freedom to change its size to accommodate dogs of different sizes
- Large-volume basket underneath, three smaller accessory bags, and bottle holder give dog parents plenty of storage space
- Weatherproof, breathable mesh top cover
Our Runner-Up Pick: Paws & Pals Three-Wheel Pet Stroller
The Paws & Pals Three-Wheel Pet Stroller is a single-hand fold and unfold, making transport super convenient. It has both a front and rear mesh window that can be lifted for your very well-behaved dog to enjoy the openness and provides options for entrance to your picky dogs.
The stroller includes a cushion mat for your pup’s smooth ride and also included is a cover that will match the stroller color you choose (you have 3 colors to pick from). There is a sizable undercarriage and an owner’s console with a tray and two cup holders to hold everything you’ll need for your trip out with your dog.
With an Amazon rating of 4.3 stars from more than 800 customer reviews, this stroller is quality certified and meets stroller safety and production industry standards.
Paws & Pals Three-Wheel Pet Stroller Key Features:
- Rear security brakes
- Retractable waterproof rain hood
- Mesh windows for ventilation and to keep out bugs
Best Budget Pick: Pet Gear Ultra Lite Travel Stroller
On-the-go dog parents appreciate the lightweight, ultra-compact Pet Gear Ultra Lite Travel Stroller. This stroller folds in seconds so you can be off and walking with your pet around your neighborhood or in your favorite vacation spot in no time.
The stroller comes in three color options which will make it easy for you to customize to your pup’s gender (pink, blue or black are available). This is designed for a small dog; in fact the weight capacity is only 15 pounds. And while there are some complaints on the wheel steering, this stroller is perfect to pop in the backseat or trunk and leave it. That way you’ll always be prepared to take your pooch with you without having to plan and pack.
This stroller is your more basic style, with a lot of similarities to a child’s umbrella stroller; it even folds the same. But with the enclosure and the removable liner, this is a stroller that has earned the distinction of intended for dogs. And for just under $40, it’s hard to find too many complaints!
Pet Gear Ultra Lite Travel Stroller Key Features:
- Six-inch wheels ideal for strolling
- Lightweight and easily portable
- Folds into ultra-compact size in mere seconds
Best Jogging Dog Stroller Pick: Pet Gear No-Zip NV Pet Stroller, Zipperless Entry
Dog parents who don’t want to hassle with zippers love the Pet Gear No-Zip NV Pet Stroller, Zipperless Entry. The latest no-zip technology makes this dog stroller one of the top choices for accessing your pet easily.
The large 12 inch Air Ride tires make the ride smooth for your pup and pushing it while you jog a piece of cake. You’ll also be able to lock the front wheel to provide a bit more stability during your jog. The fabric is made with a 600 Denier water-resistant canvas-like material so you won’t need to worry about your pup getting wet should your run turn cloudy or you pass through a sprinkler.
With an Amazon rating of 4.3 with nearly 700 customer reviews, it’s not hard to see why it’s Amazon’s Choice for Pet Gear Stroller.
Pet Gear No-Zip NV Pet Stroller, Zipperless Entry Key Features:
- Elevated paw rest
- Panoramic view windows give pets the best look possible while they ride in comfort on the included plush bolster pad
- 12-inch AirRide tires for a smoother ride on any terrain
- Suitable for dogs up to 70 pounds
Best Stroller for Large or Multiple Dogs Pick: Pet Gear No-Zip Expedition Zipperless Entry Pet Stroller
If you are a dog parent who is frustrated by the limited number of strollers available for larger dogs, look no further than the Pet Gear No-Zip Expedition Zipperless Entry Pet Stroller. It features a spacious pet compartment that is a perfect fit for large dogs or multiple pets.
The Expedition model of the Pet Gear No-Zip line is for your biggest dogs; it will carry a dog (or multiple dog) up to 150 pounds, which is a spectacular feat that hardly any of its peers can boast. The same stroller in a slightly smaller size, the Excursion, (also available at the link above) will offer all the same features but will be a bit more compact with only a 100 pound weight maximum – which is still nothing to scoff at!
Without a lot of choices when it comes to large dog strollers (and even fewer of high quality), you may be surprised to discover this stroller still maintains a rating on Amazon of 4.3 stars.
Pet Gear No-Zip Expedition Zipperless Entry Pet Stroller Key Features:
- Easy-locking, no-zip entry
- Load pets from the front or rear with dual-entry, which also makes it easier for the pets to exit because they do not have to turn around to do so
- Multi-position, adjustable handle
Who Should Buy a Dog Stroller
At first sight, it may seem strange to see people pushing their dogs in pet strollers. After all, dogs enjoy taking walks and sniffing their surroundings. But, smart pet parents know that dog strollers can save their pets from unfriendly dogs, fast-approaching children, hot macadam, and other dangers. If you have puppies that haven’t been vaccinated yet but you want to start socializing them some, a stroller can accomplish that while still protecting them.
Many owners of small dogs don’t know how they ever lived without a pet stroller to keep their dogs safe and calm. And, owners of larger dogs understand how much easier it is to transport them in a large stroller after surgery, when they’re getting too old to keep up on a run, and when they face a stressful situation like going to the vet. Not to mention that the ease of getting your dog through an over-crowded park full of distractions and stimulation with a stroller is unquestionable.
Important Features to Consider
A dog stroller should have a few key features. Here’s what to consider when selecting a stroller for your dog:
- Suspension system. This is important if you plan on jogging, certainly. But, if we’re being honest, this will make the ride easier for your pup, no matter how you’re using the stroller. And if you opt for a stroller with suspension system, your pushing will become much easier as well. So a suspension is very nearly a must-have for a jogging dog stroller, but still a very nice feature for others, too.
- Tires. Get the tires that fit the use. If you plan on jogging, the large tires with good traction are the way to go. If you plan on walking with him through the park you can get the lightweight plastic/EVA foam tires. And if you’re planning on using a convertible stroller that will double as a bike trailer, look out for those traditional air-fill rubber tires.
- Weight capacity. You’ll obviously want to get a stroller that your pup can use at his full-grown size, so make sure you’re thinking long-term when making your purchase. Keep in mind any of your pup’s friends that you may want to carry in your stroller when you’re looking at the weight capacity. If you plan on taking more than one dog, you may have to adjust your needs.
- Water-resistant. You may be able to find a stroller that’s entire fabric design is water resistant or even water proof, if you’re lucky. But more common is that your stroller comes with a removable waterproof cover that will protect your pup (or you can purchase one separately). Consider the benefits of each because while we can predict the weather, there’s no 100% accurate weatherman. You’ll want to choose something to be safe rather than sorry.
- Enclosures. A stroller that can be completely enclosed so that your pup can’t escape is an invaluable feature when you’re just training your dog. And, if your dog is a runner or easily distracted, it may always be the most important feature. Even if your dog is well-behaved sometimes you’ll need to protect him from the outside, instead of the outside from him.
- Multiples. To go hand-in-hand with weight capacity and planning ahead for potential puppy friends, if you have more than one pup, you may want to look into strollers that have a way to separate multiples. Because even if your pups get along great most of the time, the one time they won’t will definitely be when it’s most inconvenient for you. (Picture in the middle of a crowd during a moment of silence or some other bad time.) Be prepared by having a separator for your stroller.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does a dog need a stroller?
A dog could need a stroller for several reasons. He could be working on social anxiety or bad on a leash. You could want to jog, but his little legs can’t keep up with you. If your dog is elderly, has bad joints, or is recovering from an injury a stroller could genuinely help him (and you). He could even need protection from other dogs if he’s un-vaccinated, if the pavement is too hot for his paws, or if you know there are likely to be poorly-behaved dogs where you’re going.
And even if none of those reasons fit your specific needs; consider that a good pet stroller can simply be a way to pamper your pet. Even if he doesn’t necessarily have a need, you’re his owner and you know him best. Would a stroller be something he would enjoy? If you think so, then that’s the only need you have to consider.
What size dog stroller does my dog need?
First and foremost, you’ll want to make sure the stroller you’re getting is capable of holding your dog at full-size. Don’t just get a stroller that will carry your dog while she’s a puppy or you’ll have wasted money. In order to find out what your dog’s likely adult size is, you can search her breed or, perhaps the smartest idea, talk to your vet for educated predictions.
Measure your dog and compare his measurements with the stroller’s. If he would have at least a few inches all around him while he’s in the stroller, then he’s going to be comfortable in that stroller. If you plan on using the stroller for more than one dog, you’ll want to use their combine weight and size. They will likely be cuddled into each other so sizing may be difficult, but the next time they’re lying together, try to take measurements to get an idea what their preferred size would be.
Are dog strollers better than pet carriers?
This depends entirely on what you intend to use these products. If you plan on using this for airline travel, it’s probably a better bet to find a carrier that is airline certified. (You could still use your stroller in parts of the terminal, but you’ll need to check it and that seems like an excessive hassle, even if we are huge fans of strollers.) However, if you plan on jogging or walking, a stroller is definitely the way to go. Generally, a stroller is more for being out and about and a carrier is more for going somewhere. The carrier is about the travel; while with the stroller it’s all about moving and doing. Road trip? Carrier. Festival? Stroller.
What type of wheels are best for a dog stroller?
For stroller wheels, there are a few most common types: plastic/EVA, rubber and Air Ride. Plastic/EVA wheels are a plastic and foam construction that makes them both durable and relatively easy to push. They’re also easy to get stuck but are ultra-lightweight. They don’t typically have great traction but work perfectly for use on paved paths.
Traditional rubber wheels are ideal if you plan on taking your stroller on the road. They’re what you want if you plan on hooking the trailer/stroller onto your bike and taking our pooch down the road. They’re lightweight and have excellent traction, but will need to be checked for air pressure and are susceptible to flats.
Air Ride wheels are best if you plan on jogging or going off-road with your dog stroller. The large wheels are typically 12-inches and the front wheel locks into place to provide added stability for rough terrain or the rigors of jogging.
