Dog wheelchairs are designed to help dogs who suffer from paralysis, or other mobility issues move around more easily. You may be looking at buying a dog wheelchair if your dog is finding it harder to get around. Some breeds, including Dachshunds, are prone to invertebral disc disease. Others, including Corgis and Irish Setters, can suffer from something called degenerative myelopathy. Both these conditions can result in paralysis.
We reviewed dozens of dog wheelchairs to identify the best of the best. We looked at features including the weight of each wheelchair, the type of wheels, and ease of assembly. We also looked at whether the wheelchairs are collapsible for easy storage or transport.
Our top pick from all the dog wheelchairs we reviewed is the K9 Carts The Original Dog Wheelchair. This wheelchair is suitable for a wide range of dog sizes, from 5 – 80 pounds in weight. Designed and used by Veterinarians, this dog wheelchair has been rigorously tested.
The 5 Top-Rated Dog Wheelchairs
| Editor’s Picks | Brand | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Best Overall | K9 Carts The Original Dog Wheelchair | 4.8 |
| Runner Up | Walkin Wheels Dog Wheelchair | 4.1 |
| Best Budget Buy | Newlife Mobility Adjustable Dog Wheelchair | 3.8 |
| Best Dog Wheelchair for Large Dogs | Walkin Wheels Large Dog Wheelchair | 4.1 |
| Best Dog Wheelchair for Small Dogs | K9 Carts Small Dog Wheelchair | 4.8 |
*Ratings are from Amazon at the time of publication and can change
Our Top Pick: K9 Carts The Original Dog Wheelchair
Our Top Pick is the K9 Carts The Original Dog Wheelchair. This quality wheelchair was designed by Veterinarians, and has been successfully used for over 53 years. Constructed from an aircraft grade aluminium frame, it’s also one of the lightest wheelchairs on the market today.
This wheelchair provides excellent support for dogs whose front legs are strong, but whose back legs suffer from weakness or paralysis. There are many positive reviews for this wheelchair on Amazon, from happy customers whose dog received a new lease of life when using K9 Carts The Original Dog Wheelchair.
K9 Carts The Original Dog Wheelchair Key Features:
- Available in 5 different sizes to suit dogs from 5 – 80 pounds
- Handmade in the USA
- Available in 2 colors: white, and pink
Our Runner Up Pick: Walkin’ Wheels Dog Wheelchair
For our Runner Up pick, we selected the Walkin’ Wheels Dog Wheelchair. This Veterinarian designed wheelchair is available in a range of sizes to suit dogs from 11 – 25 pounds, and with a leg length of between 3 – 15 inches. The lightweight frame holds a fully adjustable harness, designed to provide maximum levels of comfort.
This dog wheelchair is also adjustable in height, length, and width. The in-house customer support team are also available to help you with any questions you may have while fitting the wheelchair to your dog.
Walkin’ Wheels Dog Wheelchair Key Features:
- Available in 3 colors: blue, camouflage, and pink
- Dense foams wheels suitable for any terrain
- Fully washable
Best Budget Pick: Newlife Mobility Adjustable Dog Wheelchair
Our budget pick is the Newlife Mobility Adjustable Dog Wheelchair. This wheelchair comes in a huge range of sizes, from XXS – XL, making it suitable for a large variety of dog breeds. The soft, adjustable harness allows you to make adjustments until you reach the perfect fit for your dog.
This dog wheelchair also includes soft hind leg supports, so that your dog’s legs will not drag on the floor. The frame allows for you to perfectly match your dogs height and width.
Newlife Mobility Adjustable Dog Wheelchair Key Features:
- Easy to assemble
- Belly band designed specifically for dogs with spondylitis
- Lightweight aluminium frame
Best Dog Wheelchair for Large Dogs: Walkin’ Wheels Large Dog Wheelchair
If you have a large dog which suffers from paralysis, it may be a struggle to find a dog wheelchair to accommodate their size. The Walkin’ Wheels Large Dog Wheelchair solves that problem. It is specifically designed for dogs weighing up to 180 pounds, and with a leg length of up to 30 inches.
This large dog wheelchair is suitable for German Shepherds, Labradors, and Golden Retrievers. It should also fit Newfoundlands, Great Danes, and even Irish Wolfhounds! The customer support team are on-call to help you find the perfect set-up for your large dog.
Walkin’ Wheels Large Dog Wheelchair Key Features:
- Large, all-terrain wheels
- Adjustable in height, length, and width
- Includes belly belt and hind leg supports
Best Dog Wheelchair for Small Dogs: K9 Carts Small Dog Wheelchair
If your small dog needs hind-leg support from a wheelchair, we recommend the K9 Carts Small Dog Wheelchair. This veterinarian designed dog wheelchair uses wide, all-terrain tires to allow your small dog to easily move over a variety of surfaces.
With this wheelchair, you can use the harness to provide support to the rear legs, or allow your dog to use their hind legs if they have limited movement. The dense, foam padding of the harness provides excellent pelvic support, as well as helping to prevent pressure sores.
K9 Carts Small Dog Wheelchair Key Features:
- Fits most small dogs from 5 – 15 pounds
- Made in the USA
- Veterinarian designed and tested
Who Should Buy a Dog Wheelchair
If yor dog is showing signs of decreased mobility, you may like to consider buying a dog wheelchair. Perhaps your veterinarian has diagnosed that they are suffering from a condition which will ultimately lead to paralysis.
Some dogs have suffered accidents which results in the amputation of one or more legs. Depending on how your dog gets around, a wheelchair may increase their mobility. Many dogs will still enjoy the chance to go for walks, so the use of a dog wheelchair means they can still enjoy being active and independent.
Important Features to Consider
A dog wheelchair should have a few important features. Here’s what to consider when selecting a dog wheelchair:
- Type of wheels. If you plan on taking your dog to places like the park or the beach with their dog wheelchair, pay attention to the type of wheels used. Larger wheels, with a deeper tread pattern, will be more suitable for the outdoors.
- Adjustable. In order for your dog to be comfortable, select a dog wheelchair which has adjustable sections. This means you’ll be able to adjust the height and length of the wheelchair to exactly fir your dog’s measurements.
- Weight. If a dog wheelchair is made of too many heavy materials, it can be difficult for your dog to move around with ease. Look for a wheelchair which uses a combination of lightweight materials in its construction.
- Collapsible. If you want to either take your dog for walks which you reach by driving, you’ll want to select a dog wheelchair which you can easily collapse. This will make it much easier to put in your car. Also, if you live in an apartment or small house, you may want to store the wheelchair away when not in use.
- Number of wheels. Most dog wheelchairs are designed for dogs with limited or no movement in their back legs only. These wheelchairs have 2 rear wheels. Some dog wheelchairs are intended to help dogs with weak front legs as well. These have 4 wheels and offer full support.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a dog wheelchair and how does it work?
A dog wheelchair is a wheeled device which allows your dog to remain mobile if they have weak or paralyzed legs. It works by supporting either their rear legs, or their entire body.
Does my dog need a wheelchair?
If your dog has weak or paralyzed legs and has trouble walking unaided then yes, they may benefit from a dog wheelchair.
Speak to your veterinarian to find out if your dog is a suitable candidate.
How much does a dog wheelchair cost?
The costs of dog wheelchairs can vary. But, for example, the wheelchairs we reviewed varied in price from $72 to $479.
How do you care for a paralyzed dog?
It’s common for paralyzed dogs to have some degree of incontinence. You may need to clear up after your dog. Some dogs will need to have their bladders expressed if they are unable to pee unaided. Your vet can show you how to do this. You could consider using doggy diapers when they are inside.
Your dog may not be able to feel if they are developing pressure sores or rubs in areas which are paralyzed. Keep a close eye on their skin and look for any signs of these developing. You may choose to add padding to their wheelchair, or invest in a more supportive dog bed.
Many paralyzed dogs benefit from massage and physical therapy.
Other Dog Wheelchairs We Reviewed
We looked at 20 other dog wheelchairs. Even though they didn’t make our top 5 dog wheelchairs, they’re still the best of the rest and each one is a great option for your dog. The information you’ll need to compare each one is included with the listing.
- Dog Wheelchairs for Large Dogs
- Dog Wheelchairs for Small Dogs
- Dog Wheelchairs with 4 Wheels
- Dog Wheelchairs for Short Dogs
Dog Wheelchairs for Large Dogs
Key Features:
- Easil to adjust
- Deluxe neoprene harness
- Lightweight aluminium frame
Cost: $249
Key Features:
- Adjustable neoprene harness
- Premium wheels
- Height, width, and length can all be adjusted
Cost: $200
Key Features:
- Suitable for dogs weighing between 50 – 80 pounds
- Available in 2 colors: white, and pink
- Made in the USA
Cost: $459
Key Features:
- Height can be adjusted at the push of a button
- Soft, adjustable harness
- Lightweight, aluminium frame
Cost: $189
Key Features:
- For dogs weighing 70 – 180 pounds
- Fits dogs with a leg height between 26 – 30 inches
- Fully adjustable harness, and frame
Cost: $479
Dog Wheelchairs for Small Dogs
Key Features:
- Soft, adjustable harness
- Rear leg supports
- Hardwearing foam wheels
Cost: $80
Key Features:
- Veterinarian designed
- Made in the USA
- Exceptionally lightweight
Cost: $239
Newlife Mobility Small Dog Wheelchair
This adjustable wheelchair provides hind leg support using the attached stirrups.
Key Features:
- Includes belly band for spinal protection
- Adjustable height
- Durable, aluminium frame
Cost: $82
Key Features:
- For dogs weighing between 4 – 11 pounds
- Suitable up to a height of 9.5 inches
- Dense foam wheels
Cost: $90
Key Features:
- Available in 3 colors: blue, pink, and camouflage
- Lightweight, aluminium frame
- Fully adjustable harness
Cost: $249
Dog Wheelchairs with 4 Wheels
Key Features:
- Available in 3 sizes: XXS, XS, and S
- Adjustable harness
- Lightweight, aluminium frame
Cost: $176
Key Features:
- Rear leg supports
- Belly band
- Adjustable width, height, and length
Cost: $122
Key Features:
- Available in 7 sizes
- Belly band for spinal protection
- Provides full body support
Cost: $198
Key Features:
- Available in 3 sizes: XS, S, and M
- Also available in a 2-wheeled model
- Soft, adjustable harness
Cost: $170
Key Features:
- Available in 5 sizes, from XS to XL
- Lightweight frame
- Adjustable harness
Cost: $230
Dog Wheelchairs for Short Dogs
Key Features:
- Specially designed for Corgis, Dachshunds, and other short breeds
- Veterinarian approved
- Fully adjustable harness
Cost: $119
Key Features:
- Designed for short dogs weighing between 40 – 70 pounds
- Lightweight, aluminium frame
- Solid PU wheel
Cost: $165
Key Features:
- Made in the USA
- Designed by Veterinarians
- Available in pink, or white
Cost: $300
Newlife Mobility Adjustable Dog Wheelchair for Short Dogs
Designed for Corgis, Dachshunds, Basset Hounds, and other short breeds.
Key Features:
- Fully adjustable harness
- Push button adjustable height, width, and length
- Lightweight frame
Cost: $129
Key Features:
- Available in 3 colors: blue, pink, and camouflage
- Fully adjustable harness
- Veterinarian approved
Cost: $324
