Dog carriers are very handy for any pet owner to have, but they are particularly convenient if you like to take adventures (like hiking) and travel a lot with your pup. Small dogs are especially easy to take with you on trips on the bike (or in the car) and even to the store, as long as you have the right carrier. Depending on your dog’s size and travel needs, it’s important to look for a carrier that provides lots of ventilation and space for your dog to travel comfortably. Here are a few tips and reviews to help find the best small dog carrier for your traveling needs.
Table of Contents
Top 10 Carriers for Small Dogs
| Sleepypod Atom Dog Carrier | Most Comfortable Small Dog Carrier |
| MG Collection Travel Pup Carrier | Best Lightweight Small Dog Carrier |
| Petego Dog Carrier | Best Ventilated Small Dog Carrier |
| Django Pet Carry Bag | Best Water-Resistant Small Dog Carrier |
| Petami Dog Purse | Most Affordable Small Dog Carrier |
| Sleepypod Air Dog Carrier | Most Versatile Small Dog Carrier |
| Sherpa Air Dog Carrier | Best Soft-Sided Small Dog Carrier |
| Pet Gear Pet Car Carrier | Best Carrier for Car Travel |
| Henkelion Soft Pet Carrier | Best Airline Approved Small Dog Carrier |
| Gunner G1 Pet Crate | Best Heavy-Duty Small Dog Carrier |
Best Small Dog Carrier Reviews
1. Sleepypod Atom pet Carrier, one Size
The Sleepypod Atom Dog Carrier also features a window in the front that allows your dog to stick his head to see what is going on. The carrier is made out of strong nylon while the interior features plush polyester to give your dog the most comfort. The padded strap is comfortable to use, and the pocket is large enough to hold toys and treats.
Pros:
- You can choose from five different colors
- It has a durable exterior and super soft interior
- You can attach it to luggage or use the padded strap to carry it
Cons:
- It’s on the expensive side
- The carrier is hard to zip shut
2. MG Collection Stylish 2 Tone Quilted Soft Sided Travel Pet Carrier Tote Hand Bag for Only Small Medium-Sized Cats Dogs Puppy
On each side of this carrier are two extra holes providing more ventilation along with two holes on the back and front. The MG Collection Travel Pup Carrier includes sturdy and soft handles that make it comfortable to carry. The Velcro pockets on each side of the carrier allow you to travel with toys and treats to keep your dog entertained as you travel. for comfortable carrying.
Pros:
- This is a lightweight and affordable carrier
- It looks like a regular purse
- This carrier comes with a top screen and two big pockets
Cons:
- There isn’t a lot of side ventilation
- The straps are not comfortable
3. Petego-Bitty Bag Soft padded small pet shoulder carrier bag tote. (16″L x 9.75″W X 10.75″H)
The Petego Dog Carrier can a top zipper that allows you to easily access your dog. And when you zip it shut, it still has an opening that lets your dog stick his head out. This is a great carrier for dogs under 10 pounds.
Pros:
- This is a stylish and affordable dog carrier
- Your pup can stick his head out
- This is a secure carrier that will keep your dog safe
Cons:
- There isn’t a lot of ventilation
- Your dog won’t have a lot of extra space
4. DJANGO Dog Carrier Bag – Waxed Canvas and Leather Soft-Sided Pet Travel Tote with Bag-to-Harness Safety Tether & Secure Zipper Pockets
Made out of waxed canvases, the Django Pet Carry Bag is capable of withstanding moisture and rain. Inside, you will find a silky nylon fabric that can also withstand water in the event your dog has an accident. Pockets on both the outside and inside all feature zippers and allow for easy access and extra storage. You can also clip your dog’s leash to the interior to keep your pup safe and secure.
Pros:
- You can choose from three different colors
- This is a water-resistant and stylish carrier
- It allows you to attach a leash to the interior
Cons:
- This carrier does not have a lot of ventilation
- It’s on the expensive side
5. PetAmi Airline Approved Dog Purse Carrier Soft-Sided Pet Carrier for Small Dog, Cat, Puppy, Kitten Portable Stylish Pet Travel Handbag Ventilated Breathable Mesh, Sherpa Bed
The Petami Dog Purse features removable bedding that is easy to clean as well as soft and comfortable. It also includes a leash that is built into the interior for extra security and versatile straps that allow you to carry the carrier by hand or on your shoulder. Two big pockets on either side allow you to bring along treats and toys, and the included collapsible water bowl ensures that your pup stays well hydrated.
Pros:
- This is an affordable carrier that includes a travel water bowl
- The bedding is soft and removable
- It comes with a built-in leash and large pockets
Cons:
- The quality isn’t consistent
- It’s not very durable or sturdy
6. Sleepypod Air in-Cabin Pet Carrier
You can choose from either six colors, and this carrier can also be used as a mobile dog bed option. The Sleepypod Air Dog Carrier is made out of durable nylon and features tear-resistant mesh and a plush interior. It has also been crash test approved by the Center for Pet Safety.
Pros:
- It is crash certified
- The design collapses for simple storage
- It comes with a seat belt for safe car travel
Cons:
- It only works with a small dog that is tiny enough to fit under airplane seats
7. Sherpa Travel Original Deluxe Airline Approved Pet Carrier
The Sherpa Air Dog Carrier comes with a faux lambskin interior that is also machine washable. It’s the perfect size for smaller dogs that weigh between eight and 22 pounds. This carrier is stylish and provides plenty of breathability during travel.
Pros:
- It meets any domestic airline required dimensions
- You can collapse it for easy storage
- The zippers lock for extra security
Cons:
- There isn’t a lot of storage
- It comes in only one color
8. Pet Gear Carrier & Car Seat for Cats and Dogs, 60 Pet Carrier & Car Seat
- Constructed for car travel, the Pet Gear Pet Car Carrier will fit snugly into a standard-sized car seat. Attaching directly to the car seatbelts, this carrier provides added stability and safety for your dog and also includes an interior tether that attaches to your dog’s collar. Once you’ve arrived at your destination, easily remove the carrier from the seat.
- Offering plenty of ventilation, the Pet Gear Pet Car Carrier includes top and front zippered walls made of mesh. This carrier was made for dogs that weigh up to 20 pounds and also includes an interior made of soft fleece that can be machine washed.
Pros:
- It has a lot of pockets for toys and treats
- There is a lot of ventilation
- You can convert it from a dog carrier to a doggie car seat
Cons:
- It’s only appropriate for traveling in a car
- It doesn’t meet airline requirements
9. Henkelion Cat Carriers Dog Carrier Pet Carrier for Small Medium Cats Dogs Puppies of 15 Lbs, TSA Airline Approved Small Dog Carrier Soft Sided, Collapsible Puppy Carrier – Black Grey Pink Purple Blue
This is a highly-rated travel carrier that is available in five different color choices. The Henkelion Soft Pet Carrier also comes in two sizes, so you can make sure to find the right-sized carrier for your pet.
Pros:
- This is an affordable carrier that is very portable
- It includes mesh walls for better breathability
- The removable fleece padding can be thrown in the washer
Cons:
- It does not meet airline required dimensions for Southwest Airlines
10. Gunner Kennels G1 Small Dog Crate and Pet Carrier Crash Tested Pet Travel Crate, Escape Proof, Heavy Duty Dog Kennel Fits XS and Small Breed Dogs
This is a rotomolded crate that has a double-wall design for added protection. The Gunner G1 Pet Crate includes an aluminum door that has been reinforced making it one of the stronger options for dog car travel on the market.
Pros:
- It’s made for car travel and has a positive crash test rating
- The carrier offers a hard exterior and double-wall reinforcement for added protection
- It comes with a lifetime warranty
Cons:
- It’s on the expensive side
Summary: Top 10 Best Carriers for Small Dogs in 2021
| Size | Material | Item Weight (pounds) | Amazon Rating | Total Reviews | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sleepypod Atom Pet Carrier | One Size | Nylon | 4.2 | 4.1 out of 5 stars | 105 ratings |
| MG Collection Travel Pup Carrier | One Size | Polyester | 1.4 | 4.5 out of 5 stars | 778 ratings |
| Petego Dog Carrier | Medium | Soft Stitched Suede | 1 | 4.2 out of 5 stars | 111 ratings |
| Django Pet Carry Bag | Medium | Cotton | 2.5 | 4.5 out of 5 stars | 187 ratings |
| Petami Dog Purse | One Size | Polyester | n/a | 4.6 out of 5 stars | 1,622 ratings |
| Sleepypod Air Dog Carrier | One Size | Nylon | 4.5 | 4.5 out of 5 stars | 573 ratings |
| Sherpa Air Dog Carrier | Medium | Fabric | 3.9 | 4.7 out of 5 stars | 13,422 ratings |
| Pet Gear Pet Car Carrier | n/a | n/a | n/a | n/a | n/a |
| Henkelion Soft Pet Carrier | Medium | Polyester | 0.65 | 4.7 out of 5 stars | 24,246 ratings |
| Gunner G1 Pet Crate | One Size | Stainless Steel | 30 | 5.0 out of 5 stars | 5 ratings |
Why Should You Buy a Small Dog Carrier?
Any pet parent will find a dog carrier is a handy piece of equipment for a small dog. You can use one to take your dog on vacation with you or in the car to go to the vet. If you like to take your dog with you everywhere you go, certain dog carrier designs work well in public areas. Or you can use a small dog carrier to provide your dog a safe place to hide out at home. Just as you would want to buy the best small breed dog food for your little pup, you will want to make sure that you buy the best small dog carrier for your dog’s particular size and needs.
What Types of Small Dog Carriers Should You Choose?
There are two types of dog carriers. The hard-sided dog carrier is typically made out of rigid plastic and features wire doors. These carriers are durable, secure, and rugged as well as easy to clean. Hard dog carriers.
In comparison, a soft-sided dog carrier is made out of padded fabric and is easier to carry a dog when traveling or shopping. Typically more attractive-looking, soft dog carriers are easy to store since most of them fold up when you’re not using them. Plus, they come with a mesh panel design that allows for plenty of ventilation.
How Much Should a Small Dog Carrier Weigh?
When choosing a dog carrier for your dog, take into consideration the weight of the carrier as well as your dog’s weight since that will be the total weight that you will be carrying. It all depends on what weight you feel comfortable carrying. If you have a heavier dog, you may want to consider a more lightweight dog carrier option.
FAQs
How can you help a dog feel more comfortable with a new carrier?
It’s important to allow a dog to get accustomed to his new carrier slowly before you take him anywhere in it. Just leave it out so that he can check it out and even put toys and treats inside to entice him to hang out inside. After he has spent some time inside for a while, close the door for a short period of time to get him accustomed to being inside with the door closed. Do this a few times until he is happy being in it for a few hours.
How can you tell if a dog carrier has enough ventilation?
Every dog carrier needs to have enough ventilation to make sure that your dog doesn’t get too hot. A hard dog carrier should have ventilated sides while soft-sided dog carriers need mesh panels. Look for dog carriers that have at least two sides of ventilation, but the more ventilation options the better.
Is a dog carrier easy to maintain?
Out of the two types of dog carriers, the hard-sided carriers are the easiest to keep clean. All you need to do is wipe it down with a cleaner and water to clean it. Soft-sided carriers are harder to clean, but some of them come with removable padding that you can throw in the washer, and some are completely machine washable.
