I bought my first dog stroller back in 2013. At that time, people still thought dog strollers were kind of silly. “How stupid! Why would you push your dog in a stroller? Your dog is not a kid!” Here we are in 2016 and although some people still think that way, dog strollers have become much more mainstream. Pet parents are starting to realize the advantages of using a dog stroller. They aren’t just for small dogs anymore, and before you go making judgement, hear me out.
The Benefits of Using a Dog Stroller
- Injured dogs: Did your dog break their leg? Did they injure their back? Perhaps they have some sort of physical disability? A dog stroller is perfect for pets in any of these situations. Strollers allow these dogs to still get out for fresh air without putting stress on their bodies.
- Senior dogs: Many senior pets don’t have the strength to walk for long distances. If you’re going on an exciting adventure with your senior pet, a stroller will give them the necessary comfort and protection they need. Your dog will still get to enjoy the sites without becoming exhausted and pained.
- Small dogs: I have a Top Paw stroller for Wynston (like the one shown below). It’s not because he’s small and I want to push him everywhere. I use the stroller for pet events that we go to. Since he’s small, he does get tired after a long while and I also don’t want him to get trampled on. When Wynston sits in the stroller, he can see and enjoy everything without getting accidentally kicked or stepped on. It also keeps him protected from kids and other animals that may frighten him.
- Storage: The stroller I have has a large basket on the bottom as well as two cup holders and a small compartment up top. Since Wynston is small I can even put items in the seat area with him. When I’m at events, I can put my purse and all of Wynston’s items in the basket so all I have to worry about is the stroller! If we’re at an event that gives out samples, there’s no more carrying it all around! Just put it in the stroller and boom! Done.
- Stress reduction: For a major event like BlogPaws, a dog stroller is a must. Last year in Nashville I didn’t have ours with us and it was a big regret. Wynston got nervous with all of the people at times so I had to hold him. Even at 7lbs he gets heavy, especially when I’m carrying all my stuff. It’s not really relaxing for him if I’m just lugging him everywhere in my arms. Wynston loves his stroller so this year I’m most definitely bringing it to BlogPaws. He’ll be able to rest in it without me having to worry about him. He can sleep during workshops while I take notes and pay attention. I also won’t be limited because instead of not knowing how I’m going to carry everything around, I can just put it all in the stroller with Wynston.
- Big dogs: Strollers for big dogs do exist! They are great for large senior dogs or dogs with a health condition or disability. It’s not uncommon for large dog owners to have strollers. And if someone judges you, just ignore them. If they are a friend, well, I’ll just say that you don’t need that negativity in your life!
- Great for outings: If I’m going on an outing with friends, sometimes the stroller is great to bring, depending on what we’re going. Once I went to an outdoor restaurant for dinner with my friends and our dogs. I brought the stroller so Wynston could sit in it while I ate. This way I could eat and not have to worry about him. It just makes everything so much easier!
I always say that Wynston’s stroller is the best investment I’ve ever made in terms of pet products. You can buy them at most pet supply stores as well as online! Worried about people judging you? Ignore them. You don’t have to deal with the drama or negativity. Remember that there are many more pet parents that use strollers than you know 😉
I’m bringing Wynston’s stroller to BlogPaws this year (and every year after) because it provides SO much stress relief. Do you have a stroller for your dog (or other pet)? Under what circumstances do you use it?
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Dachshund Nola says
I have our stroller ordered!
Amanda says
Yes! You will love it!
bailey unleashed says
bailey has a stroller and i love it. we use it to take her places that aren’t necessarily dog friendly. because she is contained, they don’t mind her being there 🙂
Amanda says
That’s really great! On a side note, I could see how it’d be a good way to get dogs eased into a public environment, since they are contained in their own safe space.
Moyra Miller says
I use a stroller for my Sheltie as she has sore front legs. Yes I get some nasty comments but I know I am being a good doggie mum so I ignore them. Best thing I ever got.
Amanda says
I’m sorry to hear that you get nasty comments. Those people need to get a life and mind their own business. You’re a great dog mom to your Sheltie!!
Tammy says
For my 17.5 yo Jack-a-Poo, Oreo, I have been using a regular baby stroller. People sort of make fun of it but it allows her to get out with us when I walk my border collies but when she’s not feeling up to walking due to severe arthritis. She enjoys relaxing back in it and getting out of the yard. If I were to go to any event with her I’d probably purchase a dog stroller to prevent people from constantly wanting to pet the “puppy”. Why people and their kids insist on thinking any small dog is a puppy is beyond me.
Amanda says
You’re so right, Tammy. Strollers are used for so many reasons and people are just blind to it. People flock toward Wynston also but he’s not a fan of humans so the stroller lessens his anxiety!
Dwight C. Douglas says
The stroller was great for two trips, but suddenly it would not fold or lock in place. I consider it a danger and I have had to buy two more. One is for lightweight and the other is for heavy duty travel. I would not recommend this stroller as I had to buy another.
Amanda says
So sorry to hear that! It’s lasted us 3 years so far but I suppose there are always products that don’t exactly hold up like the rest. Sorry you had that experience and I hope you find a stroller that works for you!