Most small dogs need 30 to 45 minutes of exercise every day. While a simple walk and a backyard fetch session are great ways to help your pup get their daily activity, they can get boring quickly.
If you like cycling, you’ve probably thought about taking your dog along for a ride at least once. Luckily, dog bike baskets make this entirely possible, allowing your pup to get fresh air and enjoy the view while you complete your favorite activity of the day.
Since several dog bike baskets are on the market, it can be complicated to determine which is best for your dog and your bike. Not every bike basket is compatible with your requirements, but you can read our reviews of the top 10 picks in 2024 to find the perfect fit.
A Quick Comparison of Our Favorites in 2024
Rating | Image | Product | Details | |
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Best Overall | K&H Pet Products Travel Bike Dog Backpack |
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Best Value | K&H Pet Products Travel Dog Bike Basket |
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Premium Choice | PetSafe Happy Ride Wicker Bicycle Basket |
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Snoozer Buddy Bike Basket for Dogs |
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K ERATISNIK Pet Bicycle Carrier |
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The 10 Best Dog Bike Baskets
1. K&H Pet Products Travel Bike Dog Backpack – Best Overall
Material: | Polyester |
Capacity: | 15 pounds |
Color: | Gray |
Dimensions: | 9.5″ L x 14″ W x 15.75″ H |
If you’re looking for an option that has it all, the K&H Pet Products Travel Bike Dog Backpack is the best overall dog bike basket. With a recommended weight limit of 15 pounds, this durable dog bicycle basket is ideal for smaller dogs.
The K&H basket is made from durable polyester and is spacious, reliable, and comfortable. Plus, you can quickly remove it to use it as a backpack. Since its exterior is waterproof, cleaning the basket is a breeze. All you need to do is wipe it down with a damp cloth.
The best part about the K&H basket is its endless list of features. That includes the top mesh ventilation window that prevents your dog from jumping out while keeping the basket airy and allowing the dog to enjoy the view. The convenient side mesh pockets will allow you to store a water bottle, leash, or other accessories.
- Can be used as a backpack
- Waterproof and durable
- Easy to clean
- Ideal for small dogs
- Average capacity
2. K&H Pet Products Travel Dog Bike Basket – Best Value
Material: | Polyester and fleece |
Capacity: | 10 pounds |
Color: | Gray |
Dimensions: | 12.5″ L x 9″ W x 8″ H |
If you’re on a tight budget, the K&H Pet Products Travel Dog Bike Basket is undoubtedly the best dog bike basket for the money. Luckily, its affordability doesn’t mean you have to compromise on quality.
Its durable polyester exterior makes it easy to clean, while the inner fleece lining keeps your dog warm and comfortable. The carrier is 12.5 inches wide and has enough space to accommodate dogs under 10 pounds. Plus, it has a minimalistic yet chic design, so you don’t need to compromise on aesthetics for practicality and affordability.
Although its capacity is somewhat limited, the basket is straightforward to install. When your dog is napping, you can use the dual-leash design to keep them safe during the ride. The best part is that the fleece liner is removable, making it easy to clean the basket.
- Easy and quick installation
- Dual leash safety feature
- Removable fleece liner
- Affordable
- Limited capacity
3. PetSafe Happy Ride Wicker Bicycle Basket – Premium Choice
Material: | Rattan |
Capacity: | 13 pounds |
Color: | Brown |
Dimensions: | 16.5″ L x 10″ W x 13″ H |
If you’re willing to splurge yet unwilling to compromise on quality, the PetSafe Happy Ride Wicker Bicycle Basket is the premium choice you’ve been looking for. The attractive, brown wicker basket attaches to your bike’s handlebars, and the soft fleece line cushions your pup and keeps them comfortable.
The interior has a small tether that attaches to your dog’s leash and collar to keep them secure, and the removable sun shield is handy on sunny days. The fleece liner is washable and easy to remove.
The PetSafe basket is ideal for little dogs, but unlike many designs, it doesn’t include storage pockets.
- High-quality wicker basket
- Washable fleece liner
- Removable sun shield
- Does not include storage pockets
4. Snoozer Buddy Bike Basket for Dogs
Material: | Durable Microfiber |
Capacity: | 15 pounds |
Color: | Gray and black |
Dimensions: | 10″ L x 13″ W x 10″ H |
If you want your dog bike basket to be quick and easy to install, a simple strap-on option like the Snoozer Buddy Bike Basket for Dogs may be ideal. Installing it requires no tools or hardware; you’ll only need to attach it to your bike handles with the straps.
Aside from being easy to install, it is also one of the most comfortable bike baskets you can get for your dog. The inner pad is plush and removable and easy to clean. Meanwhile, the chin rest allows your dog to get comfy and enjoy the ride.
You don’t have to worry about unexpected weather ruining your bike ride since the basket features a detachable rain cover you can store in the side pocket. Other pockets on the bike basket will allow you to keep your dog’s leash, toys, and treats.
The best part is cleaning the bike basket, which is as simple as wiping it down with a microfiber cloth.
- Removable inner pad for easy cleaning
- Comes with instructions
- Multiple storage pockets
- A chin rest for comfort
- The mesh bottle holder is not efficient
- May throw off the steering
5. K ERATISNIK Pet Bicycle Carrier Waterproof Dog Bike Basket Bag with Reflective Stripe
Material: | Polyester |
Capacity: | 18 pounds |
Color: | Black |
Dimensions: | 15″ L x 13″ W x 3.5″ H |
The best way to get your money’s worth is to ensure your dog’s bike basket is more than just a basket. The K ERATISNIK Pet Bicycle Carrier Waterproof won’t disappoint; you can use it as a dog car seat or a shoulder bag.
The basket’s reflective stripe ensures visibility in low-light conditions, and the removable waterproof cover protects your dog from the elements. The basket has two storage pockets for your pup’s supplies and supports dogs weighing up to 18 pounds.
- Waterproof and easy to clean
- Detachable waterproof cover
- Can be folded for easy storage
- Only for small dogs
- Expensive
6. Axiom Pet Basket with Rack and Handlebar Mounts
Material: | Vinyl-dipped steel |
Capacity: | 50 pounds |
Color: | Black |
Dimensions: | 12″ L x 16″ W x 8″ H |
If you prefer keeping your dog’s bike basket behind the seat rather than on the handlebars, try the Axiom Pet Basket With Rack and Handlebar Mounts. The basket is made of durable, vinyl-dipped steel and includes a safety strap that attaches to your dog’s leash.
You can also attach the Axiom to your handlebars, and the package includes the quick-release hardware for both setups. Unlike several other brands, it doesn’t include a cozy liner. Since the steel bottom may be uncomfortable for your dog, adding a soft blanket is best.
Although most customers were happy with the Axiom basket, several complained that it was hard to install behind the seat. Others mentioned it was too heavy and nearly weighed more than their bikes.
- Durable steel construction
- Ideal for tiny dogs
- Includes safety strap
- Too heavy
- Difficult to install
7. SPYMINNPOO Wicker Bike Basket for Small Dogs
Material: | Wood |
Capacity: | 14 pounds |
Color: | Wood color |
Dimensions: | 15.71″ L x 14.96″ W x 8.74″ H |
The SYMINNPOO Wicker Bike Basket can hold a small dog or cat and is easy to attach to the handlebars. It has a removable metal cover to keep your pet secure but doesn’t include a tether that attaches to the leash.
Unlike the PetSafe Wicker Basket, the wicker isn’t weather-resistant, and the liner isn’t as soft and cozy. Also, the metal cover makes your dog look like they’re in prison, and the basket can only support the smallest dogs.
- Durable wicker basket
- Removable metal cover
- Easy to install
- Expensive
- Only for small dogs
8. Jack and Dixie 2-in-1 Pet Bike Basket
Material: | Unspecified |
Capacity: | 15 pounds |
Color: | Black |
Dimensions: | 13.6″ L x 10″ W x 10.1″ H |
Those who plan on placing their bike basket on the front handles will undoubtedly have no place to put their belongings. If your bike rides typically end in picnics with your furry friend, the Jack and Dixie 2-in-1 Pet Bike Basket has all the additional storage you need.
It has enough space to accommodate your 15-pound dog and all other necessities. The front flap-closure pocket stores your dog’s treats and toys, the mesh water bottle holder keeps your dog hydrated, and other zippered compartments hold your phone, keys, and other belongings.
Aside from being incredibly spacious, the Jack and Dixie basket is also safe. It features an adjustable safety leash to keep your dog in place, along with an adjustable strap to use the basket as a shoulder bag.
Most importantly, it is compatible with all bike types, even if you have an e-bike.
- Attaches easily to any bike
- Can be used as a shoulder carrier
- Additional zippered compartments
- Sturdy construction keeps basket level
- Customers report instability
- Doesn’t include closure
9. URBEST Bike Basket
Material: | Aluminum |
Capacity: | 11 pounds |
Color: | Black |
Dimensions: | 8.6″ L x 12.9″ W x 9.8″ H |
If you’re looking for a bike basket that’s easy to store, you can try the URBEST Bike Basket. The collapsible unit can be stored in a rear bag on your bicycle or in the trunk of your car. It’s easy to attach and remove and includes handles so that you can carry your dog around after parking your bicycle.
The woven canvas covering the frame is water-resistant and lightweight but not waterproof. Some customers complained that the URBEST basket was too small for their dogs, but owners of toy breeds were happy with it. Also, it doesn’t attach to all bicycles.
- Easy to install
- Collapsible and easy to store
- Durable aluminum frame
- Only for tiny dogs
- Not ideal for all bike types
10. ANOUR Dog Bike Trailer
Material: | Steel and Oxford fabric |
Capacity: | 88 pounds |
Color: | Light brown |
Dimensions: | 30.7″ L x 23.6″ W x 21.6″ H |
Unlike the other brands we’ve reviewed, the ANOUR Dog Bike Trailer is spacious enough for medium-sized dogs. The steel trailer is covered with Oxford fabric and attaches to the rear wheel of your bicycle.
The covering has a mesh screen for air circulation, and the Oxford fabric resists UV rays. At 88 pounds, it has the highest weight capacity of any product on our list. It has two entryways, and the non-slip bottom keeps your pup secure.
However, the trailer is difficult to assemble, and you cannot attach it to a three-wheeled bicycle and some e-bikes.
- Ideal for big dogs
- Includes a safety tether
- Weather-resistant materials
- Reflectors for added visibility
- Does not work with tricycle bikes
- Difficult to assemble
Buyer’s Guide: Choosing the Best Dog Bike Basket
With multiple brands on the market, picking the perfect dog bike basket for your bike and your dog can be tricky. Here’s a buyer’s guide on how to make a better purchase while keeping certain factors in mind:
Type
Before looking into any other factors, deciding what type of dog bike basket you want is essential. Typically, they’re available in hard and soft baskets. Hard dog bike baskets are commonly made from high-quality hard plastic, wicket, or metal.
The design is plain and simple, with a sturdy and easy-to-clean base. While they aren’t the most comfortable models, the baskets have plenty of ventilation to keep your dog cool if you close the top. Unfortunately, hard dog bike baskets typically lack safety features.
On the other hand, soft dog bike baskets are made from more comfortable materials, such as a nylon or polyester exterior and fleece or wool liner. If you want your dog to nap during a long bike ride, a soft basket may be better.
Soft dog bike baskets also have more features, and you’ll typically find ones with side pockets, carry handles, shoulder straps, safety buckles, mesh water bottle holders, and other features. Of course, the soft material is not as easy to clean.
Positioning
Next, you can determine where to place your basket, which can be positioned on the front handlebars or the back rack. You’ll need to decide the positioning before you buy the bike basket, as front dog baskets cannot be placed on the back rack and vice versa.
Front dog bike baskets are better for those who want to monitor their pet while riding, which is crucial for smaller dogs. However, this positioning can be more difficult for heavier dogs. While rear baskets will allow you to ride with heavier dogs, you’ll lose supervision of your dog, so they’re not the safest option.
Capacity
Most importantly, you’ll need to find a dog bike basket that can support your dog’s weight. Each model has a different recommended weight limit, which makes it easier for you to choose.
While it may be possible to surpass the given weight limit temporarily, it’s not recommended in the long run for safety reasons. Generally, front-positioned dog bike baskets are ideal for smaller and medium-sized dogs, as more weight can throw off the steering.
That means they typically have a weight limit ranging from 10 to 25 pounds, depending on the basket size and bike. If your dog is heavier than 25 pounds, you must use a rear bike basket made especially for bigger dogs.
Those with dogs heavier than 30 to 35 pounds may consider getting a dog trailer instead.
Comfort
Regardless of how long your bike ride will be, ensuring that your dog is comfortable and happy is crucial. Some design features can improve the comfort level of the dog bike basket, such as a soft liner, plenty of ventilation, and enough space to lie down for a nap.
If you ride your bike in sunny areas, a sunshade is a great feature. Other than that, a fleece lining is an ideal addition for a bike basket used in colder regions.
Safety
Prioritizing your dog’s safety while riding with a bike basket is essential. Cycling can be pretty dangerous without a pet to protect, so you must be extra careful while riding with your dog.
Ideally, the basket should have safety features to keep your dog in place during bumpy rides or if your dog tries to jump out. Additionally, a safe bike basket will hold onto the handles firmly without moving or wiggling too much, which can make it harder to steer.
Most importantly, the basket should be spacious and ventilated enough to keep your dog safe and comfortable if the cover is closed.
Durability
The bike baskets come in various materials, ranging from wicker or polyester to soft fabrics. Wicker baskets are reliable and have a traditional design but are typically more expensive.
On the other hand, nylon and other fabrics may be more comfortable but don’t last long since you’ll need to wash them frequently. Hard plastic, polyester, and metal dog bike baskets tend to last the longest since they are waterproof and sturdy.
Installation
Luckily, most dog bike baskets are pretty simple to install, so you won’t have to spend more than a few minutes attaching them to your bike. In most designs, the basket is supported by the brace resting on the main bike tube, while the buckled straps provide additional support. If you don’t want to repeat the installation process, getting a removable liner for easy cleaning is better.
More importantly, you must ensure that the basket attaches firmly to the bike, with no space for it to move around while you ride. Not only can that be unsafe for your dog, but it also makes it harder to steer.
Features
Lastly, a bike basket without additional features is probably not worth the money. Here are some features to look for in a bike basket for your dog:
Pockets
Pockets are a great feature in a dog bike basket, especially if you plan to take your dog for a longer ride or a picnic after your bike ride. Side and inner pockets will give you enough space to carry treats, toys, food, your phone, and a water bottle.
Dome or Mesh Tops
Most bike baskets feature an interior lead, but that may not be enough to secure a feisty dog. Luckily, some models have safety features like extra mesh openings or domes.
This feature prevents them from jumping overboard, keeps their space ventilated, and allows them to enjoy the view on the bike ride. This is an ideal feature for pet owners with dogs that tend to get excited.
Harness Anchors
Another safety feature to look for in a dog bike basket is a harness attachment or built-in safety leash. This will allow you to secure your dog safely inside the basket and prevent them from jumping overboard during the bike ride.
Multi-Function
Lastly, another great bonus is ensuring your bike basket is more than just a basket. Some baskets can also be used as a dog carrier, dog bed, or doggy car seat, helping you make the most out of an expensive purchase.
Conclusion
Dog bike baskets are a great way to help your puppy tag along while you get exercise and fresh air. If you’re unsure which basket is best for your dog and your bike, our list of reviews has something for everyone.
Of course, the K&H Pet Products Travel Bike Dog Backpack is our best overall pick since it can be used as a bike basket AND a backpack! But if you’re in the market for a more affordable dog bike basket, the Travel Dog Bike Basket (another K&H Pet Product) is the best value on our list.
Finally, the PetSafe Happy Ride Wicker Bicycle Basket is the perfect premium pick, with features like a removable sun shade and quick, effortless installation.
Featured Image Credit: BGStock72, Shutterstock
Contents
- A Quick Comparison of Our Favorites in 2024
- The 10 Best Dog Bike Baskets
- 1. K&H Pet Products Travel Bike Dog Backpack – Best Overall
- 2. K&H Pet Products Travel Dog Bike Basket – Best Value
- 3. PetSafe Happy Ride Wicker Bicycle Basket – Premium Choice
- 4. Snoozer Buddy Bike Basket for Dogs
- 5. K ERATISNIK Pet Bicycle Carrier Waterproof Dog Bike Basket Bag with Reflective Stripe
- 6. Axiom Pet Basket with Rack and Handlebar Mounts
- 7. SPYMINNPOO Wicker Bike Basket for Small Dogs
- 8. Jack and Dixie 2-in-1 Pet Bike Basket
- 9. URBEST Bike Basket
- 10. ANOUR Dog Bike Trailer
- Buyer’s Guide: Choosing the Best Dog Bike Basket
- Conclusion