We research & test to recommend the best products; see our review process here. When you buy via the links on our site, we may earn a commission.

We Tested the 8 Best Dog Bike Trailers (Here’s How it Went)

Do you love riding your bike? We do, too!

Maybe you’d like to take your dog out more, but find he lacks the discipline to run alongside you. Or, maybe he’s well-behaved enough, but he lacks the energy and strength for running. You might even want to bike to your favorite restaurant with your favorite pup

Whatever the situation, dog bike trailers allow your dog to benefit from the thrills of biking without getting fatigued, and you can pull him behind you without expending too much effort. This guide will explore the best dog bike trailers we put to the test!

Read our related article on How to Walk Dogs With Stroller. These quick and easy training tips will make your strolls that much better!

Our Top Picks

  Product Details    
Best-Overall-Schwinn-Small-Rascal-Pet-Trailer Best Overall: Schwinn Small Rascal Pet Trailer You really can’t go wrong with this Schwinn trailer. Made for dogs up to 50 pounds, this trailer is highly recommended for small to medium dogs.  Check Price
Best-Heavy-Frame-Best-Choice-Products-Pet-Stroller-And-Trailer Best Heavy Frame: Best Choice Products Pet Stroller And Trailer  A fantastic choice for your pup, but the sturdy steel frame is a little heavy, which might make storage or riding slightly more difficult.  Check Price
Best-for-Cleaning-Burley-Tail-Wagon-Bike-Trailer Best For Cleaning: Burley Tail Wagon Bike Trailer If you have a big dog that loves the fresh air, consider this trailer. For dogs up to 110 pounds, this will make even the biggest dogs very happy.  Check Price
Best-for-Big-Dogs-PetSafe-Happy-Ride-Aluminum-Dog-Bike-Trailer Best For Big Dogs: PetSafe Happy Ride Aluminum Dog Bike Trailer We all want to look stylish, even our pups. This comfortable and stylish trailer is a great option that’s sure to draw eyes when you’re out on the road.  Check Price
Best-Budget-Buy-Retrospec-Rover-Waggin-Pet-Bike-Trailer-1 Best Budget Buy: Retrospec Rover Waggin’ Pet Bike Trailer
This quality trailer won’t break the bank, so we think it’s an excellent option as a budget buy.  Check Price
Best-for-Offroading-Aosom-Bike-Trailer- Best For Offroading: Aosom Bike Trailer  Sometimes, things get dirty, which is why it’s important to have a trailer that’s easy to clean.  Check Price
Best-for-Comfort-and-Style-Ibiyaya-2-in-1-Stroller-and-Pet-Trailer Best For Comfort And Style: Ibiyaya 2-In-1 Stroller And Pet Trailer If your bike rides take you on uneven terrain, the oversized wheels on the Aosom Bike Trailer are there to keep your pup comfortable.  Check Price
Best-Combo-TrailerJogger-Aosom-Elite-Jr-Bicycle-TrailerJogging-Stroller Best Combo Trailer/Jogger: Aosom Elite Jr Bicycle Trailer/Jogging Stroller If you’re looking for an affordable trailer that can also be used for jogging, the Aosom Elite Jr is your best bet.  Check Price

Here’s What We Looked for in Bike Trailers

Cute dog in a bike trailer
Bike trailers let you bring your 4-legged friend along for the ride.

We know that it can be overwhelming searching for new products for your best friend, so we’ve put together a few parameters to look at for your new trailer:

Capacity

The first thing to look at when it comes to a dog bike trailer is capacity. You want to make sure that your dog can fit comfortably inside, so check the interior dimensions to know if the trailer is the right size. 

Most trailers are designed for smaller breeds, so also check the maximum weight capacity so there won’t be any mishaps on the road. 

Maneuverability

To some degree, all trailers are fairly unwieldy. If you haven’t towed anything behind you while cycling before, it would be a good idea to try cycling with the trailer empty before you take your dog out for a ride. Generally, the more you pay for a dog bike trailer, the more maneuverable it will be.

Construction

Make sure the frame of the trailer is strong and stable. Large, pneumatic tires are a must. Look for trailer canopies made from durable rip-stop nylon. Finally, all clips, rings, and buckles should be robust because if they break while you’re riding your dog can be seriously hurt.

Storage

Think about where you’ll store your trailer between uses. Look for models that fold down for storage in limited spaces if needed. 

Hardware

Finally, make sure the trailer of your choice has the right hitch to match your bike. 

We know the selection of dog trailers can be overwhelming, so to make things even easier for you, we’ve put some of the best pet trailers to the test. We researched the highest-rated dog bike trailers, chose 12 to test, and narrowed the list to our top 8 picks with 2 runners up.

Best Dog Bike Trailers Ranked

1. Best Overall: Schwinn Small Rascal Pet Trailer

Schwinn Small Rascal Pet Trailer

Product Ratings

Capacity4/5
Maneuverability5/5
Construction5/5
Storage5/5
Price5/5

Maximum weight: 50 pounds | Maximum height: 16 inches | Materials: Steel and nylon | Dimensions: 34 x 28 x 19.5 inches | Item weight: 25.9 pounds

What We Liked

  • Universal coupler to work with most bikes
  • Adjustable internal leash for safety
  • Pneumatic tires for an easier ride

What We Didn’t Like

  • Not great for larger dogs

Schwinn is a household name for producing exceptional, design-driven bicycles. It’s no surprise that this company also delivers some superb solutions for giving your pup a ride when you head out on your bike

The intelligent design with a folding frame and quick-release wheels make this trailer extremely portable and easy to set up or disassemble. With a universal attachment thrown in, you should be able to hook up this trailer to just about any roadworthy bicycle. 

Bright orange accents on the sides ensure your trailer is visible in darker conditions. Make sure you have the right lights on your bike and trailer for nighttime riding. The integrated leash inside the trailer should keep your pup secure. 

The Schwinn can handle dogs up to 50 pounds, although we think that’s slightly ambitious. Like most dog bike trailers, this works best with smaller dogs. If you have a larger dog, Schwinn makes a 100-pound capacity trailer.

SEE PRICE ON AMAZON

2. Best Heavy Frame: Best Choice Products Pet Stroller And Trailer 

Best Choice Products Pet Stroller And Trailer

Product Ratings

Capacity5/5
Maneuverability5/5
Construction5/5
Storage4/5
Price4/5

Maximum weight: 66 pounds | Materials: Steel and polyester | Dimensions: 46 x 24 x 38 inches | Item weight: 40 pounds

What We Liked

  • Sturdy frame for safety
  • Highly weatherproofed on the front to keep water from splashing from the bike tires into the trailer
  • Safety flag and reflectors

What We Didn’t Like

  • No rain protection on side windows
  • On the heavier side, because of the sturdy frame

This combo stroller and trailer is a fantastic option and provides a lot of versatility. 

The trailer’s frame is rigid and durable and feels a little heavy during biking. Draped over the steel frame is a reasonably rugged polyester canopy that’s finished in a striking red for maximum visibility.

The fabric window keeps any bugs away from your dog. Unfortunately, the side windows don’t offer any protection for your dog if it rains. Water may still splash in the sides of the trailer through the mesh windows.

The hand-lock brake system baked in is a nice touch not present in some of the more expensive trailers out there. You also get a hitch bundle so you can attach the trailer to a stroller as well as a bicycle.

SEE PRICE ON AMAZON

3. Best for Cleaning: Burley Tail Wagon Bike Trailer

Burley Tail Wagon Bike Trailer

Product Ratings

Capacity5/5
Maneuverability5/5
Construction5/5
Storage5/5
Price3/5

Maximum weight: 75 pounds | Maximum height: 32 inches | Materials: Aluminum and polyester | Dimensions: 36.7 x 31.1 x 31.9 inches | Item weight: 19.4 pounds

What We Liked

  • Removable floor for cleaning
  • Pockets in tailgate to store dog supplies
  • Exceptional ventilation which our dog loves
  • All weather cover with waterproof zippers
  • Very lightweight and easy to tow

What We Didn’t Like

  • More expensive compared to other trailers

The Tail Wagon is designed for dogs up to 75 pounds, which gives you a little more leeway than some of the smaller trailers. However, if your dog is on the heavier side, make sure you feel comfortable with that sort of weight being pulled behind you. Thanks to the removable floor, we love that this trailer couldn’t be easier to clean. 

To clean, all you need to do is slip it out, wipe it down with some warm water and mild detergent, air dry, and replace it. You can batten down the side of the trailer for added stability. 

When it’s time for loading or unloading, the tailgate slides down for easy access. You’ll find some handy storage pockets so you can keep all your dog’s treats and accessories nearby. 

Airflow is first-class, which provides the ventilation your dog needs when you’re on the road. Our dog loved the high airflow, and we loved that we could weatherproof the canopy when needed.

The wheels are quick-release, and the frame folds down so you can store the Tail Wagon in small spaces. While certainly not a cheap dog bicycle trailer, we’d argue you’re getting stellar value from Burley.

SEE PRICE ON AMAZON

4. Best for Big Dogs: PetSafe Happy Ride Aluminum Dog Bike Trailer

PetSafe Happy Ride Aluminum Dog Bike Trailer

Product Ratings

Capacity5/5
Maneuverability4/5
Construction5/5
Storage5/5
Price4/5

Maximum weight: 110 pounds | Materials: Aluminum and Polyester | Dimensions: 33 x 22 x 26 inches | Item weight: 25 pounds

What We Liked

  • Lightweight for easier towing
  • Perfect for large dogs, and tows smoothly
  • Easy entry for older or injured dogs

What We Didn’t Like

  • Some reviewers say the bottom doesn’t have enough support for larger dogs, but we felt it was sufficient

If you have a larger dog that you’d like to take out with you, the PetSafe Happy Ride Trailer could be the one for you. This aluminum trailer allows dogs up to 110 pounds to join you on your rides. As always, be careful and make sure you are comfortable pulling that kind of weight behind you. 

At only 25 pounds, this trailer is easy to store and comes with a safety tether, so if the hitch fails, your dog will still be safely towed behind you. There are 3 pockets for added storage, and the fabric is waterproof. 

This trailer sits lower to the ground, making it easier for older pets to enter and exit. The cushion is removable and washable, making cleaning a breeze. 20” tires ensure a smooth ride for your pup of any size. This trailer has the largest weight capacity of any trailer we’ve reviewed, making it perfect for older, larger dogs that love the outdoors. 

SEE PRICE ON AMAZON SEE PRICE ON CHEWY

5. Best Budget Buy: Retrospec Rover Waggin’ Pet Bike Trailer

Retrospec Rover Waggin’ Pet Bike Trailer

Product Ratings

Capacity4/5
Maneuverability5/5
Construction3/5
Storage5/5
Price5/5

Maximum weight: 50 pounds | Materials: Nylon | Dimensions: 30 x 19 x 17 inches | Item weight: 28 pounds

What We Liked

  • Very affordable for such good quality
  • Spacious interior that can hold up to 50 pounds
  • Added extras like internal leash to keep the dog safe while moving
  • Easy entry and exit through a rear door

What We Didn’t Like

  • Assembly can be difficult

This is the most affordable trailer on our list and comes with water-resistant fabric and a folding frame for easy storage. It comes with an internal leash and a no-slip floor, so you don’t have to worry about safety being compromised with a lower price. 

We love the size of this trailer and were able to even put two small pups in there for rides together. It is easy to clean and has a rear door for easy entry. If you’re looking for a trailer that won’t break the bank, we think this would be a great option for you. 

SEE PRICE ON AMAZON SEE PRICE ON CHEWY

6. Best for Offroading: Aosom Bike Trailer 

Product Ratings

Capacity5/5
Maneuverability4/5
Construction4/5
Storage4/5
Price5/5

Maximum weight: 66 pounds | Maximum height: 25 inches | Materials: Steel and Oxford cloth | Dimensions: 51 x 29 x 35.5 inches | Item weight: 32 pounds

What We Liked

  • Oversized off-road wheels for a comfortable and capable ride
  • Outstanding ventilation for the dog’s comfort
  • Weather shield provided that works well in all weather
  • Reasonable price compared to some others we tested

What We Didn’t Like

  • Leash is not included, so we had to improvise to keep our dog from moving around inside the trailer

Aosom delivers a budget-friendly dog bike trailer that won’t let you down on performance. This model has a reasonably generous weight capacity of 66 pounds, making it a smooth fit for medium breeds. 

The large wheels are off-road capable and quick-release so that you can break the trailer down in a flash. They have reflectors attached if you plan on going out after dark. 

Ventilation is efficient, so your dog isn’t likely to get sticky and stuffy, even on lengthier rides. The weather shield protected our dog from most inclement conditions during our testing. 

If you’re looking for a budget dog bicycle trailer to give your dog a safe and comfortable experience on the road, Aosom might not be the most recognizable brand, but they deliver in fine style.

SEE PRICE ON AMAZON

7. Best for Comfort and Style: Ibiyaya 2-in-1 Stroller and Pet Trailer 

Product Ratings

Capacity5/5
Maneuverability4/5
Construction5/5
Storage4/5
Price3/5

Maximum weight: 55 pounds | Materials: Steel and polyester | Dimensions: 28 x 28 x 25 inches | Item weight: 26 pounds

What We Liked

  • Shock absorbing wheels for riding comfort
  • Raincover included
  • Trailer and stroller combined to multipurpose convenience
  • Zippered mesh screen to keep the bugs out
  • Easy access and great ventilation

What We Didn’t Like

  • A bit pricey compared to others we tested

Next up, we have another multipurpose model, this time from Ibiyaya Pet Store. You can use this as a trailer for your bike or as a stroller for jogging. Despite the claimed maximum weight capacity of 55 pounds, we wouldn’t recommend carrying dogs this large inside. 

This is a neat and efficient transportation system if you have a smaller breed. The alloy steel frame is covered with reasonably durable polyester with several colors to choose from. 

The mesh screen keeps your dog safe from bugs and insects, all of which are zippered for easy access. We loved the sunroof and rain cover included so our dog could have the most fun ride possible, no matter the weather.

This is certainly not a cheap option, but it is durable and has two safety tethers, so we feel it’s worth the investment. 

SEE PRICE ON AMAZON SEE PRICE ON CHEWY

8. Best Combo Trailer/Jogger: Aosom Elite Jr Bicycle Trailer/Jogging Stroller

Product Ratings

Capacity3/5
Maneuverability5/5
Construction4/5
Storage4/5
Price5/5

Maximum weight: 44 pounds | Materials: Steel and Oxford cloth | Dimensions: 42 x 23 x 38 inches | Item weight: 28 pounds

What We Liked

  • Assembles and folds down easily with quick release wheels
  • Effective weather shield
  • Wheel swivels through 360 degrees for maneuverability

What We Didn’t Like

  • The fabric canopy may not withstand destructive dogs

The 2-in-1 functionality provides versatility at a reasonable cost. As with all the best dog bike trailers, it’s a cinch to assemble and disassemble. The quick-release wheels fold flat to make it even easier for you to transport or store.

The steel frame is solid, stable, and durable. Rugged Oxford cloth is draped over the top, giving a weatherproof trailer fit to withstand plenty of punishment on the road.

Ventilation is commendable and ensures that your dog gets an airy and comfy ride.

A few disgruntled users have complained about aggressive chewers and energetic dogs damaging this trailer, but we didn’t have any problems with our dogs acting up. We think this is a great dual-purpose stroller and dog trailer.

SEE PRICE ON AMAZON

Comparison Chart

ProductsCapacityManeuverabilityConstructionStoragePriceOverall
Schwinn4/55/55/55/55/524/25
Best Choice Products5/55/55/54/54/523/25
Burley5/55/55/55/53/523/25
PetSafe5/54/55/55/54/523/25
Retrospec4/55/53/55/55/522/25
Aosom5/54/54/54/55/522/25
Ibiyaya5/54/55/54/53/521/25
Aosom Elite Jr3/55/54/54/55/521/25

The Winner

Out of all of the products we put to the test, the Schwinn Small Rascal Pet Trailer was our favorite. It’s the perfect choice for most dog owners and can carry dogs up to 50 pounds with ease. We love the excellent quality, compatible and universal build, and internal leash to protect your pup as they come along for the ride!

Honorable Mentions

Not every trailer can make it on our best trailers list, but here are some honorable mentions that you can also consider when deciding what’s right for you and your furry friend. 

1. Lucky Dog 2-in-1 Bicycle Trailer

Although this trailer says it can hold dogs up to 135 pounds, the interior is small, so that wouldn’t necessarily be possible. However, this is still a great option for those with small dogs that want to take them on short rides on the trail. 

We felt that considering the interior space limitations of the Lucky Dog trailer, we would rather recommend the Aosom Elite Jr Bicycle Trailer/Jogging Stroller.

2. TRIXIE Bike Trailer

This bike trailer can be converted to a stroller with a kit that comes separately. It is durable and weather resistant, but because you have to make an additional purchase to convert it to a stroller, we recommend the Ibiyaya 2-in-1 Stroller and Pet Trailer.

Conclusion

It’s important to remember that your dog will need to behave inside the trailer. Reward with a yummy treat for a job well done. If you’re going at high speeds or on a busy road, you want to make sure your dog stays safe and happy behind you. We always secure our dog with an internal leash to make sure he’s seated safely.

Make sure to get them comfortable inside the trailer and practice riding with the trailer before taking them out on the open road. You’ll also want to focus on training your dog. Taking an undisciplined pup out in a trailer could turn dangerous. We have some great resources on obedience classes for dogs

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate it!

Average rating 4.8 / 5. Vote count: 5

No votes so far! Be the first to rate this post.

We are sorry that this post was not useful for you!

Let us improve this post!

Tell us how we can improve this post?

BarkVa is reader supported. When you buy through a link on our site we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate, BarkVa earns from qualifying purchases.

Jesse Hopping, CCDT

Jesse is a natural-born dog-lover certified dog trainer (CCDT), dog foster, and former volunteer at Richmond SPCA and surrounding dog shelters for over 10 years. Her pack includes a Bernedoodle and 3 Boston Terriers. She’s sipping caramel coffee and watching her pack play in the sun when she’s not writing blogs. Jesse has her Certified Dog Trainer designation from CATCH Canine Trainers Academy since 2018 and and majored in English from the University of Virginia.

You can read more about me in our about us page

Connect with me:

Leave a Comment