The Best Dog Carrier

Traveling with a small dog or cat requires a reliable carrier that keeps your pet secure and comfortable.

Whether you’re heading to the vet, taking a road trip, or flying across the country, the right dog carrier makes all the difference.

At BestProducts, we research and evaluate carriers based on specifications, expert review consensus, and verified buyer feedback to help you find the best option for your needs.

Below, you’ll find our top picks for the best dog carrier, each scored on our 0, 10 BP Score.

Our selection includes hard-sided carriers for durability, soft-sided carriers for airline travel, backpacks for hands-free convenience, and slings for small pets. We’ve assessed each model against consistent criteria, size, ventilation, safety features, portability, and user satisfaction.

Keep reading to discover which carrier suits your travel style.

Best Dog Carrier Buying Guide

Types of Dog Carriers

Dog carriers come in several styles, each suited for different scenarios. Hard-sided carriers offer robust protection and are ideal for car travel or as a crate substitute; they typically have secure latches and ample ventilation.

Soft-sided carriers are lightweight, foldable, and often airline-approved, making them perfect for cabin travel.

Backpack carriers let you keep your hands free while hiking or commuting, and sling carriers are designed for very small dogs that prefer to be carried close to your body.

Consider your primary use, air travel, car trips, or everyday errands, when choosing a type.

Size and Weight Capacity

Measure your pet’s length from nose to tail and their height when standing; then add a few inches for comfort.

Most carriers specify a weight limit, typically ranging from 10 to 20 pounds for soft-sided models and up to 25 pounds for hard-sided ones.

A carrier that’s too small can cause stress, while an overly large one may not be allowed on airplanes or may shift during travel. Check the dimensions and ensure your pet can stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.

For airline travel, the carrier must fit under the seat in front of you, most airlines require a maximum size of around 18″ x 11″ x 9″ for soft-sided carriers. Hard-sided carriers are often checked as cargo.

Review our guide to the best dog carrier for air travel for specific airline requirements.

Airline Approval and TSA Compliance

If you plan to fly with your pet in the cabin, look for carriers labeled as TSA-approved or airline-approved. These carriers are soft-sided, have adequate ventilation on multiple sides, and feature secure zippers to prevent escapes.

Some carriers include a seatbelt strap for car travel. Many airlines require that the carrier be leak-proof and have a waterproof bottom.

For larger dogs that must travel in cargo, a hard-sided carrier with proper ventilation and a sturdy handle is essential. Always confirm with your airline before purchasing.

Comfort and Safety Features

A good carrier prioritizes your pet’s well-being. Look for padded shoulder straps or handles, breathable mesh windows, and a soft, washable interior pad. Safety features include a tether clip inside to attach to your pet’s harness, preventing sudden jumps.

Some carriers have top-loading options for easy access, while others offer both front and top openings. For backpack carriers, ensure the frame is sturdy and the ventilation is sufficient. For sling carriers, a double safety buckle or strap adds security.

Check the zipper quality, strong zippers prevent accidental openings.

Ease of Cleaning and Storage

Pets can be messy, so choose a carrier that’s easy to clean. Many soft-sided carriers have removable, machine-washable pads or liners. Hard-sided carriers can be wiped down with a damp cloth.

Collapsible carriers fold flat for storage when not in use, which is a big plus for small apartments or car trunks. Some soft-sided carriers are also waterproof on the bottom, protecting against accidents.

Look for carriers with a separate storage pocket for treats, waste bags, or documents.

Why You Should Trust Us

At BestProducts, we are an independent review site dedicated to helping you make informed purchasing decisions.

We evaluate each product using a consistent methodology: we analyze specifications, aggregate expert review consensus from reputable sources, incorporate verified buyer feedback, and reference published data with proper citations.

We do not conduct our own product trials; our evaluations are grounded in research, published data, expert review consensus, and verified buyer feedback.

Each carrier is scored on our 0, 10 BP Score based on criteria such as build quality, comfort, safety, portability, and value for money. Our affiliate relationships do not influence our ratings or recommendations.

For more on pet travel solutions, explore our Pets category page for related guides on crates, beds, and feeders.

Final Thoughts

• Best Overall: Henkelion Cat Carriers Dog Carrier Pet Carrier (Black), This soft-sided carrier earned the highest BP Score in our review for its balance of comfort, airline approval, and durability. It’s versatile for both cats and small dogs up to 15 pounds.
• Best for Air Travel: Henkelion Cat Carriers Dog Carrier Pet Carrier (Grey), TSA-approved and collapsible, this carrier excels in cabin travel with ample ventilation and a secure design.
• Best Backpack Carrier: Texsens Innovative Traveler Bubble Backpack Pet Carrier, The bubble window offers a fun view for your pet, and the backpack style is great for hiking or city walks.
• Best Budget Pick: Tomkas Small Dog Sling Carrier, Affordable and lightweight, this sling is perfect for tiny dogs (3, 10 lbs) who want to stay close to you.
• Best for Large Cats: GAPZER Pet Carrier for Large Cats up to 20lbs, With privacy features and a soft-sided design, this carrier accommodates larger felines comfortably.

Each of these carriers has been vetted through our research process. Whether you need a sturdy hard-sided carrier for car trips or a compact soft-sided one for flights, our picks cover a range of needs and budgets.

For additional crate options, see our guide to the best dog crate for every pup and budget.

Frequently Asked Questions

What size dog carrier do I need for air travel?

Most airlines require a soft-sided carrier that fits under the seat, typically no larger than 18″ x 11″ x 9″. Measure your pet and the carrier dimensions carefully. The carrier must allow your pet to stand, turn, and lie down. Check your airline’s specific size limits before purchasing.

Can I use a backpack carrier for a long hike?

Yes, but ensure the backpack has proper ventilation, a padded harness, and a secure tether. The Texsens Bubble Backpack is a popular choice for its comfort and visibility. Always monitor your pet for signs of overheating or distress.

How do I clean a soft-sided dog carrier?

Most soft-sided carriers have removable, machine-washable liners. Spot-clean the exterior with mild soap and water. For carriers with waterproof bottoms, simply wipe them down. Always air-dry thoroughly to prevent mildew.

Are sling carriers safe for small dogs?

Sling carriers are safe for dogs up to about 10, 15 pounds if used correctly. Look for models with a double safety feature (like a buckle and a strap) and a padded shoulder strap for comfort.

Ensure your dog is secure and can breathe freely. Check our best small dog crate guide for alternative containment options.

What’s the difference between hard-sided and soft-sided carriers?

Hard-sided carriers are more durable and provide better protection for car travel or cargo holds. Soft-sided carriers are lighter, collapsible, and often airline-approved for cabin use. Your choice depends on travel mode and pet size.

For a comprehensive overview, see our best collapsible dog crate guide.

Can I use a dog carrier for a cat?

Absolutely. Many carriers are designed for both cats and small dogs. Look for carriers with good ventilation, a comfortable pad, and a secure closure. The Henkelion carriers are popular for both pets. For more cat-specific options, browse our cat food and accessories category.

About the author