There are as many different reasons to use a dog stroller as there are breeds of dogs. For example, owners of smaller dogs who want to take longer walks or jogs can use a stroller. This allows the dog to walk for a while, and then ride stroller the rest of the way. Dog strollers are available in several different styles and sizes from a pink dog stroller for a pampered poodle to camouflage style for the rugged dog. These cute and practical devices to transport man’s best friend can fit nearly any budget, but you can also get cheap dog strollers if you know where to look.
When buying a dog stroller, consider the space your dog will need. Unless your dog is a very small breed, you’ll want to make sure that the stroller you buy gives your pooch ample room to move around and space enough to comfortably sprawl out. If you’re buying a stroller for a puppy, you must remember to account for the puppy’s future growth.
A good, sturdy dog stroller must be built to last. A good stroller should have rugged netting or webbing that will resist your dog’s chewing or clawing. You will also want to make sure it has a sturdy frame to hold together for those times when your dog gets excited and bounces around inside.
A stroller for dogs can have an open hatch, or a hatch that closes over the top, like a canopy. Some dog owners will wish to keep their dogs enclosed in the stroller. One advantage an enclosure has is that it can ensure your dog doesn’t jump out of the stroller, while also ensuring humans, especially children, or aggressive dogs cannot enter. Other dog owners prefer strollers that open to allow their dog to get more sun and be able to watch the world roll by. Some stroller models even include a safety belt to attach to a dog’s collar, allowing the owner to keep the stroller open while leaving the dog secured.
When deciding what sort of stroller to purchase, you should also consider the terrain you will be using the stroller on. Do you walk exclusively on well-maintained sidewalks? If you do, then strollers with smaller wheels will do just fine. However, if you wish to take your dog for a ride in the stroller over sand, gravel trails, cracked pavement, snow-covered sidewalks, icy sidewalks or grassy areas, then you should consider a stroller that is made specifically for rougher terrain. Models built with stronger frames, larger frames and shock absorbers will give both you and your dog a smoother and safer ride.
Once you’ve purchased the dog stroller that is right for you and your dog, there will be an adjustment period as your dog gets used to it. Some owners find their dogs take to a new stroller right away. If you have change-resistant dogs however, there are some easy actions you can take to help your dog make the adjustment. While dog strollers are great for taking your dog to hectic or crowded locations, you should plan your first few trips to destinations close to home that are quiet, during times that are less busy. This will let your dog get used to the new stroller experience without too much stress from having to deal with a flurry of new sensations and activity. Another successful method to help acclimatize your dog to the stroller is placing a blanket or other favourite object inside a stationary stroller. A familiar object will provide your dog with a sense of safety. Some dog owners recommend placing a few dog treats inside the stroller if your dog seems reluctant to climb in at first. Once your dog has grown accustomed to the stroller, you should only place it in the stroller when you are headed outside. This way, your dog will associate the stroller with the freedom of being outdoors, rather than with being confined indoors.
There are many different models of dog strollers. You will need to make sure that the one you pick will be the right size for your dog, and also be able to handle the type of terrain you will be walking on. When you bring the stroller home, there may be a period of adjustment. After the adjustment period, your dog will love the new stroller, and this will lead to longer walks for both the owner and dog. Ultimately, a pet stroller can help you and your dog bond for years to come.