How To Take Your Dog on a Bike Ride

Biking with your dog can be an excellent way to bond while enjoying the outdoors with your best buddy. Whether your dog runs alongside you or rides in a basket, trailer, or cargo bike, it’s important to prioritize safety and comfort. Here’s an overview of the best options for bringing your dog along for the ride, including key safety tips from experts.

Dogs Running Alongside Bikes

For energetic, healthy dogs—especially larger breeds—running alongside a bike can be a thrilling way to exercise. However, as dog trainer Sassafras Patterdale from the American Kennel Club (AKC) notes, “Running alongside a bike is high-impact, particularly on concrete, and can be tough on joints, especially for smaller dogs with shorter legs.” Before letting your dog run alongside you, consult your vet to make sure they’re physically up for the challenge.

If your dog is fit to run, it’s essential to ease them into the activity. Start slowly with short distances, allowing them time to adjust. Praise and reward your dog for staying calm and trotting alongside, and always use a specialized bike leash that attaches to your bike to keep them safely away from the wheels. This type of leash frees up your hands and helps prevent accidents.

It’s also important to be mindful of the terrain and temperature. As Patterdale advises, “If it’s hot out, the concrete can burn your dog’s paws.” Running on hard surfaces can also strain their joints, so stick to soft, natural paths like dirt trails or grassy areas when possible. Be cautious about overexertion, and watch for signs that your dog needs a break.

Dogs in Bike Baskets

If you have a small dog, a bike basket can be a convenient option. Designed for dogs, these baskets attach to your handlebars or rear frame and come with safety straps to secure your pup. However, not all dogs are immediately comfortable riding in a basket, so it’s essential to introduce them to it gradually.

Start by placing your dog in the basket while it’s stationary, giving them treats and praise to create positive associations. Gradually increase the time they spend in the basket and practice short, slow rides until they become accustomed to it. As the AKC suggests, “The goal is to build positive associations with being in the basket, not to see how long they’ll tolerate it.” Once they’re calm and secure, you can begin to take them on longer rides.

Ensure that the basket is well-padded and secure. One cyclist shared how they used a dog bed for extra comfort and a cargo net for added safety, ensuring their pup enjoyed the view without the risk of jumping out.

Dogs in Bike Trailers

For medium to large dogs, bike trailers provide a comfortable and safe way to tag along. These trailers, which attach to the rear of your bike, are especially useful for dogs that aren’t able to run for long periods or older dogs that need a break from strenuous activity. According to the AKC, bike trailers are also great for city streets or hot days when the pavement may be too warm for paws.

As with baskets, getting your dog comfortable in a trailer requires patience. Start by letting them hop in and out of the trailer with plenty of treats and praise. Once they’re comfortable, take short trips around the block, gradually increasing the distance. Always check that your dog is secured to prevent them from jumping out in traffic.

Trailers are an excellent choice for long-distance rides or if you’re traveling on busier roads where it’s not safe for your dog to run alongside you. Some trailers can even be converted from child trailers into dog trailers, offering versatility for pet owners.

Dogs in Cargo Bikes

For those with larger dogs or multiple pets, a cargo bike can be a fantastic solution. These bikes feature a large cargo box area, often placed at the front, where dogs can sit comfortably. Some cargo bikes are even equipped with electric assist features to help with heavier loads or hills.

Cargo bikes are designed specifically for transporting pets, making them safer and more stable than other options. The process of getting your dog accustomed to a cargo bike is similar to training them for a trailer—introduce them slowly, use plenty of treats, and make sure they’re securely fastened before setting off.

The American Kennel Club also points out that cargo bikes are a great way to transport very large dogs that can’t comfortably fit in trailers or baskets. Additionally, e-bike versions of cargo bikes are becoming increasingly popular, making it easier for cyclists to transport their furry friends up hills and over long distances.

Cargo Bike Carriers

The Yuba Bread Basket is the perfect cozy spot for your pet—whether it’s a cat, dog, frog, or even a hedgehog. It’s designed to keep your furry (or not-so-furry) friend safe while giving them a prime view of the road. You’ll also have peace of mind, keeping an eye on them during your ride. Measuring 19x14x6 inches, the Bread Basket has a surprising carrying capacity of up to 50 lbs. Crazy? Not at all. It’s roomy enough for a full-grown pit bull—as long as everyone’s on their best behavior, of course.

Yuba cargo bike and bread basket doggo carrier

The Baguette V2 cargo bag makes for an excellent sidecar for your pooch. With a capacity of up to 10 gallons (or 22 lbs.), it’s perfect for carrying some goodies—or one medium-sized dog. Secure the Baguette to the side of a Yuba Boda Boda or Yuba Mundo cargo bike, and you and your pup are ready for an adventure, riding side by side. Why stop there? Toss in a second dog, a couple of kids, a surfboard, and some groceries while you’re at it!

Tern’s Dog Roof Mini is a convertible cover for the Soft Crate Mini, designed to let your dog ride safely, with an open-air option or closed roof for rainy days. Its durable fabric and mesh panels allow airflow, keeping your pet comfortable throughout the ride.

Top 5 gear for biking with your dog:

• Schwinn Rascal Bike Pet Trailer, $169.99US
• Bike Tow Leash, $146
• Lixada Bike Basket, $26
• Yuba Bread Basket, $200
• Babboe Dog Cargo Bike, $1749

Key Safety Considerations

No matter which option you choose, keeping your dog safe while biking is paramount. Here are some general tips:

• Consult your vet: Before starting, ensure your dog is healthy enough for the physical demands of biking.
• Use appropriate equipment: Whether it’s a leash, basket, trailer, or cargo bike, make sure all equipment is secure and specifically designed for dogs.
• Monitor the weather and terrain: Hot pavement can harm paws, and running on concrete is tough on joints. Stick to softer surfaces when possible.
• Go slow and steady: Start with short trips and gradually increase the distance as your dog adjusts. Praise and reward them along the way.
• Know your dog’s limits: Not all dogs are built for endurance running. Pay attention to their energy levels and give them breaks as needed.

Biking with your dog can be a wonderful way to enjoy the outdoors and spend quality time together. With options ranging from running alongside your bike to riding in a trailer or basket, there’s a solution for nearly every dog and cyclist. Just remember to prioritize safety, start slowly, and tailor the experience to your dog’s unique needs. Happy cycling!