The days of strollers with only human babies in them are long gone. Dog strollers have become increasingly popular, some might say on a par with baby strollers. The double takes some dog owners get when strolling along particularly with their large hound is comical. I say "who gives a fudge what other people think?" Certainly not the dogs with big grins on their faces enjoying the attention and the ride. 

Yes, dogs should exercise, walk, run and play and there seems to be a misconception that a pet stroller replaces that activity which is simply not the case. Responsible dog owners and lovers nurture their pet's health and well being. There are situations when a dog stroller is convenient and practical. Do dogs like to ride in strollers? 

 Top 5 reasons why you might need a dog stroller

1) Traveling distances or for long periods of time is easier with a dog stroller 

Taking a road trip, negotiating urban foot traffic or spending a whole day running errands with your dog can be stressful for everyone. Ease your dogs anxiety by keeping them safe while inside their stroller. They can spend their time lying down, taking a nap or sitting up, alert and curious to their surroundings.

They get to enjoy more activities and spend quality time with their human. It builds trust and is an opportunity to train your dog in different environments. Places that are not particularly dog friendly are more likely to allow you to enter if your dog is in a stroller. You may get access to places you previously could not have gone to like theme parks or malls. Most large dog prams will fit through double train and bus doors. They fold up compact to fit into a standard car boot.

2) You have 2 dogs, one dog can't keep up or is injured or older

Dogs do well with routine and love walking. If for whatever reason one of your dogs can no longer participate in their usual activity with you, it can be heartbreaking to leave them behind.

Large dogs require regular exercise to stay healthy and maintain an ideal weight. Health problems create limitation and can worsen existing condition when your dog over exerts themselves. Pet owners who need to control their dogs exercise and physical activity, use a large dog stroller to get from point A to the park or area where their dog can then play and have a good sniff about. No one gets left behind. Business as usual.

When your dog has been injured or is recovering post surgery they need time to recuperate. Dog prams ease the frustration of being constantly immobile.

3) Outdoor Events & Dog Shows

Attending large events with your dog can be lots of fun and a little overwhelming. Dog strollers lets your dog enjoy the festivities and keeps them safe from the crowds and general mayhem. Large dogs like German Shepherds or Rottweilers can be intimidating to others, making it challenging to engage in social activities, the dog prams eliminates the tension. Most strollers have lots of storage space for your goodies, toys, treats and picnic blankets. Plus if you are a regular dog show goer, an off road all terrain buggy is useful  to easily gain access and negotiate your way around off road tracks at the venue. 

Certain large breeds, such as Great Pyrenees or Chow Chows, can be prone to anxiety and stress in unfamiliar environments or crowded places. The added safety of a dog pram can provide them with a safe haven, allowing them to relax and enjoy the outing without anxiety.

4) Dogs activity change as they get older so does ours

As dogs age they may not be able to walk as far or as long as they used to. Weight gain, arthritis, mobility issues, medical conditions or post surgery recovery would cause them to be less active. Joint and spinal issues are common in large breeds.

Once they are used to their dog stroller though, they love it! It give them a new lease on life. It enhances their quality of life by preventing physical discomfort or isolation. Dog strollers let you both get some fresh air and exercise. The same applies to humans of course, a dog stroller is easier to handle than a dog leash and supports the senior walker.

5) Rain or Shine, your covered

Dog strollers come with some great features. You no longer needs to worry about your dogs paws getting too hot on burning cement or long coats soaked to the bone in the rain. You can enjoy long walks together and be well prepared. They have storage space for poop bags, collapsible water bowls, treats or for your shopping bags. They are comfortable with built in mattress and mesh zip up windows for your pooches viewing pleasure.

Be prepared for the attention a dog stroller will attract and let your dog enjoy the lime light! When looking into investing in a dog strollers you will likely need to do some research to ensure you get the right one for your needs. 

When it comes to large dog strollers, size matters

Depending on your dogs condition, it may be important that they are able to lie down, lie on their side and turn around. This can be a challenge, some dogs like Greyhounds, Saluki or Doberman, are well within the 50kg weight limit but have long torso's and limbs.

If your dog is getting on, it may be difficult to jump, these large pet strollers have low to ground rear entrances for easy access. Some models you can exit from the front, which helps if it is is awkward for your dog to turn around.

The space of the internal cabin is important. To ensure your furry friend will fit comfortably in the dog stroller, measure the length of their spine from the base of the neck to the base of the tail and compare that to the length of the cabin dimensions. Some large dog stroller models features a sun roof, which is the best fun for a dog.

Comparison of the best dog stroller for large dogs or 2 small dogs.

Quality dog prams are designed to last, ensuring that they can withstand the weight and size of big dogs. Sturdy aluminium frames and puncture-resistant wheels make them reliable for extended use. They are worth the investment, for many dog owners it is their first purchase and the only pet stroller they will buy. Customers end up relying on their large dogs prams daily. It is how they roll!

Read some of the reviews here.

Innopet Hercules Dog Pram

  The Hercules Heavy Duty is a spacious option. Version 2 is fairly new on the market, designed with pet parents in mind with all the bells & whistles. The low to the ground back entrance is convenient offering easy access for your pooch to hop in. The Hercules is an all terrain dog stroller, suited to off road trails or a great option for joggers. It can also be used as a bike trailer, the bike connector rod is sold separately. 

The Hercules features an adjustable handle, rear storage pocket and includes a rain cover. The large rear Air tyres make it smooth to push and a bump free ride for your pooch. A well designed & robust model for dogs up to 50kg. Spare parts and readily available and as with all Innopet strollers it includes a 2 year warranty. 

Doggyride Novel Dog Jogger/Stroller 

The luxury Novel jogger-stroller for the larger dog breeds. Enjoy the great outdoors. No need to leave your pooch behind, ideal in cases of leg injury or dogs with hip dysplasia. The spacious cabin will ensure your dog can lie down and rest comfortably. The cabin can also be used as a crate if required. Extremely sturdy and easy to manoeuvre on uneven terrain.   

The front wheel locks into place, a nice option for joggers. The cabin has good ventilation and a zip up mesh window or a sun roof. Doggyride have some great accessories you can purchase including a memory foam mattress or rain cover.

It can be converted into a bike trailer suitable for E bikes.
Also available in Green

 Ibiyaya Retro Luxe Dog Pram

  
The Retro Luxe stroller  is designed for urban strolling with your big fur baby. Luxury features including an adjustable dome, loads of space of for all your goodies. One of the longest cabins on the market with a comfortable mattress. it is simple to assemble and fold up to pack away. A stable 4 wheeler option. Including a cup holder.

The Handle is adjustable. You can push the Retro Luxe and have your pooch facing you. A lovely option if you have a pack of crazy hounds . Weight capacity is up to 30kg. 
It is also available in a Soft Sage Green. 

Innopet Mamut Dog Stroller

The Mamut dog stroller is a lightweight design that is easy to push and manoeuvre. Appealing for pet parents who are looking for a stroller option that is simple and convenient to use. It features a large cabin 80cm in length by 50cm in width which would work well for dogs that like to spread out.

 The weight capacity is up to 50kg. You could use the Mamut for a large dog or 2 smaller best buddies. It has a stable 4 wheel point system with 360 degree front swivel wheels. The cabin is versatile opening up completely to let your pooch take in the scenery and environment. It also includes a free rain cover.  

Andrea is a writer, digital marketer and content creator with a passion for all things related to pets. Her expertise lies in the realm of pet travel, she explores topics such as pets in the workplace, adventurous trips with canine companions, and pet travel within the EU. Andrea collaborates with Street Vet to help dog owners find ideal dog strollers for their beloved companions