Owning a small dog has an advantage over the big breeds. You can bring him/her along with you when running errands in the neighborhood. The best dog carrier slings offer a solution to allow pet parents to move with their dogs safely even in crowded areas.
Carrier slings for dogs are becoming very popular among pet owners especially among those who own small-sized dog breeds. Whether you are taking a walk around the street, or you are headed out to visit your friends or the vet, a carrier sling offers the easiest and safest way to carry your dog.
The physical closeness created when you carry your pup in a sling makes them feel more comfortable and also strengthens the bond between you two. The best dog carrier slings help incorporate your fur baby into your daily routine. Whether it is shopping, hiking, or having casual walks outdoors, the carrier slings come in handy.
When looking for a dog carrier sling, make sure that it has enough room for your pup to be snug. Some sling carries have two handles that allow you to carry the pet in a similar way to a grocery bag, allowing their legs to dangle freely while keeping the spine straight.
Other carriers have straps so you carry them like they are in a backpack. Whichever design you prefer, make sure that the pet is snug and secure. If you need a dog carrier sling, but you are having trouble finding the best one, we are here to help.
Benefits of Using a Dog Carrier Sling
- Safe and Comfortable. Are you the pet parent who is always on the go? A dog carrier sling is a way to go if you need your pet’s company when running errands. One of the main benefits of having a sling carrier is that you can easily take your small pooch wherever you go. Your pup can easily accompany you on your daily routine.
- Health Benefits. Spending more time with your furry companion has a lot of benefits for both of you. Having your pet as your companion as you run your errands helps improve your wellbeing. The sling also keeps your dog’s health in good shape by keeping them close to you. Anxious pets stand to benefit the most from dog carrier slings because they offer the comfort the dogs seek.
- Added Functionality. Hands-free dog carrier slings offer added functionality of keeping your hands free. This means that you can easily engage your hands in other activities without having to worry about shifting your pooch from arm to arm.
- Comfort. Dog carrier slings are designed to support your pup and keep them cozy without adding strain to your shoulders, neck, or hips. The slings are specially designed to distribute the weight of the pet evenly so you don’t strain your arm or shoulder. When using a sling, it’s good to switch to the other side regularly as it helps prevent tiring one arm.
- Convenience. Compared with strollers or dog crates, the best dog carrier slings are super convenient. They are easy to pack, store and use. Dog carrier slings are also more lightweight and easier to carry around without feeling like it is weighing your dog. For a dog owner, easier is always better.
7 Best Dog Carrier Slings
While the market offers a wide range of carrier slings to choose from, we have narrowed down 7 of the best dog carrier slings, so let’s take a look.
#1) Alfie Pet- Chico Reversible Pet Sling Carrier
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This reversible pet sling carrier from Alfie serves up as a sleek and super soft sling perfect for carrying your dog whenever you want him to go with you. Its hand-free design enables you to use your hands elsewhere. Made of soft and plush cotton, your pup will definitely love the feel of this bag on his skin, and you will also stay comfortable carrying it. When it comes to capacity, the sling is reasonably generous and can fit pups up to 12 pounds without the dog feeling restricted. You get to choose a color that’s appealing to your eyes from the 6 colors available. This pet carrier sling holds your pet comfortably and it features a safety collar hook to ensure the pet is always safe and secure. The adjustable shoulder strap allows you to adjust it to a height that’s comfortable for you. For your convenience, this sling carrier is machine washable and requires very minimal maintenance. Key Features
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#2) FURRY FIDO Dog Carriers for Small Dogs
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Next up in our collection of the best dog sling carries is a super soft bag from FURRY FIDO. This is a hands-free pet sling carrier made of durable, soft cotton cloth material that keeps you and your favorite furry friend comfortable all through. Suitable for small pets of up to 13lbs, this pet carrier features a safety collar hook to ensure your pet is safe and secure. The durable construction makes it rank top among the best dog carrier slings. Cleaning is a breeze as it is machine washable and the adjustable straps give you the freedom to attach it in the best way possible. Choose from black or blue colts and enjoy the patterned reversible design for an added dose of fun when you are out with your furry friend. The reversible design is not just convenient but looks great inside out. Key Features
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#3) THINKPRICE Pet Sling Carrier
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Made of 100% cotton, this fashionable pet sling carrier comes equipped with several great features to ensure that it works well for both you and the pet. What makes this pet carrier stand out among the best dog carrier slings is the ventilation window, which keeps your pet cool and snug, even when the temperatures are on the rise. The fresh air that passes through this opening also helps combat pet odor and ensure that the bad doesn’t become damp. The sleek shoulder bag has a robustly padded shoulder strap that’s adjustable so you can wear it at a height that’s comfortable and convenient for you. Given that this sling bag is available in a hands-free design, you get to use your hands to do other things while still carrying the pup. Additionally, the bag features extra pockets for carrying keys, wallets, cellphone or dog treats. The sling’s pocket features a zipper closure to keep your pet securely inside. A removable and machine washable fleece pad sits at the bottom of the sling bag to provide maximum comfort for your pooch. For your convenience, the bag is machine washable as well. Key Features
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#4) Bro Bear Free Reversible Small Dog Cat Sling Carrier
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This is a reversible sling dog carrier specially designed to provide pet owners with the perfect combination of convenience and style. With this sling carrier, you can easily take your pet wherever you want to. As one of the best dog carrier slings, the Bro Bear sling carrier is constructed with a perfect blend of style and convenience making it your ideal solution for pet strolls. The soft breathable fabric is designed to keep you and your canine friend cool and snug even if you are out together for lengthy walks and the temperatures are on the rise. The reversible nature of this dog carrier allows you to ring the changes and both sides are beautiful and very comfortable. An external security hasp prevents the pet from jumping out. This sling bag is available in one size and is spacious enough to accommodate pets weighing up to 12 pounds. Available in 3 different color options, you get to choose from blue, grey, or pink. For your convenience, this bag is machine washable. Key Features
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#5) Timetuu Pet Sling Carrier for Small and Medium Dogs
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#6) PERSUPER Pet Adjustable Sling Carrier
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PERSUPER Pet Adjustable Sling Carrier hugs your pooch close to your body strengthening the bond between the two of you. This stylish pet carrier is suitable for carrying a wide range of pets including small dogs, cats, and rabbits among others. It is made of high-quality cotton fabric that’s not just snug but easy to clean as well. The hands-free design allows you to use your hands elsewhere. This sling carrier features a soft and wide shoulder strap that’s comfortable to wear as it evenly distributes the weight of the pet across the whole body. A supreme safety collar hook prevents pets from falling off the bag while the front pocket provides you with a convenient place to store your items. This bag will hold the whole pet and keep the head outside, allowing the pet to breathe freely and feel comfortable in it. While this pet carrier is suitable for all outdoor activities, it is machine washable for your convenience. Key Features
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#7) AUTOWT Dog Padded Papoose Sling, Small Pet Carrier
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We all agree that there is always something special about smaller pups. AUTOWT Dog Padded Papoose Sling carrier is specially designed for small dog breeds that weigh between 5-12lbs. This pet carrier is made with soft and breathable materials to keep you and your pet cool and snug all through. The soft padded shoulder strap is adjustable to accommodate every pet owner plus the width of the strap is wide so it can relieve shoulder aches effectively. An adjustable safety hook that links to your pet’s collar prevents the pet from falling off accidentally. A front pocket with a zip is included so you can safely store your items in a place that’s convenient for you. Since the bag is available in a reversible design, you can easily change the looks as you prefer. For optimal dog’s health and convenience, this sling carrier is machine washable. It is also very lightweight, so it’s easy to take. When not in use, it folds down easily to a compact size for easy storage. Key Features
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See Also : Best Dog Ramps for Car, Bed, Stairs, Sofa,Small dogs, Dogs with Arthritis
Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Dog Carrier Slings
Dog sling carriers are created differently. Here are some of the most important factors to look out for when buying a dog carrier sling.
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Safety
When looking at different dog carrier slings available in the market, keep in mind that all the qualities you are looking for relating to keeping your favorite furry friend safe. Whether it’s a durable and comfortable material to keep your dog in a comfortable condition or it’s the strong collar clips that keep your dog in place. Go for a sling carrier that guarantees the safety of your dog and yours as well.
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Material
When it comes to a dog carrier sling bag, comfort is key. Not only is this essential for your dog because they will be lounging inside for extended periods, but the sling carrier should also be comfortable for the one carrying it.
Most dog sling bags are made of breathable yet durable materials which include cotton, flee, or polyester. Cotton is the most common material used because it is breathable and comfortable as well. It is easy to clean and requires very minimal maintenance. It is also important to consider the weather/climate when finding the right dog sling.
Dog carrier slings made of fleece will offer more warmth and comfort, but they may not be appropriate for warmer temperatures. Some companies have resolved this problem by offering sling carriers with reversible designs, so you can interchange the materials so the sling bag is functional in varying weather conditions. For your convenience and to ensure optimal dog health, find a material that’s machine washable.
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Adjustable Straps
You’ll want to have flexibility in how you carry your pup depending on your size as well as the size of your pup. Some pet owners will require to change the height of the strap after a few hours, to shift the pet’s weight and prevent fatigue.
Not all carriers have adjustable shoulder straps, so if you want more options while carrying your pup, you’ll want to look for a carrier whose shoulder straps are adjustable.
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Collar Clips
These are small plastic or metal clips designed to keep your pup firmly attached to the sling and keep them from sliding or falling from the sling. While they are labeled as collar clips, they work most effectively when used with a dog harness rather than a collar.
You don’t want to rely on these clips to keep the dog contained, so you’ll want to train your dog to stay put rather than relying on these clips to keep them in place.
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Zippers and Other Closures
While you still want to have a dog carrier that has a collar clip, slings with closing tops provide an additional way to keep your furry friend contained. In most cases, zippers are used to keep the bag closed, however, some slings use Velcro, buttons, or snaps instead. For these zippers to be effective, they must be functional.
Zipper closures may pull or get snagged on longer dog hair, whereas buttons and snaps may not keep more high-spirited pups from breaking free from the enclosure. Depending on the nature of your dog, you’ll want to consider an enclosure that’s both sturdy and flexible so your dog can peek their head out and enjoy the surroundings.
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Comfort Pads
Some slings have enough space for you to add comfort items or blankets, while others come with removable comfort pads. These pads will support your pet, similar to a bed on the go.
The good thing about these comfort pads is that they are not only durable but also removable. This means that you can easily remove them on days where you don’t need the extra padding.
Depending on the comfort item that you decide to use, you’ll not only be offering your pooch a comfortable place to rest, but you’ll also be protecting the bottom of the sling from your pooch’s claws.
Basic Safety Guidelines for Using a Dog Carrier Sling
While carrying your dog inside a carrier sling isn’t a high-risk activity, you’ll want to keep safety in mind to ensure that your dog stays safe. Here are some of the basic safety guidelines to follow.
- Always use the collar clip. You don’t want your furry friend to unexpectedly jump out of the sling. He can get injured or run off and get into mischief. Try and attach the sling to a harness, instead of a collar, to reduce the possibility of neck injuries.
- Inspect the bag regularly for weak points or signs of wear and tear. You don’t want loose threads wrapping around your dog’s claws or tail. Make sure that you always inspect the condition of the bag especially when you are washing it.
- Make sure that the bag doesn’t affect your ability to walk comfortably. Tripping with your dog inside the sling is not only dangerous for the two of you but also very embarrassing. You’ll want to stay upright and walk comfortably whenever you are carrying the dog. Just make sure that the bag rides in a comfortable place in your body and that your hands and legs can still move freely.
- Never leave your dog in the sling unattended. You should never leave your dog inside the carrier unattended. You can leave him in the park alone for a while only to find that he’s gone. These bags make dogs very easy to steal.
- Keep the bag positioned so you can see your dog. You don’t want your dog getting into mischief or jumping out without warning. Keeping him riding on your hip or against your stomach, where you can easily monitor him.
- Monitor your dog’s temperature. Some slings can make your dog overheat when the temperatures outside are on the rise. Accordingly, you’ll want to keep an eye on him and give him a break if you notice that he’s panting faster than normal or if his paws become noticeably damp.
Conclusion
Whether you need to make a quick trip to the grocery store or you have a new pup in the family and you are trying to increase the bond between the two of you, a dog carrier sling offers a lot of similar benefits as other dog carriers but with an added perk of comfort and convenience. Any of the slings listed above is quality and you can trust them to provide unmatched comfort and convenience for both you and your pet.
See Also: Best Outdoor Dog Beds