How to Choose the Best Dog Carrier for Your Furry Family Member
You might think that a dog carrier only comes out when you’re heading for vacation and bringing your pup along on the plane. But the best dog carrier is the one you can use almost anywhere, even at home. “Carriers provide a really good management strategy to safely contain your pet when you can’t directly supervise them,” says Mikkel Becker, a certified trainer, dog behavior consultant and the lead animal trainer for Fear Free Pets. If, for example, you’ve got an anxious dog or a high-energy door dasher and people are coming over to visit or work around the house, then Becker recommends putting your pup in the carrier. “Giving them their treats or a long-lasting food puzzle to keep them occupied can be a really good strategy for keeping your dog contained,” she explains. It also helps your pet feel safer and calmer. Carriers are a must-have in the car. “Dogs are one of the top driver distractions that actually lead to automobile accidents,” notes Becker, who is also the coauthor of “From Fearful to Fear Free.” A good dog travel carrier or crate can keep your pup safe in case you slam on the brakes. Dog carriers are also good tools for socializing a puppy who hasn’t had all their shots and needs to stay away from adult dogs, or for taking your pet shopping. OK, now you know how necessary a dog carrier can be, but how do you know which one to get? We break down the different types and what to consider before you buy so you can be sure to pick the best dog carrier for your canine travel companion.










