The Best Dog Carrier Slings: Make Travelling a Fun-Filled Experience!

Buyer’s Guide to Finding the Top Dog Carrier Sling

Why Should You Buy a Dog Carrier Sling?

Well, you should buy a dog carrier sling to make your and your dog’s life easier and healthier. A study from Harvard proves that spending time with your furry friend can cut down the impact of stress on your health. It lowers blood pressure, regulates cholesterol, and improves heart health.

As for your dog, it keeps them happy too. According to Dr.Virga, i.e., a board-certified professional in veterinary behavior, it can be damaging for your dog’s health to spend too much time by themselves. They may revert to potentially destructive activities as a means of channeling out their energy.

A sling can help you prevent this by keeping your dog as close to you as possible. In this way, you get to spend most of your day with them – even if you’re just out for a walk around the block.

Plus, dog carrier slings aren’t mandatory but can make a world of difference in your travels. These well-designed carriers let you keep your pup as close as possible. So, there is no chance of them escaping or becoming lost. Using a dog carrier sling not only improves safety. But, it also keeps your hands free and fatigue-less.

Types of Dog Carrier Slings

There is a diversity of dog carrier slings available in the market. You will find variations in style, colors, materials, sizes, and whatnot. However, there exist two fundamental types only. These include:

Side carrier slings

These carrier slings have a purse-like design that keeps the dog in its natural position. You can hang them over your shoulder and balance your pup on the side. However, carrying heavyweight pups of this type might put a strain on your neck or shoulder.

Backpack carrier slings

The backpack carrier sling resembles a baby carrier. You can carry your dog vertically on the front or back, like a human baby. It also has openings to free your dog’s hands and arms.
Consider what type would be most convenient for both you and your pup.

Usually, people prefer side carrier slings as it keeps the dog free to move. Your dog won’t feel restricted in those as opposed to the backpack ones.

Buying the Correct Dog Carrier Slings

Indeed, there is no one best fit for all. You cannot just walk into the market, demand the best option, and expect to make a satisfactory purchase. The perfect dog carrier sling for you depends on your specific requirements and pet needs.

Below, we have compiled the best features to consider in dog carrier slings. These factors will help determine the product’s usefulness and worth effectively. Read more!

Size

Dog carrier slings are usually for small and medium-size breeds. However, even in that, you will find different sizing. There will be small, medium, and large options with dimensions stated in the description.

You must measure your dog before selecting a size. Also, opt for a slightly bigger size than the dog’s accurate measurements. It will ensure your pup doesn’t get stuck or feel trapped.

Materials

Different companies make use of different materials in the production of dog slings. You will come across materials like cotton, polyester, mesh, fleece, and whatnot.

The carrier slings have to withhold a lot of weight and pressure. They can easily stretch, deform, and tear.
Not only does your hard-earned money get wasted, but your pup is also at risk of getting hurt. And so, make sure to opt for durable materials.

Also, the selected materials should be breathable. Dogs have thick fur coats, and staying in slings for long periods can cause overheating. Thus, a breathable material ventilates the sling and keeps it cooler.

Comfortable

The comfort levels provided by the dog carrier sling vary greatly. You must look for these key features to ensure optimum comfort.

• Soft & thick padding
  A dog carrier sling must be fluffy and thickly padded. The cushioning provides support to the dog’s back and other vital parts so both you and your pup can feel comfortable!
• Adequate space
  The sling should contain sufficient space to let your pup sit comfortably. It should be able to move a little and lay down. However, make sure it is not too loose as it will make the pup wobbly.
• Even weight distribution
  Wide and thick shoulder straps are prominent features of a design with even weight distribution. As a result, the sling doesn’t put pressure on one point of your neck or shoulder. It spreads the weight so you can lift it for long periods easily.
• Adjustability
  You may have measured and chosen an accurate size. But, having adjustable parts on the sling can make it easier to personalize the fit.

Safety

Even in a sling, your pet dog can get excited and jump out. It can be a dangerous situation during travel. Hence, you must opt for a carrier sling that comes with security rings and straps.
You can tie the dog collar and the safety ring together. This particular way, your fur baby won’t go missing.

Maintenance

Since you will be carrying your dog, the sling will get dirty at one point or another. It’s best to purchase a carrier sling that is machine washable. So you can wash it conveniently with other pet towels and items.

Are Dog Carrier Slings Safe?

Generally, dog carrier slings are safe-to-use. However, the level of security provided depends on the particular design.

For example, wide openings can become an escape route for pups. While traveling, you may not realize when your dog jumps out from the opening and runs away.

To prevent this, most manufacturers include safety rings and latches. You can connect the dog collar with them to restrict sudden movements.

Also, non-breathable fabrics can cause overheating and suffocation in warmer regions. Make sure that the sling offers ventilation points and breathable fabric to let the air pass.