Living in a city like Amsterdam, or any bike-friendly locale, often means your bicycle is your primary mode of transport. For dog owners like myself, this naturally extends to wanting our furry friends to join in on our two-wheeled travels. My dog, Clover, is my constant companion, and while quick jaunts are easy with her trotting happily beside my bike, longer distances presented a challenge. That’s when I discovered the game-changer: the Dog Bike Chariot.
For rides under 20 minutes, keeping pace with Clover running alongside was manageable and enjoyable. Amsterdam’s excellent bike lanes make “fietsen met hond” (biking with a dog) feel safe and routine. However, our desire to explore further afield, like the sprawling Amsterdam Bos, meant I needed a solution for longer journeys. A 30-minute bike ride to the forest and back would tire her out before our actual adventure began! Thankfully, bike-centric cultures have embraced canine cyclists, leading to the creation of fantastic dog bike chariots.
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Top Dog Bike Chariots: Your Canine Travel Companions
After extensive research and personal testing, here are some of the best dog bike chariots I considered, with a spotlight on the one I ultimately chose for Clover.
Trixie Dog Bike Trailer: My Top Pick
The Trixie bike trailer immediately stood out for its practicality and range of sizes. Available in small, medium, and large, it’s designed to easily attach to your bicycle, making it a seamless addition to your cycling setup. Having purchased the Trixie trailer myself, I can offer firsthand insights. Initially, for my 10kg Clover, I opted for a Small. However, upon arrival, it felt a bit cramped for her to comfortably move around. Swapping it for a Medium proved perfect, highlighting the excellent return and exchange policies of retailers like Amazon Germany, a boon for expats in Amsterdam.
Trixie dog bike trailer attached to a bicycle, showcasing its compact and convenient design for urban cycling with pets.
A key feature I appreciate is the option to purchase an extra bike attachment. This small, almost unnoticeable piece allows for easy switching of the trailer between bikes – ideal if multiple family members want to cycle with your dog.
The Trixie chariot is well-constructed, featuring multiple entry points for your dog, which is incredibly convenient. It also boasts a thoughtful combination of zippered plastic covers for rainy days and Velcro mesh doors to keep your dog secure while ensuring good ventilation. For apartment living, the removable wheels and foldable arm, which tucks neatly under the main compartment, are brilliant space-saving features.
If I could suggest one improvement, it would be to enhance the padding on the trailer’s interior base. While a thin padded mat is included, the often-bumpy bike paths prompted me to add an extra layer of comfort. I found a dog bed similar to this, sized appropriately for the trailer’s internal dimensions (43cm x 73cm for the Medium size), to provide superior cushioning.
Globetrotter Dog Bike Trailer & Jogger: Two-in-One Versatility
The Globetrotter offers exceptional value by combining a bike trailer and a jogging stroller in one. The jogging components – front wheel and handle – are easily detachable, ensuring they don’t hinder your bike rides. Ordering from ZooPlus, where this trailer is available, is also a positive experience. Their delivery is remarkably fast; I often receive my dog’s Wolf of the Wilderness dog food from them the very next day! Like the Trixie, the Globetrotter also provides the option to purchase an additional bike attachment at a reasonable price.
DoggyRide Original Dog Bike Trailer: The Dutch Classic
DoggyRide is perhaps the most recognized Dutch brand in dog bike trailers. For those wanting to support a local company and invest in a classic, robust trailer, DoggyRide is a strong contender. While slightly above my budget, its reputation for quality and durability is undeniable.
Karlie Flamingo Doggy Liner: Budget-Friendly and Adaptable
If affordability is a key factor, the Karlie Flamingo dog bike trailer is an excellent, well-priced option. It also offers the flexibility to convert into a jogger with an additional Karlie Jogger Function add-on. However, if you anticipate frequent jogging, the Globetrotter might offer better value as a combined package.
Final Thoughts on Dog Bike Chariots: Happy Trails for You and Your Pup
My deep dive into dog bike trailers involved countless reviews and comparisons. I prioritize value for money and durability, and after two years of use, the Trixie bike trailer has consistently exceeded expectations. For anyone seeking their first dog bike chariot, I wholeheartedly recommend it. Its price point and reliable customer service make it, in my opinion, the best deal available.
Pro tip: Enhance your dog’s chariot experience by adding a couple of favorite treats and a healthy dog chew to keep them happily occupied during your rides!
I’d love to hear about your experiences! Let me know which dog bike chariot you choose, and please share photos and videos of your cycling adventures with your canine companion!
