Small dog carrier: backpack, shoulder bag & sling

Small dog carrier: the format where everything is possible

Under 5 to 6 kg, a small dog carrier opens up every option: shoulder bag, front carrier, backpack, sling. At this weight, carrying is never a problem — which means the choice comes down to something other than carrying capacity.

Chihuahua, yorkshire, bichon, jack russell, puppy of a medium breed: this page brings together the formats designed for small dogs.

Four ways to carry your dog

The sling or shoulder bag. A single strap across the body, the dog against your hip. It is the quickest to put on, the most discreet, and the favourite of dogs that want to see what is going on. See shoulder bags & satchels.

The front carrier. Worn in front, the dog against your chest, surrounded by your scent. It is the most reassuring format for a puppy or an anxious dog, and the one that lets you stroke it without stopping. See front carriers & pet slings.

The backpack. Both hands free, the weight spread out: the best choice on public transport or as soon as you walk a little. See dog backpacks.

The tote or handbag. The most understated look, perfect for a short trip around town. Its limit comes quickly: all the weight rests on one hand or one shoulder.

Small does not mean tiny

It is the most common mistake with this format. You look at the dog curled up and underestimate its real length once it stretches out.

Measure it standing — from the muzzle to the base of the tail, then from the floor to the top of the head — and compare with the inside dimensions of the bag. It must be able to stand up, turn around and lie down stretched out. A 3 kg yorkshire is often longer than 35 cm: it is that length that decides, not the kilos.

And if you are buying a bag for a puppy, buy for the dog it will become. Six months later, it will have doubled in size.

What matters especially for a small dog

• A fastening with no gaps. A small dog can squeeze through openings that look far too narrow. A gaping zip, a loosely fixed flap, and it is out.
• An inner leash to clip the harness to. At this size, it is the essential safety net, not a comfort extra.
• A firm base. A light dog slides around a lot: without a stable surface, it stays standing and tense the whole journey.
• Ventilation on several sides, even if the space is small — especially because it is small.
• A pocket for its things, so you do not have to go out with two bags.

Once it has grown

Carrying stays comfortable as long as the dog stays light. Past 8 to 10 kg, the backpack becomes the only manageable format, then wheels take over. See 10 kg dog backpacks and large dog transport. The whole range is gathered in dog carriers.

In the car, whatever the size, the carrier must be secured: see car carriers.

Our advice

• Front carrier for dogs: the right choice for small breeds
• Which carrier size should you choose?
• Dog carrier: bag, backpack or crate?
• Dog backpack: how to choose the right one?

Frequently asked questions

Which bag for a 3 to 5 kg dog?

Every format works at this weight. Choose by use: a sling for the city, a front carrier for an anxious dog, a backpack as soon as you walk.

How do I choose the size?

Measure your dog standing and compare with the inside dimensions, not the stated weight. It must be able to stand up, turn around and lie down.

Can a puppy use the same bag later on?

Yes, if you buy for its adult size. A bag chosen for its current size will be too small within a few months.