Pets enrich the lives of their owners, adding personality and a unique kind of affection to any home. Pets become part of the family, and as such, they must often go where their owners go. Dog owners often invest in a carrier for their small or medium-sized dog. They can place it in the car during short rides to the veterinarian or on long rides to an out-of-state relative’s house. They might also place the dog in a carrier when they are waiting in a public place, such as a subway station, a train station, or an airport terminal. The carrier protects the dog from escaping or from injury and gives it a sense of greater security in an unfamiliar setting. This guide will list some important do’s and don’ts for dog owners who are shopping for a dog carrier. It will also suggest some brick and mortar retailers and online retailers (such as eBay)) where dog owners can buy a carrier.

1. Do Check Airline or Railway Regulations

Buyers who plan to take their dog on an airplane with them will certainly need a carrier. However, they should be sure that the carrier that they purchase matches the regulations and requirements of the airline that they are using. Airline websites typically have a section full of useful information about traveling with pets, including the requirements for carriers. If buyers plan to travel by train, they will need to investigate the railway’s policy as well.

2. Don’t Purchase an Oversized Dog Carrier

The dog should have enough room in the dog carrier to lie down comfortably, stand up, raise its head, move around, and perform other normal actions. Having space for these movements helps the dog to stay comfortable and relaxed during transit. However, large carriers are more difficult to take on airplanes, on trains, or on buses. In addition, if there is too much space in the carrier, the dog may think that it has enough room to relieve itself in one corner of the carrier. Young dogs or dogs that are nervous are more likely to do this. To prevent this mindset, owners should select a

carrier

with just enough width, length, and height to accommodate the dog. The chart below provides some guidance for owners with different breeds.