3. Do Consider Durability and Stability
The material from which the dog carrier is made should be sturdy. Not only does the carrier allow owners to carry their small dogs and keep them from escaping or wandering loose in a public area, but it also provides the pets with some level of protection in case of impact or jarring.

4. Don’t Put the Dog in a Strange Carrier
Before the trip, the dog should have an opportunity to get used to the dog carrier. The owner might leave the carrier open in the backyard or in the living room so that the dog can go in and out and explore every part of it. If the dog will be spending several hours in the carrier for a long trip, owners should consider taking the dog on a few short excursions in the carrier to prepare the dog for spending time in the enclosure. If dogs can see and experience the carrier for several weeks before the big vacation, they will be much more content and comfortable when they are confined in it for a longer period of time.

5. Do Ensure Adequate Ventilation
It is essential that dogs have sufficient airflow into and out of the carrier. The door of the crate should be a metal grate style, allowing plenty of air into the carrier. The sides of the carrier should also have slots or small windows so that the air can flow through it and so that dogs can look out and see what is going on around them.

6. Don’t Choose a Carrier with a Spring-Loaded Door
As previously mentioned, the door on the crate or carrier is typically made of crisscrossing steel wire so that the dog can look out more easily. The door, its hinges, and its latch or lock should be strong and durable. 

7. Do Look for a Carrier with Wheels
Buyers who plan to travel a lot with their pets may want to purchase a dog carrier with wheels and possibly an extendable handle. If the dog is fairly heavy, this will make it much easier for owners to transport it through the airport. Pet owners who will be on a long flight with a layover will find this especially helpful, since they will likely have to trek through the terminal to find a pet relief area and then make their way to the gate for their next flight.