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Owners of Chihuahuas, Yorkshire terriers and other small breed dogs often need an extra small dog carrier, along with other necessary items suited to the size of their canine friend. A small and cozy carrier will give your dog a sense of security and can prove quite practical in many cases.
You just need to find out what are the features to look for to ensure you choose the right extra small dog carrier.
Specific intent
There are many cases when a carrier can come in handy. First of all, in the case of long-distance travel, for example by air, a passenger with a dog will not be allowed on board without a carrier.
It is also useful when visiting a veterinarian, as your dog is already stressful and is better contained in a carrier. Also, it is a good way to keep your dog away from four-legged patients waiting in the clinic and probably as stressful as your dog.
An injured or sick dog will be more comfortable on a bed in a carrier than in the arms of the owner. This is especially important if you must ensure your dog needs to be contained due to injury, bandaged body areas or intense stress.
At exhibitions, your dog can always hide from the noise and prying eyes in its carrier. The same applies when visiting public places where pets are allowed, as in a museum.
If you go out and need to take your dog with you, a carrier may be handy if you walk on snowy, slushy or muddy sidewalks or streets. Or, you may simply want to keep your dog away from other animals that could be aggressive.
When visiting friends or relatives, your dog will have a mini-booth to isolate himself to rest or even sleep. If your dog needs to be left unattended for a short time, he can be put in the carrier to keep him from hanging around in places in the house that may present a danger to him, such as a garage or work area.
Design features of an extra small dog carrier
Of course, a beautiful dog carrier becomes a stylish accessory. The main thing is not to focus on design only, but to choose a model that meets all the requirements.
Soft or hard?
All carriers are divided into two large groups, soft and hard models. The first group includes all kinds of fabric bags (including on wheels) and backpacks, and the second are like plastic containers. Owners of tiny dogs can choose a soft or hard model based on goals and preferences.
For example, in a soft bag the doggie will be more comfortable, and the owner is more comfortable to carry it due to its compact size and softer material. For larger dogs, get a plastic container. It is a must if you travel long distances by road, rail or if you fly.
If long trips with the dog are not planned, and you are only moving around the city with your dog, then it is advisable to choose a soft bag with a handle over the shoulder or on wheels to roll it. In the latter case, make sure the wheels are strong.
Size and weight of your dog
Consider the weight of your dog when choosing a carrier. There are models for dogs weighting anywhere between 5 kg and 10 kg.
Tiny dog carrier features
Soft carriers
Soft carriers are offered in different forms: backpack, sling, bag for miniature dogs or backpack-box. There are many different models in open or closed design.
The closed model has ventilation holes and a small viewing window. And if such a backpack is additionally equipped with a net, then it will be safe for the dog to move around.
Open backpacks may have holes for protruding paws. The backpack is best suited if the dog has a calm character and does not become anxious if he does not see his master. If it’s not the case, then a small sling bag with a shoulder strap will help out. A sling is a carrier for dogs weighing up to 8 kg. It’s quite popular with active people who walk a lot, go on hikes and do not want to part with their dog.
If the sling is used to rest a tired dog, the view will not be front, as in a backpack, but side. If necessary, the sling can be worn as a backpack, without being fixed on the shoulder, but turned over behind the back. These carriers are more comfortable than many backpacks because the dog can lie down. But the sling is suited only for small breeds.
There are carry bags on sale, they look like ordinary bags, that are carried by the handles. Thanks to the detachable sidewall, the dog can stick its head out and watch the surroundings.
Rigid plastic carriers
Many dog breeders appreciate the durability and practicality of plastic carriers. High-quality plastic is non-toxic and does not cause allergies and it will not develop an unpleasant smell over time. The boxes are well ventilated due to the mesh on the door.
The practical benefits of a rigid carrier is that it can be placed both on dirty ground or on a damp floor and it can be easily washed after use.
When choosing a rigid container, you need to make sure that the locks are reliable. Some models have double locks, which allow them to be used for air travel.
It is also important (I would even say crucial) to match the model to the size of the dog. A dog should be able to stand inside to his full height. The optimal height is the actual height of the dog plus 10 cm.
There is no need to have padding around the carrier so that the dog does not shake too much inside during movement. It is enough if the dog can turn freely 360 degrees in the carrier. The good thing about plastic containers is that inside you can equip a small dog with a comfortable corner, such a soft bedding or pillow and even toys.
A rigid extra small dog carrier is really ideal to hide your dog from prying eyes while allowing him to observe what is going on around, through the mesh door.
Remember, a carrier is not a “jail”. Take the time to choose the right model to ensure that your little canine friend moves comfortably with you. Do not compromise on the quality of the product and it will serve you well (and your dog) for many years!