The 5 cargo bikes for the dog

For some dogs, riding in a car is a dreadful experience. They can’t see anything, feel nauseous, and before you know it, they’re vomiting. In this article, we’re going to explore a great alternative: an electric cargo bike for transporting dogs.

Initially, these were regular cargo bikes, similar to those used for transporting children, but with one important difference: there was an entry door or a step board to make it easier for your dog to get in. Inside the box, attachment points were also provided to securely fasten your dog.

Fast forward a year or two, and numerous developments have occurred. Now, with the recent Babboe scandal, we’re compelled to update this list, as the affected models are no longer being sold. However, since these models can still be found second-hand and the investigation is ongoing, we’ll leave them at the bottom of this list for the time being.

Best Price / Quality Dog Cargo Bike: Winther Kangaroo Dog

Winther has been active in producing cargo bikes for over 25 years, with a special focus on transporting loved ones, primarily children. However, Winther has also developed a cargo bike specifically for dogs.

Their trike design is distinctive. The handlebar connects directly to the cargo box, which pivots around a central point, giving the cargo bike a very small turning circle. However, this can be challenging when holding the handlebar while the cargo box is turned far. Nevertheless, this design offers great convenience when parking and maneuvering the cargo bike when not cycling.

But why is this specifically a cargo bike for dogs? Firstly, the cargo box is designed with the safety and comfort of the dog in mind: it’s sturdy and equipped with basic features such as reflectors and lights.

Inside, the cargo box is designed to provide good airflow while also protecting your dog from various weather conditions. Safety (especially for children) is also considered; the cargo box has a steel roll cage.

The loading space (equipped with a hook to attach the leash) is spacious enough for the dog to move around or lie down comfortably, and for smaller dogs, there’s a raised platform available, allowing you to still use the space underneath for storage.

These specific features, focused on comfort, usability, and safety, emphasize that careful consideration has been given to the wants and needs of dog owners.

Thanks to the built-in electric assistance, the cargo bike provides enough power to transport larger dogs or heavier loads, making the experience enjoyable for both the pet and the owner.

Best for Large Dogs: Butchers & Bicycles MK1-E

Butcher&Bicycles is already known to us from our comparison of e-cargo bikes. It’s a very high-quality cargo bike, with the highlight being the tilting mechanism.

So why is it the best for dogs?

This mechanism ensures that the cargo box remains level, allowing the dog to always sit comfortably. Your dog will be less likely to get motion sick because the cargo box moves with the bike. There’s also no risk of tipping, and your dog will stay still for much longer. The ride is enjoyable for both dog and rider, as the Bosch components provide ample (and smooth) electric assistance.

All components are of the highest quality. Your dog will be very happy with this electric cargo bike, but your wallet might not be as pleased. With a purchase price around 5800 euros (depending on accessories), it’s certainly not a cheap cargo bike for dogs.

The door at the front of the cargo box is optional, so make sure to consider this when making your purchase. It allows your dog to easily step in and take a seat in the cargo box. Simply attach the leash, and you’re ready to go.

Cargo Bike for Small Dogs: SociBike Compact

For smaller dogs, a large cargo box isn’t always necessary. Small dogs often prefer to sit a bit higher, closer to the rider, as it makes them more comfortable. For small to medium-sized dogs, the SociBike Compact is an excellent choice. The Family version, especially if you want to transport both children and dogs together, is also interesting. The Compact version appeals to us due to its unique design.

By adapting the design for (also) smaller pets, owners can ensure that their dogs feel safe and comfortable during transportation.

The frame of the SociBike Compact is made of aluminum and reinforced with steel at the front, resulting in a strong and durable structure. However, this construction does make the bike weigh 60 kilograms, which is relatively high for a compact cargo bike measuring 212 centimeters long. Nevertheless, the cargo bike can carry up to 100 kg of cargo.

An additional advantage is that the cargo bike is not very wide; it measures only 80 centimeters from wheel to wheel. The dimensions of the cargo box itself are also 80 centimeters in length, 47 centimeters in width, and 50 centimeters in height.

At the front of the cargo box, a convenient hinge is attached, used to open and close the flap. This provides an easier step-up for both your dog and children, allowing them to step in and out of the cargo box effortlessly.

In terms of motorization, the SociBike Compact is also well-equipped. With a Bafang Max Drive mid-drive motor delivering 80 Nm, this cargo bike offers power comparable to that of a good (not the best) Bosch or Shimano motor. SociBike also offers various options for the battery, with the largest capacity of 720Wh providing significant autonomy.

Non-Electric Cargo Bike for Dogs: Nihola Dog

Looking for a non-electric cargo bike for your dog? Let’s take a look at the timeless design of Nihola.

The Nihola Dog is a compact three-wheeled cargo bike with a front door. It’s specially designed to sit very low to the ground, allowing dogs to easily get in and out and feel comfortable and safe.

This cargo bike is non-electric and doesn’t have an extensive derailleur system. The Nexus Shimano 8-speed offers a limited number of gears, meaning uphill cycling may be more challenging, but it should be manageable on flat terrain.

In terms of appearance, the cargo bike has a rugged, low-to-the-ground look, and the two large wheels give it somewhat of a race car vibe. The nose of the cargo box protrudes in front of the wheels, which generally isn’t bothersome, but it’s something to consider when taking corners.

The Nihola Dog is quite compact, with the cargo box sitting just below the handlebars. It measures 2 meters in length and 85 centimeters in width. Since the bike is non-electric and weighs 32 kilograms, you and your dog will need to exert some effort to get the bike up to speed.

The interior space of the cargo box is significant: 62 centimeters wide, 88 centimeters long, and 50 centimeters high. Keep in mind, this 50 centimeter height is important; dogs like to look around. For a smaller dog that can’t see over this height, there’s also a transparent cargo box available!

A fan of the design – it’s also available electrically, the Nihola Dog. Why isn’t it considered the best? We’re fans of the cargo box design, truly made for dogs big and small. The cycling part is where other brands have a slight edge. For this price, you can also find models with full Bosch support, which is worth considering. Especially if you also want to use the cargo bike for non-dog routes.

Affordable Dog Cargo Bike: Qivelo City E-cargo Bike

This space used to belong to Babboe, but they have been removed from the market. They are unsafe; the frame shows small cracks over time. We already knew that Babboe was basic quality, but now it’s proven to be even worse than thought.

There are still many cheap cargo bikes available, mostly sold online. You can also find some models on Bol. The model that comes closest to the benefits of Babboe, hopefully without the drawbacks, is Qivelo. A good alternative to Babboe cargo bikes. Cheap and basic quality.

We don’t recommend them for comfort or usability. Their strongest selling point is their price. You can find an electric cargo bike for under 2000 euros. That’s unheard of; even second-hand ones cost more. They also have models of higher quality. These are now equipped with Ananda motors.

So far our comparison of the best cargo bikes for transporting dogs. These cargo bikes are specially adapted to accommodate our four-legged friends. Of course, this is not a necessity, and you can also opt for another electric cargo bike without a door.

What to Consider When Choosing Cargo Bikes for Dogs?

Just like all electric cargo bikes, there are several factors to consider such as build quality, the electric components, brakes, and tires…
For a dog, there are two additional important points to consider. Entering via a specially adapted door, and the safety of your dog.

Cargo Bikes with a Door for the Dog

This can be on the side or at the front. A side door is convenient, also for children who want to enter the cargo box.
At the front, you have even more options. For example, the door (like the Babboe Edog) can also flip open to serve as a ramp.

A large dog can thus easily enter the cargo bike without having to jump. There is also less risk of your electric cargo bike tipping over.

Attaching to a Leash Attachment Point

Even in the cargo box, it’s best to keep your dog on a leash. It’s important to teach your dog not to jump out of the cargo box. A dog should remain seated. If your dog does jump, you must ensure that the leash is short and secure. This prevents the dog from ending up beside the cargo box and reduces the risk of you being pulled down.

Non-Slip Surface

A dog is more likely to stay seated when it feels safe. If the dog feels unsafe, it will want to get out of the cargo box and jump out of the cargo bike. A non-slip surface on the floor of the cargo box provides the dog with more grip. This gives the dog a feeling of control and will keep it seated longer.

Safe Cargo Box

A dog can take a knock. But if you can choose between bumping into a wooden box or one made of a soft shock-absorbing material, the choice is easy.
Some cargo boxes are better equipped and offer more comfort than the cumbersome wooden ones. Of course, this also affects the price, an important point in your decision-making process.

Also Read the Following Articles