Chihuahuas have a long body to carry on a set of short, stubby legs. This genetic fact can make longer walks and runs difficult or impossible for your Chi. This is especially true for older or arthritic dogs, who have added difficulty getting around.
A dog stroller quickly becomes an obvious answer to these problems, providing you and your Chi more opportunities to spend time with one another, whether it be taking a walk for a breath of fresh air or running errands in town.
Whatever reason you have for getting your Chi a pet stroller, it’s important that you know all the benefits as well as what to look for in a great stroller.
So what’s the best dog stroller for a Chihuahua?
Despite their growing popularity, many people turn their nose up at the idea of a pet stroller; however, when considering the many benefits associated with using one, a stroller becomes a no brainer, especially for a breed like the Chihuahua.
Dog strollers have been growing in popularity recently, and for good reason. They provide health benefits, convenience, and are extremely easy to use. Below are some of the most common reasons people opt for a Chihuahua dog stroller.
Dog strollers are an incredibly valuable asset in keeping your Chi safe. One of the locations where safety first comes to mind is the vet’s office.
The wide variety of dogs and other pet’s that go in an out of the office may create an unsanitary environment for your Chi. Not to mention the inherent danger when your Chi, a smaller dog, inevitably ends up around dogs multiple times his size.
Urban and heavily trafficked areas can also prove an issue for your tiny Chihuahua. A pet stroller keeps your Chi off the ground and in your immediate line of sight at all times, giving you confidence when you and your Chi are out and about.
Sidewalks can also become a danger for your Chi. Puppies are especially susceptible to disease that can be found on shared sidewalk spaces. Strollers allow you to take your Chi puppy out without worry of him catching an illness.
Sidewalks can also present issues for older dogs. Hot sidewalks can be hard on paws, while salt on icy walkways can be extremely damaging for your Chi. Again, a stroller quickly becomes an obvious solution to these problems.
A stroller can also protect your Chi from larger and/or more aggressive dogs. Giving your Chi that extra barrier of protection and lifting her off of the ground will keep her safe and give you confidence when taking her out in public.
Aside from matters of safety, dog strollers are incredibly convenient. Though your Chi loves to play and spend time with you, their small bodies make them tire out more quickly. your Chi simply may not be able to keep up as you are out and about running errands.
More strenuous cardio activities will quickly leave your Chi exasperated. Using a dog stroller allows your Chi to exercise without you without cutting your work out short.
Traditional pet carriers also have a real disadvantage in terms of maneuverability. Airports and other public places can be difficult to navigate while carrying pet.
A stroller makes situations like these a breeze, and are easily folded and stored when not in use.
Of course the best part about owning a dog is spending quality time with her. A stroller allows you to do just that, increasing the opportunities you have to take your Chi with you on the go.
Larger events can be especially difficult to navigate with a traditional leash, but that doesn’t mean you should have to leave your Chi at home. Placing her in a stroller will allow your Chi to experience family gatherings, community events, and more.
More and more restaurants and retail shops are becoming pet friendly. A responsible dog owner with a stroller will surely be welcome in most establishments, meaning your Chi can accompany you shopping, running errands, or other activities that have you out and about.
Like any pet product, there is a wide range of pet strollers available to consumers, and not all of them are top notch in quality or design.
While there are many great dog strollers available, all with different features to meet your preferences, there are a few things that all good strollers will have in common.
These are just a few important considerations for selecting the right stroller for use with your Chi. Always consult your Chi’s veterinarian for a professional opinion before using a new product with your Chi.
Any stroller meeting most of all of the above specifications is going to have the potential to work well for you and your Chi. With all these things in place, what it really comes down to is personal preference.
The following options may work well for use with your Chi.
This stroller from Pet Gear definitely checks all of the boxes and then some. your Chi will ride in luxury in this quality stroller that comes equipped with some great features.
One of the main features this stroller boasts in the mesh sunshade that allows a zipper free entry. your Chi can be totally encapsulated and protected from the sun, but with the quick release of a latch you can have the sunshade pulled back to get all more in sunshine without fumbling with with a zipper.
Air Ride tires set this stroller apart from many of the others on the market. These wheels make long walks and jogs over varying terrain smooth and comfortable for your Chi. In addition, they make pushing the stroller easy and effortless.
The Pet Gear stroller also also comes in a wide variety of sizes. Their smallest stroller supports dogs weighing up to 35 pounds, while the largest model suits dogs up to 150 pounds.
This stroller also comes with a removable liner, making cleaning and maintaining your pooches stroller simple and easy.
The product’s weight depends on the size stroller you select for your Chi. The smallest stroller is 13 pounds, while the heaviest weighs in at 26.
In addition to Air Ride tires and zipperless entry, this stroller also has a padded interior bolster and an elevated paw rest. The padded bolster will keep your Chi cozy, while the elevated rest allows your pooch to get a better view of her surroundings.
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Vivo makes a wonderful pet stroller that should suit you and your Chis needs. This stroller is sure to make walks, errands, vet visits, and more a stress free breeze.
Vivo’s stroller uses a large, protective compartment with a zippered screen to keep your Chi cool and safe. You can opt to keep the screen down, or let it up to allow your Chi to get a little more fresh air.
This pet stroller will have no issue handling your Chi’s needs. The weight capacity is 30 lbs, meaning your little dog will never outgrow her stroller.
For your convenience the top section of the stroller includes cupholders, an easily opened canopy, and a window. This will allow you to keep a better eye on your Chi, and, maybe even more importantly, allow your Chi to keep a better eye on you!
Folding up the stroller and taking it with you on the go is no problem, and the mesh windows around the exterior of the stroller allow your Chi to experience the great outdoors in style.
A four-wheel design has been used on this stroller, promising ease of use and stability. In addition, the back wheels lock, so stepping away from your Chi’s stroller for a moment when result in your Chi rolling away.
The item’s total weight is about 15lbs. You’ll have no problem traveling with this stroller when you’re on the go.
The biggest thing going against this stroller, is one that you’ll find in any stroller within this price range: the wheels are made of plastic. This will significantly decrease that “gliding” feeling that comes with strollers utilizing air-filled wheels.
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Related: Best Dog Bowls for Chihuahuas