The Scoop on Canine Carts: When Are Wheels Right for My Dog?

Mobility devices can help keep a dog going in more ways than one. photo: Dr. Jenny Moe

Dogs today are living longer and fuller lives than ever before. But with longer lifespans may come additional challenges of impaired strength, mobility, and comfort due to conditions such as osteoarthritis, intervertebral disc disease, hip and elbow dysplasia, cancer, and generalized weakness due to aging.

We all want our pups to thrive into their golden years and to be able to do the things they love, including going on walks and adventures with us. One item that may improve mobility and comfort is a cart, also known as a dog wheelchair. 

Carts are an example of an assistive device, which is any device that helps improve an animal to independently perform activities of daily living. For dogs, this is primarily mobility. A cart may serve the same purpose as a cane or walker that a person might use if they need some help but can walk. For dogs with greater mobility challenges, the cart may function more as a wheelchair would for a human. 

When most people think of a canine using a cart, the image of a dog with rear limb paralysis usually comes to mind - perhaps a Dachshund or French Bulldog trundling happily down the sidewalk with their butt wheeling along behind. But even in the veterinary community, it’s a common misconception that wheels are a last resort for dogs. 

Think of a person who has had an orthopedic surgery, or any major surgery, for that matter. Do we ask them to struggle to walk and do the best they can without any help at all? Usually not. Physical therapy is generally prescribed, and the individual is taught to use an assistive device as they work their way back to full independence. If full independence is not the end goal, they are supported with the devices they need to maximize functional mobility and achieve modified independence.

Now think of a dog who needs support to walk, for whatever reason. This could be an older dog who is slowing down and having a harder time going for their daily outings or a younger dog who is recovering from an injury or surgery. When fitted and used properly, wheels may be just the ticket to build strength during their recovery or to improve mobility even if a full recovery is not in the cards. Wheels may also help your own health as a caregiver, saving your body from awkward lifting and ensuring that you still get your own daily walks with your best pal. 

Keeping them moving can extend their life and their outlook. photo: Dr. Jenny Moe

Aside from the obvious cases where a pet is dealing with paralysis, let’s take a look at some other situations in which wheels might be helpful for a dog. 

• Oreo was a 13-year-old Hound mix who was slowing down and not going as far on his usual walks. He’d had some past physical challenges that required surgery and rehabilitation, but overall he was pretty healthy. He had been going to physical rehabilitation weekly to stay in shape and a rear wheel cart was introduced just for longer walks initially. With the cart, Oreo was able to return to his normal, longer walks and did not seem as tired or stiff afterwards. As he grew older, he eventually used the cart for all walks, including ones on the beach, but he was still able to walk independently around the house without the wheels. 

• Tikka was a senior Chihuahua with a history of medial patellar luxation and cruciate tears in both knee joints. She was having a harder time walking on her own and wasn’t able to go much further than walking around the house. Sometimes her legs gave out completely. A rear wheel cart was recommended by her physical rehab therapist, enabling Tikka to walk with a taller posture and go further on short walks, helping her build strength in addition to her regular rehab sessions. 

There are a number of companies that make carts or dog wheelchairs, but before you buy, be sure to consult your veterinarian or a certified physical rehab therapist first. These professionals can help you determine whether wheels may help improve your pet’s mobility and quality of life. They can also help you choose what type of cart might be best for your pup and you.

The right set of wheels may help your dog keep doing the activities they love, and they may be useful earlier than you think. Here’s to happy ramblings for you and your pup - no matter how many paws are on the pavement!