Transporting a dog safely by bicycle
- Bicycle basket: suitable for small dogs up to approx. 15 kg, depending on whether it is mounted on the handlebar or the luggage rack.
- Bicycle leash: for enduring, well-trained dogs that can run alongside the bike.
- Bicycle trailer: the most comfortable and safest solution for small to large dogs, with suspension and weather protection.
- Cargo bike: a comfortable alternative for several animals or combined with carrying children, but with a high purchase price.
What are the options for transporting a dog by bicycle?
Essentially you have four options: basket, leash or sidecar, trailer and cargo bike. Each option has its own advantages and disadvantages in terms of safety, comfort and price. The following overview helps you get a first idea.
| Option | Suitable for | Price range | Particularity |
| Bicycle basket | small dogs from approx. 8 to 15 kg |
approx. €20–50 |
light, but little freedom of movement |
| Bicycle leash | trained, enduring dogs |
approx. €10–60 |
physical effort for the dog |
| Bicycle trailer | small to large dogs |
approx. €100–1,000 |
the most protection and comfort |
| Cargo bike | several animals, combined with a child |
from approx. €500–2,500 |
highest purchase cost |
Which dogs is a bicycle basket suitable for?
A bicycle basket works best with small, light dogs. Mounted on the handlebar it is suitable, according to specialist dealers, for dogs up to about eight kilograms; on the luggage rack it is up to 15 kilograms depending on the model. What always matters is that the basket is designed specifically for carrying dogs and is not just an ordinary shopping basket.
One drawback: A basket on the handlebar noticeably changes the handling, especially when your dog moves around in it. On the luggage rack, by contrast, you no longer have direct eye contact with your animal. For anxious or restless dogs an enclosed trailer is therefore usually the more relaxed solution.
How does a bicycle leash for dogs work – and what does the law require?
A dedicated bicycle leash is usually elastic and fitted with a damping system that absorbs sudden movements. This prevents an abrupt change of direction by your dog from throwing you off balance. Sufficient length also matters so that your dog does not run too close to the rear wheel.
Legally, leading a dog from a bicycle is clearly regulated in Germany. Under § 28 (1) StVO only dogs may be led from bicycles; other animals are not permitted (1). In addition, as the owner you must be able to influence your dog sufficiently at all times so that it does not endanger traffic.
Dog trailers for bicycles: what matters?
Compared with all other solutions, a bicycle trailer offers the most protection from wind, rain, insects and road dust. At the same time your dog has enough room to lie down or sit. That is exactly what the Qeridoo Nacho dog trailer is designed for: suspended, weather-protected and with two entrances and exits.
When choosing the size, it is best to go by your fully grown dog. The ADAC recommends an interior length equal to the dog's standing length plus half its foreleg length, and a width of at least twice its chest width. The height should be at least the size of your dog from paw to ear tip (2).
Last updated: September 2, 2026
The Qeridoo Nacho models compared
With the Nacho, Qeridoo has developed a solution specifically for dog owners who like to take their dogs along on outings by bike. Both trailer sizes come with suspension as standard, so the suspension adapts automatically to your dog's weight.
| Feature | Nacho M | Nacho L |
| Suitable for | small to medium-sized dogs up to 25 kg |
medium-sized to large dogs up to 35 kg |
| Maximum payload | 27 kg (dog + luggage) |
37 kg (dog + luggage) |
| Price | €550.00 | €600.00 |
| Coupler | becco coupler system | becco coupler system |
| Use without a bike | as a buggy/walker | as a buggy/walker |
The trailers can also be combined with e-bikes: thanks to the becco coupler system the trailer can be attached quickly, so you can easily cover longer distances with a pedelec.
With special axle types, check compatibility in advance. Our Axle-Finder quickly shows you which coupler accessory fits your bicycle.
Sources
- Straßenverkehrs-Ordnung (StVO) § 28 Tiere, of 6 March 2013 (BGBl. I p. 367), last amended by Art. 4 of the regulation of 30 January 2026 (BGBl. 2026 I No. 32). https://www.gesetze-im-internet.de/stvo_2013/__28.html
- Piechotta, A. (2025, 7 August). Fahrradanhänger für Hunde: Das ist wichtig. ADAC. https://www.adac.de/rund-ums-fahrzeug/zweirad/fahrrad-ebike-pedelec/kauf-ausruestung/fahrradanhaenger-fuer-hunde/
How do I get my dog used to travelling in the trailer?
First give your dog time to sniff the stationary trailer at its own pace. Reward it as soon as it climbs in by itself, and let it stay there relaxed for a few minutes without setting off straight away. Only once it feels comfortable do short practice rounds in familiar surroundings follow.
Then increase the distance step by step. Most dogs get used to the sensation of riding within a few outings, especially when the trailer has good suspension. If your dog shows fear or strong stress, stop the training and try again later in smaller steps.
A cargo bike instead of a trailer: when is it worth it?
A cargo bike is worth considering above all if you already carry a child and want to bring your dog along too, or if you have several animals. You usually pay considerably more for it: entry-level models start at around 500 euros, and many cargo bikes with an electric drive cost between 1,000 and 2,500 euros.
By comparison, a bicycle trailer is usually the more flexible and more affordable solution, especially if you already own a suitable bicycle. It can be uncoupled, folded up compactly and even used as a buggy when needed. Shopping can be carried in the dog trailer as well, which saves you a cargo trailer.
FAQ – The most frequently asked questions about transporting a dog by bicycle
Yes, thanks to the air-filled, 360° rotating buggy wheel the Nacho can easily be used as a buggy for walks. That way you switch flexibly between bike and walker mode.
Yes, a trailer is a good way for dogs that can no longer run alongside the bike to take part in outings all the same. If there are health restrictions, it is best to discuss with your vet beforehand what level of activity is still all right for your dog.
Yes, thanks to the 360° rotating, air-tired buggy wheel the Nacho can simply be pushed as a dog buggy in Buggy Mode. Practical when you are out on foot in between: the height-adjustable push handle and the foot parking brake allow you safe and comfortable outings on foot.
The Nacho offers storage space via a detachable side pocket as well as a loop strap for attaching further accessories. Please note that any luggage carried must be deducted from the permitted load.
Yes, under the StVZO a permissible total weight of no more than 40 kilograms applies to unbraked trailers. That includes the trailer, dog, luggage and fitted accessories together and applies regardless of the particular model.
Watch out for signs such as heavy panting, whining, restless moving back and forth or attempts to climb out of the trailer. In that case it is worth interrupting the ride and starting the familiarization again in smaller steps.
There is no legal minimum age; what matters is your dog's physical maturity. With young dogs it is best to discuss the appropriate limits with your vet beforehand.
On longer tours, plan regular breaks in which your dog can drink, move around briefly and relieve itself. That is particularly important on warm days, so that it stays relaxed.