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Okay, we’ll admit it. At first glance dog prams can look like a crazy idea. After all, it seems that 40% of Australians may not walk their dogs enough to begin with. So, why the heck would someone put their dog into a stroller?
🐾 Why Would You Put a Dog in a Pram?
Anxious or Overwhelmed Dogs
Some dogs get easily overstimulated in busy places. A pram gives them a familiar, sheltered space — useful for vet trips, markets, or anywhere that would otherwise be stressful.
Older or Injured Dogs
A dog that can’t manage long walks on their own four feet can still get a change of scenery — and a good sniff of the outside world. Prams make that possible without putting strain on their body.
Young Puppies
Puppies shouldn’t walk long distances while their joints are still developing, and many aren’t fully vaccinated yet. A pram lets them experience the world safely before they’re ready to walk it.
Dog Pram Picks for Australia
Most dog prams available in Australia come through Amazon — there aren’t many dedicated pet stroller retailers locally. Here are two worth considering, plus a tip on finding second-hand ones.
🏆 Best Reviewed
4-Wheel Foldable Dog Stroller
A 3-in-1 design that works as a stroller, carrier, or car seat. The liner is removable and washable — useful when your dog is going through a muddy phase. Decent storage basket underneath for walks that require snacks and supplies.
Dimensions: Carrier 55 × 38 × 60 cm | Stroller 77 × 51 × 102 cm
MOST STYLISH
Ibiyaya Retro Luxe Pet Wagon
A sleek, well-built pram that looks good and pushes smoothly. Worth knowing: despite being marketed for dogs up to 25 kg, the cabin is quite compact — smaller than a PP20 travel crate. Realistically suited to dogs under 7 kg who can sit up comfortably, not larger breeds expecting to stretch out.
💡 Don’t Forget Second-Hand
Facebook Marketplace and Gumtree regularly have second-hand dog prams listed locally. Because prams often get used for a short season (puppyhood, post-surgery recovery), many are in good condition and sold for a fraction of the original price.
Prams for Large Dogs
Finding a pram that genuinely fits a large dog is harder than it should be — most advertised weight limits don’t account for cabin size, and a dog that technically “fits” by weight may not have room to lie down comfortably.
Before buying anything, measure your dog lying down (length and width) and compare directly against the interior dimensions of the pram, not just the weight limit. If you’re struggling to find something suitable, bike trailers are worth considering — they tend to have much larger interiors than dog-specific prams.
BEST FOR LARGER DOGS
FITTOO Dog Bike Trailer
One of the more spacious options for medium to large dogs. Interior dimensions are 72 cm L × 58 cm W × 55 cm H — considerably larger than most dog prams. Doubles as a bike trailer and a stroller.
Are Dogs in Prams Allowed in Shops?
It depends on the shop — always ask before assuming. Food venues must comply with the Australian Food Safety Standards, which may prohibit animals in areas where food is prepared or handled — even in a pram. Non-food retail is generally more flexible, but still worth checking ahead.
How to Introduce Your Dog to a Pram
Some dogs take to a pram immediately. Others need time. Either way, the approach is the same — don’t rush it.
🐕 Introducing Your Dog to a Pram
Step 1: Let Them Sniff It Out
Leave the pram in your living space for a day or two without doing anything with it. Let your dog investigate at their own pace and get comfortable with it as an object — before it becomes a thing that moves with them inside it.
Step 2: Treats and Positive Association
Toss treats near and eventually inside the pram. If your dog is small enough to step in themselves, encourage that. If you need to lift them in, do it gently and pair it with a treat and plenty of praise.
Step 3: Short Trips First
Start with a short walk around the house or backyard before heading out into the world. Build up gradually — there’s no need for a big outing the first time.
Step 4: Build From There
Most dogs come to enjoy their pram because it means they’re heading somewhere with you. Keep outings positive and don’t push beyond what your dog is comfortable with.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Dog Pram FAQ
Do dogs like being in a stroller?
It depends on the dog. Some take to it immediately, others never fully settle. A gradual introduction with treats and short trips makes a big difference — forcing them in from the start usually doesn’t end well.
What’s the best pram for an old dog?
If you can lift your dog, most well-sized prams will work. If your dog can’t easily be lifted, look for a pram with a low entry point so they can step in themselves. Either way, make sure the interior is large enough for your dog to lie down and shift position comfortably.
What’s the best pram for a large dog?
Measure your dog lying down first, then compare against interior dimensions — not weight limits. The FITTOO bike trailer is one of the more spacious options available. Bike trailers in general tend to have larger interiors than purpose-built dog prams.
Are dogs in prams allowed in shops?
Always check first. Food venues may not be able to allow animals under Australian Food Safety Standards, even in a pram. Non-food retail is generally more flexible — but it’s the shop owner’s call.
Where can I find a second-hand dog pram in Australia?
Facebook Marketplace and Gumtree are the best places to look. Prams often get used for a short period — puppy months, post-surgery recovery — so second-hand options in good condition come up regularly.
