Glow Worm Electric Bikes

July 2023

Dogs on bikes: How to carry your dog on your electric bike

Tricks and tips for getting around on your ebike with your dog

If you've ever wondered if you can carry your dog on your electric bike, the answer is yes, you can! Whether they're up front with the wind in their fur, or safe and secure on the back of the bike, with the right accessories dogs of all sizes can experience the enjoyment of riding on an electric bike. The best solution for you and your furry friend will depend on a few factors: the type of bike, the size of the dog and where you want to ride. In this guide, we'll outline some of the best ways to carry your dog on your bike, and detail some of the pros and cons to help you choose the best option, as well as some handy tips for making your doggo as safe and comfortable as possible.

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Why should I take my dog on my bike?
• Top 5 ways to carry a dog on your bike
• How do I decide? Tips from the pros

Why should I take my dog on my bike?

It's fun, it's practical, it's environmentally friendly - why not!  NSW regulations state that your dog must be seated or housed in an appropriate carrier while riding, so running alongside tethered to a leash is a no go. But that doesn't mean your dog needs to stay home. Equipping your ebike to carry your dog can be transformative: whether it's a leisurely ride through the park, taking your dog to work, or a trip to the vet, setting yourself up with just a few accessories can dramatically reduce the need to reach for the car keys, and this is good for the planet, good for your pup, good for everyone.

Top 5 ways to carry a dog on your bike

Basket

One of the simplest ways to carry your dog on your bike is in a basket or crate. Baskets and crates can be mounted on the front or rear of your bike, and are an inexpensive and multi-purpose option for carrying dogs. They can be mounted with a quick release system like MIK or simply zip-tied to your rack. With endless sizes and styles available, you're sure to find one to suit your dog. This option is best for small to medium sized dogs, and some DIY padding and tethering will be required. Be sure to comply with all specified weight limits. If you need to carry cargo as well, check out the MIK Double Decker Adapter to mount panniers under your basket.

Pet carrier

Specialty pet carriers like the Basil Buddy are a no-fuss, ready-to-roll option for small-to-mid-sized dogs. Made of durable, easy to clean plastic and with an ergonomic carry handle, the Basil Buddy comes with all the creature comforts: padded cushion insert, safety belt, MIK adapters for mounting, and reflective detailing for visibility. As an optional extra why not add on the Spaceframe to create a fully enclosed safe space for a happy ride. The Basil Buddy comes in Biscotti or Faded Denim, and is available in front or rear mount models.

Trailer

With plenty of space and a high weight limit, trailers are an excellent option for larger dogs. A trailer is also fully enclosed and weather-proof, so would be perfect for wriggly pups and wet-weather rides. Trailers mount quickly and easily on the rear axle of most ebikes, and can be transformed into a jogger or stroller by attaching rear wheels and a push handle. Be sure to consider your route, as a trailer may not be suitable for navigating obstacles or heavy traffic. 

Longtail Cargo Bike

With 100kg carrying capacity and a powerful mid-drive motor, a longtail electric cargo bike makes carrying any dogs of any breed a breeze.  The true all-purpose wagon, longtail cargo bikes are specifically engineered to carry heavy loads. They can carry children, dogs and groceries simultaneously with ease, so are perfect for people with varied cargo needs. A low centre of gravity combined with a centre mount kickstand means rock-solid stability when loading up, easy access when hopping on and off, and a well-balanced load when riding. Most electric cargo bike brands will have their own range of compatible accessories, and will accept universal mount accessories too. You can't go past the Tern Doghouse Mini for a dog-specific soft crate with optional roof. True doggy luxury.   

Front Loader Cargo Bike

Jump in and away you go: a front loader is a ready-made dog-mobile, no extra accessories needed. If you have a big dog, or multiple dogs, the heavy duty box of an electric front loader cargo bike will have more than enough space (usually equipped for 2-4 children) and carrying capacity (up to 125kg!) for even the largest of canines. Front loaders can be two-wheeled, like the Urban Arrow, or three-wheeled, like the Tribe Original Electric Plus cargo trike. In fact, the Tribe cargo trike is so perfect for dogs that it offers an optional Front Door for easy access.  If you think a front loader might be for you, get in touch with our Showroom to arrange a test ride. This type of ebike can take some getting used to, and it's also important to consider whether you have adequate space for parking/storage. Glow Worm offers 48hr take-home test rides for cargo bikes, to enable to you to trial in your home setting: your regular route, your home, your family, and of course your dogs. Give us a call for more info!

How do I decide?

Every dog is different!

Consider your dog - how big are they? How heavy are they? This will be the key deciding factor. Not all carrying options will be suitable for all breeds. Pay close attention to specified weight limits, and for safety reasons do not exceed these limits. If using a combination of products, always go by the lowest weight limit. For example, a carrier rated to 13kg cannot take an 18kg dog, even if your rear rack has a 25kg limit. If you have a big dog, consider a trailer or cargo bike. If you have an excitable dog, consider an enclosed carrier. If you're budget conscious, a multi-purpose crate or basket that can be used for luggage or groceries when not occupied by your dog may be the way to go. 

Getting comfortable

Just as with any new experience, your dog may need time and training to get comfortable with the carrier. Start with shorter rides, or let them relax in the carrier when it's off the bike. If your pup is uncertain, coax them in with their favourite treat. Always make sure they're comfortable and safely restrained when in the carrier. This may require some DIY padding or tethering. Ensure any cracks or gaps where claws or paws might get stuck are covered, and that a tether is long enough for them to sit or lie comfortable, but not so long that they are able to leap out.  Training your dog to be still while riding will allow you as the rider to maintain balance and control at all times.

Test ride!

Here at Glow Worm we're a big believer in test rides, and this is no different for dogs! A test ride will not only help determine what your dog is comfortable with, it can also allow you to get a feel for riding with a four-legged passenger. Balancing the weight of live cargo can take some getting used to, particularly if you have a wriggly pup! Get in touch with our Showroom to see what options are available to try.

Talk to an expert 

In the bike world, one-size-fits-all does not exist. We're here to provide you with our expertise on all the quirks and complexities of fitting accessories to your bike. We can check the specifications needed and will be able to tell you which options are suitable, and if any adjustments or extra components are needed. Our workshop is available Monday to Friday to fit any accessories purchased from us for no extra fee. Feel free to drop in or give us a call.