Dogs are our best friends, and that’s why we do whatever we can to help them out when they’re not feeling their best. That’s why a rear support dog wheelchair is such a great invention – it gives your canine companion the independence and mobility they need to get around and continue living life as usual.
If your dog is suffering from health issues, has had an operation or needs permanent assistance, there’s a perfect wheelchair waiting for them.
So what is the best dog wheelchair for back legs available right now?
In this article, we’ll be reviewing:
- Best Friend Mobility Dog Wheelchair – (Best overall wheelchairs)
- Walkin’ Wheels Dog Wheelchair – (Top pick for wheelchairs for large dogs)
- HobeyHove Adjustable Dog Wheelchair – (Top extra small dog wheelchair)
- Walkin’ Wheels Dog Wheelchair – (Lightest wheelchair for dogs with leg injury)
- Walkin’ Wheels Dog Wheelchair – (Best for long-bodied dogs)
- ANMAS POWER Dog Wheelchair – (Our budget pick dog wheels for back legs)
- Anmas Sport Adjustable Dog Wheelchair for Small Dog – (Best to support hind legs for small dogs)
There are many reasons pet owners may need to invest in a dog wheelchair. If your dog is getting on in years and losing the mobility in their rear limbs after surgery or if they are suffering from health issues such as intervertebral disc disease or degenerative myelopathy.
But how do you choose the right dog wheelchair? Do you need one with full-body support or one that supports just the rear?
Keep reading to find out why your pooch may benefit from a dog wheelchair, what to look for in the best chairs and how to get your pup used to wearing one!
Our Best Dog Wheelchairs for Back Legs
Best Friend Mobility Dog Wheelchair
Introducing the Best Friend Dog Mobility Wheelchair, a lightweight and adjustable wheelchair perfect for dogs who need a little help getting around. This wheelchair is made of aluminium to prevent rusting, with stainless hardware that makes it easy to assemble and use.
The Deluxe neoprene front and rear harnesses ensure your pet’s comfort while in the wheelchair, and the easy clip-on front harness system makes it simple to get him in and out.
Plus, the cart allows your pet to use the bathroom while he’s in it, making life a little easier for both of you.
This wheelchair is perfect for use by dogs who are 27 to 45 kgs in weight, as it allows them to walk with assistance or use the cart for full rear leg support without any weight bearing on their rear legs.
This tough and rugged wheelchair features all-terrain pneumatic wheels and Swiss bearings, making it perfect for taking on any outdoor adventure.
Walkin’ Wheels Wheelchair – For Large Dogs
Is your big dog having trouble getting around? Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered with this fantastic dog wheelchair for large dogs. The Walkin Wheels dog wheelchair will get your best pal moving again in no time!
The lightweight adjustable aluminum frame supports their rear end and is easy to manoeuvre, while the dense foam wheels with rubber treads provide a stable ride.
The fully adjustable harness on this wheelchair ensures a perfect fit, the large size can accommodate dogs weighing up to 180lbs, and it folds flat for easy storage.
This veterinarian approved canine cart is perfect for disabled pets and those with hip and leg problems like degenerative myelopathy (DM), hip dysplasia, arthritis, slipped disc and more.
HobeyHove Adjustable Dog Wheelchair
Take your dog’s quality of life to new heights with the Hobeyhove Dog Wheelchair! This top-of-the-line wheelchair is made with an aviation aluminum frame for extreme durability and lightness and it’s easy to assemble with no specialist tools required.
The EVA cushioned foamed type tyres provide shock absorption and compression resistance for a more comfortable walk.
The thick foam leg covers also protect your dog from getting hurt, while the adjustable straps ensure a safe and comfortable fit.
These are perfect wheelchairs for small dogs; the smallest size is ideal for toy breeds weighing between 2-4 kg, such as Chihuahuas, Pomeranians and Yorkies
Walkin’ Wheels Lightweight Dog Wheelchair
Walkin’ Wheels Wheelchairs for Dogs are veterinarian approved and perfect for your family pet. These lightweight dog wheelchairs fit easily into your car when you travel or store conveniently when not in use.
The sturdy frame of this canine wheelchair can be adjusted in height, width and length, making it ideal for long term use for disabled dogs.
All of the dog wheelchairs parts are washable, including the foam/rubber wheels, making it easy to keep clean. Plus, our patented adjustable design ensures a perfect fit for your dog of any size!
Perfect for active dogs who want to get out and explore. With two front limbs on the ground and rear end in stirrups, your dogs will be able to walk and play like normal,
Walkin’ Wheels Dog Wheelchair
Looking for a wheelchair that will grow with your pet? Look no further than the Walkin Wheels dog wheelchair! This patented design is adjustable in height, length, and width, ensuring that your pet is both mobile and comfortable throughout their life stages.
Plus, the veterinarian approved design is easy to store, transport, and clean. And if you need even more support, a front-wheel attachment can be added to turn this rear adjustable dog wheelchair into a quad with front and rear support.
Each size has two leg lengths, making this option ideal for dogs with long bodies and shorter legs, such as Corgis or Dachshunds.
ANMAS POWER Dog Wheelchair
The Anmas power dog wheelchair is perfect for enhancing the quality of life for old dogs or those with disabilities. Its anti-friction back strap design ensures a comfortable fit, while the anti-rust aluminium alloy frame ensures durability.
It can be adjusted in height, length and width and the double bearing anti-abrasion wheels make it easy to move your pooch around whatever the terrain.
Pet wheelchairs can be expensive, so with its affordable price; this wheelchair is great value for temporary use to aid your dog’s mobility, although you will need to measure your pooch carefully
Anmas Sport Adjustable Dog Wheelchair For Small Dogs
if you are looking for a dog wheelchair to help your pup regain mobility and independence. This lightweight, adjustable wheelchair is made of rust-resistant alumni” um and “stainless steel, making it easy to assemble and durable enough to last.
The deluxe neoprene harness ensures your pet is comfortable while using the cart, and the easy-to-use design allows your pet to walk with assistance or rely on the carts rear harness for full rear leg support.
Owners will also be pleased to learn their pets can still go to the bathroom when using this wheelchair.
How Dog Wheelchairs Work And Why Should You Use Them?
Wheelchairs are the perfect way to keep your furry friend moving despite an injury. A wheelchair supports your dog from underneath, taking the weight off of their injured limb and helping them stay active and healthy.
With continued use, your dog on wheelchair support can keep their muscles from atrophying and prevent any unnecessary muscle loss.
After surgery, they are often recommended as part of a dog’s rehabilitation programme. However, if you only need a temporary solution, it may be better to look at hire options; there are even charities that donate mobility aids for disabled pets.
Wheelchair Types
Three types of wheelchairs can help them: rear limb wheelchair and mobility support, forelimb wheelchair and mobility support, full-body mobility support.
Let’s cover all three in more detail, so you know which one works for you
Rear Limb
These are the most common types of wheelchair which attach to your dog using a torso and/or chest harness. The support bar or “saddle” is placed under their tummy and either allows the rear limbs to touch the ground or, alternatively, they can be placed in stirrups.
Dogs with some mobility can benefit from having their feet touch the ground, especially during rehabilitation.
These types of chairs are suitable for dogs that have some strength in their front legs.
Fore Limb
These wheelchairs for dogs are less common as a dog with a front limb amputation can usually manage without a wheelchair.
However, if there is some weakness in the other front leg due to paralysis or arthritis, a wheelchair that offers support may be needed.
Full Body Support
If your dog is starting to experience weakness in its limbs, a quad wheelchair may be the perfect solution.
The full support wheelchair option is great for dogs with diseases like Degenerative Myelopathy, as it will provide them with extra support over time as the condition worsens.
When Should Wheelchairs For Dogs Be Considered?
Is your dog in pain? If you’ve noticed your pup’s behaviour changing, it may be time for a wheelchair. But how do you know when they need one?
There are so many factors to consider and every dog is different. With a better understanding of the symptoms of canine mobility issues, you will be better able to decide whether your dog is ready for a dog wheelchair.
If your dog is struggling to walk, it’s time to consider getting them a wheelchair. Many dogs in wheelchairs are indeed paralysed or have suffered a leg injury; however, that isn’t the case with every dog. Even dogs that can still walk on all four paws may benefit from extra support, especially as they get older.
You don’t need to feel guilty about putting your pup in a wheelchair. They will love their new wheels and they will be able to do more than ever before! Get ready for some fun adventures together because once your dog has wheels, it can go anywhere!
Causes Of Loss Of Mobility In Your Dog’s Rear Legs
Below are a few reasons pet owners may need dog wheelchairs
Weakness in your dog’s hind limbs – For dog owners, one of the most difficult things to watch is their dog become less active due to waekness in their back legs.
This can be especially difficult when your dog has been used to being very active their whole life. One solution is a dog wheelchair which can support the rear limbs and get your pup running around again
Spinal injuries – If your pup has sufferered a spinal injury, they could be paralised, in this situation a wheelchair is invaluable as it gives them back their independence enabling them to stand, walk and exercise.
Amputation – has your dog lost one of its hind legs? If so walking on three legs can take a bit of getting used to and may put excessive pressure on the other limbs.
A dog wheelchair can be used as they work toward strengthening their other limbs or as a permanent aid.
Arthritis – Arthritis is a disease of the joints which makes walking and running extremely painful. Your vet may prescribe painkillers, however movement increases the production of joint fluid which makes them less painful
A dog wheelchair gets your pet active again! which in turn strenghtens the joints and muscles and gives them a greater quality of life.
Hip dysplasia – Many dogs suffer from this condition, especially larger breeds and it can be very painful for heavy dogs.
Having a canine wheelchair takes pressure off the hip joints preventiing further damage and alleviates the pain associated with walking.
Intervertebral Disc Disease – This causes weakness in the hind legs and a wheelchair is often recommended in the early stages for rehabilitation
Later as the disease becomes more advanced a wheelchair may be needed for your dog to get around.
Ruptured or slipped disc – If your furry friend has a ruptured, slipped or herniated disc a dog wheelchair is an essential rehabilitation device.
It will relieve pressure on the spine simualtaneaously allowing Fido to go about his business
Degenerative myelopathy (DM) – A condotion where the brain and spine become disconnected. There’s no known cure for DM. so a dog wheelchair is often the preferred option for this condition. Dogs with DM don’t suffer physical pain and the best dog wheelchairs will definitely improve their general well being and mobility
Post-surgical support – Dogs often surprise us with their ability to get back to normal ater surgery but some tend to overdo things. A mobility cart or wheelchair lets them get back their independence, whilst preventing any setbacks.
Will All Dogs Benefit From A Wheelchair
Most dogs with mobility issues will benefit from dog wheelchairs; however, there are a few things to consider. Of course, your vet will be able to discuss this with you, depending on your dog’s diagnosis. They may even refer you to a mobility specialist who can provide veterinary advice.
Your pooch must have strength in their front legs; you can determine this using the towel test. Have your dog in a standing position, then support your dog with a towel under your dog’s hips, keeping their back level which mimics the support of dog wheelchairs.
If they walk normally on their front legs, then you’re good to go! If their front legs are not strong enough, you may need a full-body support option with a harness pad to support your dog’s belly.
This short video shows how to do the towel test.
Your dog also needs to be motivated to walk again; their attitude makes a significant contribution to whether or not the chair will be a success.
Another thing to consider is space whilst a wheelchair for a small dog won’t take up much room. Ones for dogs weighing over 100lbs are going to be pretty cumbersome and what if you have lots of stairs leading to your property?
What Makes A Good Dog Wheelchair?
The best dog wheelchair to keep your dog active should be sturdy, lightweight and comfortable for your dog to wear. You will need a fully adjustable wheelchair that can accommodate your dog’s height, length and width and support your dog where it matters.
Some companies like Walkin Wheels have veterinarian designed options for specific breeds such as Dachshunds or Basset Hounds. Some will even customise the product to precisely match your pup’s physical challenges.
Key Features to Consider
Size – There are adjustable wheelchairs to fit most sizes of dogs from under 5lbs to up to 180lbs
Weight – You want a lightweight frame, especially for a little dog; many wheelchair companies use an aircraft-grade aluminum frame as it offers both strength and durability whilst being light enough not to be a burden.
Wheels – The wheels on a wheelchair for small dogs and larger ones are also a big consideration. They must offer the right balance of traction, shock absorption and free-rolling, to guarantee safe and comfortable mobility.
- Foam wheels are the most popular type of wheel. They are made of a dense foam and are highly durable. These wheels will never go flat or get a puncture and are strong enough to take on any terrain.
- Air-filled tyres offer a more natural suspension and are great for young, active dogs that like to run and hike over more rugged ground.
Adjustability – Your dog’s wheelchair needs to fit perfectly; therefore, it should have an adjustable aluminum frame that will provide more versatility.
Adjustable options like the Best Friend dog mobility wheelchair can be a great solution for bringing back some independence for your dog. With the ability to adjust the height, length, and width, you can find the perfect size to fit your dog’s unique needs.
This can be a great money-saving option for dog owners who have multiple dogs with mobility issues, as you can use the same wheelchair for multiple pets.
Quality – We mentioned earlier that your dog’s wheelchair needs to be lightweight; however, this doesn’t mean flimsy; whilst this may not be as much of an issue for small dogs, for dogs weighing upwards of 50lbs, they need something extremely robust.
Is it vet-approved? – A dog owner will appreciate some sort of approval from a professional when choosing the best dog wheelchair, so ones like the Best Friend and Walkin Wheels chairs which vets recommend, are the best option
How To Help Your Dog Get Used Wearing This
First things first – assemble the wheelchair without putting your dog in it yet. You want them to investigate, sniff around and get used to its presence before you try anything else.
Then try putting the harness on by itself so that they can get accustomed to wearing it without the wheels. Make sure all straps fit snugly and allow them time to adjust before moving forward with this process.
Once you have everything appropriately adjusted, put your pup on the wheels while giving lots of praise and treats as distractions if necessary!
Take it slow, though; don’t rush through this process or push too hard too fast and stay calm throughout this entire experience! Your pooch will pick up on any anxious vibes coming from you; remember; patience is key!
Once your dog is used to the wheels, you can encourage them to move forward with some tasty treats and keep sessions short to start with between 5-10 minutes.
Use positive reinforcement
Dog owners should always make sure it’s a positive experience when using a rear support wheelchair; give your pup plenty of praise and perhaps some healthy treats and they will see the apparatus as a good thing.
Keep an eye on your dog.
Pay attention to your dog and watch for any signs they are uncomfortable, tired or stressed. Most chairs don’t allow your dog to lie down, so you will need to remove the device completely if they need to rest.
Best friend mobility has recently designed a wheelchair that does allow your dog to lie down called the SITGO, but it was out of stock at the time of writing, so it didn’t make our list.
The terrain
Although most dog wheelchairs can handle rugged terrain to a degree, watch out for uneven ground, steep inclines and places where the wheels may get stuck
Approach other dog owners with caution
Be wary when meeting other dogs, your pup may feel vulnerable in a support wheelchair and other dogs may react differently, too.
Limit your expectations
Even with a wheelchair, there will still be limitations to your dog’s mobility, especially if they are getting older or suffer from a chronic condition, so don’t expect them to be able to go on long hikes.
Remember your dog’s weight, although supported by the framework, will still put pressure on the front legs and this can be especially hard for large dogs.
FAQ’s
Do Vets Recommend Wheelchairs For Dogs?
it’s always a good idea to consult with your vet first before purchasing a wheelchair for your dog as they will be able to advise what type of wheelchair is needed, either a full support wheelchair or one for just the rear legs and recommend the best wheelchair suppliers
Can A Dog Pee And Poop In A Wheelchair?
Yes, your four-legged friend can go to the toilet in a good wheelchair; just be sure to lift your dog’s tail over the back bar so it doesn’t become soiled.
Can A Dog Lie Down In A Wheelchair?
Not usually, no, the wheelchair needs o to be taken off for them to rest. Best friend has designed a model called the SitGo, which allows your dog to lie down, but it is currently out of stock and isn’t cheap.
Is The Best Friend Mobility Dog Wheelchair The Best
They certainly top our list; the Walkin Wheels wheelchair isn’t far behind, although it’s a bit more expensive
Conclusion and Top Pick
Dogs with wheelchairs often have a new lease of life. The benefits of using these mobility aids include giving your dog more confidence, making them feel less vulnerable and allowing them to go places they haven’t been in years.
If you have an older or disabled pet that could benefit from some extra help around the house, this is worth considering as it can be very easy for dogs to get used to their new wheels if done correctly.
There are also different wheelchairs available depending on what kind of disability your dog has, which will make sure you find one that suits him best!
Top of our list of the best wheelchair for dogs is the Best Friend Mobility Dog Wheelchair. It’s a lightweight yet robust adjustable dog mobility aid for rear leg support. Ideal for older dogs recovering from surgery or having joint issues.
Have you tried any of these wheelchairs? Do you have your own recommendation? We’d love to hear from you, so why not reach out to our social media channels and join in the discussion?