Best puppy slings for dog walkers

Between puppy pop-ins for clients with a new addition to their family, and full blown adult 1 hour group walks, is that awkward stage where a puppy probably shouldn’t be doing a full hour of walking but still needs to get out and have more than a pop-in.

Solo walks are always an option but it’s often really difficult to squeeze them in at a time that the owner would prefer them, so taking them along on your group walk can sometimes be the only option.

So what are the options for group walking with a puppy?

In order to protect a puppies growing joints we need to adjust the following;

Shorter distance walks

Not time, but distance. So they can come out for an hour but they don’t walk for the full hour.

Now you could reduce the distance of the entire walk, and keep the adult dogs satisfied with extra ball throwing or games, but often it’s easier just to reduce the distance walked by the puppy.

A great way to reduce their walking distance is to carry them (if you’re able to and if they’re comfortable being carried.)

Softer surface walks

In order to reduce harsh impact walking we can make sure we stay off concrete and stick to forest trails or sandy beaches for walks, as well as lifting puppy into the vehicle and not allowing them to jump on and off things whilst out on the walk.

What’s the best way to carry a puppy on a walk?

Many professional dog walkers opt for a puppy sling over a stroller as they take up less space in the vehicle, you’ll be able to squeeze down paths much easier with a puppy in a carrier than you can pushing a stroller and they’re generally much cheaper too!

Different types of puppy carrier

Puppy Sling

Puppy slings can be used for dogs of all sizes and adjust pretty much automatically to the puppy’s size as they lay in the sling.

Most come with a built in clip to attach to the puppies harness just in case they wriggle a little too much but as they are held close to your body and under one arm, the chances of a puppy falling out is slim.

Slings are rarely out grown by puppies due to their nature. The folds of material get wider to accommodate a growing puppy and their only limit is usually how big a puppy you can carry!

Pros for the Human:

• Close Bond: Carrying the puppy in a sling allows for close physical contact, fostering a strong bond between the human and the puppy.
• Hands-Free: Your hands are free, which can be convenient for holding other leads, grabbing poop bags etc.
• Lightweight: Sling carriers are typically lightweight and easy to transport.

Cons for the Human:

• Uneven Weight Distribution: Carrying the puppy on one shoulder can lead to uneven weight distribution and potential discomfort or strain.
• Limited Weight Capacity: Sling carriers may not be suitable for larger or heavier puppies due to the stitching.

Pros for the Puppy:

• Close Comfort: Puppies often feel more secure the closer they are to you
• Warmth: They benefit from your body heat.

Cons for the Puppy:

• Limited Mobility: Puppies may have restricted movement in a sling, which could be uncomfortable for extended periods.
• Potential Overheating: If not well-ventilated, slings can get warm and cause overheating.

Dog Backpack

Puppy backpacks normally allow you to carry the puppy on the front of your body with the backpacks straps over your shoulder (so backwards to a normal rucksack).

Because these are constructed as a bag the size of puppy capable of being carried in these is limited and larger breeds may not be able to use them for long.

Puppies are carried in an upright position in these packs, as opposed to a lying position in the slings.

Pros for the Human:

• Even Weight Distribution: Wearing a chest backpack provides better weight distribution, reducing strain on the back and shoulders.
• Hands-Free: Your hands are free for other activities.
• Security: The puppy is securely strapped to your chest, making it less likely to escape.

Cons for the Human:

• Limited Visibility: You may have limited visibility of the puppy in a chest backpack.
• Potential for Discomfort: Some people may find chest backpacks less comfortable than other options.

Pros for the Puppy:

• Close Proximity: Puppies are close which can be comforting.
• Safety: They are securely fastened and less likely to fall.

Cons for the Puppy:

• Limited View: The puppy’s view of the surroundings may be restricted.
• Limited Mobility: Puppies may have limited space to move around.

Dog Shoulder Bag

The carriers designed to be worn like a shoulder bag look fairly similar to what you might recognise as a cat carrier.

These allow the puppy to see out, lie down and remain safe and secure completely enclosed in the carrier.

Pros for the Human:

• Stylish: Some puppy shoulder bags are fashionable and can be a stylish accessory.
• Hands-Free: You have both hands free for other tasks.
• Security: The puppy is enclosed and secure.

Cons for the Human:

• Uneven Weight Distribution: Similar to slings, shoulder bags can lead to uneven weight distribution and potential discomfort.
• Limited Space: There may be limited space for personal belongings.
• Potential for Overheating: Insufficient ventilation can cause the puppy to overheat.

Pros for the Puppy:

• Security: Puppies are enclosed and less likely to escape.

Cons for the Puppy:

• Limited Mobility: Puppies may have limited space to move and may get restless.
• Potentially Stressful: Some puppies may find being enclosed in a bag stressful.

Our choice

As a professional dog walker, choosing the right gear to transport and care for your canine clients is of utmost importance. While various options are available, a puppy sling stands out as my preferred choice for several compelling reasons.

First and foremost, a puppy sling enables the dog to be in close physical contact, reassuring them and providing a sense of security, especially if they’re anxious or unfamiliar with their surroundings.

A puppy sling also offers the practical advantage of hands-free convenience. Dog walkers often juggle leads, treats, and poop bags, making it crucial to have both hands readily available.

They are also typically lightweight and easy to transport.

For all of these reasons, I’d opt for a puppy sling every time.