Dog transport boxes & dog cages at the Maxi Zoo online shop
Dog boxes for safe transport
If you travel a lot with your dog by car, you should make sure that your four-legged friend, just like yourself, is well secured. This is where dog boxes come in. But these are by no means just good for the car: on longer bike tours or in an aircraft, it can also make sense or even be mandatory to place your four-legged friend safely in a transport box. Some dog owners also use the box at home or when travelling as a dog sleeping area. If the box is equipped with a dog blanket, your four-legged friend can make itself comfortable at any time and is completely protected. Are you still unsure which transport box is right for your dog? Let us give you an overview of the different types and advice on which model is suitable for whom and when.
Why is a dog transport box in a car useful?
When driving your car, you put on your seat belt so that you are kept secure in the event of an accident. You should also secure your dog, because he can also be catapulted if an accident occurs, or if the driver performs an emergency braking manoeuvre. This is not only dangerous for your dog, but also for you and other occupants. Your dog will be protected in a dog box.
How big should the dog transport box be?
In order for the transport box to protect your four-legged friend well in the event of an accident, it should not be too large or too small. It is important that the dog can comfortably stand and lie in the dog box for the car. It is best to measure your dog before buying the box. Measure the height from paw to head and length from nose to tip of tail. Then add about 15 centimetres in both dimensions to ensure that your dog still has some room in the box.
If you want to buy a dog box for a puppy, you should of course choose a box that suits its grown size. When transporting in the car, you may be able to temporarily partition the box so that a small dog does not feel lost and does not get thrown around when the brakes are applied firmly of the car.
What types of boxes are there?
If you want to buy a dog box, there are various models to choose from. Different transport boxes are suitable depending on whether you are looking for a box for a small or large dog, a robust box to secure permanently inside the car or a lightweight model for flexible use.
Nylon and polyester – these are dog transport boxes made of nylon or polyester that are reminiscent of a travel bag with mesh inserts. These are usually softly upholstered and can also be used as a dog bed. Many models can be folded together to save space. They are not quite as robust as other models, but are sufficient for short car journeys. They are also easy to move around and carry because they are light.
However, in the case of close-meshed inserts, especially in summer, always ensure that the transport box is well ventilated so that it does not heat up too much.
Hard plastic: plastic dog boxes are also lightweight and are very easy to clean. You can simply wipe them or completely rinse them out. This material is practical, especially for trips to the vet with animals who are afraid, for puppies, or simply for unexpected mishaps. Plastic dog boxes can also be used as transport boxes for visits to the vet.
Aluminium: aluminium boxes are considered the most stable. They are particularly suitable for the luggage compartment and can be anchored there firmly with special locking systems. This type of box is especially suitable for larger breeds of dog that, because of their weight, can turn into projectiles in a road traffic accident, therefore this option is considered more safe. Due to the large distances between the cage bars, the dog box in the car is always well ventilated. Some models of box have a chamfered edge down one side, a perfect design for storage in the luggage compartment of a car.
Cage: dog transport cages, which consist of metal rods all around, can be secured to the rear seat with straps or can also be secured in the boot. They can usually be folded and can be stored in a space-saving manner when not in use. A large cage on the rear seat generally gets sufficient support from the backrest. You can also secure the transport box for your dog with a special holding system for rear seat boxes. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when attaching the dog cage in the car. Your dog remains in good contact with its surroundings in a dog cage. If this proves to be too stimulating, you can cover the box with a blanket whenever necessary. Most dogs are then able to relax better.
Are there alternatives to dog transport boxes for the car?
Dog boxes are the most comfortable and safest option for longer car journeys. The dog is secured and cannot disturb the driver. If the dog has a ‘mishap’ on the journey, the box is easy to clean. With a familiar dog blanket or a favourite toy, you can create an environment where your pet feels comfortable. You can get your dog used to the box, for example by placing the box in the apartment as a place of retreat.
For smaller dogs, there are special dog seats and dog belts as an alternative, which are worn like a harness and which hold the animal in the seat in the event of a collision or strong braking. You can use these on the passenger seat and the back seat.
For large dogs, there is the option of mounting a dog grille between the rear seat and the luggage compartment in addition to the transport box. If you don’t have your dog with you, it can instead serve to secure luggage. The grille takes up less space than a box, but is not quite as safe. The dog can slip around in the luggage compartment while driving and is not protected against luggage. In contrast, boxes provide protection even in the event of a rear-end collision.
What do you need to bear in mind when purchasing a dog transport box?
A dog box is designed to reliably secure your four-legged friend even in the event of an accident or emergency braking. Therefore, the material must be able to withstand the weight of the dog. The stability of the box plays an important role, especially with large, heavy breeds of dogs. A dog cage made of aluminium is certainly more appropriate than a box made of plastic or nylon. In our online shop you will find a wide range of dog transport boxes in different sizes and different materials. Whether for the car, the bicycle trailer or for carrying by hand, you will be able to find the right model for every dog and every owner.