Your Complete Dog Carrier Guide
Our dog carriers, dog bags, dog sling carriers, and small pet carriers aren’t just transport tools — they’re emotional safety zones.
Many dogs feel overwhelmed in busy places, so the soft snuggle of a dog carry bag or puppy carrier sling provides calm, security and closeness.
Your pup feels sheltered, supported and stylish — and you get the freedom to enjoy cafés, markets, airports and everyday errands with ease.
If you’re planning airport trips or airline travel, choose a pet carrier bag that’s compact, breathable and sturdy.
Pupular Carrier Styles
"So cute, roomy, soft to touch fabrics, lovely soft shade of pink, great quality. My mini dachshund is very comfortable in this tote. Love the chic style."
Darren P {Elle Tote Dog Carrier}
Soft padded interiors
Breathable mesh panels
Adjustable shoulder straps
Built-in safety tether
Side pockets for treats, phone & poop bags
Lightweight & foldable
Emotional comfort: Your dog feels secure and close to you.
Fashionable appeal: A dog carrier bag that matches your style.
Travel-friendly: Perfect for airports, road trips and public transport.
Versatile: Great for markets, vet visits, school drop-offs and weekend adventures.
Weigh your dog (stay under the carrier’s max weight).
Measure length (neck to tail base).
Measure height (floor to shoulders).
Ensure they can sit up, curl up and turn comfortably.
If between sizes — size up for comfort.
For puppies: choose a puppy bag or puppy carry sling with room to grow.
For brachycephalic breeds: prioritise extra airflow and generous space.
Chihuahuas, Pomeranians, Maltese, Yorkies, Cavoodles
→ Best with lightweight dog bags, small dog carriers, and dog handbag style totes.
French Bulldogs, Pugs, Boston Terriers
→ Choose wide, open designs with strong ventilation and extra internal space.
→ Structured soft carriers with padded bases reduce strain and allow smoother outings when travelling.
→ A soft puppy bag or puppy carrier sling helps with early socialisation and controlled exposure.
Travel & Airline Requirements Australia
Pets fly in IATA-approved hard crates as freight.
Crates must allow dogs to stand and turn around.
Use your dog carrier bag for terminal transit, comfort, and arrival/departure logistics.
Pets + carrier must weigh under approx 8kg total.
Must use a soft, leak-proof, under-seat pet carrier bag.
Perfect use-case for compact, breathable dog travel bags.
Limited pet bookings per flight.
Service dogs only in-cabin.
Other pets travel via freight/internal arrangements.
Bring your regular pet carry bag for airport movement, check-ins, cafés and comfort — then use the required crate for the actual flight (if the airline mandates it).
This is a guide only and subject to change by each respective carrier. Check carrier's details for t&c's regarding travelling with pets.
Breathable dog sling carriers keep paws cool and safe from hot pavements.
Snuggly, padded dog bag carriers add warmth for chilly café mornings.
Dog travel bags make road trips and airport days stress-free.
Perfect for festivals, markets, school pickups and busy city days.
To get the right fit, measure your dog’s length (neck to tail base), height (floor to shoulders), and match their weight to the carrier’s recommended limit or below. Your dog should be able to sit, curl up and turn around comfortably, especially if those are their preferred resting positions.
Choose a dog sling if your pup loves being close, snuggled and supported—great for anxious dogs and puppies. Choose a dog bag carrier or dog carrier bag if you prefer more structure, storage pockets, and a more handbag-style feel for daily outings.
Yes—when used correctly. Pick a small dog carrier or dog sling carrier with a built-in safety tether, proper ventilation, and enough space for your dog’s natural movement. Always attach the tether to a harness, not a collar, for safety.
Our soft dog travel bags and pet carrier bags are ideal for airport use and some in-cabin airline allowances. However, each airline has different regulations, including size, construction and weight requirements. Virgin Australia allows soft under-seat carriers on selected routes, while Qantas and Jetstar typically require IATA-approved hard crates for the actual flight. Always check your airline’s current policy.
Each dog bag, dog sling, or small pet carrier has a clearly listed maximum weight limit. Always keep your dog at or under this recommendation so the bag remains supportive, safe and comfortable for both of you.
Many dogs love it—especially anxious pups, small breeds and puppies. The soft interior of a puppy bag, dog sling carrier or pet carry bag often becomes an emotional comfort zone. We recommend introducing the carrier slowly at home and pairing it with treats so it feels safe and positive.
Absolutely. A puppy carry bag or puppy carrier sling is perfect for early socialisation, vet visits and controlled public exposure before they’re fully vaccinated. Choose one with good support, soft padding, and space for growth.
For short outings, 20–40 minutes is typical. For longer travel days, take regular breaks to let your pup stretch and move around. Even the comfiest dog sling or dog carrier sling shouldn’t replace natural movement for extended periods.
Yes. A soft dog sling, dog handbag, or dog carrier bag can act as a calming “safe zone” for anxious dogs. Being held close reduces stimulation and helps them feel secure at markets, airports, busy streets, or social events.
Dog Harnesses (pair with safety tether)
Portable Water Bottles (perfect for travel bags)
Designer Dog Toys (keep pups calm while carried)
Car Restraints (for safe transport on arrival)
Not sure which dog carrier, dog bag carrier, or dog sling carrier suits your pup?
Our team at DoggyTopia is here to help with sizing, styles, and travel guidance.
Reach out anytime and we’ll get your fur-kid fitted perfectly.
sales@doggytopia.com.au
or via phone: 1800 102 844
A dog carrier is an essential travel solution for dog parents who want to keep their pup safe, calm, and close while on the move. This collection is designed for small dogs, puppies, and dogs who need extra support during outings, travel, or recovery periods. Whether you’re navigating busy streets, hopping on public transport, or heading out for a day trip, a well-designed dog carrier offers comfort and peace of mind for both you and your dog.
Dog parents choose dog carrier bags for many reasons — convenience, safety, and reduced stress being the biggest. A small dog carrier or dog sling carrier is perfect for puppies, senior dogs, or dogs who tire easily. Soft dog carriers and travel friendly dog bags help keep anxious dogs calm in crowded spaces, while airline approved dog carriers make travel simpler and more organised. Many customers also use pet carriers for dogs during vet visits, post-surgery recovery, or when protecting paws from hot pavements and long walks.
Complete your dog’s travel setup by pairing your dog carrier with practical travel accessories designed to make every outing smoother and more comfortable. From dog car seat attachments and travel dog bowls to dog harnesses, leads, and collars, these essentials help keep your pup secure, hydrated, and stress-free on the go. Many dog parents also add dog blankets, portable water bottles, and dog seat belt restraints to create a cosy, safe space inside carriers and during car or plane travel. Explore our Dog Travel Accessories, Dog Car Safety, and Dog Walk Wear collections to build a complete travel kit that’s ready for everyday adventures or longer journeys.
Not sure where to start? Our guide on Carriers, Dog Bags & Sling Carriers — Ultimate Buying Guide for Pet Pawrents helps you find the best option for your dog and travel plans.
At DoggyTopia, we’re proudly Aussie-owned and based in Queensland, curating dog carriers designed for Australian lifestyles. We focus on quality materials, thoughtful designs, and comfort-first construction — carriers we’d confidently use with our own dogs. With fast Australian shipping, friendly local support, and styles chosen specifically for Australian dog parents, you can shop knowing you’re getting practical, well-made solutions that fit real life.
Most dog carriers are designed for small dogs and puppies. Always check weight limits and internal measurements for the best fit.
Some styles are suitable for airline travel. We recommend checking individual product details and airline requirements before flying. A list of styles can be found here.
Yes. Puppy carrier bags are a great option for young dogs who aren’t fully vaccinated or get tired easily.
When properly fitted and used as directed, dog sling carriers provide secure, hands-free support for small dogs.
Yes. Being close to their owner often helps dogs feel calmer in busy or unfamiliar environments.
We prioritise breathable materials and practical designs suited to Australian conditions.
Many customers use soft dog carriers during recovery, but always follow your vet’s advice.
Yes. We ship dog carriers Australia-wide with fast dispatch from our Australian base.