Top 5 Dog Slings for Small Dogs: Buyer’s Guide

Ever watch your tiny pup tire out on a long walk, their little legs just not keeping up? It’s tough seeing them struggle, isn’t it? As small dog owners, we love adventures, but sometimes our furry friends need a little boost. That’s where a dog sling comes in handy, offering a cozy ride when their paws get weary.

But choosing the perfect sling can feel overwhelming. Do you need pockets? What about back support? You want something safe, comfortable for your dog, and easy for you to wear. Finding that sweet spot among all the styles and features can be a real puzzle.

Don’t worry! This guide is here to make things simple. We will break down what makes a great dog sling for small breeds. You’ll learn about different types, what to look for in materials, and how to ensure a snug, happy fit for your little companion. Get ready to discover the best way to keep your small dog close and comfortable on all your outings. Let’s dive into finding your perfect match!

Top Dog Sling For Small Dogs Recommendations

No. 1
Dog Carrier Sling - Reversible Puppy Carrier Purse with Storage Pocket, Hand-Free Dog Sling Carrier for Carry Small Dogs and Cats, Travel Safety Harness, Dog and Cat Harness(Black)
  • 【Quality material】:The dog harness is made of soft and breathable cotton material and soft and breathable fabric, which is skin-friendly and comfortable, making the beloved pet feel comfortable. This small pet purse features an advanced reversible design, and flipping it to the side can change the design pattern and keep our pets forever fresh.
  • 【Safety design】:The dog bag has a dual safety device, and the adjustable safety hook can be fixed on the dog's collar or harness to prevent the dog from accidentally falling off. The opening of the puppy sling holder has a safety buckle to prevent the puppy from jumping out mischievously.
  • 【Multi-purpose】:The dog sling has a large opening and can be easily put into the pet, which is very convenient for us to use. A dog sling can take your pet to the mall, the grocery store, the park, as well as daily walks, and it can provide a comfortable and skin-friendly place for your pet to stay happy together.
  • 【Portable pocket】:Puppies have a pocket on their shoulder strap to store essentials such as phones, keys, cards, and wallets. Our reliable transport vehicles are designed with your convenience in mind.
  • 【Product size】:Dog tote bag size :21 x 12 inches (L x W), shoulder strap length 15 inches. Suitable for small pets up to 12 pounds. For example: Bichon Poodle, Habanero, Chihuahua. The dog sling is machine washable, so you can easily clean it every time it gets dirty.
No. 2
Tomkas Small Dog Sling Carrier - Classic Pocket & Classic Strap - Wrap Carrier - for 3-10 lbs Pets(Black)
  • Premium Materials And Design: The TOMKAS puppy carrier is made from selected fabric. The fabric is thick enough to ensure softness and reassure furry children.Hardware and snaps are durable.TOMKAS dog carrier has a large opening that can easily put pets in it.You can move the safety belt to change the bag's capacity, and press on the snaps to help close the opening.The sutures are tough, well-made and not prone to cracking. TOMKAS dog bags are great chihuahua and Yorkshire accessories.
  • Sufficient Safety: pets can be easily put into TOMKAS small dog carrier sling after a brief acclimation. You just put your dog in it, attach the safety buckle to the leash buckle on the vest or harness. If your pet wants to jump out of the pouch, the safety belt will stop it from this dangerous behavior and keep your puppy safe. TOMKAS small dog sling is very reliable in terms of safety.Remember, never tie the safety buckle to the collar, it could hurt the dog's neck if it jumps out.
  • Large-capacity classic pockets to store things: TOMKAS has a big pocket WITHOUT zipper on the front that can help you store your keys, cards, poop bag, wallet, some treats and even a dog leash; other dog slings without zippered pockets, It is easy to cause items to fall out during use. Especially the mobile phone, once it falls out, it will waste a lot of money. It is important to buy a reliable TOMKAS small dog carrier with a zippered pocket.
  • Convenient Enough: TOMKAS dog purse is very comfy to carry your Chihuahua,Yorkie or any other small animal anywhere, anytime.Whether you are walking,outings,traveling, etc.,Some dogs are old,blind,injured or after surgery and they can't walk,you can put them in a TOMKAS puppy sling and take them to the vet or for a walk.Especially when fur kids are weak,TOMKAS puppy sling can help them get close to their owners.They most need the care of their owners to help them get through the difficulties.
  • Size: high capacity 10 lbs. TOMKAS dog carry bag is best for pet weight: 3-10 lbs.PLEASE NOTE:The shoulder strap is NOT adjustable. This is the entry level dog bag, winning at a good price, but the features are not as perfect as the adjustable style of TOMKAS.There is NO sturdy plastic buckle on the shoulder strap to adjust the length. If multiple family members need to use it, you'd better to buy an adjustable style from TOMKAS , which can be easily used by both adults and children.
No. 3
Tomkas Small Dog Sling Carrier - Classic Pocket & Classic Strap - for 3-10 lbs Pets(Grey)
  • Premium Materials And Design: The TOMKAS puppy carrier is made from selected fabric. The fabric is thick enough to ensure softness and reassure furry children.Hardware and snaps are durable.TOMKAS dog carrier has a large opening that can easily put pets in it.You can move the safety belt to change the bag's capacity, and press on the snaps to help close the opening.The sutures are tough, well-made and not prone to cracking. TOMKAS dog bags are great chihuahua and Yorkshire accessories.
  • Sufficient Safety: pets can be easily put into TOMKAS small dog carrier sling after a brief acclimation. You just put your dog in it, attach the safety buckle to the leash buckle on the vest or harness. If your pet wants to jump out of the pouch, the safety belt will stop it from this dangerous behavior and keep your puppy safe. TOMKAS small dog sling is very reliable in terms of safety.Remember, never tie the safety buckle to the collar, it could hurt the dog's neck if it jumps out.
  • Large-capacity classic pockets to store things: TOMKAS has a big pocket WITHOUT zipper on the front that can help you store your keys, cards, poop bag, wallet, some treats and even a dog leash; other dog slings without zippered pockets, It is easy to cause items to fall out during use. Especially the mobile phone, once it falls out, it will waste a lot of money. It is important to buy a reliable TOMKAS small dog carrier with a zippered pocket.
  • Convenient Enough: TOMKAS dog purse is very comfy to carry your Chihuahua,Yorkie or any other small animal anywhere, anytime.Whether you are walking,outings,traveling, etc.,Some dogs are old,blind,injured or after surgery and they can't walk,you can put them in a TOMKAS puppy sling and take them to the vet or for a walk.Especially when fur kids are weak,TOMKAS puppy sling can help them get close to their owners.They most need the care of their owners to help them get through the difficulties.
  • Size: high capacity 10 lbs. TOMKAS dog carry bag is best for pet weight: 3-10 lbs.PLEASE NOTE:The shoulder strap is NOT adjustable. This is the entry level dog bag, winning at a good price, but the features are not as perfect as the adjustable style of TOMKAS.There is NO sturdy plastic buckle on the shoulder strap to adjust the length. If multiple family members need to use it, you'd better to buy an adjustable style from TOMKAS , which can be easily used by both adults and children.
No. 4
Dog Carrier Sling - Reversible Puppy Carrier Purse with Storage Pocket, Hand-Free Dog Sling Carrier for Carry Small Dogs and Cats, Travel Safety Harness, Dog and Cat Harness (Gray)
  • 【Quality material】:The dog harness is made of soft and breathable cotton material and soft and breathable fabric, which is skin-friendly and comfortable, making the beloved pet feel comfortable. This small pet purse features an advanced reversible design, and flipping it to the side can change the design pattern and keep our pets forever fresh.
  • 【Safety design】:The dog bag has a dual safety device, and the adjustable safety hook can be fixed on the dog's collar or harness to prevent the dog from accidentally falling off. The opening of the puppy sling holder has a safety buckle to prevent the puppy from jumping out mischievously.
  • 【Multi-purpose】:The dog sling has a large opening and can be easily put into the pet, which is very convenient for us to use. A dog sling can take your pet to the mall, the grocery store, the park, as well as daily walks, and it can provide a comfortable and skin-friendly place for your pet to stay happy together.
  • 【Portable pocket】:Puppies have a pocket on their shoulder strap to store essentials such as phones, keys, cards, and wallets. Our reliable transport vehicles are designed with your convenience in mind.
  • 【Product size】:Dog tote bag size :21 x 12 inches (L x W), shoulder strap length 15 inches. Suitable for small pets up to 12 pounds. For example: Bichon Poodle, Habanero, Chihuahua. The dog sling is machine washable, so you can easily clean it every time it gets dirty.
No. 5
Adjustable Dog Carrier Sling - Hand-Free Dog Carriers for Small Dogs and Cats, Puppy Sling Carrier with Zipper Purse Pocket, Travel Safety Harness, Puppy Essentials (Gray)
  • 【Premium Materials And Design】:The dog harness is made of soft and breathable cotton material and soft and breathable fabric, which is skin-friendly and comfortable, making the beloved pet feel comfortable, and the dog carrier sling is machine washable for easy cleaning.
  • 【Adjustable Shoulder Strap】:The shoulders of this dog carrying sling have buckles, the length can be easily adjusted according to your height, and it can effectively relieve sore shoulders. There is a mobile phone pocket on the shoulder strap of the small dog sling, which is convenient for us to put mobile phones or snacks.
  • 【Safety Design】:The dog bag is designed with an adjustable safety hook which links to your pet's collar, to prevent the dog from accidentally falling off. The opening of the puppy sling holder has a safety buckle to prevent the puppy from jumping out mischievously.
  • 【Multi-Purpose】:The large opening of our dog sling carrier for small dogs allows easy pet access, lets your pet enjoy the view with more breathable space. The pet dog sling carrier helps you take your pet into malls, grocery stores, parks, and on daily walks, it can provide a comfortable and skin-friendly place for your pet to stay together happily.
  • 【Product Size】:Dog tote bag size :21 x 12 inches (L x W), adjustable shoulder strap, the straps can be adjusted to 10-27 inches. Auitable for small pets up to 12 pounds. For example: bichon poodle, habanero, chihuahua.
No. 6
Tomkas Small Dog Sling Carrier - Adjustable Strap & Zip Pocket - Suitable for Puppies (Black)
  • Premium Materials And Design: Experience ultimate comfort and durability with the TOMKAS puppy carrier. Our high-quality selected fabric is thick, soft, and ensures safety for your furry friend. The bag's large opening and adjustable safety belt makes it easy to use, and tough sutures prevent cracks. It's perfect for chihuahua and Yorkshire accessories.
  • Sufficient Safety: Your pet's safety is our top priority. The TOMKAS small dog carrier sling has a secure safety buckle that keeps your dog safe and in place. Our carrier provides reliable safety and comfort that you and your pet will love. Remember to never tie the safety buckle to the collar, as it could hurt your dog's neck if it attempts to jump out.
  • Large-Capacity Zippered Pockets: Stay organized with TOMKAS's front zippered pocket that can store all of your essentials, such as your phone, keys, cards, wallet, and dog leash. Our reliable carrier is designed with your convenience in mind. Unlike other dog slings without zippered pockets, our pocket keeps your belongings secure throughout use.
  • Convenient Enough: Take your furry friend anywhere you go with the TOMKAS dog purse carrier. It's comfortable and convenient for walking, outings, and traveling. Our carrier is especially useful for dogs that are old, blind, injured, or have undergone surgery. You can keep them close and comfortable in our carrier, providing the care they need to get through any difficulty.
  • Size: The TOMKAS dog carry bag is best suited for pets weighing between 3-10 lbs, with a high capacity of 10 lbs. Our adjustable shoulder strap includes a sturdy plastic buckle for easy length adjustments. The TOMKAS dog sling's shoulder strap adjustment buckle is larger and stronger than other similar products, making it easy to use for both adults and children.
No. 7
YUDODO Pet Sling Carrier for Small Dogs & Cats – Hands-Free Puppy Carrier with Safety Hook, Large Zipper Pocket, Soft Breathable Mesh, Adjustable Strap & Reflective Strip (Black 1.0 S)
  • How to Choose the Size: Please consult our size chart to find the right fit for your pet. If your pet's weight falls on the borderline of sizes, please choose the larger size.
  • Adjustable Shoulder Straps: The YUDODO dog carrier accommodates individuals of different heights with its anti-slip buckle design, ensuring stability.
  • Comfortable and Breathable Material: Crafted from high-quality breathable materials, the YUDODO dog carrier keeps your pet cozy in all seasons, offering warmth in winter and coolness in summer. It's versatile for trips to the supermarket, park outings, gatherings, hiking, and keeping your furry companion by your side.
  • Safety Comes First: 1. A safety buckle design secures your pet's collar to prevent escapes. 2. Anti-slip zipper design adds security. 3. Reflective stripes enhance visibility and safety during nighttime walks.
  • Various Style Options: We offer a range of colors and sizes to suit your needs. With the YUDODO Dog Carrier, you'll stay fashionable while your pet stays close.
No. 8
CUBY Dog and Cat Sling Carrier - Hands Free Reversible Pet Papoose Bag - Soft Pouch and Tote Design - Suitable for Puppy, Small Dogs Cats Outdoor (Classic Grey)
  • SUITABLE FOR: Perfect for daily walk and weekend adventure, it will be a great choose for your young puppies or small dogs who like or need to be carried
  • HIGH QUALITY: Made of soft breathable cotton, no toxic, skin-friendly and comfortable for beloved pets; No color fading and keep fresh all the time
  • FIXED STRAP: Find a comfortable position for walking; wide and thick strap spreads the weight over your shoulder and back, minimize the pain to carry pets
  • SAFETY FIRST: Lovely Reversible Pet Sling Carrier; Hands-free sling-style carrier loops over shoulder while the pet rests in the pouch on the opposite hip to keep pet secure and comfortable

The Ultimate Buying Guide for Dog Slings for Small Dogs

A dog sling is a fantastic way to keep your small furry friend close. It lets you carry your pup hands-free. This guide will help you pick the best sling for you and your dog.

Key Features to Look For

When shopping for a dog sling, some features truly matter for safety and comfort.

Safety First
  • Secure Closure: Look for strong zippers or buckles. These stop your dog from jumping out accidentally.
  • Sturdy Ring or Leash Clip: Many slings have a clip inside. Attach your dog’s harness to this clip. This adds an extra layer of security.
  • Weight Limit: Check the sling’s maximum weight capacity. Always buy a sling that can easily hold your dog, with a little extra room.
Comfort for You and Your Pet
  • Adjustable Straps: Good slings have wide, padded straps. These spread the weight evenly across your shoulder. This stops the strap from digging in.
  • Breathable Fabric: Choose materials that let air flow through. This keeps both you and your dog cool, especially on warm days.
  • Pocket Space: A small pocket is useful. You can keep treats, poop bags, or your phone there.

Important Materials Matter

The material of the sling affects how long it lasts and how comfortable it feels.

Durable Fabrics
  • Canvas or Heavy Cotton: These materials are strong. They hold up well to daily use and are easy to wash.
  • Mesh Panels: Mesh is key for ventilation. It ensures your dog gets enough fresh air inside the sling.
  • Soft Lining: The inside part that touches your dog should be soft. Fleece or smooth microfiber prevents chafing.

Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality

Not all slings are made the same. A few details separate a great sling from a poor one.

Quality Boosters
  • Double Stitching: Strong seams mean the sling will not rip under pressure. Check the areas where the strap connects to the bag.
  • Washability: Dogs can be messy! A sling that is machine washable is a huge plus.
  • Padded Bottom: A firm, padded base gives your dog a stable place to sit or lie down.
Quality Reducers (Watch Outs)
  • Thin, Slippery Straps: These slide off your shoulder easily. They also cause discomfort quickly.
  • Flimsy Zippers: Cheap zippers often break or snag fur.
  • Non-Breathable Plastic: If the sling is made of thick plastic or vinyl, it traps heat. This can make your dog overheat fast.

User Experience and Use Cases

Think about where and how you plan to use the sling. This helps you choose the right style.

When to Use a Sling
  • Short Trips and Errands: Slings are perfect for quick walks to the store or coffee shop.
  • Crowded Areas: When you need your hands free but want your dog safe from stepping feet, a sling works well.
  • Dogs Recovering from Injury: If your dog cannot walk far, a sling lets them still join you outside.

User experience is often about ease of use. Can you put the sling on quickly? Does it feel balanced when your dog is inside? Test how easy it is to get your dog in and out. A good sling feels secure but lets your dog look around easily.


10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Dog Slings

Q: What is the main benefit of using a dog sling?

A: The main benefit is hands-free carrying. This keeps your small dog safe and close to you everywhere you go.

Q: Are dog slings safe for all small dogs?

A: Slings are generally safe for healthy small dogs that fit the weight limit. Always check with your vet if your dog has breathing issues or is very elderly.

Q: How do I choose the right size sling?

A: Check the manufacturer’s weight recommendation. Also, make sure the sling is deep enough so your dog cannot easily fall out when you bend over.

Q: Can I use a sling if my dog is not fully potty trained?

A: Yes, but you need a sling with a waterproof or removable liner. Accidents happen, so choose one that cleans easily.

Q: What is the difference between a sling and a carrier?

A: A sling usually rests diagonally across your body. A carrier is often a structured bag with a top opening.

Q: Should my dog wear a harness or collar in the sling?

A: Always use a harness, not just a collar. Attach the harness leash to the internal safety clip inside the sling for maximum safety.

Q: Are slings good for long hikes?

A: Slings are better for shorter outings. For long hikes, a backpack-style carrier often distributes weight better for your back.

Q: How should I introduce my dog to the sling?

A: Start slow. Let your dog sniff the sling first. Put treats inside. Then, wear the empty sling for a few minutes before placing the dog inside.

Q: What fabric is best for hot weather?

A: Look for slings with lots of mesh panels. These let heat escape and allow for better airflow for your pet.

Q: How often should I wash my dog sling?

A: Wash the sling after every few uses, or immediately if your dog has an accident. Check the care tag first.