Did you know that human-canine interactions can increase both species’ oxytocin and dopamine levels? This means that the more you hang out with your dog, the happier you both will be.
One great way to get physically and emotionally closer to your dog is by using a dog sling. These handy portable carriers allow you to keep your small breed dog at your side (literally) wherever you go. If you’re searching for ways to connect more deeply with your pooch, this could be a great place to start.
Not all slings are created equal, and there are some duds on the market. We have gone ahead and researched all the best options out there today to bring you the following reviews. Keep reading to learn about the best dog slings and all you need to know before investing in one.
A Quick Comparison of Our Favorites of 2023
Image Product Details
Best Overall
FurryFido
Comfortable for your dog
Light and breathable material
Provides additional warmth during cold walks or hikes
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Best Value
Cozy Courier
Easy to put on
Easy to get your dog in
Adds a sense of security
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Premium Choice
Pet Gear R & R
Aesthetic design
Adjustable carrying strap
Plenty of pockets for storage
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Best for Puppies
Katziela
Snug neck design
Padded shoulder straps
Secure design keeps pets comfortable and safe
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Alfie Pet Chico Reversible
Soft material
Spacious carrier
Adjustable strap
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The 10 Best Dog Slings
1. FurryFido Reversible Pet Carrier Sling – Best Overall
The FurryFido Classic Reversible Dog & Cat Carrier Sling takes the overall best dog sling spot on our list for many reasons. The sling is made with high-quality cotton that’s durable enough to hold pups up to 13 pounds. The material is soft to ensure comfort for both you and your pet.
Dimensions: 21 x 4.5 x 6.5 inches
Material: Polyester
Recommended pet weight: Up to 13 pounds
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The hands-free design of this sling will hold your dog comfortably at your side. Its over-the-shoulder strap is wide to ensure even weight distribution, so it won’t dig into your shoulders or hurt your back.
It comes with a safety hook to attach to your pup’s collar. This additional safety measure ensures your dog won’t run away if he happens to finagle his way out of the sling.
Pros
Machine washable
Comfortable for your dog
Provides additional warmth during cold walks or hikes
Light and breathable material
Cons
Shoulder strap is not adjustable
Sling may be too shallow for some breeds
2. Cozy Courier Pet Products Pet Carrier Sling – Best Value
If you’re looking to stretch your dollar, the Cozy Courier Pet Products Dog & Cat Carrier Sling is the best dog sling for the money. It’s made with a durable and breathable oxford cloth material. This material choice makes the sling simple to clean by tossing it in the washing machine. The carrier is padded very well and even has additional cushioning in the shoulder strap to keep you pain-free.
Machine washable
Comfortable for your dog
Provides additional warmth during cold walks or hikes
Light and breathable material
- Machine washable
- Comfortable for your dog
- Provides additional warmth during cold walks or hikes
- Light and breathable material
Shoulder strap is not adjustable
Sling may be too shallow for some breeds
- Shoulder strap is not adjustable
- Sling may be too shallow for some breeds
Dimensions: 12 x 10 x 1.5 inches
Material: Oxford cloth, polyester
Recommended pet weight: Up to 14 pounds
The shoulder strap is adjustable to find the exact fit you need to be comfortable. If going hands-free during your adventures with your dog is important to you, you’ll love the large pocket on the strap that can hold your personal effects. The manufacturer has also outfitted the sling with a collar clip to ensure your pet won’t run away if he gets out of the carrier.
Pros
Adds a sense of security
Comfortable to wear
Easy to put on
Easy to get your dog in
Cons
Zipper closure can catch fur
May not be enough head clearance for some dogs
The Pet Gear R & R Dog & Cat Carrier Sling provides a beautiful dog sling that is a step above the others in terms of quality and style. This fashion-forward bag is not only nice to look at but very functional, too. The exterior of the bag has leatherette detailing, which contrasts nicely with the color of the sling. You can choose between five different color and design options, from classic black to mulberry and even jaguar print.
Adds a sense of security
Comfortable to wear
Easy to put on
Easy to get your dog in
- Adds a sense of security
- Comfortable to wear
- Easy to put on
- Easy to get your dog in
Zipper closure can catch fur
May not be enough head clearance for some dogs
- Zipper closure can catch fur
- May not be enough head clearance for some dogs
Dimensions: 17 x 10 x 7 inches
Material: Nylon, polyurethane mesh
Recommended pet weight: Under 10 pounds
There are four different pockets on the sling where you can store your items as well as goodies for your dog. The quilted liner provides comfort and is also removable for simple cleaning. We love that the manufacturer provides a pad to put into the bottom of this sling, too. This pad adds extra support for your dog so he can feel secure in your bag.
The manufacturers used measurement guidelines from most commercial airlines to bring you a bag that’s cabin-friendly. No more storing your pet in the underbelly of the plane!
Pros
Nice colors to choose from
Aesthetic design
Plenty of pockets for storage
Adjustable carrying strap
Cons
No leash clip
Full sling is not machine washable
Puppies may be too small to fit comfortably in all dog slings. The Katziela Expandable Sling Dog & Cat Carrier is perfect in this case as it works for your pup’s first few months and can then expand to fit him as he grows.
Nice colors to choose from
Aesthetic design
Plenty of pockets for storage
Adjustable carrying strap
- Nice colors to choose from
- Aesthetic design
- Plenty of pockets for storage
- Adjustable carrying strap
No leash clip
Full sling is not machine washable
- No leash clip
- Full sling is not machine washable
Dimensions: 17 x 10 x 7 inches
Material: Mesh, polyester
Recommended pet weight: Up to 10 pounds
This sling is much less bulky than others on the market, making it a clear pick for people who like to pack light or those who take their dogs on a lot of adventures. Its sturdy polyester construction ensures your pup will feel secure and safe when he’s in it.
The sling closes via a drawstring for a close but comfortable fit around your dog’s neck and has an attached collar clip for safety. The hands-free mesh pocket on the shoulder strap sits in a perfect position to store small personal effects like credit cards or your smartphone.
Pros
Five color options
Padded shoulder straps
Secure design keeps pets comfortable and safe
Snug neck design
Cons
Meant to be used on the left shoulder only
May not be as comfortable on people with larger frames
5. Alfie Pet Chico Reversible Pet Carrier Sling
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Dimensions: 21 x 9 inches
Material: Cotton
Recommended pet weight: Up to 12 pounds
The Alfie Pet Chico Reversible Pet Carrier Sling is a stylish and functional option that is soft and comfortable for your pet. It is made from cotton, so it stays lightweight and comfortable for you, too. The shoulder strap can adjust anywhere between 14 and 35 inches, ensuring you find a way to wear the sling so it doesn’t hurt your back. You can choose to wear your dog on the front of your body or behind you, whatever is most convenient for you.
Five color options
Padded shoulder straps
Secure design keeps pets comfortable and safe
Snug neck design
- Five color options
- Padded shoulder straps
- Secure design keeps pets comfortable and safe
- Snug neck design
Meant to be used on the left shoulder only
May not be as comfortable on people with larger frames
- Meant to be used on the left shoulder only
- May not be as comfortable on people with larger frames
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Dimensions: 21 x 9 inches
Material: Cotton
Recommended pet weight: Up to 12 pounds
This carrier has a safety collar hook to keep your pup within arm’s reach at all times, even if they escape from the sling. The Chico sling is simple to clean as it is machine washable.
Pros
Different color and style options
Soft material
Adjustable strap
Spacious carrier
Cons
Stretchy fabric can sag
Not much support for anxious dogs
6. SlowTon Hands-Free Pet Carrier Sling
Different color and style options
Soft material
Adjustable strap
Spacious carrier
- Different color and style options
- Soft material
- Adjustable strap
- Spacious carrier
Stretchy fabric can sag
Not much support for anxious dogs
- Stretchy fabric can sag
- Not much support for anxious dogs
If you’ve tried slings in the past but couldn’t get past how much they hurt your shoulders or back, the SlowTon Hands-Free Pet Carrier Sling could help. This carrier features an adjustable shoulder strap that allows you to choose the length you need the sling to feel comfortable. It also has thick spongy padding, so there won’t be any painful digging into your shoulders.
Dimensions: 9 x 6.3 x 3.5 inches
Material: Cotton
Recommended pet weight: Up to 13 pounds
The breathable and soft cotton material provides a comfortable spot for your pet to hang out. There’s an adjustable safety hook to link with your dog’s collar to prevent any escapes, too. The sling has an easy-to-access front pocket to keep treats for your pup or your personal effects.
Pros
Four color options
Machine washable
Roomy to help your pet find a comfortable position
Padded shoulder strap
Cons
May not feel secure enough for some dogs
Strap may feel too bulky
The Jespet GooPaws Comfy Dog & Cat Sling is lightweight and super soft that’s cozy and comfortable for both you and your pup. The inner lining features a soft fleece material to keep your dog cozy and relaxed, while the exterior of the sling is made of an attractive knit material to keep you looking fashionable. This item is best used during the fall and winter months as it provides the warmth your pup needs to stay comfortable during cooler weather.
Four color options
Machine washable
Roomy to help your pet find a comfortable position
Padded shoulder strap
- Four color options
- Machine washable
- Roomy to help your pet find a comfortable position
- Padded shoulder strap
May not feel secure enough for some dogs
Strap may feel too bulky
- May not feel secure enough for some dogs
- Strap may feel too bulky
Dimensions: 8.1 x 3.6 x 9.5 inches
Material: Fleece
Recommended pet weight: Up to 12 pounds
There is a large pocket that hangs at the bottom of the strap where you can store toys, treats, or your cell phone. The pocket closes with a secure zipper so your items will stay safe and secure.
Pros
Plenty of storage
Feels safe and secure
Comfortable to wear
Soft and comfy for your pet
Cons
Strap is not adjustable
Can be too warm to use during hot weather
- YUDODO Pet Carrier Mesh Travel Safe Sling Bag
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Dimensions: 12 x 8 x 4 inches
Material: Mesh
Recommended pet weight: Up to 6 pounds
This breathable and comfortable YUDODO Pet Carrier Breathable Mesh Travel Safe Sling Bag is a must-have for your warmer weather adventures. It is made with a mesh material to keep your dog cool in the heat and allow them to stay much more comfortable by your side.
Plenty of storage
Feels safe and secure
Comfortable to wear
Soft and comfy for your pet
- Plenty of storage
- Feels safe and secure
- Comfortable to wear
- Soft and comfy for your pet
Strap is not adjustable
Can be too warm to use during hot weather
- Strap is not adjustable
- Can be too warm to use during hot weather
Dimensions: 12 x 8 x 4 inches
Material: Mesh
Recommended pet weight: Up to 6 pounds
The strap features an easy-to-access phone pocket and is extra wide and padded in design to reduce shoulder pressure. The phone pocket is open and does not zip or close shut. There is a drawstring closure on the bag that you can tighten as necessary to keep your dog feeling secure and safe. They also outfitted the sling with an adjustable safety hook to attach to their collar for further security.
Pros
Available in different sizes
Plenty of colors to choose from
Reflective strip so you can be seen in the dark
Reinforced buckle for durability
Cons
No zippered compartments
Dogs fur can get caught in the zipper as it lays lows on the bag
9. Cuby Dog and Cat Sling Carrier
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Dimensions: 18.5 x 9.05 x 7.87 inches
Material: Cotton, polyester
Recommended pet weight: Up to 10 pounds
The Cuby Dog and Cat Sling Carrier is made with high-quality cotton and polyester materials. These materials together provide a sturdy and comfortable place for your dog to hang out while you’re doing errands or hiking together. The materials are nice and thick, so your pup won’t have a hard time staying warm on cooler days.
Available in different sizes
Plenty of colors to choose from
Reflective strip so you can be seen in the dark
Reinforced buckle for durability
- Available in different sizes
- Plenty of colors to choose from
- Reflective strip so you can be seen in the dark
- Reinforced buckle for durability
No zippered compartments
Dogs fur can get caught in the zipper as it lays lows on the bag
- No zippered compartments
- Dogs fur can get caught in the zipper as it lays lows on the bag
Dimensions: 18.5 x 9.05 x 7.87 inches
Material: Cotton, polyester
Recommended pet weight: Up to 10 pounds
The sling has a buckle that allows you to adjust it to where you need it to be most comfortable. It also has an open-style pocket to store personal effects.
One of the best things about this bag is that it’s reversible. While it’s not a must-have feature, it’s nice to have the choice of which fabric you’d like to have facing out. One side has a soft and cozy material, and the other is a slippery polyester fabric. It’s important to note that the pocket is not reversible.
Pros
Soft material
Not too deep
Easy to care for and wash
Comfortable to wear
Cons
Can be difficult to get dog into
Pocket is small and not able to be zipped
Not breathable for warmer days
- Jekeno Small Dog Sling Cat Carrier & Adjustable Strap
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Dimensions: 7. 09 x 3.1 x 4.96 inches
Material: Cotton, chiffon
Recommended pet weight: Up to 13 pounds
The Jekeno Small Dog Sling Cat Carrier With Adjustable Strap features a cotton and chiffon construction that provides a breathable and lightweight option for toting your pup around.
Soft material
Not too deep
Easy to care for and wash
Comfortable to wear
- Soft material
- Not too deep
- Easy to care for and wash
- Comfortable to wear
Can be difficult to get dog into
Pocket is small and not able to be zipped
Not breathable for warmer days
- Can be difficult to get dog into
- Pocket is small and not able to be zipped
- Not breathable for warmer days
Dimensions: 7. 09 x 3.1 x 4.96 inches
Material: Cotton, chiffon
Recommended pet weight: Up to 13 pounds
The sling connects with a strong and durable POM buckle for peace of mind. Your pup will always feel secure, and you won’t need to worry about the bag’s length loosening over time or with too much movement. The buckle also allows you to adjust the length of the strap to 36-inches. There is a convenient storage pocket on the strap for storing your smartphone.
Pros
Reversible design
Machine washable
Different color options
Lightweight to carry
Cons
Thin fabric
Might not be as comfortable to wear for short people
One reversible side is slick feeling and not very comfortable
Reversible design
Machine washable
Different color options
Lightweight to carry
- Reversible design
- Machine washable
- Different color options
- Lightweight to carry
Thin fabric
Might not be as comfortable to wear for short people
One reversible side is slick feeling and not very comfortable
- Thin fabric
- Might not be as comfortable to wear for short people
- One reversible side is slick feeling and not very comfortable
Buyer’s Guide: Important Factors to Consider When Finding the Best Dog Slings
Buying the perfect dog sling isn’t as simple as picking one you like the look of and buying it. The best carrier will be functional first and attractive in design second. If this is your first time buying a dog sling, you might not know what factors you should consider before making your buy. Keep reading to learn the ins and outs of functional dog slings so you can make an informed buying decision.
Material
The material the sling is made of is the most important factor to consider before buying. You want your dog to feel comfortable in the sling; otherwise, they’ll never want to get into it. More than that, you want the sling to feel comfortable to wear, or else you’ll hurt yourself or find wearing the sling unbearable.
Cotton is one of the most common materials for dog slings because it’s both cozy and breathable. Cotton is also very lightweight, so it’ll be easier for you to wear longer distances. The downfall of cotton is that it tends to absorb moisture instead of wicking it away, which can be bothersome during hot summer days.
Polyester is another material you’ll see. It’s not as comfortable as cotton and can hold onto scents and be a little slippery, though, so proceed with caution. If you know your dog will get anxious in a sling that’s slippery on the interior, you may want to choose one made of cotton instead.
Some manufacturers use fleece on the interior of their slings. Fleece is great because it’s very soft and comfortable for your dog, but it does have some drawbacks. The biggest is that fleece can get very hot. If you plan on using your sling during the warmer months of the year, a fleece interior can cause your dog to overheat. If you’ll be using your carrier during autumn or winter, fleece should be a big selling point.
Comfort
The perfect sling will be comfortable for both your pet and you.
Your sling needs to provide support. Some manufacturers provide thick cushioning or padding in the bottom of the inside of the sling. This will give your dog the support they need to feel safe and cozy.
For your dog to be comfortable in the bag, they need enough space but not too much. The key to finding the perfect size for your pooch is to take the necessary measurements. We didn’t include the sling dimensions in each review just for fun; they’re an essential component to choosing the perfectly sized bag. Pay attention to the weight restrictions, too. A dog that’s 13 pounds isn’t likely to find a sling with a 10-pound limit very comfortable.
You should find a sling with wide straps that have extra padding. Too-narrow straps can dig into your shoulders and cause a lot of pain. Wider straps ensure even weight distribution across your shoulder. Padding will provide the extra support you need to comfortably carry your pup long distances.
Safety
The most important safety feature of dog slings is a collar attachment. Wriggly or anxious dogs might try to escape from your sling until they get used to it. If you’re not attaching their collar to the sling, you run the risk of your dog running away.
You might also consider slings that have zippers or drawstrings you can tighten around your dog’s head. You don’t want to tighten these too much as you run the risk of hurting your dog, but when tightened just right, it will provide another barrier to escape.
Adjustability
Adjustable straps are almost always a must-have for pet carriers. No two people are sized the same, so having the opportunity to adjust the length of the straps will provide you with a more customized fitting sling. You must remember that you’ll be carrying up to an extra 13 pounds of animal in an unnatural place on your body. Studies suggest that shoulder bags can cause postural deviations across all the planes of your body which can lead to strain on your spinal structures. The bottom line is if you’re not wearing the carrier in just the right spot, you could be setting yourself up for injury.
If you fall in the average weight and height category, you can probably get away with a sling that isn’t adjustable, though.
Why Use a Dog Sling Over a Harness and Leash?
A harness and leash are not great options for all dogs. If your dog is sick, unpredictable, not yet vaccinated, or aging, leash walks could be dangerous and painful.
A sling allows you to always have your pet within reach. Sometimes the physical closeness that a sling provides is all an anxious dog needs to feel safe and comfortable as you two explore the great outdoors.
What Safety Precaution Should I Follow When Using the Dog Sling?
You must get your dog accustomed to the sling before you think about stepping outside with them in it. If your dog becomes uncomfortable or have a scary experience in the sling, they might be hesitant to ever get into it again. Practice putting them in the sling and walking around at home before embarking on your first outdoor adventure.
The first thing you should do before using the sling is attach his harness or collar to the safety clip in the sling. We recommend using a harness as they tend to be safer and won’t hurt your dog’s neck if they do manage to jump out of the sling. The safety clip will ensure your dog stays close by even if he does jump out of the sling.
As with any pet-centric item, you should check it regularly for signs of wear and tear. Inspect the exterior stitches and seams to make sure they’re holding strong. Look in the interior to ensure there are no loose threads that can wrap around your pups’ toenails or feet.
Be sure to check in with your pet regularly when he’s in the sling. Feel his body. Is he warm? Cold? If so, you may need to adjust to ensure he’s not going to overheat or freeze.
- See Also: Dog Safety Tips: How to Keep Your Pup Safe!
Conclusion
We found that the FurryFido sling is the overall best as it’s comfortable, lightweight, and durable. Coming in a close second is the very affordable sling from Cozy Courier. Its extra padding is a godsend for both you and your pup. Thanks to its classy design and the cozy quilted liner, Pet Gear R & R took the third-place position.
We hope you have learned a little about what makes dog slings so great and that our buying guide has helped provide the insight you need to make an informed buying decision.
Featured Image Credit: Susan Schmitz, Shutterstock
