Dog Slings for Small Dogs: Who They're For and How to Use One
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A dog sling lets you carry a small dog close to your body, hands-free, the way you'd carry a baby in a wrap. Here's who they suit, how to use one comfortably, and what to look for.
Who Is a Dog Sling For?
Our slings are designed for dogs under 10kg (under 7kg for our Petite size). Owners use them for all sorts of reasons:
- Puppies who can't walk far yet but still need to get out and see the world.
- Older dogs whose legs tire before the walk is over - they can walk part of the way and ride the rest.
- Small breeds with short legs, like dachshunds, chihuahuas and toy poodles, on longer walks or rough ground.
- Nervous dogs who feel calmer held close in busy places such as town centres, stations or events.
- Dogs recovering from an operation or injury, when your vet has advised limited walking but they still enjoy getting out.
- Days out - cafes, shops, public transport and crowds, where a small dog is safer off the ground.
How to Carry Your Dog Comfortably
- Put the sling on first. Wear it across your body like a cross-body bag, with the pouch at your front, on the opposite side to the strap.
- Lower your dog in bottom first. Support their back end and let them settle into the base of the pouch.
- Keep their head out. Your dog's head and front paws should sit above the top of the sling so they can see out and breathe freely.
- Keep a hand nearby. Especially at first, or with a wriggly dog, keep a hand close to steady them. For extra security, keep their harness on so you can hold or clip their lead.
- Start with short trips. Let your dog get used to the sling at home and on short outings before longer days out.
Comfort checks
- Watch the temperature. Your body heat plus a fleece sling can get warm. On warmer days choose a lighter fabric, take breaks and offer water.
- Swap shoulders on longer walks so you stay comfortable too.
- Check the fit. If your dog sits so low it bumps your hip, or so high it's pressed under your chin, you may need a different strap length.
How to Choose a Dog Sling
Size is based on you, not your dog
The strap length decides where your dog sits on your body, so sling sizing depends on your height and build. As long as your dog is under the weight limit, choose Petite, Standard or Long Strap based on you. Our sling size guide explains exactly which to pick.
Choose the fabric for the season
- Polar Fleece Sling (from £42) - our best seller. Soft, cosy and structured for most of the year.
- Patterned Polar Fleece Sling (from £45) - the same sling in our prints.
- Lite Sweatshirt Sling (from £50) - a lighter fabric for in-between weather.
- Summer Lightweight Sling (from £42) - thin and breathable for warmer months.
Need one quickly? Our ready made slings are despatched within 5 working days. Made to order slings take up to 20 working days.
Dog Sling FAQs
Are dog slings comfortable for dogs?
Most small dogs settle quickly, especially if you introduce the sling gradually and they sit with their head out and their weight supported in the base. If your dog is unsettled, try shorter sessions and check the strap length.
What weight of dog can go in a sling?
Our slings are for dogs under 10kg. The Petite size is for dogs under 7kg.
Can I use a sling for a dog with back problems?
Many owners carry dogs who are recovering from back or joint problems, but always follow your vet's advice on how your dog should be carried and how much activity they can have.
Is a sling suitable for a puppy?
Yes - slings are popular for puppies who can't walk far yet. Check that they're within the weight limit and keep a hand close, as puppies can be wriggly.
Browse the full range in our Dog Carriers and Slings collection - every sling is handmade in our Worcestershire workshop.
Hugo and Ted: handcrafted for dogs and their people, made in Britain.