Tips For Motorcycle Riding With Your Dog

A man named Gary Miller wanted to bring his four-legged best friend to school with him (He was learning to be a gunsmith) his only transportation  though was his motorcycle. Gary trained his Labrador/pit bull mix to sit on the back of his bike like a human and hold onto his shoulder. This was not done without some trial and error as dog fell off the bike when Gary hit some curves and hit the brakes. The dog did soon learn though to climb up behind Gary putting his paws up on his shoulder and grip tight enough, just like a human.

Best Practices For Keeping Fido Safe

While amazing, maybe even cute this is not really the safest way for riding a motorcycle with your dog. Plus this method would never work with smaller breeds. There are solutions, though. Below are some tips to help keep you and the pooch safe on the road.

• Make sure your pet can handle the noise. The idea of riding with your dog sounds awesome just you and your buddy on the open road, but in reality, some dogs may freak out at the engine sound. A tip to avoid this is to change your exhaust system for a one less loud.
• Invest in a pet carrier or a pet side car. Pet carriers come in many styles some look like your average pet cargo carrier and can be attached to your motorcycle, while others operate just like a baby carrier  where the pet is slipped inside with only his paws, and head exposed. They can either be worn in as a front carrier or a back carrier. Another option would be to purchase a pet side car or cargo carriers they call them. These attach to your motorcycle and fully secure your pet in with room for them to stick their heads out so they can enjoy the ride. If you want to be thrifty just get a simple backpack and put your pet inside securely zipping it inside leaving enough room that they can stick their head through.
• Eyewear protection. Just like your eyes need protection so does your dog. No special kind are needed just purchase a pair of  simple safety goggles or even safety glasses can work  just attach a thick strap to secure it in back.
• Make sure riding with your dog is legal in your state. A case in California where retired dog trainer was ticketed for riding his motorcycle with his pet dog a Siberian husky named Harley. It was said to violate California Vehicle Code 21712-A that is was unlawful for a person to allow another person to sit on a moving motorcycle in a place on intended for a passenger. The case was dismissed because it was pertaining to humans, not animals. In some states, though there is a law against riding a motorcycle with your pet so before your strap on your furry partner for a nice ride make sure it’s legal.
• Invest in a doggie helmet. If you wear one for your protection does not forget to protect your furry pet too.

And remember always drive safe!

Best Motorcycle Pet Carrier

Since you’re planning on taking your pooch out riding with you, then it is a good idea to get yourself one of the pet carriers that you can attach to your bike and keep the pup safe and secure. We’ve looked at all the top pet carriers on the market and picked one that we think is the best motorcycle dog carrier that money can buy right now.

Kuryakyn Pet Palace Bag Review

A spacious pet carrier designed for smaller dogs and cats.  Strap it down to your motorcycle, buckle it in a car or even use it as a mobile crate for camping.  Comes with cup holder for the human, anchoring straps, metal stakes, leash and food bowl.  All accessories attach to the Pet Palace while in transit.

What We Like About It:

• Surprisingly roomy: 18 1/2 inches L x 15 inches W (with pockets) x 13 inches H
• Take it all with you: It has storage pockets for the leads and bowls, making it convenient to grab and go when you travel on short notice.
• Reflective trim adds visibility at night
• Water repellent material means no extra covering is needed for wet weather
• Zippers open for ease of cleaning and access to scared pet
• Top opens up and allows your pet to enjoy the scenery
• Structured frame and carry handle improve durability and convenience

View on Amaozn

What We Don’t Like About It:

• Fairly small carrier. It is best to measure your current carrier and pet before ordering to prevent disappointment.  This one is intended for small dogs and cats.
• Only comes in black: designer color options to match bike would be nice
• Straps not of the highest quality: Double check their strength before hitting the road
• Anchoring straps for your pet are located higher in the carrier.  If your pet likes to jump out and the top is open, they will not stop their escape.
• Price: An expensive investment considering the size

Overall, the Pet Palace is a good option, providing a carrier designed specifically for the motorcycle segment.  It performs as expected. However, its limited size and poor anchoring straps mean it is best to double check sizing and construction before hitting the road with your furry friend. It is a good choice for a small dog motorcycle carrier.