Riding on the subway can be a challenge even when you are not traveling with your K9 companion. That’s why it’s important to find the best dog carrier for the subway, so you can be sure that your dog is safe and comfortable, and you are obeying all the rules on the train.
Continue reading this article to see a complete list of ratings and reviews of the best subway dog carriers that will fit dogs of all shapes and sizes.
Best Dog Carrier For The Subway
| Image | Name | Weight Limit | Rating | Shop |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Petsfit Comfort Dogs Carriers Backpack | Weight Limit: 15 Pounds |  | |
 | Natuvalle 6-in-1 Pet Carrier Backpack | Weight Limit: 18 Pounds | | |
 | PetsHome Dog Carrier Purse | Weight Limit: 12 Pounds | | |
 | BETOP HOUSE Pet Carrier Tote Around Town Pet Carrier | Weight Limit: 12 Pounds | | |
 | Pet Gear No-Zip NV Pet Stroller | Weight Limit: 70 Pounds | | |
 | Pet Gear NO-Zip Stroller, Push Button Zipperless Dual Entry | Weight Limit: 150 Pounds | |
MTA Dog Rules
If you want to take your dog on the subway you will have to follow the Metro North Dog Policy. This policy was set in place to keep your dog safe, and to protect all the riders on the train.
In short, you will need to keep your dog in a carrier at all times. No part of the dog’s body can hang out of the carrier, and they will need to remain well behaved at all times.
The Metro North Dog Policy says:
Small domestic pets are permitted on the subway and on buses of New York City Transit and MTA Bus only when they are carried in kennels or similar containers that can be accommodated by you on your lap without annoyance to other passengers. No part of the animal may protrude from the container and pets should not occupy seats. Service animals properly harnessed and accompanying people with disabilities are always welcome in MTA’s network.
You can also read the full list of MTA Rules at this link. Where you can read Section 1050.9 (h) that goes into full detail on what restrictions you must follow if you want to take your dog on the subway.
Dog Backpack Carrier
Petsfit Comfort Dogs Carriers Backpack
The Petsfit Comfort Dogs Carriers Backpack (Buy Online) is a spacious pet carrier backpack that expands to increase its overall size. This backpack measures 13” x 10” x 16”, and it can carry small dogs that weigh less than 15 pounds. You can also get this dog backpack in a version that has more ventilation, which is perfect for hot summer days underground.
Features
Dimensions: 13 x 10 x 16 Inches (L x W x H)
Item Weight: 3.79 pounds
Weight Capacity: 15 pounds
Durable EVA Material
Durable Zippers
Mesh Panels
Storage Pockets
Pet Tether
Expandable Pop-Up Top
30 Day Return Policy
Positives
The mesh panels will keep your dog cool all summer long
The storage bags are the perfect size to hold treats and toys
Small enough to be worn as a front dog carrier
Negatives
Limited color options
The bag is a little narrow for longer dogs
Natuvalle 6-in-1 Pet Carrier Backpack
The Natuvalle 6-in-1 Pet Carrier Backpack (Buy Online) is a spacious pet carrier backpack that is very easy to carry around. This backpack measures 20” x 14” x 10”, and it is designed to carry dogs that weigh up to 18 pounds. You can also get this dog backpack carrier in three smaller size options for dogs that weigh between 12 to 16 pounds.
[yasr_overall_rating size=”medium”]
Features
Dimensions: 20 x 14 x 10 Inches (L x W x H)
Backpack Weight: 3.75 pounds
Weight Capacity: 18 pounds
600 Denier Nylon
Durable Zippers
Seat Belt Loops
4 Ventilation Panels
Safety Leash
Sturdy Flexible Frame
30 Day Return Policy – Money Back Guarantee
Positives
The shoulder strap makes it easy to carry like a messenger bag
The frame holds its shape even when you carry a heavier dog
You can fold this bag down flat for easy storage
Negatives
Might be a little too large for some people to carry around
Only comes in one color
PetAmi Deluxe Pet Carrier Backpack
The PetAmi Deluxe Pet Carrier Backpack (Buy Online) is a very affordable dog backpack that’s designed to transport small dogs that weigh up to 18 pounds. This backpack measures 12.5” x 10.2” x 16.3”, and it is very lightweight since it only weighs 3.6 pounds. This dog backpack carrier also comes in a wide assortment of colors, so you can easily find one that matches your style.
Features
Dimensions: 12.5 x 10.2 x 16.3 Inches (L x W x H)
Backpack Weight: 3.6 pounds
Weight Capacity: 18 pounds
Large Side Door
Mesh Ventilation Windows
Name Tag I.D.
Reflective Safety Stripe
Breathable Padded Backpack Straps
Safety Buckle and Leash
Positives
This backpack offers plenty of room for small dogs to move around
The padded Sherpa lined floor will keep your dog comfortable on a bumpy subway
The safety leash will prevent your dog from trying to escape
Negatives
The bag can lose shape
Lacks back support
Designer Dog Purse
PetsHome Dog Carrier Purse
The PetsHome Dog Carrier Purse (Buy Online) is a stylish designer dog purse that’s perfect for the subway, or when you’re just walking around town. This dog purse measures 16.93” x 9.65” x 10.83”, and it is made to hold dogs that weigh up to 12 pounds. This dog purse also comes in a wide assortment of colors, so you’re bound to find one that catches your eye.
Features
Dimensions: 16.93 x 9.65 x 10.83 Inches (L x W x H)
Item Weight: 4.1 pounds
Weight Capacity: 12 pounds
Mesh Ventilation Panels
Waterproof Interior
Large Top-Load Door
Small Storage Pocket
Safety Leash
Padded Floor Mat
30 Day Return Policy
Positives
Most people will think it’s a purse, and they won’t even suspect a dog is inside
The waterproof interior helps keep any accidents from leaking out of the carrier
The large top-load door makes it easy to get nervous dogs inside
Negatives
Some people find it a little too wide
The storage compartment is a little tight
BETOP HOUSE Pet Carrier Tote Around Town Pet Carrier
The BETOP HOUSE Around Town Pet Carrier (Buy Online) is a nice looking dog purse that some people might even mistake for a Louis Vuitton. This dog purse measures 15.7” x 11.8” x 7.8”, and the large version can hold dogs that weigh up to 12 pounds. If you have a smaller dog then the small model is perfect for toy breeds that weigh less than 6 to 8 pounds.
Features
Dimensions: 15.7 x 11.8 x 7.8 inches
Item Weight: 2.7 pounds
Weight Capacity: 12 pounds
Mesh Window Panels
Roll-Up Window Shades
Top-Load Door
Shoulder Strap
Two Storage Pockets
Safety Leash
Soft Padded Interior
30 Day Return Policy
Positives
The shoulder strap makes this purse very easy to carry
The rigid bottom won’t bend or flex much if you have a larger dog
The window shades are great if your dog wants to take a nap
Negatives
Velcro closures
Windows are small
Dog Carrier Stroller
Pet Gear No-Zip NV Pet Stroller
The Pet Gear No-Zip NV Pet Stroller (Buy Online) will make it easy to take a small to medium-sized dog on the subway. This dog stroller measures 30” x 13” x 22”, and it can carry dogs that weigh up to 70 pounds.
The Pet Gear No-Zip NV Pet Stroller also has three pneumatic tires that will make it easier to maneuver onto a crowded subway train. You can also get this stroller with teal or pink accents if you want your dog to ride the train in style.
Features
Exterior Dimensions: 30 x 13 x 22 inches
Interior Dimensions: 28” L x 12.5” W x 22.5” H
Stroller Weight: 27 pounds
Weight Limit: 70 pounds
Tires: Air Ride
Bolster Pad
600 Denier Nylon
Water-Resistant
Safety Brakes
Panoramic Mesh Panels
30 Day Limited Warranty
Positives
The large air-filled tires make this stroller very easy to push over any terrain
The instructions are very clear, and it only takes less than a half hour to assemble
The stroller folds down for storage when not in use
Negatives
The stroller is a little heavy
The handlebars are high
Pet Gear NO-Zip Stroller
The Pet Gear NO-Zip Stroller (Buy Online) is an excellent dog stroller if you need to take a medium to large dog on the subway. This dog stroller measures 26” x 15” x 20”, and it has a weight limit of 100 pounds.
This stroller also has four EVA plastic wheels that will keep it stable on uneven ground. In addition, it has a low center of gravity so it won’t easily tip over and fall down. You’ll also have an easy time loading your dog in through the large back door, or you can even open the whole canopy to get them in and out.
Features
Exterior Dimensions: 26 x 15 x 20 inches
Interior Dimensions: 27” L x 15.5” W x 20” H
Stroller Weight: 19 pounds
Weight Limit: 100 pounds
4 Plastic EVA Tires
Fleece Pad
600 Denier Nylon
Water-Resistant
Push Button Door
Large Mesh Panels
30 Day Limited Warranty
Positives
Easy to assemble in no time flat
The foot brake makes it easy to slow down when you’re transporting a large dog
Folds down flat when you need to store it in an apartment or transport it in your car
Negatives
Plastic wheels can wear down over time
Doesn’t have a water-resistant base
Pet Gear NO-Zip Stroller, Push Button Zipperless Dual Entry
The Pet Gear Expedition NO-Zip Dual Entry Stroller (Buy Online) is one of the few dog strollers that can handle giant breed dogs. This extra large dog stroller measures 38” x 30” x 38.5 ”, and it has a maximum carrying capacity of 150 pounds.
This dog stroller has all the same great features as the Excursion model mentioned above, with the only difference being the weight limit and the overall size. You really won’t find an easier way to get a 150-pound dog on the subway for the price. Moreover, your dog will feel safe and secure in their own space, and so will the other subway riders.
Features
Exterior Dimensions: 38 x 30 x 38.5 inches
Interior Dimensions: 32” L x 22” W x 23” H
Stroller Weight: 26 pounds
Weight Limit: 150 pounds
4 Plastic EVA Tires
Large Fleece Pad
600 Denier Nylon
Dual-Entry Doors
Multi-Position Handle
Folds Down Flat
30 Day Limited Warranty
Positives
The stroller is large enough to carry some of the largest breeds
The canopy folds open to make it easier to load and unload big dogs
Easy to push around even when you’re transporting a heavy dog
Negatives
Might be a little tight inside for extremely tall dogs
The stroller is a little wide
ibiyaya Large Pet Stroller for Large Dogs
The ibiyaya Large Pet Stroller for Large Dogs (Buy Online) is a top of the line dog stroller that will let you travel with your dog in style. This dog stroller measures 39.4” x 31” x 37.8”, and it is made to hold dogs that weigh up to 110 pounds.
Features
Exterior Dimensions: 39.4 x 31 x 37.8 inches
Interior Dimensions: 23.5” L x 31” W x 27” H
Stroller Weight: 33 pounds
Weight Limit: 110 pounds
Front & Rear Doors
Quick-Release Pneumatic Tires
Adjustable Handle Bars
Foot Lever Bar
Large Storage Compartment
Folds Flat
30 Day Return Policy
Positives
Aircraft aluminum frame is extremely durable
The wheels are very easy to detach when you need to fold it down
The three wheel design makes it easy to maneuver in tight spaces
Negatives
Tires might deflate over time
The stroller is a little wide for some doors
