Choosing the right size dog wagon is harder than it looks.
Weight limits alone are misleading. Internal dimensions matter. Entry design matters. Your dog’s mobility matters.
For example, some Sporty models are rated up to 30kg. But a long-bodied 20kg Greyhound would not fit comfortably inside — despite being well under the stated weight limit.
Choosing the correct size dog wagon isn’t just about kilograms. It’s about space, proportions and how your dog moves.
If you’re unsure, don’t guess. That’s exactly what we’re here for.
Step 1: Measure Your Dog Properly
Measure your dog while they are standing naturally.
You’ll need:
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Length – Nose to base of tail (often the most important)
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Height – Floor to top of head (or ears if upright)
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Weight – As a reference only
For long breeds such as Greyhounds, Whippets, Lurchers or Dachshunds, internal length is usually the deciding factor.
Step 2: Mark the Wagon Size Out on the Floor
The easiest way to visualise whether your dog will fit is to mark out the internal dimensions on the floor using tape or cushions.
Then ask your dog to:
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Sit inside the space
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Lie down fully
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Turn around
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Stretch out
If they look cramped on your floor, they will feel cramped in the wagon.
If they can comfortably lie down and reposition, that’s usually the right fit.
Step 3: Consider Entry and Exit Design
This is something many buyers overlook.
Many dog wagons are designed with rear entry and exit only.
That means your dog must be able to:
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Step in
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Turn around inside
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Position themselves comfortably before travel
If your dog has arthritis, hip dysplasia, spinal issues, or reduced flexibility, turning in a tight space may be difficult.
Ask yourself:
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Can they comfortably turn around within the measured space on your floor?
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Would repeated twisting strain their joints?
For senior dogs or dogs with mobility problems, internal turning space is often just as important as overall length.
Step 4: Don’t Rely on Weight Limits Alone
Two dogs can both weigh 25kg:
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One may curl up easily
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One may need far more floor space
Even if a wagon is rated to 30kg, that does not mean your dog will fit comfortably inside it.
Weight capacity protects the frame.
It does not guarantee comfort.
Step 5: Avoid Oversizing
Going too large can also reduce stability.
Too much internal space can allow movement during travel, especially if the base isn’t properly fitted with a secure, non-slip surface such as custom-cut Vet Bed.
The right size wagon should feel supportive, not cavernous.
Choosing the Right Size Is Hard — That’s Why We Help
This guide provides general advice — but every dog is different.
Breed proportions, flexibility, confidence levels, joint health and entry design all affect which wagon will work best.
Choosing the right size dog wagon is genuinely difficult — and that’s why we don’t expect you to figure it out alone.
If you’re unsure, reach out before ordering.
Tell us:
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Breed
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Weight
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Length measurement
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Age and joint health
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How your dog moves
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Your car model
We’ll guide you honestly and help you avoid costly mistakes.
Getting the size right makes all the difference.