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Finding the best wheels for dogs with bad legs can totally change your disabled pal’s life.

Shopping for dog wheelchairs isn’t as easy as hopping online to buy, say, a good training collar or crate.

After all, a wheelchair is a medical device, just like in the human world.

So below, we’ll take a look at what to consider when shopping for one, as well as a few of our top recommendations.

Finding the best wheels for dogs with bad legs can totally change your disabled pal's life. Take a look at our most highly recommended dog wheelchairs.

Our Top Pick

If you just want to skip ahead and find out which wheelchair we recommend for dogs, check out the K9 Carts model.

FYI, this post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, we earn a small commission at no extra charge to you. 

SpotOn Dog Collar Review with Coupon

Now, let’s start with what you need to know before we get into our other picks.

Wheels for Dogs With Bad Legs Buying Guide

Before we can talk about the best wheels for dogs with bad legs, we have to decide if our dog even needs a wheelchair.

We also need to know what to look for in the right one.

While there isn’t an overwhelming number of options, there’s still just enough to make shopping for one a bit confusing.

Does your dog need a wheelchair?

Honestly, your vet should answer this question, not some random girl on the internet that you never met.

Not that you can’t trust me, of course. I do a ton of research and fact-check everything I say against three sources.

Still, when it comes to any medical device, a trained professional’s opinion should matter more than mine.

That said, obviously there are situations when giving your dog a nice set of wheels just plain makes sense.

Basically, if your dog’s back legs are amputated or just plain “give out,” wheels can help them regain their joie de vivre.

Why do dogs back legs give out? Arthritis is the most common cause in older dogs.

However, other diseases and disorders can wreak havoc on the hind legs. This is definitely a case where it’s best to talk to your vet.

Best Wheels for Dogs: What to Consider

You can’t really approach shopping for dog wheels the same way you do for other gear.

Think about the things we consider when buying human mobility products, be it a wheelchair, walker, or crutches.

Your dog’s size

Size definitely matters when choosing the right set of dog wheels!

More than just his overall length or weight, though, you’ll need to really get his limb measurements right.

You know that old saying, measure twice, cut once?

Well, even though there’s no cutting involved, I say measure thrice! Quadrice, even (I had to look that one up).

The video below offers good tips on measuring him the right way:

Materials

Just like there are high-end and low-end wheelchairs for people, the same is true for dogs.

Try to find something that is both lightweight AND durable.

However, given the choice between the two, light is better. Remember, your dog needs to be able to actually maneuver the chair.

Also, keep in mind that dog wheels go where your dog does- through mud puddles, dirt, across concrete, and so on.

You want something that can handle getting as messy as Fido does!

You budget

Sure, we’d all love to say money is no object when it comes to our dogs, but that’s not always realistic.

Some of us live on very tight budgets! So, I say just buy the best wheels that you can afford. That’s really all you can do.

Which brings us to…

How much do wheelchairs for dogs cost?

As with literally every purchasable item in the entire world, it depends.

Some cost under $100, others closer to $500. Custom-made wheels can cost even more (we’re talking $1K+).

Below, I’ve chosen different options that fit into pretty much any budget.

Some are definitely better than others, but the low-end ones aren’t terrible, otherwise they wouldn’t be on my list.

Best Dog Wheelchairs

Finding the best wheels for dogs with bad legs can totally change your disabled pal's life. Take a look at our most highly recommended dog wheelchairs.

Use the table below to take a quick peek at the best dog wheelchairs, then read on for more details.

Preview
HiHydro 6 Types Cart Pet Wheelchair for Handicapped Hind Legs Small Dog Cat/Doggie/Puppy Walk Stainless Steel XXS-L
SYLPHID Adjustable Dog Wheelchair for Hind Legs Rehabilitation, for Dogs Weight 9 to 22 lbs, Wheelchair for Back Legs Lightweight
Walkin' Wheels Small Dog Wheelchair, Lightweight Dog Wheelchair for Back Legs, 15-25 lbs, for 9-11 inches Leg Height - Pink
Top Pick
K9 Carts Dog Wheelchair (Small) - Made in The USA
Name
HiHydro 6 Types Cart Pet Wheelchair for Handicapped Hind Legs Small Dog Cat/Doggie/Puppy Walk Stainless Steel XXS-L
SYLPHID Adjustable Dog Wheelchair for Hind Legs Rehabilitation, for Dogs Weight 9 to 22 lbs, Wheelchair for Back Legs Lightweight
Walkin' Wheels Small Dog Wheelchair, Lightweight Dog Wheelchair for Back Legs, 15-25 lbs, for 9-11 inches Leg Height - Pink
K9 Carts Dog Wheelchair (Small) - Made in The USA
Customer Rating
Top feature
Budget-friendly
Push button adjustments
Vet-approved brand.
Vet-created and customized for your dog
Prime Benefits
-
-
-
-
Price
$229.99
Price not available
Price not available
$345.00
Preview
HiHydro 6 Types Cart Pet Wheelchair for Handicapped Hind Legs Small Dog Cat/Doggie/Puppy Walk Stainless Steel XXS-L
Name
HiHydro 6 Types Cart Pet Wheelchair for Handicapped Hind Legs Small Dog Cat/Doggie/Puppy Walk Stainless Steel XXS-L
Customer Rating
Top feature
Budget-friendly
Prime Benefits
-
Price
$229.99
Buy Now
Preview
SYLPHID Adjustable Dog Wheelchair for Hind Legs Rehabilitation, for Dogs Weight 9 to 22 lbs, Wheelchair for Back Legs Lightweight
Name
SYLPHID Adjustable Dog Wheelchair for Hind Legs Rehabilitation, for Dogs Weight 9 to 22 lbs, Wheelchair for Back Legs Lightweight
Customer Rating
Top feature
Push button adjustments
Prime Benefits
-
Price
Price not available
Buy Now
Preview
Walkin' Wheels Small Dog Wheelchair, Lightweight Dog Wheelchair for Back Legs, 15-25 lbs, for 9-11 inches Leg Height - Pink
Name
Walkin' Wheels Small Dog Wheelchair, Lightweight Dog Wheelchair for Back Legs, 15-25 lbs, for 9-11 inches Leg Height - Pink
Customer Rating
Top feature
Vet-approved brand.
Prime Benefits
-
Price
Price not available
Buy Now
Top Pick
Preview
K9 Carts Dog Wheelchair (Small) - Made in The USA
Name
K9 Carts Dog Wheelchair (Small) - Made in The USA
Customer Rating
Top feature
Vet-created and customized for your dog
Prime Benefits
-
Price
$345.00
Buy Now

One little note before we begin. I know other lists out there offer more than just five options.

However, most of them either list the same set of wheels multiple times (but in different sizes) or include products that barely hit 3 stars.

Sorry, but anything less than 4 stars can’t be considered the “best” when it comes to mobility aids for dogs.

1.  HiHydro Pet Wheelchair 

HiHydro Pet Wheelchair 

The HiHydro wheelchair is designed for dogs (and cats) with hind leg problems.

While the description doesn’t do much to instill confidence in the brand (I’m overly critical of these things and I know it), reviewers highly recommend it.

Let’s look at the features, pros and cons. Then we’ll discuss recommendations.

Features & Pros

  • 8 different sizes from XXS to L
  • Easy to take apart and put together.
  • Very lightweight
  • Designed to avoid friction

Cons

  • No XL, so not a good fit for larger breeds.
  • 1-3 cm error margin 
  • Not easy for dogs to use the bathroom when wearing it

Recommendation 

This one is a fair choice for those with small dogs and small budgets.

While it’s not my favorite, it’s far from the worst option out there.

I’d go with this as a “starter” wheelchair for dogs, to make sure he’s even comfortable using one.

I would not recommend it for dogs with significant hind leg problems, though.

Think of it more as dog crutches than a full-on wheelchair; something to help an older dog get around but not entirely replace his hind legs.

HiHydro 6 Types Cart Pet Wheelchair for Handicapped Hind Legs Small Dog Cat/Doggie/Puppy Walk Stainless Steel XXS-L
  • The wheelchair is specially designed for dogs and cats with hind legs, so that they can walk and run even as normal young fellows do.The use of user-friendly design, as far as possible in detail to avoid friction with pets, causing two injuries, and the length and height are adjustable range, it is recommended to choose according to the specific size.
  • Our pet especially dogs needs lot of sports, but when they handicapped they can not play out side ,it will make they fell lonely.It is not good for their treatment. The wheelchair is specially designed for dogs and cats with hind legs, so that they can run and play with you.
  • Our wheelchair is so light that your pet will walk easily with it.The heightwidth and length of the pet wheelchair all can be adjustable, it can suit to your pet within limits.
  • Our wheelchair is easy to be taken apart and put together, you can install it by yourself. 2-wheel wheelchair is only for the pet hind leg disability £¬you can raise it's hind leg,if it can walk use it's forelegs our wheelchair will help it walk
  • Pets are our families, when they handicapped don not give them up,one wheelchair will give them the second life. Wish your pet gets well soon.Friendly notice:Measure your dog before buying!

2.  SYLPHID Adjustable Dog Wheelchair

SYLPHID Adjustable Dog Wheelchair

The SYLPHID is another 4-star set of dog wheels that really only works well for small to medium breeds.

Like the one above, this is a rehab wheelchair, not a back leg replacement model.

Features & Pros

  • Two sizes for dogs from 9-44 lbs
  • Lightweight aluminum frame
  • Adjustable harness
  • Push button makes it easy to adjust height, width, and length.
  • Your dog can still use the bathroom while wearing it.

Cons

  • No sizes for larger breeds
  • Challenging to assemble
  • Wheels are a bit large for super small breeds

Recommendation 

While it’s a good rear support dog wheelchair, it’s best for dogs who have some use of their hind legs.

For example, if your aging Shih Tzu is in the early stages of arthritis or your Maltese is getting over a relatively mild injury.

SYLPHID Adjustable Dog Wheelchair for Hind Legs Rehabilitation, for Dogs Weight 9 to 22 lbs, Wheelchair for Back Legs Lightweight
  • Adjustable Dog Wheelchair for Small Dog , height from floor to the dog's back is 8"--14", weight 8--22 lbs, hind legs Rehabilitation
  • The dog wheelchair has a durable, light weight aluminum frame and adjustable harnesses to provide optimal comfort and mobility.
  • Push button adjustability in height, length and width which enough for the dog.
  • Package includes: 1* Dog Wheelchair; 1* Manual
  • Please allow 1-3cm error due to manual measurement and make sure you do not mind before ordering. Please understand that colors may exist chromatic aberration as the different placement of pictures.

3.  Walkin’ Wheels Dog Wheelchairs

Walkin' Wheels Dog Wheelchairs

Walkin’ Wheels Dog Wheelchairs are the most popular on Amazon, and it’s pretty easy to see why.

They offer sizes for pretty much every breed, but you’ll need to go to their Amazon storefront to find the listing you need since they don’t lump them all together.

Features & Pros

  • Different sizes for all breeds
  • Harness, height, width, and length are all adjustable.
  • Wheels are made from strong foam material
  • Rubber treads on wheels won’t puncture.
  • Vet-approved brand.
  • Durable
  • Easy for pets to use

Cons

  • Not a full support dog wheelchair.
  • Pricey
  • No refund (or at least no full refund)

Recommendation 

Walkin’ Wheels is “this” close to being my #1 pick (#5 edged them out, and you’ll see why).

Unlike the first two options, this one can actually be used by dogs with all hind leg issues.

I love that it comes in multiple color options. While color shouldn’t be anywhere near the top of your list of considerations, it’s a nice plus.

All sizes make it easy for your dogs to use the bathroom while wearing, and you can use them both indoors and outside.

Walkin' Wheels Small Dog Wheelchair, Lightweight Dog Wheelchair for Back Legs, 15-25 lbs, for 9-11 inches Leg Height - Pink
  • BUILT TO SUPPORT YOUR SMALL PET - Our Walkin’ wheelchair for dogs gives your small breed dog hind leg support. This wheelchair for dogs gives your pet balance and control. It helps relieve pressure and reduce the weight placed on your dog’s legs encouraging them to run, play, and enjoy an active lifestyle.
  • DURABLE WHEELCHAIR FOR DOGS - Made with durable, lightweight extruded aluminum, your dogs can have full support that will last a lifetime. Our dog wheelchair is chew-proof with wheels that can be used on all terrains.
  • EASY TO STORE AND TRANSPORT - Our lightweight wheelchair for small dogs can be easily folded which makes it convenient to load in the car, or store in small spaces. The small frame size combined with its foldable struts make it easy to carry and travel with.
  • ADJUSTABLE DESIGN FOR THE PERFECT FIT - This wheelchair for small dogs features our patented adjustable design that can be tailored to your dog’s size and changing health. Modify its height, length, and width to ensure that your pet is mobile and comfortable throughout its life stages.
  • CARE FOR YOUR PETS - Walkin’ Pets was founded so pet lovers and pet parents have the information and products they need to make loving decisions for their furbabies. We are committed to helping your pets live their best lives with animal ortho care products that protect and support their active lifestyles. We want to make sure the Walkin’ Wheels dog wheelchair fits your pet properly. For assistance, our dedicated customer support team will help you with your concerns.

4.  Newlife Mobility Adjustable Dog Wheelchair

One more option before we get to my favorite. Newlife Mobility is a mixed bag. Some of their wheelchairs rank at 4+ stars, others only hit 3.5.

Like Walkin’ Wheels, you’ll need to go directly to Newlife Mobility’s storefront to find different sizes.

Since we’re only looking at 4 stars and up dog wheelchairs, let’s focus on their model for larger breeds.

Features & Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Sturdy rubber wheels
  • Aluminum frame

Cons

  • The largest size isn’t big enough for giant breeds.
  • Directions are hard to follow
  • Hard to use alone (you’ll need a helper)
  • Not Prime, but it ships free anyway.

Recommendation 

Like the first two, this one is good for dogs who don’t need full support. Again, I liken them to human crutches or a walker versus a wheelchair.

Just keep in mind that you’ll need help getting your dog into it. Even the most positive reviews mention this issue.

5.  K9 Carts | The Original Dog Wheelchair

K9 Carts | The Original Dog Wheelchair

I saved the best for last!

K9 Carts is definitely my top pick for the best wheels for dogs with bad legs, and not just because they’re the “Original Dog Wheelchair.”

This one isn’t just “vet approved,” it’s actually veterinarian designed. Take a look at the features and pros to see why it earned my #1 pick.

Features & Pros

  • 5 sizes for dogs up to 80 lbs
  • Created and tested for 53 years in an actual animal orthopedic hospital.
  • Very lightweight (claims to be lightest on the market)
  • Made with aircraft grade aluminum
  • Handmade in the USA (see note in recommendations)
  • Works great both indoors and outside, across almost all terrains.
  • Dogs can go to the bathroom while wearing it.
  • Easy to use for both you and your dog.

Cons

  • Expensive
  • No XL size on Amazon.
  • No full support options on Amazon
  • Not Prime eligible, but it does still ship free

Recommendation 

One of the factors that makes this the best rear support dog wheelchair is the fact that it’s handmade.

After you place your order, they’ll reach out to you for information that will help them customize it to fit your dog’s needs.

The only downsides- they don’t have an XL model or full support dog wheelchair on Amazon.

They do offer more options through their website, though.

Final Recommendation

As I said, the K9 Carts and the Walkin’ Wheels are my top picks for the best wheels for dogs with bad legs.

What if they’re out of your price range, though?

If that’s the case and your dog doesn’t need major support, I’d go with Newlife Mobility Adjustable Dog Wheelchair.

However, if your dog has severe hind leg issues, you’re really better off just saving up for a great set of wheels.

One last note- if you need a full support dog wheelchair, you’re better off working directly with your vet or going through K9 Carts’ website.

I don’t recommend just popping on over to Amazon and grabbing a mass-produced model.

While they do have a couple of options, none make it to the 4-star mark.

What are your thoughts on my picks for the best wheels for dogs with bad legs? Tell me below.

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