Deciding if a wheelchair is right for your pet is a decision you need to make with the help of your veterinarian. Each dog is unique and the right choice for him will depend on many factors. Your veterinarian can help you decide if a wheelchair is right for your dog and help you determine when is the right time for your pet to get a cart.
As a general rule, dogs that want to move and seem motivated to get up and go (even if they can’t without help) are usually fine with a wheelchair.
A simple test to see if your dog is ready for a cart:
Want to see how your dog would behave in a wheelchair? Try the towel test. While holding each end of a towel, gently place the towel directly under your dog’s hips and slowly lift it up. When you lift your dog’s hind legs slightly off the ground, take a step forward. If your dog can support himself with your help, he probably needs a rear dog wheelchair.
Can a dog live without the use of its hind legs?
Not only can a dog survive without the use of its hind legs, it can thrive! Most disabled dogs have no idea they are disabled. Dogs don’t feel bad about themselves, they just adapt.
A dog wheelchair is the best way to keep a paralyzed dog active and healthy. And many dogs get into a wheelchair very quickly. Many dogs intuitively know that the wheelchair is there to help and support them. Remember that your dog probably hasn’t been active in a while and may tire quickly the first time he tries his cart. Even if your dog is having a lot of fun, keep that first time in the wheelchair relatively short. Give your dog time to adapt and rebuild his stamina. They can always bring out their new wheels later!
How does a wheelchair help a dog?
Dog wheelchairs help pets in different ways. With proper support, a wheelchair can help a paralyzed dog run and walk without the owner’s assistance. This means that the dog regains its independence and can continue its daily walk.
How it works:
Every dog wheelchair has a back support called leg rings. Leg rings rest directly under the dog’s pelvis to gently lift and support the hind legs. The front wheelchair harness helps keep the wheelchair comfortably positioned at all times. Once the dog is safely in his cart, he is able to stand on his own and the cart support will help with exercise and going to the bathroom.
Advantages of the dog wheelchair:
- Restore your dog’s natural mobility
- Your dog is able to pee and poop in the cart
- An active dog will continue to work his muscles and help maintain the muscle mass he has
- While in the cart, your dog can work to rebuild strength and stamina
- Helps prevent excessive weight gain due to inactivity
- Being active can boost your dog’s spirits



How much does a dog wheelchair cost?
The Walkin’ Wheels dog wheelchair is available in a range of sizes. The cost of the wheelchair will depend on the size of wheelchair they need. A rear dog wheelchair will start at $219 for the smallest dog and go up to $499 for larger breeds. If a dog needs support for both the rear and front legs, a full-support wheelchair can cost between $372 and $722.
How do I measure my dog for a wheelchair?

It’s easier than you think to measure your dog for a wheelchair. You will only have to take a measurement, the height of your dog’s hind leg. A dog that needs a wheelchair probably won’t be able to stand on their own, so it’s best to take this measurement with your dog lying on their side.
When your dog is lying on its side, bring the leg into a naturally upright position. Now measure from the point where the upper leg connects to your dog’s body (at the crease), down to the toe. This is the height of your dog’s hind legs. You want your measurements to be as accurate as possible, but luckily with an adjustable carriage you will have a few inches of adjustment. But an accurate measurement will help ensure your dog is entering the correct range of adjustment.
Is it difficult to take care of a dog in a wheelchair?
A paralyzed dog is still able to lead a comfortable, happy and active life, he just needs a little more love and support. Your dog is still the same dog he always was, the only difference now is that he needs wheels to run.
The time and attention a dog in a wheelchair needs is probably more than you’re used to, but it’s something you’ll learn as you go. Pet professionals, such as a veterinarian or rehabilitation specialist, can help teach you tips and tricks to give your dog the best possible care. Social media can also be a huge source of information. Many pet owners have created online communities where they can support each other and give each other advice on adjusting to life as a dog caregiver. Caring for a disabled dog is certainly not easy, but it is definitely worth it!