Dog Wheelchair Buying Guide: Everything You Need to Know

I. When Does Your Dog Need a Dog Wheelchair?

The first step in deciding whether a dog wheelchair is necessary is to look at your dog’s current health:

• Weak or paralysed hind legs: Common in older dogs, or due to spinal or nerve damage.

• Degenerative Myelopathy (DM): A progressive disease that gradually causes loss of function in the hind legs.

• Hip Dysplasia and Arthritis: Painful joints make every step difficult; a wheelchair helps reduce the pressure.

• Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD): A slipped or ruptured disc presses on the spinal cord, often leading to loss of mobility in the back legs.

• Post-surgery or injury recovery: During rehabilitation, a wheelchair can reduce strain and aid safe recovery.

Always check with your vet first to confirm whether your dog is suitable for a dog wheelchair.

II. Two-Wheel vs Four-Wheel Dog Wheelchair

This is the most important decision before buying a dog wheelchair.

• Two-wheel wheelchair (rear support): Suitable for dogs with strong front legs but weak or paralysed back legs. It lifts the hind legs to prevent dragging and injury.

• Four-wheel wheelchair (full support): Designed for dogs with weakness in both the front and back legs, or spinal issues where extra stability is needed. Please note: a full support dog wheelchair is not for completely immobile dogs – they must have at least two functional legs (usually the front legs) to move the wheelchair forward.

A quick way to decide is the towel test:

• Lift your dog’s back end gently with a towel. If your dog can still walk forward using the front legs → a two-wheel wheelchair is enough.

• If the front legs cannot support them either → a four-wheel wheelchair is needed.

IV. Different Types of Dog Wheelchairs We Offer

To suit different needs, we currently offer three main models:

• Dog Wheelchair for Back Legs – for dogs with strong front legs but weak or paralysed hind legs.

• Full Support Dog Wheelchair – for dogs needing extra stability, available in both two-wheel and four-wheel versions. If you start with a two-wheel model and your dog’s condition changes, we can upgrade it to a four-wheel version.

• Dog Wheelchair for Small and Medium Dogs – designed specifically for smaller breeds, also available in two-wheel and four-wheel versions, lightweight and easy to handle.

V. Why Buy a Dog Wheelchair from Pawsbetter?

Buying from Pawsbetter gives you peace of mind as well as value:

1. Price advantage: 20–40% cheaper than similar products on the UK market.

2. 30-day return and exchange: Hassle-free guarantee.

3. Size confirmation: We double-check your dog’s measurements before and after the order.

4. After-sales support: 180-day warranty with spare parts replacement if needed.

Before buying a dog wheelchair, you should quickly consider three things: your dog’s health condition, whether two wheels or four wheels are needed, and the right size and environment. Once you have these clear, you will be able to choose the most suitable dog wheelchair and give your dog back freedom and quality of life.

VII. Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Wheelchairs

Q1: How long does it take for a dog to get used to a wheelchair?
Most dogs adjust within a few days to a few weeks, depending on their age, character, and health condition. Older or cautious dogs may need more time.

Q2: What if my dog refuses to use the wheelchair?
Some dogs show resistance at first, which is normal. Leave the dog wheelchair nearby so your pet can get used to its smell and presence. Once they stop avoiding it, gently introduce wearing it. Reward with treats and praise to build a positive association.

Q3: Will a wheelchair make my dog dependent?
No. On the contrary, a dog wheelchair helps maintain muscle strength and prevents complete loss of mobility.

Q4: Can small dogs use a wheelchair?
Absolutely. We have lightweight models designed for small and medium-sized dogs.

Q5: Should my dog use the wheelchair all day?
No. Most dogs only use their wheelchairs during walks, training, or activity. At rest, they should lie down comfortably without the wheelchair.

This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice.