The Dog Mobility Project

Once you’ve decided that a wheelchair is the right mobility aid for your dog, the next question is often:

Which brand wheelchair should I choose?

A quick online search reveals several well-known manufacturers, each offering different designs, levels of customization, and pricing. At first glance, they can seem very similar—but there are important differences that may influence which wheelchair is the best fit for your dog’s needs.

This guide focuses specifically on the characteristics of four established wheelchair manufacturers: Walkin’ Pets, K9 Carts, Eddie’s Wheels, and Best Friend Mobility. Rather than recommending one brand over another, we’ll explain how they differ so you can have a more informed discussion with your veterinarian or canine rehabilitation professional.

If you’re still deciding whether your dog needs a wheelchair—or which type of mobility aid is appropriate—start with our guide on choosing the right dog mobility aid before comparing brands.

Notice that immediately separates this article from your “How to Choose…” guide.

Understanding the Dog Wheelchair Market

Before you buy, you need to understand your options for dog wheelchairs. There are two main options: adjustable wheelchairs and custom carts. A custom cart is tailored to your dog’s exact size and shape. In some cases, the manufacturer even takes your dog’s diagnosis into account, building the cart for a specific need, such as accommodating a missing limb or counterbalancing the cart. This typically means a custom dog wheelchair is the more expensive option. Whereas an adjustable dog wheelchair is a more “off-the-shelf”, affordable option. Meaning that a cart is readily available, and the size of the cart is determined by your dog’s weight, and you have a range of adjustability in height, length, and width to make the cart fit your dog once you get it in the mail.

Adjustable vs. Custom Wheelchairs

Before comparing manufacturers, it’s helpful to understand that most dog wheelchairs fall into one of two categories.

Adjustable Wheelchairs

Designed to fit a range of dogs through adjustable height, length, and width settings.

Often ideal for:

• Recovery from surgery
• Progressive conditions
• Growing puppies
• Families wanting faster delivery

Custom Wheelchairs

Built specifically for one dog using detailed measurements.

Often considered when:

• A dog has an unusual body shape.
• A limb is missing.
• Specialized support is needed.
• A standard adjustable wheelchair cannot provide an appropriate fit.

Neither design is inherently better. The right choice depends on your dog’s diagnosis, body shape, mobility goals, and veterinary recommendations.

The Leading Dog Wheelchair Brands

K9 Carts

K9 Carts is the undisputed leader in the custom dog wheelchair industry. The brand was founded by a veterinarian and has been in operation for decades.

Pros:

• Lightweight, aluminum frame for easy maneuverability.
• Custom built to fit your dog.
• Made in the USA with veterinarian-designed construction.
• Offers both rear and full-support wheelchairs.

Cons:

• Primarily designed for rear support; front-wheel options are limited.
• Can be difficult to adjust, especially on smaller breeds.
• On the more expensive side and may take longer to build.
• May not be as durable for highly active dogs.
• Custom wheelchairs can be difficult to convert into a full support wheelchair.

Walkin’ Pets

Walkin’ Pets is the most trusted brand for adjustable dog wheelchairs. Since its creation in 2001, it has supported millions of dogs worldwide in their mobility journeys.

Pros:

• Adjustable, with different frame and wheel sizes to fit various dog sizes and conditions.
• Available in rear, full-support, and front-wheel designs.
• Easy to assemble and lightweight for pet parents.
• Strong and durable, designed for active dogs.
• Widely available, fast delivery, with strong customer support.
• Can convert easily to a four wheel wheelchair.

Cons:

• While adjustable, it may not offer the same level of individual customization as hand-built wheelchairs.
• The initial wheelchair fitting can take some time to get the perfect fit for your dog.
• It is not customized to accommodate your dog’s unique condition.

Best Friend Mobility

Pros:

• Affordable compared to other brands, making it a budget-friendly option.
• Simple, lightweight design with adjustable height and length.
• Provides rear support for dogs with hind-leg weakness.

Cons:

• Not as durable as other high-end brands.
• Limited options for dogs needing full or front support.
• Assembly and fit adjustments can be more challenging.

Eddie’s Wheels

Pros:

• Fully custom-built wheelchairs designed for each individual dog.
• High-quality materials with a focus on long-term durability.
• Provides rear, front, and quad-support options.

Cons:

• Higher price point due to the custom-build process.
• Longer lead time for orders since each unit is made to fit.
• Heavier than adjustable options, which may be a factor for smaller dogs or less active pets.

Questions to Ask Before Comparing Wheelchair Brands

Before choosing a manufacturer, consider:

• Will my dog’s condition likely improve, remain stable, or progress?
• Do I need a rear-support, front-support, or full-support wheelchair?
• Would my dog benefit from an adjustable wheelchair or a custom-built design?
• How important are replacement parts and future adjustments?
• Will I need ongoing customer support?

Answering these questions first often makes comparing brands much easier.

Which Type of Dog Owner Is Each Brand Best For?

There isn’t a single “best” dog wheelchair brand for every dog. The right choice depends on your dog’s diagnosis, body shape, activity level, and how you plan to use the wheelchair.

Instead of asking “Which wheelchair is best?” ask:

“Which wheelchair is the best fit for my dog’s current and future mobility needs?”

The guide below can help you narrow your options.

If you need…	Consider…
A wheelchair quickly	Adjustable brands like Walkin’ Wheels
Maximum customization	K9 Carts or Eddie’s Wheels
A growing puppy	Adjustable wheelchair that can be resized
A progressive condition (DM)	Adjustable wheelchair with future upgrade options
A very unusual body shape	Custom-built wheelchair
The lowest upfront cost	Best Friend Mobility or a quality adjustable wheelchair

Think Beyond Today’s Needs

One of the biggest mistakes owners make is buying a wheelchair based only on how their dog looks today.

Instead, consider how your dog’s needs might change over the coming months.

Ask yourself:

• Is my dog’s condition expected to improve?
• Could my dog lose additional mobility over time?
• Will I eventually need front-wheel support?
• Do I want a wheelchair that can be adjusted at home?
• Will replacement parts be easy to obtain?

Thinking ahead may save both time and money.

Customer Support Matters More Than Most People Expect

One factor that’s easy to overlook is what happens after your wheelchair arrives. Many owners focus exclusively on price or features, but customer support can become just as important after the wheelchair arrives.

Consider questions like:

• Does the company provide fitting assistance?
• Can replacement parts be ordered individually?
• Are adjustment videos available?
• Is technical support available if something doesn’t fit correctly?
• Is there a reasonable return or exchange policy?

A responsive manufacturer can make the adjustment period much easier, especially for first-time wheelchair users.

Don’t Buy Based on Brand Alone

A well-known brand doesn’t automatically mean it’s the best choice for your dog.

The most successful wheelchair is one that:

• Fits correctly.
• Matches your dog’s diagnosis.
• Supports your dog’s activity level.
• Can be adjusted as needed.
• Allows comfortable, natural movement.
• Is backed by good customer support.

In many cases, a properly fitted adjustable wheelchair will provide better results than a premium custom wheelchair that’s not well suited to the dog’s condition—or vice versa. The goal is always the best fit for the individual dog.

Brand Comparison at a Glance

Brand	Primary Strength	Best For
Walkin’ Pets	Highly adjustable	Dogs whose mobility needs may change over time
K9 Carts	Custom veterinary-built designs	Dogs requiring individualized fitting
Eddie’s Wheels	Extensive customization	Dogs with unique body conformation or specialized needs
Best Friend Mobility	Value-focused adjustable option	Owners seeking a more budget-conscious adjustable wheelchair

Questions to Ask Before You Order

Before making a purchase, ask yourself these questions:

Taking a few extra minutes to answer these questions can help you choose a wheelchair that supports your dog’s mobility now and in the future.

There Isn’t One “Best” Dog Wheelchair Brand

Every manufacturer has its strengths.

Some focus on adjustability.

Some specialize in fully customized designs.

Others prioritize affordability or simplicity.

Rather than searching for the universally “best” brand, focus on finding the wheelchair that best matches your dog’s:

• diagnosis
• body shape
• lifestyle
• activity level
• long-term mobility goals

The right wheelchair is the one that fits your dog comfortably, supports safe movement, and helps them remain active and engaged in daily life.

If you’re unsure which option is appropriate, your veterinarian or a canine rehabilitation professional can help guide your decision.

Have you used one of these brands? Share your experience in the comments below!

Related Articles

• How Much Does a Dog Wheelchair Cost?
• When to Introduce a Dog Wheelchair: A Complete Guide for Pet Parents
• Custom Dog Wheelchairs vs. Adjustable Dog Wheelchairs
• Best Dog Wheelchairs by Breed and Size
• Don’t Wait Too Long: Why a Cart Shouldn’t Be a Last Ditch Effort