Cavoodle, Yorkie or Maltese: Which Carrier Suits Your Breed?

Small dogs vary more than people realise. A carrier that works perfectly for a Chihuahua might not suit a Cavoodle at all. Here is a quick guide by breed to help you choose well.

Cavoodle (Cavapoo)

Cavoodles are typically between 5 and 10 kg depending on whether they are toy or miniature, with a rounded build and a fluffy coat that can make them seem larger than they are. They are social dogs who like to see what is happening, so an open-top carrier suits them well. Weight is the main thing to check: a carrier rated to 6 kg will be fine for a toy Cavoodle but not a miniature. Carriers with a firm base suit them particularly well as they tend to sit up rather than curl down.

Yorkshire Terrier

Yorkies are small and fine-boned, usually 2 to 3.5 kg, which means almost any carrier rated for small dogs will fit them on weight. They can be a little anxious in unfamiliar situations, so a carrier that positions them at your side rather than below you helps them feel secure. They generally settle quickly once moving.

Maltese

Maltese are gentle, quiet dogs who adapt easily to being carried. At around 3 to 4 kg they are light enough that you rarely have to think about weight limits. Their long white coat can pick up colour from dark linings so a carrier with a neutral or light interior is worth looking for if you want to avoid the grooming consequences.

Chihuahua

Chihuahuas are the smallest of the common small breeds, typically 1.5 to 3 kg, but they can be feisty about enclosed spaces. An open-top carrier where they can see out and you can easily check on them works best. They also feel the cold, so a carrier that sits close to your body provides useful warmth in cooler months.

Shih Tzu

Shih Tzus are compact and sturdy, usually 4 to 7 kg, and they tend to be calm and adaptable. They are brachycephalic, meaning they have flat faces and can overheat, so good airflow is important. Look for a carrier with mesh panels or an open top that does not trap heat.

Miniature Dachshund

Miniature Dachshunds have a long spine that makes support especially important. A carrier with a firm, flat base is particularly valuable for this breed as it allows them to sit or lie without putting pressure on their back. Avoid any carrier where they have to curl into an awkward shape to fit.

The universal requirement

Whatever the breed: weigh your dog, check the carrier's stated weight limit, and choose a firm base. Everything else is a preference. The Hollydaz suits most small breeds up to around 8 kg and has a firm padded base that works well for dogs who sit up to look around, which most small breeds do once they feel settled.