Ultimate Guide to Pet Strollers in the UK: Best Shops, Top Models, and Smart Buying Tips

Why pet strollers are the new must-have accessory

Have you ever seen a pup snoozing like royalty while their human strolls along the riverbank or through a busy high street? Pet strollers have rapidly grown from a niche luxury into a practical tool for pet owners across the UK. They’re not just for pampered pooches — they help older or injured pets get fresh air, keep anxious animals calm in crowded areas, and make multi-pet outings much easier. Think of a pet stroller like a compact carriage: it lets your companion enjoy the world without wearing out their paws.

Types of pet strollers and which suits you

There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to pet strollers. Different designs suit different lifestyles, breeds, and budgets. Before you buy, ask yourself: am I walking on pavement or hitting country trails? Will I jog with my dog, or do I need something ultra-compact for the tube and car? The answers point to the type of stroller that’s right for you.

Jogging strollers

Jogging strollers are built for momentum. With larger wheels (often 12 inches or more) and a fixed front wheel or lockable swivel, these resemble baby joggers but are tuned for pets. If you want to run two to four miles without worrying about rough terrain, choose a model rated for higher speeds and better suspension. They tend to be heavier, so check the folded dimensions to ensure they fit your boot space.

Urban compact strollers

City strollers are lightweight, foldable, and designed for sidewalks, shops, and public transport. Expect smaller wheels — around 6 to 8 inches — but clever folding mechanisms that can shrink down to 30–40 inches long when folded. These are ideal if you shave minutes off commutes and need to store the stroller in tight spaces.

Multi-pet and expandable strollers

If you’ve got two or three small pets, look at multi-pet strollers with divided compartments or modular inserts. Some expand from one compartment to two, while others stack levels like a tiny hotel on wheels. Weight capacity can vary, so always add the pets’ weights together in pounds and allow a safety margin.

Luxury and boutique strollers

Luxury models often feature higher-end fabrics, suspension tuning, and extra padding, plus accessories like rain covers, cup holders, and built-in storage. They’re a good pick if style and comfort top your list, and they often come with higher weight limits and refined build quality — think of these as the tailored suit of pet transport.

Top UK retailers where you can buy pet strollers

In the UK, you’ve got plenty of options — from high-street chains to specialist pet retailers. Each store brings different strengths: broad selections, budget models, premium ranges, or quick local pick-up. Below are trusted names that regularly stock pet strollers and accessories.

Pets at Home

Pets at Home is one of the most familiar pet retailers in the UK, offering a wide selection from budget to mid-range strollers. Their stores let you inspect models in person, test folding mechanisms, and get a feel for wheel sizes and materials. Online, you’ll find customer reviews that help compare models by real-world usage — very handy when deciding between two similar strollers.

Argos

Argos often carries compact and affordable pet strollers, perfect for shoppers after quick value buys. Their catalog frequently includes seasonal deals, and the store network means you can reserve online and collect at a nearby branch. Argos’s range leans toward urban, foldable designs that suit errands and short walks.

John Lewis

John Lewis stocks higher-end strollers with an eye for design and durability. If you’re searching for a well-built stroller with a refined finish or better warranty options, this department store is worth a look. Expect models that combine practicality with a premium feel — ideal for shoppers who want something that looks as good as it performs.

Amazon UK

Amazon offers the widest selection — from budget imports to branded strollers — and the customer reviews can be a goldmine for real-life insights. Look for Verified Purchase reviews, check weight limits in pounds, and pay attention to reported folding dimensions to ensure it fits in your car boot or storage closet.

Zooplus

Zooplus is a pet-focused online retailer with a strong selection of pet strollers and accessories. Their stock often includes European brands and models you might not see on generalist sites. The site’s product filters help you narrow down options by size, weight capacity, and price.

Pets Corner

Pets Corner is a boutique-style pet retailer with curated selections and attentive staff. If you prefer specialist advice and a friendlier store experience, this is a great place to browse. They often carry higher-quality fabrics and offer useful local knowledge about walks and pet-friendly spots near their stores.

Wayfair UK and eBay UK

Wayfair sometimes lists stylish pet strollers and carriers, while eBay can be useful for finding discontinued models or good second-hand deals. Buying used requires more caution — check condition, wheel function, and whether any small parts are missing. But you can often score a high-spec model at a fraction of the price if the seller provides clear photos and honest descriptions.

Key features to check before buying

Buying a pet stroller isn’t just about looks. Focus on functional features that directly affect comfort and safety. Think of this like running a checklist for a new pair of shoes — fit, support, materials, and how well they handle daily wear.

Weight capacity and size

Always compare your pet’s weight in pounds to the stroller’s stated capacity. If your dog weighs 30 lb and the stroller is rated for 35 lb, you’re skirting the limit — opt for a larger capacity to provide a margin for safety and comfort. Also measure your pet while sitting and lying down; ensure there’s enough headroom and length in inches so they can turn and stretch without bumping the hood.

Wheel size and terrain suitability

Wheels make a huge difference. Larger wheels — 10 to 12 inches — handle rough paths and grass more smoothly, while 6 to 8-inch wheels are fine for shopping streets and pavements. If you plan to take your pet off-road or on nature trails, prioritize air-filled or foam-filled tires and decent suspension.

Folding mechanism and packed size

Think about storage: can the stroller fold down to fit your car’s boot? Check folded length and height in inches. A compact fold is a lifesaver on public transport and when your flat has limited storage space. Try to pick a model you can fold quickly with one hand if you often juggle a leash and treats.

Material and weather protection

Look for water-resistant fabrics and good ventilation. A mesh canopy provides airflow but also a barrier against rain and wind. For colder months, a removable cover or blanket attachment in inches by inches will help keep your pet snug. UV-resistant fabric is a bonus if you spend lots of time in bright sunlight.

Safety features

Ensure the stroller has secure harness clips or tethers and reliable brakes that lock the wheels firmly. Reflective strips are useful if you walk in the early morning or evening. Think of these features like seatbelts and lights on a car — they matter more than you might expect until you need them.

How to measure your pet for the perfect fit

Getting the right size is simple if you take a few basic measurements in inches and pounds. First, measure your pet’s length from the base of the neck to the base of the tail — that gives you the minimum interior bed length. Then measure height from floor to head while seated to confirm the canopy clearance. Finally, weigh your pet on a scale and compare that figure to the stroller’s weight capacity. If your pet sits at 20 lb, choose a stroller with at least a 30–35 lb capacity for comfort and longevity.

Accessories and add-ons worth investing in

Think of accessories as the icing on your pet’s carriage. They can enhance comfort, safety, and convenience without breaking the bank.

Rain covers and sun shades

A good rain cover in clear material keeps wind and showers off while letting your pet see out. For sun protection, look for UV-rated canopies or attachable shades. These keep your pet cool on warm days and dry in light showers, and they’re usually inexpensive compared to the stroller itself.

Extra padding and liners

Removable liners make cleaning simple and add plush comfort. You can find fleece or memory-foam style pads that fit most strollers; check dimensions in inches so the liner doesn’t bunch. A washable liner is a must if your pet tends to leave fur, sand, or stains behind.

Storage and travel bags

Large under-seat baskets or top storage pockets help carry water bottles, treats, and waste bags. If you travel a lot, a travel bag that covers the folded stroller keeps it clean and protects your car’s interior.

Best strollers for specific situations

Not all strollers perform equally in every scenario. Here are quick recommendations based on common needs so you can match the stroller to your lifestyle like pairing the right shoe with the right activity.

For small dogs and cats

Choose compact urban models with secure mesh windows and easy folding features. These strollers are light to push and simple to store; look for a capacity of 20–35 lb and at least 24–28 inches of interior length for small breeds.

For large dogs

Large breeds need heavy-duty frames and higher weight limits — think 70–100 lb capacity or more. Models with reinforced platforms and larger wheels are better for stability, and a longer interior in inches gives a more comfortable ride.

For avid runners

For jogs of a few miles, pick a jogging stroller with a fixed or lockable front wheel, good suspension, and a hand brake for extra control on slopes. Wheels of 12 inches or more and a stable three-wheel design make miles feel smooth and steady.

For travel and public transport

Opt for a compact fold and light weight so you can manage stairs and narrow platforms. Models that fold in one smooth motion and secure with a latch are perfect for getting on and off buses or trains without breaking a sweat.

Maintenance and safety tips to extend lifespan

Keep your stroller running smoothly with simple maintenance. Wipe down fabrics after wet walks, vacuum out crumbs and fur, and periodically check wheel bearings and brakes. Tighten bolts if you notice wobble, and replace worn tires when tread looks thin. Treat the stroller like a well-loved pair of running shoes: care extends life and keeps every walk enjoyable.

Where to find the best deals in the UK

Deals can appear year-round, but key sale periods like Black Friday, Boxing Day, and seasonal transition sales often offer the biggest discounts. Sign up for retailer newsletters from Pets at Home, Argos, and John Lewis to catch markdown alerts. Comparison shopping on large marketplaces and keeping an eye on voucher sites can also shave pounds off the final price. If you’re comfortable buying used, local marketplaces and eBay can yield high-spec items for much less.

Final thoughts: matching stroller, pet, and lifestyle

Choosing a pet stroller is like picking the right set of wheels for your life: the best model balances your pet’s size and temperament with how and where you’ll use it. Prioritize safety, comfort, and the right wheel-and-suspension combo for your terrain. Visit stores where you can test models when possible, check measurements in inches and pounds, and invest in the small accessories that make daily outings simpler and more pleasant. Do that, and both you and your furry friend will be ready to roll in style.