Dog Show Trolley 101: Intro to Stress-Free Travel for Show Days

Dog shows are always an exciting event to look forward to. From the fun activities to the cute puppies and the great company, these types of events are a great way to socialise and bond with fellow animal lovers. However, the preparations go far beyond some simple grooming.

If you’ve ever attended one of these shows, you know that the treats and brushes are the last thing on every owner’s mind, especially when you have to transport your puppy to and from events without ruining their new mane.

Dog trolleys are more than just a vessel; they offer a convenient, safe, and efficient way to transport your pet. Ease of mobility, added safety, and sturdiness are just a few of the reasons why you should purchase a dog show trolley for everyday handling and show use.

What Is a Dog Show Trolley?

A show trolley is a wheeled, specialised cart designed to enable fast, easy transport between dog show events. What makes these carts special is their multi-purpose nature, allowing you to transport both your dog and all of your equipment in one go. Why make multiple trips between your car and the venue when you can safely and conveniently store all your necessities in one place?

Because dog show trolleys have durable, flexible wheels, they can handle any terrain you might find yourself on. Whether it’s grass, gravel, or a smooth road up ahead, your dog trolley cart can easily take you to every event you might find yourself at on this turbulent day. Being both a crate and a cart, this type of trolley can serve as both a dog transport vessel and a workstation on which you can prop your equipment.

Benefits of Using a Dog Show Trolley for Travel

A dog show cart can completely take your stress away, making show days more fun and less overwhelming for both you and your dog. Here are some key benefits of bringing a trolley to show days:

• Easy Transport: Dog shows require a scary amount of gear. From grooming tools to show equipment and even your own dog, transporting equipment around the venue can be a real struggle. Wheeled dog trolleys eliminate the need for multiple trips and numerous bags just to collect all your items, while also reducing the physical strain from carrying all your equipment.
• Dog Safety and Comfort: Your dog’s safety is your top priority. They are the stars of the show, and they should feel like it. Dog show trolleys create a secure and safe space for your dog to rest and relax between events.
• Improves Personal Image: Your dog and the way you present them create your personal image and brand. If you are a professional and a frequent dog show competitor, then you know the importance of good presentation. A show trolley creates a polished and professional image, making you appear tidy, organised, and well-managed.
• Versatile Use: Dog show trolleys aren’t just useful on competition days; they are also the perfect transport for your dog on road trips and long travel days.

Different Types

Dog trolleys aren’t a one-size-fits-all. After all, every dog is different, and each has their own needs. Some pet owners also have their own preferences for compartments, wheels, and other fun additions to dog carts, which have led to the evolution of dozens of trolley types. Here is a list of popular types to consider for your show day needs:

1) Mini Trolleys

Mini trolleys are the perfect compact vessel for your small puppy. These types of portable dog carts are ideal for owners who prefer to travel light and are looking for a way to transport their pup without any extra equipment. Mini trolleys feature one main compartment for your puppy, perfect for easy and lightweight trips to and from the show venue.

2) Collapsible Trolleys

If you find travelling with a trolley convenient but struggle with storage, then collapsible models are just the item you need. These trolleys are designed with storage convenience in mind. They collapse into a compact size, making them easy to fit in your car, narrow spaces, or your home.

3) Double Decker Trolleys

​By far the most popular trolleys at every show are the double-decker models. They have multiple tiers (usually two), the bottom one for your dog and the top one for your equipment. This way, you can conveniently store and organise all your supplies and take them anywhere in just one trip.

Dog Show Travel Tips for First-Time Attenders

Attending your first dog show is an exciting milestone. Performing at competitions is an experience like no other, but it can also be a stressful one, especially when you don’t quite know what you’re about to encounter. Enjoy these easy, helpful tips for a stress-free and successful first show.

• Pack Everything Beforehand: Create a detailed checklist with all the items you plan to take with you on this special day. The stress from attending your first show can cause you to miss something important, so always ensure you pack all your equipment the day prior.
• Arrive Early: Always get to the venue early. Getting there early ensures you get a good spot for setting up all your show equipment. This way, you will have some extra time to look around before the show starts.
• Stay Hydrated: Don’t forget your and your puppy’s water. Staying hydrated is extremely important, especially if you’re in the sun. Ensure your dog is also hydrated and take regular breaks to rest between events.
• Bring Comfort Essentials: Keep in mind it’s also your puppy’s first time attending, so they can be nervous. Pack their favourite toys or a blanket, so they feel safe and relaxed while they explore this new and exciting space.