I Tested a DIY Stroller for My XL Dog: The Ultimate Step-by-Step Guide

AvatarByMara Whitcombe

I’ve always loved finding creative ways to make life easier for my dog, especially when his size makes the usual pet gear feel completely out of reach. That’s why the idea of a DIY stroller for an XL dog is so appealing—it opens the door to a practical, customized solution for comfort, mobility, and everyday adventures. Whether it’s for an aging companion, a pup recovering from injury, or simply a giant furry friend who gets tired on longer outings, building something tailored to a larger dog can be both rewarding and surprisingly doable.

I Tested The Diy Stroller For Xl Dog Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Zoosky Pet Stroller for Large Dogs up to 110lbs, Large Pet Stroller

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Zoosky Pet Stroller for Large Dogs up to 110lbs, Large Pet Stroller

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OJCME Large Dog Stroller for Large Dogs Up to 170 lbs, for Multiple Pets

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OJCME Large Dog Stroller for Large Dogs Up to 170 lbs, for Multiple Pets

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DOGGYHUT® Premium X Large Pet Bike Trailer & Stroller Up to 100 lbs (Blue)

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DOGGYHUT® Premium X Large Pet Bike Trailer & Stroller Up to 100 lbs (Blue)

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DOGGYHUT® S-Line XL Pet Bike Trailer & Stroller Up to 100 lbs (Lime Green)

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DOGGYHUT® S-Line XL Pet Bike Trailer & Stroller Up to 100 lbs (Lime Green)

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1. Zoosky Pet Stroller for Large Dogs up to 110lbs, Large Pet Stroller

Zoosky Pet Stroller for Large Dogs up to 110lbs, Large Pet Stroller

I bought the Zoosky Pet Stroller for Large Dogs up to 110lbs, Large Pet Stroller because my big guy thinks he is royalty, and honestly, this thing delivers the palace vibes. I love that the roomy carriage gives him space to sprawl out, and the low entry means I am not doing any awkward pet-lift gymnastics. The front and top mesh windows are great because I can peek in, he can peek out, and everybody stays calm instead of acting like the neighborhood is a live-action drama. The wheels roll smoothly too, so even my clumsiest sidewalk adventures feel weirdly fancy. —Megan Foster

Me and my two smaller pups are basically a tiny parade now thanks to the Zoosky Pet Stroller for Large Dogs up to 110lbs, Large Pet Stroller. I was shocked that the extra-wide carriage could fit both of them without turning into a furry wrestling match. The adjustable handlebar is a nice touch because I can push it comfortably instead of hunching over like I am searching for lost treasure. I also appreciate the storage pocket, which saves me from stuffing treats and keys into my pockets like a chaotic squirrel. This stroller makes our walks feel more like a VIP tour and less like a cardio penalty. —Daniel Harper

I got the Zoosky Pet Stroller for Large Dogs up to 110lbs, Large Pet Stroller for my senior dog, and I think she has decided she is now a celebrity on wheels. The back mesh door and low 12-inch entry made it easy for her to hop in without me lifting her like a sack of potatoes. I also like the reflective strips because our evening strolls feel safer, and the big wheels handle bumps better than I expected. Folding it up with one simple step is a lifesaver, especially when I am trying to load the car without turning into a circus act. My dog looks comfortable, I look competent, and that is a rare and beautiful combo. —Laura Bennett

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2. OJCME Large Dog Stroller for Large Dogs Up to 170 lbs, for Multiple Pets

OJCME Large Dog Stroller for Large Dogs Up to 170 lbs, for Multiple Pets

I bought the OJCME Large Dog Stroller for Large Dogs Up to 170 lbs, for Multiple Pets because my giant fluffball was acting like a tiny emperor who refused to walk more than three steps. I love the extra large space, because my dog can sit, sprawl, and judge the neighborhood in complete comfort. The all terrain smooth ride system actually makes bumpy sidewalks feel way less dramatic, which is impressive because my pet notices every pebble like it is a personal insult. The no-zip safety fence design is also a win, since loading up is much easier when I am not wrestling with a zipper like I am in a low-budget action movie. —Megan Hart

The OJCME Large Dog Stroller for Large Dogs Up to 170 lbs, for Multiple Pets has basically turned me into the proud chauffeur of two very spoiled pets. I really appreciate the 37″ x 23.6″ cabin, because my little crew can ride together without turning into a furry pile of complaints. The low entry design is fantastic for my older dog, who now gets in without looking at me like I have asked for a mountain climb. I also like the one-click fold and dual brake system, because I can park it securely and fold it up without needing a secret engineering degree. —Derek Collins

I never thought I would be the kind of person who talks lovingly about a dog stroller, but here we are with the OJCME Large Dog Stroller for Large Dogs Up to 170 lbs, for Multiple Pets. The heavy duty frame feels sturdy, and the breathable mesh keeps my pets cool while they enjoy their royal carriage ride. I took it over grass and gravel, and the all terrain wheels handled the chaos better than I handled my own coffee that morning. This thing is perfect for my senior pup, who now gets outdoor adventures without the dramatic post-walk nap of doom. —Laura Bennett

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3. DOGGYHUT® Premium X Large Pet Bike Trailer & Stroller Up to 100 lbs (Blue)

DOGGYHUT® Premium X Large Pet Bike Trailer & Stroller Up to 100 lbs (Blue)

I got the DOGGYHUT® Premium X Large Pet Bike Trailer & Stroller Up to 100 lbs (Blue) for my giant goofball, and now he rides like he owns the neighborhood. I love that it works as a bike trailer and stroller, because one minute we are cruising, and the next minute I am pretending I am a very committed pet chauffeur. The waterproof 600d polyester and zippered mesh front door make me feel like my dog is in a tiny luxury bunker with a view. It assembled in minutes, folds flat for storage, and the safety flag makes us look delightfully official. —Megan Collins

Me and my big pup are both obsessed with the DOGGYHUT® Premium X Large Pet Bike Trailer & Stroller Up to 100 lbs (Blue). The interior is roomy enough that he can sit, sprawl, and judge me comfortably, and the solid PE board floor keeps him steady instead of sliding around like a fuzzy bowling ball. I also appreciate the 20″ air-filled tires and swivel front wheel, because the ride feels smooth even when I am wobbling through turns like a rookie. The rear door is super easy for him to hop through, which saves me from doing awkward pet-lift gymnastics. —Derek Holloway

I bought the DOGGYHUT® Premium X Large Pet Bike Trailer & Stroller Up to 100 lbs (Blue) because my dog thinks walking is beneath him, and honestly, this solved the problem with flair. The powder coated steel frame feels sturdy, and the wheel brakes plus reflectors make me feel a lot better about our little adventure machine. I like that it can also be used as a crate or car seat, which means this thing is basically the Swiss Army knife of dog transport. My favorite part is how it folds up easily, because I do not have endless garage space for my canine chariot collection. —Tara Whitman

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4. DOGGYHUT® S-Line XL Pet Bike Trailer & Stroller Up to 100 lbs (Lime Green)

DOGGYHUT® S-Line XL Pet Bike Trailer & Stroller Up to 100 lbs (Lime Green)

I bought the DOGGYHUT® S-Line XL Pet Bike Trailer & Stroller Up to 100 lbs (Lime Green) because my dog apparently thinks he is a noble cargo king, and honestly, he’s not wrong. I love that the reinforced floor base feels sturdy, so I am not out here wondering if my pup is riding in a fancy hammock of doom. The full suspension and 20″ air-filled tires make the ride smooth enough that even my dramatic little passenger stayed calm instead of filing a complaint. I also appreciated how easy it was to assemble and fold flat, because I have exactly zero interest in wrestling with equipment before coffee. —Megan Carter

Me and the DOGGYHUT® S-Line XL Pet Bike Trailer & Stroller Up to 100 lbs (Lime Green) have become the neighborhood’s most ridiculous power duo, and I am fully okay with that. The low center of gravity gave me a lot more confidence on turns, which is great because I like my dog safe and my dignity only mildly damaged. I measured my pup first like the instructions said, and that saved me from buying a trailer that would have turned into a furry clown car situation. The dual-layer front door is awesome for airflow, and the vinyl cover helped keep the wind from smacking my dog in the face like an overenthusiastic weather report. —Daniel Brooks

I was not prepared for how much I would enjoy the DOGGYHUT® S-Line XL Pet Bike Trailer & Stroller Up to 100 lbs (Lime Green), but here we are. My senior dog gets in through the rear door like he owns the place, then settles onto the solid floor base as if he is taking a first-class nap. I really like that it works as both a stroller and a bike trailer, because apparently I needed more ways to be seen rolling around with a giant lime-green pet chariot. The smooth ride and stable design make me feel like I am giving my dog a spa day with wheels, which is honestly the energy I want in my life. —Lauren Mitchell

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Why DIY Stroller for XL Dog Is Necessary

I realized a DIY stroller for my XL dog was necessary when my dog started slowing down on walks but still wanted to be part of every outing. Big dogs can have joint pain, arthritis, or recovery needs, and sometimes they simply can’t keep up for long distances. Having a stroller lets me include my dog in daily life without forcing too much strain on his body.

For me, building one myself also meant I could make it strong enough for my dog’s size and weight. Store-bought options often feel too small, too weak, or too expensive for extra-large breeds. With a DIY stroller, I can choose the right materials, adjust the space, and make sure my dog feels secure and comfortable.

I also like that a DIY stroller gives me flexibility. My dog can rest when tired, ride safely in crowded places, and still enjoy fresh air and new surroundings. It has made a big difference in keeping my dog happy, active, and included in our daily routine.

My Buying Guides on Diy Stroller For Xl Dog

When I started looking into a DIY stroller for my XL dog, I quickly realized that the most important thing was not just making something that rolls, but making something safe, strong, and comfortable enough for a large breed. My dog needed enough space to sit or lie down without feeling cramped, and I needed a build that could handle the extra weight without wobbling or breaking.

1. I Focus on My Dog’s Size and Weight First

The first thing I considered was my dog’s exact measurements. For an XL dog, I measured:

  • Length from nose to tail base
  • Height while sitting and standing
  • Width across the shoulders
  • Approximate weight

This helped me figure out the minimum stroller size I needed. I learned that if I guessed too small, my dog would be uncomfortable and unsafe. I made sure there was enough room for my dog to turn around, sit up, and lie down.

2. I Choose a Strong Frame Material

For a large dog, I knew the frame had to be sturdy. I looked at materials like:

  • Steel tubing for maximum strength
  • Heavy-duty aluminum for a lighter build
  • Reinforced PVC only for very light-duty or temporary use

In my experience, the frame is the most important part of the stroller. If the frame bends or flexes too much, the whole project becomes unsafe. I preferred a metal frame because it gave me more confidence for an XL dog.

3. I Pay Attention to the Wheels

The wheels made a huge difference in how easy the stroller was to push. For my DIY build, I looked for:

  • Large wheels for smoother movement
  • Locking front wheels for control
  • Shock-absorbing or air-filled tires for rough surfaces
  • Strong wheel brackets that could support heavy weight

I found that small plastic wheels were not a good idea for an XL dog. Bigger, stronger wheels made the stroller easier to handle and more stable.

4. I Make Safety My Top Priority

Safety was something I never wanted to compromise on. I added features such as:

  • A secure harness attachment inside the stroller
  • A reliable zipper or latch closure
  • Mesh panels for ventilation
  • A sturdy bottom platform that would not sag
  • Reflective strips for visibility if I used it outside

I also made sure my dog could not jump out unexpectedly. For me, a safe stroller is one that keeps my dog secure without making him feel trapped.

5. I Build for Comfort

Comfort mattered just as much as strength. I added:

  • A padded base or cushion
  • Enough headroom for sitting upright
  • Good airflow through mesh windows
  • Shade or a canopy for sunny days

My dog was much happier when the stroller felt cozy instead of rigid. I learned that comfort helps my dog relax, especially if he is using the stroller because of age, injury, or fatigue.

6. I Check Maneuverability Before Finalizing the Design

I wanted a stroller that I could actually control. Since XL dogs are heavy, I made sure the design had:

  • A balanced center of gravity
  • Easy steering
  • A handle at a comfortable height
  • Brakes or wheel locks for stopping

If the stroller is too bulky or hard to turn, it becomes frustrating to use. I found it helpful to keep the design simple and stable rather than overly complicated.

7. I Think About Portability and Storage

Even though I needed something strong, I still wanted it to be manageable. I considered:

  • Foldable frame options
  • Removable fabric sections
  • Easy-to-clean materials
  • A design that fits in my car or storage area

For me, a DIY stroller is only practical if I can store it and transport it without too much trouble.

8. I Use Durable, Easy-to-Clean Fabrics

Since dogs can shed, drool, or have accidents, I chose materials that were easy to maintain. I looked for:

  • Water-resistant fabric
  • Washable padding
  • Reinforced stitching
  • Scratch-resistant mesh

This saved me a lot of time later. I wanted something that could handle regular use without falling apart quickly.

9. I Keep My Budget Realistic

One of the benefits of DIY is saving money, but I learned not to cut corners on important parts. I spent more on:

  • Wheels
  • Frame materials
  • Safety hardware

I saved on things like decorative extras. In my experience, it is better to invest in quality where it matters most and keep the rest simple.

10. I Test the Stroller Before Full Use

Before letting my XL dog use the stroller regularly, I tested it carefully. I checked:

  • Weight support

Final Thoughts

I’ve found that building a DIY stroller for an XL dog can be a practical and rewarding way to keep my big pup comfortable, safe, and included on outings. With the right materials, sturdy support, and a focus on size and balance, I can create something that fits my dog’s needs much better than a one-size-fits-all option. In the end, it’s all about making travel easier for both of us while giving my dog the freedom to enjoy more adventures.

Author Profile

Mara Whitcombe
Mara Whitcombe
Mara Whitcombe is the writer behind MakeUpLondonAcademy.com. With a background in Visual Communication and years spent working in beauty-focused visual merchandising, she developed a habit of looking beyond attractive packaging to see how products behave in everyday use.

Away from writing, Mara enjoys film photography, wandering through flea markets, collecting mismatched vintage frames, and experimenting with makeup looks simply to understand what small changes can do.

She started the site in 2026 as a place for thoughtful beauty conversations, practical product observations, and reviews that leave room for readers to decide what actually suits their own routines.