My little dogs have legs and use them. I will only take them into places that allow dogs. Because of little dogs being squirreled away in carry bags many stores are really clamping down on refusing to allow them in. If they are welcome to come with me then they walk in just like any other dog. Also, and I don't mean to be rude, but I don't want my dogs to be seen as one of my fashoin accessories. Instead I want people to see my little dogs for the big dog hearts that they have, their polite behavior, my pal and companion...I just can't reduce them to the level of what color bag would look best. I don't dress them up either or anthropomorthise them in any way.

Sorry, no bag would be my choice.

 

You must live in a warm climate. My pap wouldn't be able to leave the house for several months of the year without a coat or sweater.

Carriers are, in a word, obnoxious. Dogs have legs, let them use them.

Nice attitude.

If the carrier is used to bring your dog places it otherwise would not be able to go on it's legs, why not? I let my dog walk whenever it's possible. However, she's a 5lb papillon. If it's not safe, or not allowed, I'm carrying her. I really don't care if some close-minded, judgmental, holier-than-though person is snickering or thinks it's obnoxious.

 

I agree with Briteday. My little ones use a lead when we go places. We use crates, but n purses. I doubt any of mine would stay in a bag anyways.

If a place doesn't allow dogs, then you shouldn't bring them in no matter the size or the container be it bag, lead, or whatever else.

 

I had a feeling I was going to get some flack for posting this question.

I am in no way trying to make the dog an "accessory"... I was merely thinking of using it as a way not to have to leave him in the car for short runs into the drug store or other little errands without a drive through option. 99% of the time I would be using a leash and harness as I do realize that a dog is a dog.

Also, I may start taking the bus to work later on this year (gas prices, eek!). Seattle busses do allow pets, but they must be in a carrier. Most of the airplane types are rather bulky.

I just wanted to know if anybody had any experience with this, pros & cons, or alternatives to doing this to see if it is even worth buying.

 

I don't know many places like drug stores where a dog would be allowed, even in a purse.

 

Its not worth buying as you won't be allowed in stores that don't allow dogs. I know someone who is a greeter at walmart and she told me that she has to stop any person who has those carriers and look inside, if they see a dog they have to ask the person to leave. So it would be a waste of money as you wouldn't be able to use it. I wouldn't bring the dog if you have to go places dogs aren't allowed. If you are going to a pet store and doing errands then either do the errands first and come back home and get the dog or go to the pet store first, drop the dog off, then go and run the errands. I hate leaving Snoopy in the car because there is always that chance that somebody would break in the car and steal him.

 

I don't use one either....Willie is too big for one, and I wouldn't use one anyway......Don't know of anyone, either.....Sorry I couldn't help you....

 

Actually, the majority of stores where I live do allow dogs in their stores, including drug stores, but they must be carried. I could see where one of those bags would be useful in such a situation, since it would free up your arms. I don't really see a problem with it, as long as it isn't used all the time.

 

Kuma's - if you're in the US, most drug stores, unless you're talking very small family owned ones, also sell snack food- therefore, pets *aren't* allowed. They may look the other way aobut toy dogs, but they really *arent* allowed.

 

I'm in Canada, and they sell snack foods in our drugstores as well, and I've yet to be turned away with Kuma at one, even the big chains. Guess things are just different here. That wasn't really my point though. My point was, that those carriers can be very useful for toy dog owners when they are going places with their dog, and I really don't see anything wrong with them. If the op never let her dog walk anywhere, and insisted on carrying her dog everywhere, that would be a problem, but that's not what they're suggesting.

 

first of all it depends how big and heavy your dog is. mine is 16 pounds and has the longest legs ever, so he doesn't fit in any carriers and is really heavy to carry around. still, i bought a very large beach bag to put him in to go into stores and things when we were on vacation. (the top was open so he could stick his head out). i find a lot of stores are willing to allow your dog inside as long as you carry them.

 

Whether it's officially allowed or the stores just let it slide, I don't know, but I've seen people in various stores with dogs in carriers where they would not be allowed in on a leash. Most recently K-Mart comes to mind, I saw a lady with a pom in there. I would not automatically assume that the dogs in them don't get walked, or are treated like accessories. I have always viewed them the same way the op intended, as a convenience, a way to bring your dog with you somewhere where it may not otherwise be appropriate or where it would be difficult to have a small dog on a leash.

 

Hey there fellow Pom Mom-in-waiting,

Dude, I'm TOTALLY getting a puppy purse carrier thing. Why not? I get flack all the time about it too... like "its a dog, let it use its legs"... which we both OBVIOUSLY will do... but I think the difference between us and some other dog owners is that we are getting TOY BREEDS. I don't know about your little muffin, but mine will be 5 pound MAX weight full grown. I plan on bringing my Pom everywhere. And who's to say the pup won't totally love it either?! Knowing how attached to their owners these pups get, they'll be happy to go everywhere you go.

As for where you're allowed to bring them, I've seen dogs in all sorts of places that usually don't allow them. I also live in Canada - Toronto - and I see dogs in malls, subways... everywhere! I don't frequent Kmarts or Walmarts or whatever that often. You have to go out to the 'burbs to find those and I live right downtown. I've really been paying attention to dogs in public places lately and they are everywhere.

But what's the worst that can happen? You're asked to leave the store with your pooch. You learn your lesson and don't bring 'em in there again -- and maybe have the pup leave a little present out front for the owner, I'M TOTALLY KIDDING!

So thumbs up to the puppy purse. Its convenient, practical and as long as the pup likes being in it... it's adorable. And I'm sure it'll be nice to get the dog out of sight for a bit. Poms are so cute people will be stopping you everywhere to pet it! I know that's what I do when I see a cute dog!!!

 

Carriers are, in a word, obnoxious. Dogs have legs, let them use them.

 

See! I told you! Why do people stereotype this? Is it b/c of the Paris Hilton idea of a dog accessory?

Whatever. It's your dog. Do what you want.

 

Dude, I'm TOTALLY getting a puppy purse carrier thing. Why not? I get flack all the time about it too... like "its a dog, let it use its legs"... which we both OBVIOUSLY will do... but I think the difference between us and some other dog owners is that we are getting TOY BREEDS. I don't know about your little muffin, but mine will be 5 pound MAX weight full grown. I plan on bringing my Pom everywhere. And who's to say the pup won't totally love it either?! Knowing how attached to their owners these pups get, they'll be happy to go everywhere you go.

First of all, I have three TOY dogs. Briteday does too. We know the breeds and the fact that they love their owners and do get very attached to them - more than any breeds I've been around. It's part of why I love them. They're companions through and through. The bottom line is, though, that dogs do NOT belong everywhere. People are allergic, places that serve food or sell food for humans are other places I'd not bring a dog or want to see another dog. I love dogs, but not everyone does.

I have NO problem with dog strollers or carriers or clothes used PROPERLY- Beau has sweaters for outside. He gets cold very easily. He also has some fun outfits as he really enjoys dressing up. My other papillons don't because they hate it. (Actually I'm not sure about Summer yet) I have an old arthritic sheltie who can hardly walk nowadays. If we are going somewhere then the options for her are either not to go or to ride in a wagon/stroller. I see no problems with that.

What *I* don't like as a fellow toy dog owner is the idea that toy dogs are allowed to go everywhere so long as they are in a carrier. I wouldn't dream of taking my dogs places where they weren't usually allowed.

*I* get flack for what other people with toy dogs do and when people break the rules. Everyone lumps toy owners together and it's because many owners do not treat them like dogs. I'm not saying you don't, I just wish for you to think of the image you will give off with your dogs.

If you ask the store beforehand and your dog is well behaved and not aggressive, then I think it'd be fine. Don't assume everyone will be okay with your dog just because it's small. If the place doesn't allow dogs, then just don't bring them. There's an awesome little mall here with a doggy boutique in it that sells beds, clothes, collars, treats, good dog food, toys, dog items, etc in it. The entire mall allows dogs, with the exception of few stores. So we bring them there. They allow any kind of dog, regardless of size. Other places like Target or a grocery store are places that dogs other than service dogs really just don't belong, imo.

In short, attitudes like this:

If it's not safe, or not allowed, I'm carrying her. I really don't care if some close-minded, judgmental, holier-than-though person is snickering or thinks it's obnoxious.

really bother me.

My 2 cents

 

Wow! Thanks for all of the many differing opinions everyone... didn't know I'd be starting such a hot button topic

On one hand, I do see why many toy owners get a bad rap for sneaking their dogs in to places they aren't allowed. I too have seen some obnoxious things happen, and don't really agree that small dogs should get more priveleges than large ones. It would be lovely if the US were more like European countries and ALL well behaved dogs would be welcome in public places.

One the other hand, I'm still leaning on the side that having a carrier would be very convenient. I, much like PrettyPommy, also live in a large urban area (Seattle). Dogs are allowed on public transportation (busses) as long as they are in carriers... but the idea of carrying both a purse and a sherpa carrier around with me on the bus seems really cumbersome and inconvenient. I don't really see the point in doing things the hard way just so that people don't judge me for having a dog carrier/handbag.

 

I think in the end a purse or a stroller is like any other 'tool' used in caring for dogs. They can be used well and then they can be misused. The reason I jump at the mention of a purse is that I have people who come up to me walking my papillon and tell me they want one to go into their purse. The idea that these dogs can be viewed as accessories really bugs me. I don't know how many people only have run ins with this kind of toy owner, and I think it's sad. These are wonderful, capable breeds that are just as much a dog as any other. So I strive all the time to change peoples' opinions of toy dogs and toy owners.

I hate hearing that 'toys are nasty little ankle biters and their owners never train them' so I try my best to show my dogs as dogs.

That doesn't mean I change my entire ownership to suit everyone else. (I admit to dressing Beau up on occasion! Some peopel get really huffy about that, but I think it is fun in moderation) But I think everyone should abide by the rules.

If you ask and know that it is acceptable where you are taking the dog in the purse, then I see nothing wrong with it. Would I carry mine in a purse? Probably not, but there is more than one way to take care of a dog. Just make sure you're doing so in a responsible way that respects others and the places you are visiting.

 

I believe that as long as your dog doesnt mind it, im sure you will take into consideration whether a dog is welcome somewhere or not, your not trying to find a way to sneak them in regardless . I use to carry my puppy around in a doggy purse for the first few months, she absolutely loved it. she would climb into it even if it was just sitting on the floor in my house. I used it when we went on a plane, the bus, and into some stores that never said they were not allowed. I know better than to bring her any where that food is sold. I couldnt stand to leave her home alone cuz I missed her too much, i wasnt showing her off as an accesories, most the time ppl couldnt even tell she was there. and having to just carry one thing was much easier!! make sure there are more pockets on the outside so you can store some of your own things, like a wallet etc. for convenience and just to have you lil one close to you i think it is a great idea if they like being in it. my lil one has grown up a lil bit, a whole 6lbs!! and she doesnt like to sit still for that long ne more and she can stay home longer by herself so i dont use one now. but do wut ever works for you!!

 

I dislike these...because as mentioned it is making dogs look like an accessory and they really are not.I cringe when I see people (actually they always seem to be "pampered" looking women) carrying small dogs in a purse.

Recently me,my daughter and sister were in the food court in the mall having lunch and a table across from us there was a girl with a little chihuahua ON THE TABLE (BTW it was dressed in pink dog clothes) and she was feeding it french fries.I was rather annoyed and was going to make a complaint,but she ended up leaving shortly after anyway.

Dogs are allowed in many places downtown (I am in Canada too) as long as they are well behaved or carried.But they are NOT allowed in the malls,unless they are service dogs.But people have these dog carriers and they try to hide their dogs in them,so they can take them everywhere.Paris Hilton has made having toy breeds a "cool thing to do" and a "trend".

I am not saying ALL toy breed owners are like this...but alot are around here and it is quite sick.

Dogs have legs and can walk.
Personally if you have to run errands and things,then leave your dog at home or with a friend...but do not take your dog places where they don't belong.

 

I'd much rather someone bring their tiny toy breed to the vet in a cute bag than the people who let their tiny toys roam all over the waiting room on retractable leashes.

It's not an option for me. My "toy" is almost 17 pounds, so carrying him in a bag, I'd need to visit a chiropractor every week.

 

I can see your need - if you are taking the bus then yeah, a carrier would probably make things easier for you. I don't use one, so I can't help you there.

I ended up buying a dog car seat for my SUV. People made fun of me for it! However, this was a necessity. I will not let my puppy roam free in my car (I hate when people do this, it is so dangerous) and the harness seatbelts wouldn't work as she is a small dog and was scratching my leather seats. So, I bought the Outward Hound car seat so now she is strapped in, protected, can see out the windows and no longer bothers me when I am driving. My puppy also wears tshirts and sweaters sometimes too. She's 11 pounds and we are having the coldest winter here in recent history. People will always make stupid assumptions, but whatever - if I find a pink tshirt at Target for $2 and it's 18 degrees here, then I'm buying it and Chloe will wear it and be more comfortable on our walks. She's not an accessory to me!

Good luck!

 

I remember dressing up my Trixie when I was little, painting her pawnails and carring her around in a gigantic purse my mom had, Dressing her up in clothes my gramma made for her and having a bit of fun before Paris Hilton was even born. I think its silly to judge everyone as a Paris hilton wannabe. Its fun..Its safe..and my dog used to love it.

I have the outward hound carseat too

 

I am not judging everyone as a Paris wannabe.It just seems that the majority of toy dog owners here are like that.Newfoundland is a small place BTW.Again the key word there is "it seems".I didn't say they all were.

Also in cold weather,I have no problem with clothing on dogs...even if it is pink and cutesy.I seen the most adorable winter coats in the stores for dogs!!!! And being a fan of camo,I love the camoflauge clothing you can get for dogs.

As for the car seats for dogs,I am all for them! They are safe for both the dog and the person.The dog is not all over the place and in the owner's lap when they are driving.

 

I would much rather see a toy breed in a purse than in a hot or cold car.
Toys are often much more sensitive to temperature extremes, and we all know our dogs would much prefer to accompany us on our errands then be locked in a crate.

Also, it seems that toys, more then other dogs, have socialization issues because they tend to spend their entire lives with limited exposure to the outside world, other people, etc.

You may not like treating the dog like a fashion accessory, but the dog probably does. It adds variety to it's often limited world.

 

Also, it seems that toys, more then other dogs, have socialization issues because they tend to spend their entire lives with limited exposure to the outside world, other people, etc.

Where did you figure that one out?

My toy dogs are out all the time. We take them to stores where dogs are allowed, we do obedience work weekly, we are working on a TDI for Summer and I'd love to do more with her, we show, they go to Jo's school to pick her up, we go to the park, we go for walks, etc etc etc. Yes, there are some special challenges with owning a tiny breed, but they are still dogs. It's not all that much different owning one versus a larger breed.

As we've all said, just make sure the dog is allowed before you take it somewhere.

 

There are also people who are allergic to dogs- not just the "I can't be in yourhome," but I-cannot-be-near-one-period people who are on shots and meds and very, very allergic. I have a friend like this, and when he's been in lines with people who have animals in carriers (banks/stores) they bother him.

But again, that goes back to bring responsible with where one chooses to take the animal.

 

I think we can all agree that people with toy dogs shouldn't take advantage and sneak them into places where they are unwanted or unwelcome. Breaking any sort of law makes you look bad, and when it's a dog law it unfortunately reflects poorly on your dog and it's breed as well.

However, I just wanted to remind y'all that I was mainly talking about using it as an alternate to a larger and bulkier crate when taking the dog on the bus and other public transportation to and from work. This is totally legal and accepted here in my city, and lots of other places do welcome dogs as well. I also said that 99% of the time the dog would be walked on a leash and harness.

I don't see why my question brought up such a strong reaction and stereotype of a froo froo Paris Hilton worshiper? I'm here on the forum just like the rest of you, trying to make sure that I give my dog the best life possible and researching food, training, toys, etc. I don't really see the big difference between a crate carrier and a purse carrier when transporting a dog somewhere... yet I know this thread wouldn't have gotten as heated if I asked about the crate type