Everything you're wondering about the Kangapooch dog sling — sizing, safety, travel, care, shipping, and returns. Can't find your answer? Email info@kangapooch.com.
What exactly is the Kangapooch?
It's a hands-free sling carrier for small dogs — a soft hammock you wear across your body. Your dog rides high against your chest, you get both hands back, and everyone stays calm. Hand-finished in the San Francisco Bay Area from organic cotton and ultralight denim.
What dogs is it for?
Small dogs under 10 lbs — Chihuahuas, Yorkies, toy Poodles, Maltese, Pomeranians, small mixes, and puppies of small breeds. If your dog is over 10 lbs, we honestly don't recommend a sling; it stops being comfortable or safe for either of you.
Why is the sling sized to me and not my dog?
Because you're the one wearing it. The pouch fits any under-10-lb dog; what changes between sizes is the strap length around your torso. Sizes run XS (28"–32" chest) to XXL (48"–52"). Our 30-second Size Finder matches you automatically.
How do I measure myself?
Wrap a tape measure around your chest just under your arms, over light clothing. That number maps straight to our six sizes: XS 28"–32", S 32"–36", M 36"–40", L 40"–44", XL 44"–48", XXL 48"–52".
What if I get the size wrong?
We'll exchange it free within 30 days, as long as it's unused. Getting the size right matters more to us than the first sale. See Returns & Exchanges.
Two of us will share one sling — what size?
Size to the larger-framed person; the smaller person wears it slightly lower and it stays safe. If you trade off often, the fit is best with one sling each.
Is a dog sling actually safe?
The Kangapooch's carry position is vet-reviewed (natural lying posture, no strain on joints), and the construction is third-party tested — 10,000 lift cycles at 10 lbs and a 24-hour static hold at 30 lbs. A built-in safety clasp tethers to your dog's collar or harness, and a snap keeps the opening secure.
My dog squirms — any tips?
Clip the safety clasp to a harness (not just a collar), keep the snap closed, and keep one hand on your dog for the first few outings until riding becomes routine. Most dogs settle within a week.
Won't it hurt my shoulder on long walks?
Under 10 lbs, spread across a wide strap and your back, most people find it easier than a shoulder bag. The trick is wearing the pouch high — your dog should sit at your waist-to-belly level, not at your hip.
Can my dog ride facing out?
Head and front paws out, body in — that's the classic Kangapooch pose and exactly how it's designed to be used. Fully inside works too when they want to nap or hide.
Where can I take it?
Anywhere small dogs are welcome: cafés with patios, outdoor markets, vet visits (much calmer than a crate), city errands, and travel days. Stores that ask for dogs to be "carried" are usually happy with a sling — ask first, as policies vary.
Can I use it on a plane?
The sling itself isn't an airline-approved carrier — most US airlines require an under-seat carrier for takeoff and landing. Where it shines is everything around the flight: the airport, the layover, and arriving. Pack both.
Can I use it for a puppy before vaccinations?
Yes — vets commonly recommend carrying pre-vaccination puppies so they can see the world without touching the ground. The sling makes those daily socialization outings effortless. (Confirm timing with your own vet.)
How do I get my dog used to it?
Lay the sling flat, drop treats in, and let them explore it as a bed first. Then short wears at home, then a five-minute walk, then the coffee run. The warmth and heartbeat proximity do the persuading.
How do I wash it?
Hand wash in cool water with mild detergent, hang to dry. The organic cotton softens with every wash — slings tend to get better with age.
What's it made of?
Organic cotton and ultralight denim — the whole sling weighs just 6.6 oz (187 g). No stiff frames, no synthetic padding.
How fast will it ship?
Orders ship from New York within 1–3 business days; US delivery typically takes 3–7 business days ($8.99 USPS First Class). We also ship to Canada, the UK, France, and Australia. Details on our Shipping Policy.
What's your return policy?
Unused items in original condition: 30 days, no drama. Size exchanges are free — we cover the replacement shipping. Full details on Returns & Exchanges. Ready to find your size? Try the Size Finder or go straight to the sling — $99, four colors.
