FREE PRACTICAL LEARNING • ONE STEP AT A TIME

New to dog wheelchairs? You can learn this.

Start with the basics and move at your own pace: choose the right support, use the correct measuring method, understand fit problems and help your dog build confidence safely.

START HERE

Start with these four simple steps

You do not need technical knowledge or an account. Learn one part at a time and return whenever you need it.

CHARITY LOAN CHAIR

Has a charity already loaned you a wheelchair?

Keep the Chair ID and case reference with you. Use the charity setup route first so your Fit Check and follow-up stay connected to the same loan.

OFFICIAL WALKIN' PETS RESOURCES

1. Watch the wheelchair first

If your chair is Walkin' Wheels, use the matching official instruction resources. If it is another make, use that maker's instructions instead.

WALKIN' WHEELS

All wheelchair videos

Mini, Small, Medium, Medium/Large, Large and front attachments.

Best starting point if you are not sure which Walkin' Wheels instruction video you need.

WALKIN' WHEELS

Mini wheelchair

Mini B1, B2, B3 and B4 instruction videos and front attachments.
WALKIN' WHEELS

Wheel assembly

Building and changing 4, 8, 12 and 16 inch wheel assemblies.

If an embedded video is unavailable, the official page still includes the written parts list and assembly notes.

WALKIN' WHEELS

Medium wheelchair

Medium wheelchair instruction and front wheel attachment.
STEP 2

Measure for the wheelchair you choose

Never mix manufacturers' sizing systems. Use the exact current measuring method for the maker you choose.

STEP 3

Fit & alignment

Check the whole setup, not just the wheels: body position, frame alignment, width/clearance, harness position, sling or leg rings and feet.

COMMON PROBLEMS

What does the problem look like?

Use these as observation guides. If the exact maker matters, identify it before changing settings.

⬆️ Chair looks too high

Pause walking and check natural body position. Do not shorten struts or guess a new height until the maker/model is known.

⬇️ Dog is sagging / chair looks low

Check whether the body support is positioned correctly and whether the dog is hanging heavily in it.

🐾 Feet are dragging

Dragging can damage paws. Work out whether those legs should be walking and whether maker-approved support/protection is needed.

↔️ Pulling sideways

Compare both sides, harness/sling position and whether the dog is centred on a flat non-slip surface.

🛞 Wheel rubbing

Stop repeated rubbing. Check centring and maker-approved width/setup rather than bending structural parts.

⚠️ Tipping / unstable

Repeated tipping means the setup or support level needs review. Side/rear photos and a short walking video are useful.

🪢 Harness keeps slipping

Check orientation, clips, flat straps and centring. Do not simply keep tightening the harness.

🔴 Red marks / rubbing

Stop and inspect the contact area. Significant sores, pain or repeated rubbing need appropriate professional review.

STEP 4

First walks & confidence

Some dogs move straight away and others need time. Do not force a frightened dog. Keep first sessions short, calm and positive on a flat non-slip surface.

Front, quad & amputee support

Do not treat every dog like a rear-wheelchair case. Front support, quad support and amputee/tripod dogs may need a different support strategy or adapted sling/seat.

Everyday disabled-dog care

Skin & comfort check

Check under the chest harness, behind the front legs, belly/groin, hips and rear supports. Persistent redness, broken skin, swelling or obvious discomfort needs attention.

Toileting & rest

Many dogs can toilet while correctly supported, but the support must leave the area clear. Dogs also need comfortable rest out of the wheelchair and should not sleep in it.

Make home easier

Use non-slip routes, safe thresholds, enough turning space, clear doorways, accessible water and a comfortable resting area.

BUDGET / SECOND-HAND / UNKNOWN

Not sure what wheelchair you have?

Do not copy another brand's instructions. Identify the chair first, then use safe general checks while you find the correct instructions.

1. Identify the chairLook for a maker name, logo, label, model number, instruction leaflet or original order page.
2. Check the basicsThe dog should be supported without obvious twisting, pinching, wheel contact or rubbing.
3. Ask before guessingIf the make is unknown, use the Mobility Guide or fitting support rather than borrowing another maker's measurements.