1. Know Your Terrain: Choosing the Right Tire Type
Your dog’s comfort and your ease of use depend a lot on the type of tires on your stroller. Here’s how to choose:
EFA (Solid Plastic + Rubber Feel)
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Lightweight and low-maintenance
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Great for city streets and paved paths
- Large wheels handle off-road, too
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Doesn’t puncture
Pneumatic (Air-Filled)
Good for off-road or bumpy surfaces
Offers some shock absorption and ride comfort
Requires regular pressure checks and potential repair
Key terrain tips:
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In cities and paved paths: any tire works.
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Off-road: pneumatic is better at shock absorption, though EFA is still robust.
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Beach walks? Choose plastic rim/spoke wheels (avoid metal to prevent rust) and rinse after sandy outings.
- The larger the wheels, the more comfort.
👉 Read more in this detailed article about stroller tires
2. Buying a Second‑Hand Stroller
A used stroller is a great budget pick—but inspect carefully:
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Check scams: low price, no reviews, pushy sellers or obscure payment methods—avoid these.
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Ask smart questions: why selling, condition of folding mechanism, wheel alignment, fabric wear.
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Spare parts matters: pick brands (like InnoPet) that still supply wheels, covers, or axles.
Prepare the stroller before use: wash and dry the cabin thoroughly to remove odors/hair and help your dog adjust .
👉 Dive deeper: Secondhand Dog Stroller
3. Train Your Dog to Use It
Making it fun and stress-free:
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Let them sniff and explore—first folded, then unfolded.
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Add comfort: blanket, treats, familiar toys .
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Encourage sitting with praise, then practice short indoor rides before heading outside.
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Always attach the harness and close the cabin securely.
👉 Step-by-step: 8 Steps to Get Your Dog Used to a Stroller
4. Managing Pneumatic (Air) Tyres
Why you should care: Air tyres offer comfort but risk flats.
Tips for care & repair:
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Check pressure: Squeeze tyres—don’t overinflate in heat and don’t run them low.
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Prevent punctures: Clean debris from tread; use Slime sealant inside tubes.
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Fix flat: For small holes (<3 mm), sealant works; larger damage? Patch kits or replace inner tube; worst case: replace the wheel.
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Storage: Keep indoors to protect rubber.
👉 Get full details: How to Avoid & Repair a Flat Tyre
5. Beach Ready: Tips & Tricks
Key precautions: Sand, salt, and moisture can be tough on wheels and materials.
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Use larger plastic-rim wheels, avoid rust-prone metal wheels.
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Rinse and thoroughly dry after beach trips to prevent rust and squeaks.
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On loose sand, tilt the stroller to avoid damaging the front wheel.
👉 Learn more: Taking Your Dog Stroller on the Beach
