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Bring Your Dog Backpacking | Best Dog Backpacks for Carrying Your Canine
Dog backpacks are a great accessory for owners who like to carry their pets with them. Unlike a backpack for dogs, these dog backpacks are worn by humans with pups carried inside. This method for carrying your dog is more comfortable than other options because it balances the weight of the dog on your back. A dog backpack allows you to bring your dog along for active outings such as hikes, urban excursions, or when running errands where it’s not ideal to have them underfoot or on a leash.
We’ve combed through scores of products to find the best, most comfortable, most durable, and most affordable dog backpacks for you to strap on the next time you bring your pup along on an adventure. Read on for our top choices.
Overall Best Dog Backpack
- Roomy
- Breathable
- Secure
- Sturdy
- Supportive
- Stylish
The PetAmi Deluxe Pet Carrier Backpack was designed for maximum comfort for you and your dog. The structure of the backpack is firm and has been constructed so that it will not collapse onto your pet. The back and shoulder straps come with extra-thick padding, and chest and waist buckles add extra support. This backpack is great for traveling through the ai...
Designed with comfort in mind, this sherpa-lined backpack offers mesh windows for optimal airiness while on-the-go.
What Humans Love:Thickly-padded shoulder straps offer owners comfort too, while dual-buckles and multiple pouches make this an adaptable option.
The PetAmi Deluxe Pet Carrier Backpack was designed for maximum comfort for you and your dog. The structure of the backp...
Best Budget Dog Backpack
- Breezy
- Comfortable
- Non-Restricting
- Versatile
- Lightweight
- Easy
The versatile PAWABOO Pet Carrier Backpack backpack can be worn traditionally on your back, or on your front if you or you pup prefer that. It comes in four sizes, but is recommended for dogs weighing less than 17 pounds. More than 2,800 reviewers give this carrier an average of 4/5 stars. Some owners note that getting your dog in this carrier will require s...
The legs- and tail-out design of this backpack lets your dog feel the breeze on their paws while keeping them snug and secure.
What Humans Love:This lightweight pack can be worn on the back or front, while elastic openings and quick release buckles make strapping in your dog a snap.
The versatile PAWABOO Pet Carrier Backpack backpack can be worn traditionally on your back, or on your front if you or y...
Most Durable Dog Backpack
- COZY
- FORM-FITTING
- SUPPORTIVE
- FASHIONABLE
- TOUGH
- MULTIFACETED
The K9 Sport Sack's motto is #nodogleftbehind, and you'll definitely be more inclined to grab your dog and go with this comfy, yet durable backpack. The K9 Sport Sack Air features a rest pad, so your pup can sit comfortably in the backpack with a view out the top. The ventilated sides make this backpack a good breathable option for warmer days or longer trip...
- FASHIONABLE
- TOUGH
- MULTIFACETED
- COZY
- FORM-FITTING
- SUPPORTIVE
The K9 Sport Sack's motto is #nodogleftbehind, and you'll definitely be more inclined to grab your dog and go with this ...
Our Other Favorites
- SOFT
- SUPPORTIVE
- DURABLE
- VERSATILE
Known for its high-quality performance gear, Outward Hound’s PoochPouch is a great front-facing carrier option for dogs up to 20 pounds. Made from water-resistant nylon fabric, the backpack is a breeze to clean. Reviewers note that this carrier is great for long walks and hikes, but don't recommend the front-facing version for bike rides. They also mention...
- DURABLE
- VERSATILE
- SOFT
- SUPPORTIVE
Known for its high-quality performance gear, Outward Hound’s PoochPouch is a great front-facing carrier option for dog...
- Breathable
- Spacious
- Easy to Clean
- Scratch-Resistant
The Texsens Airline-Approved Pet Backpack Carrier features mesh ventilation panels on the sides and front to give your pet a 180-degree view. You can also unzip the backpack to release your pet's head and give them some fresh air while in the carrier — think of it as a little window. It is scratch-resistant and has a removable mat for super easy cleaning. ...
- Easy to Clean
- Scratch-Resistant
- Breathable
- Spacious
The Texsens Airline-Approved Pet Backpack Carrier features mesh ventilation panels on the sides and front to give your p...
- Spacious
- well-ventilated
- Safe
- airline-approved
The Day Tripper Pet Back Pack is perfect for extra-small dog owners who travel frequently. Best suited for cats or dogs weight up to 10 pounds, the backpack includes a built-in water bottle holder and poop-bag dispenser. It's also designed to comply with major airline requirements.
- Safe
- airline-approved
- Spacious
- well-ventilated
The Day Tripper Pet Back Pack is perfect for extra-small dog owners who travel frequently. Best suited for cats or dogs ...
- Well-Protected
- Compact
- Unique
- Eco-Friendly
The Blitzwolf Portable Pet Carrier Backpack features a trendy design that makes this backpack stand out from the rest. The thin, outer-surface film allows for a great view for your pet. There are also mesh screens on the side for air and a panoramic sunroof for even more of a view. The Blitzwolf Portable Pet Carrier Backpack is best suited for dogs 12 pounds...
- Unique
- Eco-Friendly
- Well-Protected
- Compact
The Blitzwolf Portable Pet Carrier Backpack features a trendy design that makes this backpack stand out from the rest. T...
- comfortable
- spacious
- versatile
- three ways to use
The KOPEKS Deluxe Backpack Dog & Cat Carrier is a versatile pet carrier that can be used on wheels or as a backpack. Recommended for pets up to 18 pounds, this dog carrier meets the requirements of most major airlines. The wheeled option allows you to give your back a break and carry your dog or cat without added strain.
- versatile
- three ways to use
- comfortable
- spacious
The KOPEKS Deluxe Backpack Dog & Cat Carrier is a versatile pet carrier that can be used on wheels or as a backpack. Rec...
- Lightweight
- Non-Restricting
- Eye-Catching
- Easy
The COODIA Legs Out Dog Backpack features a front pack, head-out design similar to a baby sling. With zippers on both sides, this backpack is easy to get your dog into and out of. The backpack comes with two options for wear — you can wear it with the straps straight up and down, or cross one over the other for extra support. The straps also adjust to pre...
- Eye-Catching
- Easy
- Lightweight
- Non-Restricting
The COODIA Legs Out Dog Backpack features a front pack, head-out design similar to a baby sling. With zippers on both si...
- Simple
- Snug
- Reversible
- Machine-Washable
TOMKAS Small Dog Tote is more of a cross-body sling than a backpack, designed for dogs weighing less than 10 pounds. It's made of machine-washable, soft fabric that's also reversible. TOMKAS recommends that you wash the pet sling when you receive it. The carrier comes with a safe collar hook that owners should use if their pup is prone to jumping out of carr...
- Reversible
- Machine-Washable
- Simple
- Snug
TOMKAS Small Dog Tote is more of a cross-body sling than a backpack, designed for dogs weighing less than 10 pounds. It'...
- Sherpa-Lined
- Well-Ventilated
- Rugged
- Comfortable
The PetAmi Premium Pet Carrier Backpack has a soft sherpa lining that your dog will love. Dogs will also love the mesh side panels and sun roof for optimal airflow. Humans will appreciate the chest and waist buckles that offer extra support. The backpack comes with a safety strap to secure your pet.
Amazon reviewers love the price of this backpack but...
Amazon reviewers love the price of this backpack but recommend making sure not to carry too large of a dog in this backpack.
- Rugged
- Comfortable
- Sherpa-Lined
- Well-Ventilated
The PetAmi Premium Pet Carrier Backpack has a soft sherpa lining that your dog will love. Dogs will also love the mesh s...
Amazon reviewers love the price of this backpack but recommend making sure not to carry too large of a dog in this backpack.
- Attention-Grabbing
- Secure
- Futuristic
- Lightweight
If you're planning to travel with your pet while also channeling a spaceship, the LEMONDA Pet Carrier Backpack is perfect for you. The space capsule design is cute, functional, and lightweight. Reviewers love how durable and sturdy this backpack is. It is waterproof and can be worn on the front, back, or carried with the handle. Reviewers noted that this bac...
- Futuristic
- Lightweight
- Attention-Grabbing
- Secure
If you're planning to travel with your pet while also channeling a spaceship, the LEMONDA Pet Carrier Backpack is perfec...
What You Need to Know About Dog Backpacks
A dog backpack is a carrier for your small pet that allows you to support them on your back (or, in some cases, front). Dog backpacks come in especially handy if you want to take your dog with you hiking, biking, or on a long walk around your neighborhood. Backpacks can also be great for traveling with your dog, and some enclosed dog backpacks even double as even air travel-approved dog carriers.
Choosing the best dog backpack depends on your dog's size, shape, energy levels, and more. A dog backpack should, first and foremost, be a safe, comfortable carrier for your dog. While some brands make models to support dogs up to around 30 pounds, the majority of backpacks are intended for small dogs, and owners should keep weight limits in mind when purchasing any product.
Some dog backpacks snugly secure your pup's whole body with the exception of the head. Others allow a dog's legs to extend freely through holes. An enclosed dog backpack is another solid option for inclement weather, so long as it's well-ventilated enough for your dog to breathe easily. Lastly, despite the name, some dog backpacks are actually worn on the front, allowing a more comfortable fit for some owners, as well as a closer embrace with their furry friend.
A dog backpack is a carrier for your small pet that allows you to support them on your back (or, in some cases, front). Dog backpacks come in especially handy if you want to take your dog with you hiking, biking, or on a long walk around your neighborhood . Backpacks can also be great for traveling with your dog, and some enclosed dog backpacks even double as even air travel-approved dog carriers.
Choosing the best dog backpack depends on your dog’s size, shape, energy levels, and more. A dog backpack should, first and foremost, be a safe, comfortable carrier for your dog. While some brands make models to support dogs up to around 30 pounds, the majority of backpacks are intended for small dogs, and owners should keep weight limits in mind when purchasing any product.
Some dog backpacks snugly secure your pup’s whole body with the exception of the head. Others allow a dog’s legs to extend freely through holes. An enclosed dog backpack is an another solid option for inclement weather, so long as it’s well-ventilated enough for your dog to breathe easily. Lastly, despite the name, some dog backpacks are actually worn on the front, allowing a more comfortable fit for some owners, as well as a closer embrace with their furry friend.
Measure your dog
You need to know your dog’s height, length, and weight to select the correct size. The dog carrier should be large enough for him to turn around easily and to curl up or stretch out when lying down. Measure his back from the neck, where the collar sits, to the base of the tail. Then add a few inches to that measurement.
Measure shoulder height from the top of the shoulders to the ground. For soft-sided carriers, add two-to-three inches to shoulder height. For hard-sided carriers, add three-to-five inches. Wearable carriers, like backpacks and slings, are meant to be snug and cozy; the dog is supported against your body, not by the carrier itself. Manufacturers list size and weight limits for carriers, and if your dog is between sizes, choose the larger size.
Consider what you’re using the dog carrier for
If it’s only for car trips or to keep your pet contained when out and about with you, consider a carrier that’s lightweight, easy to carry, easy to pack, and comfortable for your dog. If you plan to fly, airlines have stringent regulations for pet carriers, and you should check with the airline. There are size and construction requirements, and you don’t want to get to the gate only to discover that the airline won’t allow the carrier on board.
Choose a style
Dog carriers come in several basic styles, and you should select the type that suits your dog and your activities:
Standard hard-sided carriers are sometimes preferred for their durability and rugged construction. The hard shell offers a bit more protection for your dog and is easy to clean. If you’re traveling by air and your dog is too large for an under-the-seat carrier, some hard-shell carriers are approved by the airlines.
Soft-sided carriers are the most popular style for transporting smaller dogs, and some brands are approved by airlines to go under your seat. These are typically designed to be light and portable, and they fold up for easy storage. Check the size and weight specifications from the manufacturer; many owners say they need to go a size larger.
Wearable dog carriers, mimicking the trend in baby carriers, have become increasingly popular. They keep your hands free and make it easy to take your dog almost anywhere. Of course, they’re only practical for little dogs. Some styles allow your dog to nestle inside or keep his head free to watch the world go by. Wearable carriers come in variety of configurations, include front packs and backpacks. They’re washable, lightweight, and some come with zippers for added security.
Dog carriers aren’t just for the tiniest of Toy Poodles or little, short-legged Dachshunds. Whether you need to take your dog on an airplane or have an older or infirm dog that still enjoys taking walks with you, the right dog carrier is an easy, convenient way to take your canine friend along.
Yes, dog backpacks are safe when used properly based on your dog's needs. Some dogs will prefer their legs out in the carrier, while other pups prefer an enclosed case. Either way, a backpack is perfectly safe as long as it is properly ventilated, the dog isn’t too heavy, and they're placed in the correct position.
It depends on the dog, but many pups like being close to their owners, and a backpack accommodates that. Some backpacks can also protect your dog from cold, snowy, or wet weather.
A dog backpack is a travel carrier for your pet that you wear. Unlike other types of carriers, a backpack is great when you want or need to be hands-free. Many pet owners use them to take their dog with them on hikes, long walks, and bike rides. A backpack can also come in handy in crowded spaces.
Generally, most dog backpacks are made for small dogs, but some can comfortably fit medium dogs of certain sizes and shapes. Always adhere to the stated weight limit when determining if a dog backpack is right for your pet.
Many owners enjoy the hands-free aspects of a dog backpack, not to mention the closeness of their canine companions. However, some dogs won't like being carried upon the back. If that's the case, an alternative dog carrier might be your best bet.
