By Dylan Murphy
Best Dog Hiking Backpacks
Going on an outdoor adventure with your fur friend is one of the best activities you can do. But, it can also require you to bring more stuff that will be helpful for both you and your dog. For that, dog backpacks are made to lessen your load and add excitement to your dog by giving him a bag of his own.
Choosing the right dog pack for your fur friend might require you to consider a lot of things. You need to know the correct sizes for your dog’s measurements and features that will best fit the kind of activity you’ll do. Do also consider the weight of your dog, the capacity he can carry, and many more.
It is also highly advisable to visit a vet so you will know the best backpack you can purchase for your dog.
Comparison Table
To help you look for the right dog pack, here is the list of the best dog hiking backpacks you can choose from for your fur friend.
| Dog Packs | Custom fit | Reflective trim | Colors | Water-resistant | Material | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
OneTigris Dog Hiking Backpack | Yes | No | Brown, black, tan | No | Cotton Canvas | $$ |
ThinkPet Outdoor Dog Backpack Reflective Saddle Bag | Yes | Yes | Blue, Pink, Yellow, Black | Yes | lightweight Oxford fabric | $$ |
Ruffwear Approach Dog Pack | Yes | Yes | Orange Poppy, Campfire orange, green | Yes | Nylon Polyester | $$$ |
Lifeunion Dog Saddlebags | Yes | Yes | Blue, Neon green, orange, red | Yes | polyester | $ |
Outward Hound Daypack Dog Backpack | Yes | Yes | Brown, green, blue | No | Mesh, Nylon | $ |
Go Fresh 2-in-1 Dog Hiking Backpack and Harness | Yes | Yes | Black | Yes | polyester | $ |
Mountainsmith K-9 Dog Pack | Yes | Yes | Blue, Red | Yes | 420d HD Nylon Rip-Stop PU Carbonate 630d Nylon PU Carbonate 210d Nylon Embossed Liner | $$ |
Wellver Adjustable Dog Saddle Backpack | Yes | Yes | Blue, Digital Camouflage, Gray +Black, Green + Gray, Jungle Camouflage, Red + Black, Yellow + Gray | No | breathable middle mesh and soft mesh | $ |
Product Reviews
OneTigris Dog Hiking Backpack
Our Verdict
If you are looking for a dog backpack that will also fit your taste in vintage style, consider having OneTigris Dog Hiking Backpack. OneTigris Dog Hiking Backpack is known for its quality cotton canvas fabric, making it tough and durable. There are three straps, one goes around the dog’s neck, and the other two go under his belly, providing proper weight distribution.
The dog pack has zippered compartments on each side with extra pockets so you can use it if you need to carry any gear for your dogs, such as food or equipment. It also comes with two metal d-strings, front and back, that you can use for attaching the leash.
You can use the top handle of the backpack to control the dog anytime you want. However, you shouldn’t use it for lifting your dog. Using the top handle to lift your dog can be too dangerous and can cause serious harm to your fur friend because it puts too much pressure on his ribcage.
Sizes:
- Size M – Neck Girth 17”-23.5’’/43cm-60cm; Chest Girth 25”-31’’/63.5cm-79cm; Back Length 9.8’’/25cm
- Size L – Neck Girth 21”-31.5”/53cm-80cm; Chest Girth 29”-36”/74cm-91cm; Back Length 9.8”/25cm
ThinkPet Outdoor Dog Backpack Reflective Saddle Bag
Our Verdict
ThinkPet Outdoor Dog Backpack Reflective Saddle Bag is fitted out with highly visible reflective strips. Reflective strips are important because they make it easy for your dog to be seen in the dark to help avoid accidents. Aside from that, it also has big pockets for foods and supplies that you can use during your whole trip.
The bags are also detachable and can turn into a dog harness that you can use to reduce the weight of the bags for your dog. The dog backpack is made from lightweight Oxford fabric and has waterproof zippers that prevent water from going inside the bag, making it perfect for outdoor activities.
Sizes:
- S: neck 14.125 – 17.375 inch, chest girth 17.75 -20.0 inch, length 7.125 inch
- M: neck 15.75 -19.625 inch, chest girth 20.5 -23.625 inch, length 7.875 inch
- L: neck 19.625 – 24.875 inch, chest girth 24.875 – 30.375 inch, length 8.25 inch
- XL: neck 22.0 – 25.875 inch, chest girth 28.375 – 35.875 inch, length 8.625 inch
Ruffwear Approach Dog Pack
Our Verdict
The Ruffwear Approach Dog Pack is a good dog backpack for traveling with your friend because of its great functionality. Ruffwear Approach Dog Pack has a weight-forward saddlebag design, which means that carrying this bag ensures comfort for your dog. Plus, the streamlined design and lightweight materials make it perfect to use for outdoor adventures. In addition, the adjustable padded straps make an ideal fit and increase comfort for lifting your dog.
If you decided to put on a leash, the Ruffwear Approach Dog Pack has two points of leash connections. It also has a reflective trim that allows you to easily see your dog, especially in places where light is limited.
Sizes:
- XS: girth 17-22 IN (43-56 CM)
- S: girth 22 – 27 inches (56-69 CM)
- M: girth 27-32 IN (69-81 CM)
- L/XL: girth:32-42 IN (81-107 CM)
Lifeunion Dog Saddlebags
Our Verdict
Lifeunion Dog Saddlebags will give you a wide range of colors that will be perfect for your outdoor escapade with your fur friend. It has green, red, orange, and neon available. All colors are functional due to their brightness and high visibility. Each dog backpack also comes with four reflective stripes that glow in the dark.
The material used for Lifeunion Dog Saddlebags is polyester and is water-resistant and durable, making it last long even if you use it on tough areas during a hike. The cross-chest and underbelly strap designs also make the dog pack’s straps easier to adjust.
Sizes:
- S: girth 22.8-25.2 IN , Neck 14.2 – 15.1 IN , Length 7.66 IN
- M: girth 27.6-31.9 IN , Neck 20 – 23.6 IN , Length 9.76 IN
- L: girth:31.5-34.3 IN , Neck 24 – 30.7 IN , Length 10.8 IN
Outward Hound Daypack Dog Backpack
Our Verdict
Outward Hound Daypack Dog Backpack is one of the best dog backpacks out there because of its lightweight and convenience. It has two storage compartments on each side with large spaces for your essentials such as food, water, and other accessories.
Outward Hound Daypack Dog Backpack also ensures the comfort that it will bring to your dog, and because of that, it has a breathable mesh fabric and adjustable straps for a custom fit. The colors are also highly reflective, so you can always see it even in low visibility areas.
Sizes:
- MD: girth 21-27 IN (53-68 CM)
- LG: girth:28-32 IN (71-81 CM)
Go Fresh 2-in-1 Dog Hiking Backpack and Harness
Our Verdict
Go Fresh 2-in-1 Dog Hiking Backpack and Harness is ideal for hiking and other outdoor activities. This dog backpack comes with a padded harness even if you are not using the saddlebags. In addition, you can easily remove the bags with its quick-release snap-click design.
The saddles bags has two side zip pockets, two sectioned zip compartments, and one inner pocket for the water bottle. The harness has a D-ring leash attachment. Go Fresh 2-in-1 Dog Hiking Backpack and Harness also has a reflective trim so you can spot your dog during the nighttime easily.
Sizes:
- S: For Pets 16″–26″ Girth; 25–50 lbs
- M: 24″–36″ Girth, 45–80 lbs
- L : For Pets 34″–46″ Girth; 75+ lbs
Mountainsmith K-9 Dog Pack
Our Verdict
Are you looking for the best dog backpacks for your K=9? Then, Mountainsmith K-9 Dog Pack got you. This dog backpack is designed for both comfort and functionality. Mountainsmith K-9 Dog Packs are usually the backpack for hiking with your fur friend because of their features. These are the 4-point adjustable chest harness, non-slip buckle system, independently adjustable back harness, mesh panels, and perforated EVA foam. All these features make it comfortable for your dog, even on long hikes.
You won’t even have to worry about getting wet during your adventures because the pack is water-resistant. The saddlebags are equipped with large compartments and added zippered pockets that you can use to store more essentials for your dog. In addition, reflective trims are placed on the front, rear, and side panels to ensure safety during nighttime.
Sizes:
- SM : 20″–30″ (51-76 cm) Girth; 25–45 lbs
- MD : 24″–40″ (61-101 cm) Girth, 40–80 lbs
- LG : 32″–44″ (81-111 cm) Girth; 80-120 lbs
Wellver Adjustable Dog Saddle Backpack
Our Verdict
Make going for walks with your dog a comfortable one by using Wellver Adjustable Dog Saddle Backpack. This bag is made from soft mesh that gives your dog a relaxed and comfortable feeling, especially during warm weather. The pack also features padded straps that are adjustable and saddles bags that have ample space for your dog essentials such as pet toys, dog foods, and a water bottle.
The backpack is washable and durable that can last for a long time. Make sure to use it properly and don’t carry too much weight to avoid giving your dog discomfort.
Sizes:
- S: 22.83-25.59”(58-65cm)
- M: 26.38-30.71”(67-78cm)
- L: 32.28-38.58”(82-98cm)
- XL: 33.86-42.91”(86-109cm)
Buying Guide
Capacity
The very reason for buying a dog backpack is to be able to carry your dog’s essentials. For this reason, you have to consider whether you are using it for a multiday hike or you are just using it for a day trip or walks in the park. Commonly, you will need a 25L capacity for a bag if you are going for a multiday hike. You will want to have more room for water, food, and other essentials that your dog will need during the trek.
For shorter hikes or just a walk on the park hikes, you can have a 5 to 10L capacity where you can put enough food and water for your dog. Do consider your dog’s carrying ability and overall health in choosing the capacity for the dog’s backpack. Your dog’s comfort will still be the number one concern before buying the perfect dog backpack.
Fit & Comfort
Having a perfectly fitted dog backpack for your fur friend is just as important as having the right size. You will have to consider this carefully, especially when going on a long hike. Make sure that the pack will not slip down to avoid discomfort. The dog backpack should also not be too tight to prevent chafing and hot spots.
Look for a dog backpack that has padded straps and mesh material. These features will bring comfort to your dog and help avoid overheating and protect your fur friend from having chafings.
Sizing
Knowing the size of the dog pack you will buy is an essential thing you should consider. The right size will ensure great comfort and avoid unnecessary problems for your dog and you. Unfortunately, not all manufacturers follow the same measurements for different sizes, so you might want to carefully read the sizes each manufacturer has.
The most important measurements you will need from your dog are his chest girth, body length, neck, and weight. These are all important for knowing how much capacity your dog can carry and what kind of dog backpack to purchase by considering if the straps will fit your dog’s measurement.
Weight
The weight of a dog backpack is usually two pounds or less. However, the weight that you will let your dog carry should not exceed more than 25% of your dog’s weight. Many factors must also be considered for this, such as the dog’s health, age, and fitness level. It is safer to let your dog be checked by a veterinarian first before considering going on a hike with a dog backpack on his back.
Load Dispersion
Not all dog packs are saddlebags. So if you have the chance to choose, make sure to select the backpack that has saddlebags. Saddlebags will help avoid having injuries by evenly distributing the weights on both sides of the dog’s body. Just make sure to even loads on the saddlebags to prevent discomfort and, worse, injury for your dog during your hike.
Durability
Most dog packs are made from nylon and polyester to ensure durability, especially on the leash attachment points and hook areas. Ensure to double-check these areas and test the backpack before purchasing by letting your dog wear the pack and try to pick your dog up to see if the stitches and straps are secured.
Color
Choosing bright colors will help you in spotting your dog quickly, especially during nighttime. Colors like neon, orange, bright blue, and yellow are some of the most common and perfect colors for your dog’s pack. Also, choose a dog backpack that has reflective trims and stripes. These reflective trims glow in the dark and let you spot your dog easily in low visibility areas. This feature will also help prevent accidents and such.
Waterproof
If you plan to use this dog backpack for your dog on long and far hikes, you have to ensure that the dog backpack you will buy is water-resistant. Nylon and polyester are usually the fabric used for making dog backpacks. Nylon and polyester have water-resistant abilities, which are suitable for long hikes.
Pricing
Expect to spend $75 to $100 for durable dog backpacks. Prices will also vary depending on the size, colors, and features you need in a dog backpack, especially if you use it for a multiday hike.
FAQs
What Should I Put in My Dog’s Backpack for Hiking?
What you put on your dog’s backpack depends on how much your dog can carry. If you have a small dog, you can put small treats, waste bags, and small items that they can comfortably carry. If you have larger dogs and more room, you can put a water bottle, food, bowl, and other dog essentials that will be useful along the hike. Ensure that it will not exceed 25% of your dog’s weight for highly active dogs and 10% for older dogs.
Are Backpacks Safe for Dogs?
Dog backpacks are certainly safe for dogs. However, there are many things to consider, such as weight, correct measurement of size, and capacity. These considerations will ensure that your dog’s backpack will bring him good and not harm.
What Is the Best Dog Backpack?
There are many do packs available in the market, so how will you choose the right one? First, it must have the perfect size for your dog’s measurement. You must never forget that the sizes of a dog backpack are different for each manufacturer, so you have to make sure to double-check their website.
Second, it must be adjustable. Like how you want your backpack to be flexible, it is also the same for your fur friend. Adjustability allows more room for comfort, especially when your dog gained or lost weight. Last but not least, it must be vet-approved. Vet-approved packs will give you the peace of mind that the pack will be helpful for your dog and will not bring any injuries to him.
Why Should I Get A Dog Backpack?
A dog backpack’s primary purpose may be so your dog can bring its essentials, but it’s a lot more than that. Letting your dog carry a dog backpack can also help with his physical health as a form of exercise, especially during winter where it’s freezing outside.
Dog packs that have high visibility can also help you spot your dog in darker conditions. In addition to that, having a dog pack will also help with your dog’s mental health as it helps them be more focused and feel like they are doing a job.
Conclusion
Overall, choosing the best pack for your fur friend is essential for both of you, especially if you are going on a hike. If you are going for a short hike with your dog, consider having PAWABOO Dog Backpack, OneTigris Dog Hiking Backpack, Outward Hound Daypack Dog Backpack, and Wellver Adjustable Dog Saddle Backpack. These packs have enough capacity and space to carry your dog’s essentials.
And if you are going for long hikes or multi-day treks with your fur friend, Mountainsmith K-9 Dog Pack, Go Fresh 2-in-1 Dog Hiking Backpack and Harness, ThinkPet Outdoor Dog Backpack Reflective Saddle Bag, Ruffwear Approach Dog Pack, and Lifeunion Dog Saddlebags. These packs are equipped with water-resistant materials and are equipped to carry more gears for long hikes.