Bringing your furry friend along on outdoor adventures is one of the best parts of being a dog owner. But bringing your dog along for the trip is not always as easy as it seems. You have to juggle a leash, car keys, phone, and walking your dog – it can be stressful. Whether you’re traveling, hiking, or your dog has mobility issues, having one of the best dog backpacks helps free up your hands so you and your furry companion can live life to the fullest together.
Wouldn’t it be nice if you could comfortably carry your dog with you? StudyFinds did some digging, consulting 10 dog and outdoor lifestyle websites to bring you a consensus list of the best dog backpacks. Our list comprises the seven most frequently listed canine backpacks across these sites. Think we missed a great pooch pack? Feel free to share your thoughts with us in the comments section below!
The List: Best Dog Backpacks, According to Reviews
1. K9 Sport Sack Plus 2
Topping the list of the best dog backpacks is the K9 Sport Sack Plus 2. This dog backpack carrier is a top-of-the-line model designed to make carrying your fur baby easy and comfortable. The K9 Sport Sack Plus 2 works to evenly distribute your dog’s weight and the backpack is available in three sizes for dogs up to 40 pounds, notes Travel + Leisure. When you’re carrying your dog on your back, the weight needs to be evenly distributed so you can safely navigate hikes and walks without falling or losing your balance.
Finding the right balance between weight distribution and comfort is tough with a dog backpack, but the K9 Sport Sack Plus 2 hits the mark. If your dog is comfortable in an upright position, then this backpack is a great choice, adds The Spruce Pets. This backpack makes it easy to take your dog on all types of adventures. And, if your dog suffers from joint issues, you’ll be surprised how comfortable they are in this carrier. The inside padding and cushioning combined with the mesh features make for a smooth and cool ride for your dogs.
People Magazine calls the K9 Sport Sack Plus 2 the best option for medium-sized dogs and owners who love being active outdoors. Whether you’re biking or hiking, the Sport Sack Plus 2 is an especially great option. These backpacks feature adjustable padded straps so you can be just as comfortable carrying your dog as they are riding with you. However, since your dog’s legs are stuck through the front, this pack isn’t the best option for dogs who don’t like wearing clothes. But, if your furry friend loves their clothes as much as their walks, then you’re sure to love this backpack carrier.
2. Kurgo G-Train Dog Backpack Carrier
Jumping into the second spot on the list of the best backpacks for your dogs is the Kurgo G-Train Dog Backpack Carrier. This dog backpack doubles as a backpack and a traditional carrier, explains Cosmopolitan. The small handle on the side means you can flip this backpack and it transforms into a traditional dog carrier. From there, the mesh screens and retractable window ensure your pup is staying cool as you travel around from, touring the sights. The Kurgo G-Train also features a safety tether for clipping your dog’s collar to the interior of your pack, keeping your dog secure and comfortable on the move.
With padded shoulder straps, an adjustable waist belt, and a sternum strap, the Kurgo G-Train makes it easy to evenly distribute your pooch’s weight, so you can bring your dog on all types of outdoor adventures, notes DogTime. This pack also features a waterproof bottom that makes cleaning up any messes quick and easy as well as reflective strips for nighttime safety.
It’s also impressively durable. In fact, The Dodo gave the Kurgo G-Train Dog Backpack Carrier its “Paw of Approval” for its sturdiness and sheer carrying ability. Whether you’re hiking or sightseeing, you can rest assured that your pup is secure and comfy back there. Kurgo produces a variety of carrying and dog backpack solutions that are designed to meet your travel needs. From flying on an airplane to riding a bike around town, Kurgo has you covered.
3. PetAmi Deluxe Pet Carrier Backpack
Barking into the third spot on the list of the top backpack carriers for dogs is the PetAmi Deluxe Pet Carrier Backpack. This dog backpack features side and top access to make loading and unloading your furry companion simple and comfortable, explains USA Today. This dog backpack also features a removable Sherpa liner and large mesh windows to keep your dog extra comfortable with plenty of fresh air as you guys travel in style.
Speaking of traveling in style, the PetAmi features a high-grade polyester design available in nine different colors, notes Westie Vibes. Not only is the material durable and sturdy, but the PetAmi also features a reinforced frame to keep your backpack from collapsing or folding. However, it is worth noting that these carriers are designed for smaller dogs. Although the backpack is durable and well-built, it isn’t recommended for larger dogs. So much for carrying around your German Shepherd.
Still, as The Dodo notes, this backpack is extremely lightweight and comfortable for carrying your dog around. The shoulder straps are designed with extra padding to keep you comfortable while the backpack is in use. The PetAmi Deluxe also features side pockets to keep extras such as water bottles, treats, or a leash and the cozy lined interior makes the perfect little traveling bed for your pup. Talk about traveling in the lap of luxury.
4. YUDODO Reflective Pet Sling Carrier
Styling into the fourth spot on the list of the best backpack carriers for dogs is a sling-style carrier – the YUDODO Reflective Pet Sling Carrier. Sling carriers offer a range of benefits that other traditional backpack carriers do not such as a front-facing design and less restriction on your arms and shoulders. Of course, these are designed for smaller dogs, but you’ll be glad to know the YUDODO Sling Carrier is available in three different sizes to fit a range of small dogs, notes Travel + Leisure.
This sling carrier is a smart choice for anyone with small, anxious dogs who might get scared being away from you on your back. Keeping your dog close to your chest will help these types of dogs feel more secure, making traveling, hiking, and walking a more enjoyable experience, explains The Spruce Pets. The sling itself is lightweight, weighing less than one pound, and comes with a drawstring opening and a pocket on the strap to keep your things like keys and a phone.
Although you’re probably not using the sling for outdoor adventure sports such as long hikes or mountain biking, it makes the perfect accessory for carrying your dog around town when running errands or pushing a stroller. As People Magazine writes, the YUDODO Reflective Pet Dog Sling Carrier is like a fanny pack for your dog. Thanks to the breathable mesh and unique design, your small pup will be able to lie down, as opposed to sitting up, as the two of you stroll around town on a sunny day.
5. Mr. Peanut’s Aspen Series Airline Approved Backpack Pet Carrier
Fetching the fifth spot on the list of the best dog backpacks is Mr. Peanut’s Aspen Series Airline Approved Backpack Pet Carrier. This airline-approved travel dog backpack will have your fur baby flying around the world in luxury. As Dogster explains, this Mr. Peanut’s backpack features four mesh sides for ventilation and a removable fleece bed to keep your dog cozy on long journeys. It also comes with an extra pouch to keep your laptop, tablet, or work materials so you can keep up with tasks as you and your furry companion travel.
This backpack also doubles as a lay-flat pet bed and dog carrier, transforming from a backpack to a convenient little environment for your dog during long fights or road trips in the car, adds People Magazine. The bag is lined with a velour material that makes it comfortable for your pet from any angle or position.
The Mr. Peanut’s Aspen Series Airline Approved Backpack Pet Carrier is the perfect travel accessory for busy professionals who don’t want to leave their dog behind when they fly. Having an airline-approved carrier is essential to being able to keep your fur baby by your side as you travel for work. But, as The Spruce Pets warns, you’ll always want to confirm with your airline that this carrier meets their requirements.
6. Outward Hound PoochPouch Front Carrier
Sniffing the sixth spot on the list of the top dog backpack options on the market is the Outward Hound PoochPouch Front Carrier. This front-side backpack carrier is the perfect choice for dog owners who like keeping their companion where they can see them and likewise, explains DogTime. Similar to the sling carrier, this front carrier helps relieve anxious dogs who don’t do well without being able to see their owners. Front carriers also give your pets the chance to see everything clearly from your point of view.
Unlike some of the other carriers we’ve discussed, this front-facing dog backpack is designed so your dog sits in the pouch and their head sticks out the top of the bag, explains Westie Vibes. The Outward Hound carrier is available in two different sizes to accommodate small to medium-sized dogs up to 20 pounds. You and your dog will love experiencing the world together, next to one another with an Outward Hound PoochPouch Front Carrier.
As Dogster describes, the back and sides of this front carrier are designed with a breathable mesh fabric, keeping your pet cool on warm summer walks. The bag also boasts a handy front pocket to keep treats, keys, and other personal or pet items. The bag is made of water-resistant nylon so you don’t have to worry about getting caught in a rain storm and ruining your carrier. You and your pet will be ready to experience all sorts of outdoor fun with a PoochPouch from Outward Hound.
7. K9 Sport Sack Rover 2 Dog Backpack
Rounding out the list of the best dog backpacks is the K9 Sport Sack Rover 2 Dog Backpack. K9 Sport produces a range of quality dog carrier and backpack solutions and the Rover 2 backpack is no exception. This is one of the few backpacks on the market designed for medium to large dogs, explains Travfurler.
When big dogs get old and develop joint problems, the issues can prevent them from being able to enjoy outdoor life. This backpack makes it possible to bring your big baby along regardless of their age and mobility issues. Simply put, the Rover 2 is the ultimate outdoor big dog backpack. The Rover 2 can safely hold up to 80 pounds, notes The Dodo, making it perfect for hiking and other outdoor activities with older big dogs to enjoy life. It features a waste bag dispenser, adjustable height straps, and a removable lap belt with hip pockets for storing items.
The K9 Sport Rover 2 Backpack has just about everything you need to travel and hike with your dog, adds Dogster. The dog backpack carrier market is flooded with options for small dogs, so it’s great to see a company focus on a product that works for large dogs, too. The Rover 2 is designed with the chore of carrying large dogs in mind, featuring ergonomic, adjustable shoulder straps, a sternum strap for added stability, and adjustable hip support straps complete with pockets for storage. The large storage pocket on the backpack is also removable, lightening your load on short hikes or light walks.
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