Are you in search of the best dog backpack? As your furry friend ages, it may not be as agile and dynamic as before. This is where a dog backpack comes in handy. We’ve tested 5 dog backpacks for this review and also considered expert opinions. We promise that this article will truly assist you 🙂

Our Top Picks

[table id=48 cache_table_output=false /]

Buying Guide

Dog backpacks are also known as dog carriers or dog bags. They offer enough space for your dog to be comfortable.

This allows you to take your dog anywhere and let it comfortably observe the surroundings.

You simply strap a dog backpack onto your back and you can also use it to carry luggage.

For larger animals, dog carriers are only available as luggage options. However, you can comfortably carry any dog up to 16 pounds (eight kilograms) in a backpack.

Quality models typically cost around $150. However, you can also find smaller backpacks for around $50 or less.

There are generally two types of dog bags:

There are dog backpacks that allow you to transport your dog from point A to point B. They are a good alternative to dog crates and bike baskets for dogs.

The second type is the carrier bag. It is strapped onto your dog’s back like a saddlebag on a horse. This allows your four-legged friend to carry its own items such as treats and toys.

In the following 5 points, you’ll learn what to consider when choosing a dog backpack:

1. Advantages of the Dog Backpack

A dog backpack provides both dog and owner with an excellent way to stay together in all situations.

This strengthens your bond and you can even use it for shopping.

Here are the advantages and disadvantages:

2. Features of the Dog Backpack

When choosing dog backpacks, you’ll encounter a wide range of options. Most of them are lightweight, so your back won’t be unnecessarily strained.

The entrance to the bag is usually at the top or front. A dog backpack usually has a mesh through which your pet can look outside.

This feature is very popular as your pet can still perceive its surroundings despite being in the backpack. Plus, the fresh air is beneficial. The breathable materials ensure oxygen supply.

Here are the most important functions summarized:

Air Circulation:

To ensure good air circulation, a dog backpack has breathable mesh inserts. Additionally, it is made of breathable materials.

A high-quality dog backpack should have plenty of ventilation slots, allowing your dog to breathe better.

Weather Protection:

High-quality dog backpacks are made of waterproof materials, which is essential. You wouldn’t want your pet to get sick due to rain and moisture. With waterproof materials, your pet stays dry inside.

Some dog backpacks also come with an optional rain cover. If it starts raining heavily or suddenly, you’ll surely benefit from the rain cover.

Additionally, some bags have protective flaps to close the mesh inserts.

Comfort and Safety:

Depending on the manufacturer and model, dog backpacks may come with additional compartments for accessories, food, and toys.

A quality backpack should be designed to make your pet feel safe inside.

Moreover, your pet should be comfortable inside the dog backpack since it may need to stay there for longer periods. Therefore, many models have padded interior lining and cushions.

Finally, every backpack should come with shoulder and waist straps.

3. Equipment of Dog Backpacks

To comfortably carry your loyal companion, pay attention to the quality of the backpack.

In addition to weight, height is also important. While a small dog fits easily, it may not be able to lie down in a too narrow backpack.

Therefore, we recommend a wider model for longer journeys. It can also double as a bed. These versions come with additional carrying straps.

Regarding the carrying bags, there are many variants available. You can secure any bag with a harness. However, the number and distribution of pockets vary from product to product.

Most have two large pockets to distribute the weight. Additionally, some models have pockets or carrying handles on the back.

4. Choosing the Material

Whether you want to carry your pet with a dog backpack or buy a luggage backpack for it, all materials have pros and cons.

Bags are often made of polyester, nylon, and cotton.

There are also rare models made of denim or leather. These are designer bags that are usually quite expensive.

Nylon fabrics are breathable, which is very beneficial. As for cotton and polyester materials, they are usually mixed.

The feel is much more pleasant than polyester or nylon. However, the fabric is not particularly water-resistant, which is important when transporting smaller animals like puppies or cats.

5. Buying Guide

When looking for the best dog backpack, familiarize yourself with some criteria. This way, you’ll get a good overview and make a better purchasing decision.

The most important buying criteria are as follows:

Size is, of course, important. If the carrier is too small, your dog won’t be able to stretch out. It should be comfortable inside, even if you’re transporting them for only a short time.

Many models are suitable for small and medium-sized animals. However, that doesn’t mean your pet will automatically fit inside.

You should always measure your dog first. Then compare the size with the available sizes of the desired model.

The choice of material is also crucial. For all-weather use with your faithful companion, you need waterproof material.

This way, you’ll be prepared for any storm without getting wet yourself or your faithful friend. Some products even have a rain cover to protect both dog and human from heavy rainfall.

Furthermore, it can’t hurt if the bag is made of nylon. This fabric is breathable. You can’t go wrong with other materials like cotton and polyester either.

If the fabrics are mixed, it provides more wearing comfort. However, this combination is not waterproof.

Do you want to underline your taste with your bag? You can also opt for a designer bag.

In most cases, it’s made of denim or leather. However, you should know that such models are usually more expensive.

The weight of the bag should not be too high. Otherwise, there will be too much overall strain.

This can be particularly crucial if your darling is a bit heavier or if you’re traveling with them for a longer period.

Backpacks with an additional waist belt are considered particularly ergonomic. This relieves the back because you will walk upright while carrying it.

It’s very practical if you can load the carrier from the front and from the side.

To ensure higher safety, there are models with a built-in short leash. This gives your faithful companion more freedom of movement while preventing them from climbing out.

In most cases, a dog bag has enough space for small dogs and puppies.

Dog backpacks with a maximum weight of up to 33 pounds (15 kilograms) are rare. You’ll find a very large selection for weights of up to 16 pounds (8 kilograms).

You can find high-quality dog backpacks for prices ranging from $50 to $150. Of course, there are also some models available for as little as $20.

In most cases, quality matters in the end. Do you want a durable product that you and your faithful friend will enjoy for a long time? Then you should invest a little more.

Product Reviews in Detail

🥇 Top Recommendation

This dog backpack is high-quality and well-crafted. It features ventilation slots to ensure good air circulation. Your dog will always get sufficient air inside, enhancing its well-being. Dogs weighing around 22 pounds (10 kilograms) fit well inside.

Furthermore, the backpack is extremely comfortable to carry. It comes equipped with a small strap to prevent your companion from easily jumping out. Due to its quality construction, it’s excellent for train travel, restaurant visits, and events.

Premium Recommendation

This product impresses with excellent craftsmanship and high-quality materials. It comes with a strap for attaching your pet’s harness. Optimal air circulation is ensured, and the product is made of scratch-resistant Oxford material. The design is very appealing, and you’ll enjoy carrying it.

Best Value Recommendation

This dog backpack made of environmentally friendly polyester is not only durable and scratch-resistant but also lightweight and portable. With a spacious capacity of 33 x 28 x 42 cm and a carrying capacity of up to 7 kg/15 lbs, it’s perfect for hiking, traveling, and camping, providing maximum comfort for your pet.

The breathable and ventilated mesh design provides good air circulation and allows your pet a better view of the surroundings. The adjustable shoulder, chest, and hip straps reduce stress and pressure, making the dog backpack comfortable to wear.

The integrated safety belt and lockable zippers ensure the safety of the animal. Additionally, the backpack features pockets on both sides and comes with a collapsible dog bowl.

For Small Dogs

This dog backpack is made of high-quality material and features a breathable mesh window. It comes in different colors and is suitable for pets weighing under 12 pounds (six kilograms). Additionally, it has a foldable design for easier carrying and is equipped with an adjustable shoulder strap.

The Petskd dog bagpack also has a comfortable design, including a padded shoulder strap, adjustable chest strap, and belt, reducing strain. It’s ideal for long walks, trekking, and outings. Finally, this dog backpack is made from environmentally friendly materials.

Expandable Variant

The Pecute dog backpack is made of high-quality, waterproof, and scratch-resistant Oxford fabric, offering your furry friend additional space with an expandable back design. It is recommended for a maximum load weight of 8KG.

The backpack’s zipper features a lock to prevent unintended opening by your pet. An integrated safety leash ensures that your pet cannot escape from the backpack.

The four-sided mesh window guarantees good air circulation inside the backpack, preventing your pet from feeling stuffy inside.
The shoulder strap has a wide and adjustable design to reduce strain and improve comfort. Additionally, there are two retractable buckles at the top and bottom to prevent deviations of the shoulder straps and increase the stability of the backpack.

The dog backpack features 4 pockets on the side where you can store snacks, tablets, keys, cards, mobile phones, and more.

Conclusion

Whether young or old, your loyal dog will always be an important part of your life. And when your furry friend reaches a certain age, a dog backpack can be the perfect way to keep him by your side and experience adventures together.

With a dog backpack, you can take your furry friend anywhere and allow him to comfortably explore the world around him.

Above all, a dog backpack is a great way to stay together in every situation. Whether shopping or taking a walk in nature, you and your dog are always together, creating unforgettable memories.

Of course, it’s important to consider your dog’s needs when choosing a backpack. But if you do, the dog backpack will become a valuable tool that will bring you even closer together and make your shared adventures unforgettable.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some manufacturers of dog backpacks?

Here is a list of manufacturers and brands:

Has Consumer Reports conducted a test for dog backpacks?

Consumer Reports has not conducted a test for dog backpacks. No information was found in the German-speaking area.

What are the alternatives?

The classic transport boxes for dogs and cats work on the same principle.

Then there are the smaller backpacks that you can fasten to the back of your faithful companion.

They are not as large as the classic models. However, they relieve your back and you can transport important things for your furry friend in them.

How heavy can a dog backpack be?

For carrying a dog bag, the total weight with your dog should not become too heavy. The carrying capacity is crucial in this context.

But if your furry friend is carrying the dog backpack, then it should not be too heavy either.

Otherwise, his spine can be damaged. In the worst case, it can even lead to posture problems.

Based on our research and experience, you should not load it with more than 10 percent of its own body weight.

As your four-legged friend gets stronger over time, he can comfortably carry 20 to 30 percent of his own weight. However, at the beginning, you should not load it with more than 10 percent because it needs to get used to the weight.

Carrying the dog backpack in front or back?

An interesting question is whether to carry the dog bag in front or back.

In general, you should carry it so that you can walk painlessly for a long time. You must therefore decide whether you want to carry your pet in front or back.

If you carry it in front, you always have it in sight. This way of carrying is also suitable for puppies. However, carrying it in front becomes uncomfortable for you as your four-legged friend gets bigger.

If you carry it in the back, you don’t have direct eye contact with it. However, you feel more comfortable carrying it. Furthermore, even if you have a large furry friend, the transport is easier.

Do you want to go hiking with your little one? Protect your back during a rocky ascent? Choose a dog backpack that you can carry on your back.

But if you are going out with your puppy in the city, you should opt for a front bag.

Is your sweetheart sick or injured? In that case, it’s best to use a sturdy and stiff backpack.

There is no stability in a shapeless dog backpack. At the same time, the pain could even be exacerbated.

In contrast, your four-legged friend is better off in a rigid dog backpack. Furthermore, it can adopt a relaxed posture. Additionally, there is no risk of squeezing or constraining.

Rigid dog backpacks are particularly suitable for anxious animals. However, they are often bulky and less suitable for use in the city.

Can I transport a cat with a dog bag?

You can transport a cat with the dog bag.

However, you should be more vigilant regarding securing it. Cats are much more agile. Due to inadequate security, they can easily and quickly slip out of the carrier.

Catching the cat could then become a big problem, especially if you are in the great outdoors.