Dogs are commonly known as social animals. They love the companionship of their parents and enjoy doing various activities together.
This is why if you are a pet parent who loves traveling and outdoor ventures, it is highly recommended to bring your pups on your journey.
That said, a dog carrier backpack can be a good investment, and traveling will be in a lot better situation with the assistance of this item.
Slings and crates can be a nuisance if you travel a lot. On the other hand, a dog carrier backpack allows reaching your dog easily, faster mobility for you, while your dog is either resting or sightseeing on your back.
Nevertheless, this equipment is only suggested for parents of small and medium dogs. If you own bigger ones like Golden Retriever or Chow Chow, you should consider buying a dog stroller instead.
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Best Dog Carrier Backpacks (Perfect for 2022)
So, are you interested in getting one?
Check out 6 of the best dog carrier backpacks below and see if you find the one you like.
1. PetAmi Deluxe Pet Carrier Backpack
The PetAmi Deluxe Pet Carrier Backpack is available in 9 beautiful colors. The backpack measures approximately 12.5″ x 10.2″ x 16.3″ (L x W x H), so it fits well for your small pup.
Your dog’s airflow is guaranteed by the backpack’s 3 mesh screen windows, which also work as 2-sided access with a side zipper opening. This way, you will be able to reach your dog easily.
Furthermore, the backpack’s unique and stylish design is perfect if you are looking for the best dog carrier backpack to go out in a mall or simply a walk in the park. It also has additional thick paddings on the back and shoulder straps, with waist and chest buckles to evenly distribute the weight in your body.
PetAmi created Deluxe Pet Carrier Backpack with firm structures that give adequate room for your pooch to move cozily inside the carrier. The carrier itself features a zip-up mesh window, giving your dog more headroom and visibility. Moreover, the carrier is equipped with sherpa-lined bedding for better and more comfortable travel.
What We Like:
- 3 strong mesh screen windows
- Extra storage pockets
- Thick paddings
- Waist and chest buckles
What We Don’t:
- Some users reported problems with the zippers
- Less comfort due to the bottom plate
2. Pet Gear I-GO2 Roller Backpack – Medium Escort
The Pet Gear I-GO2 Roller Backpack works conveniently in five different styles for pet parents who like to travel in different ways and means.
You can use the straps, and it turns into a backpack or a sling carrier. Take the top handle, and you get a tote bag carrier. Next, put it inside your car, and it works as a sturdy car seat. Ultimately, collapse its long handle, and it works amazingly as a roller bag.
The backpack’s medium escort version measures 14″L X 8″W X 15″H inside, and 14” L x 9 W x 19 H-inches for its exterior. Therefore, it is perfect if you own a smaller dog like Maltese, Chihuahua, or toy breed. You can also bring it along inside the plane cabin since it is airline-approved
This version of the Pet Gear I-GO2 Roller Backpack offers extendable sides for 3 inches of additional room. It also comes with a removable pad, and inside tether to secure your dog, and a wheel cover.
What We Like:
- 5-in-1 dog travel carriage backpack
- Extendable sides
- Additional storage pockets
What We Don’t:
- No additional back paddings
- Thin padded straps
- Some users reported the backpack for being heavy
3. K9 Sport Sack Dog Carrier Backpack
If you are a pet parent who likes sports or heavy outdoor exercises, and you don’t want to leave your dog behind, you can invest in a K9 Sport Sack Dog Carrier Backpack.
This backpack is specially designed for heavy outdoor activities in all weather conditions. The waterproof and machine washable material allows your dog to engage in various activities involving water and even mud. You just need to put the backpack in your washing machine upon finishing the trips.
You do not need to worry about wearing the backpack down due to its sturdy and durable materials. Its carrier features two side ventilation windows and two adjustable side pockets to store your valuables.
K9 Sport Sack Dog Carrier Backpack comes in different sizes from XS that fits dogs like Chihuahua, Maltese, and Pomeranian, to L size for your Beagle, Corgi, and French bulldog. You need to get the girth and length measurements to make sure they get the right backpack size.
What We Like:
- Ventilated shoulder straps
- Sternum strap with Avalanche Whistle Clip
- Highly durable
- Waterproof and machine washable
- Cooling side panels ventilation windows
What We Don’t:
- Not enough paddings
- Some users reported problems with the straps
4. Mr. Peanut’s Backpack Pet Carrier
Do you need the best airline-approved dog carrier backpack?
Mr. Peanut’s Backpack Pet Carrier is the perfect answer for you!
This carrier backpack is manufactured by Mr. Peanut’s, which is a prominent brand known for its top-quality pet carriers. It is a small backpack with 17 x 11 x 10.6″ (L x W x H) dimensions, fitting small dogs up to 14”(L) x 9”(H) measurements and 10 pounds in weight. Therefore, measure your dog size carefully to make sure that this backpack is suitable for them.
Furthermore, the backpack features 2.5 pounds lightweight, as well as adjustable padded waist, chest, and shoulder straps. As a result, you will be more comfortable carrying the bag for a longer time. Besides, it is made of sturdy and waterproof nylon fabric material, so you just need to wipe it down for an easy wash.
Your dog’s comfort is carefully thought too with its breathable mesh screen windows on all sides, along with a removable hand washable fleece pad inside.
The best feature of this backpack is its airline compatibility. Although you would still need to check again with your airline, this bag will fit well under the passenger seat of most planes.
What We Like:
- 2 in 1 backpack and duffel style carrier
- Adjustable padded waist, chest, and shoulder straps with paddings
- Lightweight
- Airline compatible
- Waterproof
- Multiple storage pockets
What We Don’t:
- Some users report problems its durability
5. Casual Canine Ultimate Backpack Carrier
The Casual Canine Ultimate Backpack Carrier comes with a trendy and unique design, where the front zipper opens as an expandable mesh screen tent. This gives your dog additional space up to 22 inches to lay down and observe their surroundings.
The backpack is made of waterproof 100%-polyester material and high-quality self-locking zippers. It measures 17 inches long by 11.5 inches wide and 18 inches high, fitting a small pup up to 22 pounds of weight. It is a perfect backpack for you who like to travel in style with your dog accompanying you.
Furthermore, the Casual Canine Ultimate Backpack Carrier also features a side storage pocket to store your belongings. Also, it has a removable Berber mat inside the carrier, which you can easily clean with a damp cloth.
What We Like:
- Expandable mesh screen tent
- Waterproof
- Mesh screen side door
- Berber mat
- Side storage pocket
What We don’t:
- No additional paddings
- No chest or waist straps
- Not enough bottom support
6. Kurgo Dog Carrier Backpack for Small Pets
Kurgo Dog Carrier Backpack is perfect if you are more concerned about the quality and performance of a dog carrier backpack rather than the price.
The backpack measures 13”(W) x 21”(H) x 10”(D), and it holds your dog up to 25 pounds of weight. It is made of a sturdy and water-resistant top, as well as waterproof Armorsole bottom materials.
The pet compartment of this backpack features mesh screen ventilation windows on both sides, and one at the top, which you can roll up open. This way, your dog’s head can come out to enjoy the scenery and breathe some fresh air.
This backpack is highly recommended, especially if you are a travel blogger, or simply a pet parent who loves to work and travel while being accompanied by your pet friend.
That is because aside from the two water bottle sleeves, this backpack is also equipped with a padded laptop compartment. So you will still be able to work with your laptop anywhere and anytime if you carry this dog carrier backpack.
What We Like:
- Adjustable hip, sternum, and shoulder straps
- Ventilated back panel
- Thick back paddings
- Padded laptop compartment
- Waterproof Armorsole bottom materials
- Two-way backpack and traditional pet carrier style
What We Don’t:
- Problems with the interior pocket stitches
How to Choose the Best Dog Carrier Backpack?
Choosing the best dog carrier backpack requires well-thought considerations. A typical travel backpack can be such a bother if chosen wrong, whereas an unsuitable dog carrier backpack affects not only you but also your beloved fluffy little pup.
With this in mind, please consider the following important notes before deciding on which best dog carrier backpack to assist your travel:
Optimal weight distribution
The first thing to remember in choosing the best dog carrier backpack is whether it provides optimal weight distribution for your body.
Keep in mind that you might be using the backpack more frequently while traveling. While it is true that you are using it for a small dog, carrying the backpack for a long period will still give a strain on your body. This is why you have to choose a backpack that has adjustable padded straps and connecting latches to balance the weight load on your back and shoulders.
Size and Measurement
You might be thinking that it is okay to choose a dog carrier backpack that is a little bigger.
But no, that is entirely wrong!
If your carrier backpack is too big, your baby will not be able to sit safely. And you definitely don’t want to carry a backpack that has a dog sliding around or trying to escape from inside, do you? Because that would be dreadful!
That is why, before deciding on which dog carrier backpack to buy, you have to measure the size of your pooch. While most dog carrier backpacks mention their sizes according to the dog’s weight, it is still not as accurate as measuring your dog’s height and length. Therefore, find a dog carrier backpack with the most appropriate dimension measurements. Not too tight, not too loose.
Material and Design
The best dog carrier backpack must provide security and coziness for your dog, but be comfortable and lightweight enough for you to carry.
Choose a dog carrier backpack made of strong, durable materials with breathable, water-resistant fabric, strong lockable zippers with clasps, and sufficient ventilation windows. The water resistance feature will be very beneficial, especially when it is raining.
Additionally, since you will be wearing the backpack most of the time, you might want to consider choosing the one that is both stylish and has multiple storage units to store your own belongings.
FAQ – Dog Carrier
1. What is the best dog carrier backpack?
The best dog carrier backpack is the one that can offer comfort and convenience for both you and your dog. It has to be able to give you a well-adjusted weight balance, made of sturdy and durable waterproof materials, with the right size fitting your precious little loyal friend.
2. How big should a dog carrier backpack be?
The size of your dog carrier backpack should be within the appropriate measurement as your dog’s. The best way to do this is to go to a brick and concrete store and choose the one that fits your dog well.
However, if going out seems a bit challenging for you, you can still shop online and carefully choose a backpack with the right dimension suitable for your dog’s measurements.
3. What is the best dog carrier backpack for hiking?
Since you will be using the backpack for hiking, it is important to find the best dog carrier backpack designed for serious traveling instead of the one for casual use. The best dog carrier backpack for hiking is the one that can provide optimal weight distribution for your body, and is made of strong, durable materials like polyester, nylon, and canvas. In that case, we recommend that you use K9 Sport Sack Dog Carrier Backpack.
4. Can Dogs wear backpacks?
Yes. Dogs certainly can wear a backpack. In fact, wearing a backpack gives them the exercise they need and helps them build more muscles.
Besides, having them wear a backpack can actually be helpful for you, especially if you are traveling on foot or going on a hike. If you own a bigger dog, your faithful companion can help lighten your load.
By doing so, it’s not only beneficial for you but also for your dog. A backpack can give your furry baby a purpose, letting them know that they are on the job and they are helping you in a tangible way.
If you are a pet parent of smaller or more senior dogs, you can still put on an empty backpack on your baby’s back. They will always feel like they are helping you out.
Dogs LOVE it when they can help their parents.
Wrap Up
Taking everything into account, there are many ways to involve your pups in outdoor activities. Even more when you own small dogs, for they are easier to carry whether wearing a carrier: backpacks, front-packs, slings, and traditional, or using a dog stroller.
Just so you know, engaging in more outdoor activities together can be used as an exercise to improve your dog’s health and strengthen your bond with your pet babies.
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