Whether you train service dogs, you have a service dog, or your pooch goes on adventures with you on a regular basis, you’re going to want to consider purchasing him the best dog backpack. To many, it might seem like a backpack for dogs doesn’t have much of a purpose; however, they are actually extremely functional and serve a very important purpose.
A dog backpack allows your pup to tote along any gear that you might need while you’re out and about. For example, you could fill it with dog food, a travel dog bowl, a dog treat (or a few), an extra dog collar, and dog boots – or whatever else your pooch might require. You can also fill it up with any items that you, yourself, might need; a water bottle, a compass, maps, medications, and so forth. Think of a dog backpack like a carry-on for your canine companion.
To help you on your quest for finding the best dog backpack, we’ve done some extensive research. After testing out several different options and reading through countless reviews, we have narrowed down the choices to the following five:
Best Dog Backpacks
| Image | Dog Backpack | Rating |
|---|---|---|
 | 1. Outward Hound Daypak Dog Backpack Hiking Gear for Dogs | 99% |
 | 2. OneTigris Dog Pack Hound Travel Camping Hiking Backpack Saddle Bag Rucksack | 96% |
 | 3. Kurgo Baxter Dog Backpack | 93% |
 | 4. Mountainsmith K-9 Dog Pack | 89% |
 | 5. Cesar Millan Dog Backpack | 85% |
1. Outward Hound Daypak Dog Backpack Hiking Gear for Dogs
The Outward Hound Daypak Dog Backpack Hiking Gear for Dogs is the perfect option if you love hiking with your furry companion. It’s available in three sizes – small, medium, and large – so whether you have a Westhighland White terrier, a Beagle, a Golden Retriever, or a Great Dane, you’ll be able to get a pack that fits your pooch. The straps are also adjustable, so you can get the most comfortable fit possible.
The breathable mesh along the sides allows for airflow and will keep your pup cool while he’s trekking the trails along with you. If the temps are really hot, you might be able to fit a cooling vest for dogs underneath it, too, for added comfort.
This pack features two expandable pockets that zip closed, giving you plenty of room for storing all of the necessities; your phone, keys, and even a poop bag maybe even and a small pooper scooper (part of responsible pet ownership is cleaning up after your pup when Mother Nature calls, right?).
It’s available in bright green or blue and it features reflective piping, so you’ll always be able to keep tabs on your pup. Based on the reviews that we read, pet parents are very pleased with this dog backpack. They say it’s as easy to put on as a dog harness, it’s lightweight, and it offers plenty of storage.
What We Like About It
- Breathable mesh sides
- Bright colors and reflective piping for easy visibility
- Expandable, zipper closure pockets
- Available in three sizes
- Adjustable straps
- Lightweight
- Easy to put on and take off
Reasons to Complain
- Some customers said that they had issues with sizing
Final Verdict: Overall, we were quite impressed with the Outward Hound Daypak Dog Backpack Hiking Gear for Dogs. It’s easy to use, lightweight, comfortable, and offers plenty of storage.
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2. OneTigris Dog Backpack Saddle Bag
If you have a medium or large breed dog, such as a Labrador retriever, a German shepherd, a Standard Poodle, or a Rottweiler, the One Tigris Dog Pack Hound Travel Camping Hiking Backpack Saddle Bag Rucksack is an excellent choice. It’s designed to fit medium and large-sized breeds, and as the name suggests, it has a saddle bag design (like the packs you’d see on a horse or a donkey).
Made of high-quality cotton canvas, this pack is soft and won’t tug on your pup’s fur; however, do note that it’s not as breathable as other dog backpacks on our list.
The two main storage compartments, which have a zipper closure, feature an open sleeve pocket on the inside, offering plenty of room for the essentials, such as a dog raincoat, a dog whistle, a dog sweater, and a small container of dry dog food or a can or two of wet dog food. There are three adjustable straps, so you’ll be able to get the perfect fit, and it’s super easy to put on and take off.
Plus, the vintage style lends makes it look really cool. Do note, however, that there is no reflective material, so it does little for visibility. However, based on what most pet parents said, this dog backpack is very well made, comfortable, and offers plenty of storage space.
What We Like About It
- Three adjustable straps
- Easy to put on and take off
- Large zipper closure storage pockets with interior sleeve pockets
- Two D-rings and a top handle allow for easy handling
- Attractive design
Reasons to Complain
- It lacks reflective material (Note: They do offer a harness and leash that are reflective)
- It’s only available in one size
Final Verdict: The OneTigris Dog Pack Hound Travel Camping Hiking Backpack Saddle Bag Rucksack is a great choice for medium or large dogs. It’s offers plenty of storage space and it’s comfortable; plus, it has a trendy vintage design.
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3. Kurgo Baxter Dog Backpack
Next up on our list of the best backpacks for dogs is an option that comes from Kurgo Baxter. This backpack is perhaps the lightest weight of all the packs on our list, so it won’t weight your pet down; he’ll have no trouble catching any toys for hyper dogs that you might toss around on your adventures – and you can pack those toys inside, too!
This pack has a saddlebag design with two good-sized storage zipper closure storage pockets. What really sets this dog backpack apart from the crowd is the fact that it doubles as a harness, as it’s outfitted with a rear-mounted leash hook, so it works great with a leash for dogs that pull. As an added bonus, the leash hook can also be used as a bottle opener!
The reflective material will ensure your dog stays visible, and the padded handle will allow you to lend your pooch a helping hand if he’s struggling to climb up hills or over obstacles. This pack is available in three colors: a coastal blue, barn red, and black with orange details. It’s also available in two sizes; one for dogs between 30 and 85 pounds and one for dogs between 50 and 110 pounds. Based as on the reviews customers have shared, it seems like most are very happy with this pack.
What We Like About It
- Reflective material for easy visibility
- Padded handle for easy control
- Doubles as a harness
- Two oversized pockets provide plenty of storage
- Lightweight for great comfort
- Adjustable straps
- Available in two sizes and three colors
Reasons to Complain
- Some users said that they had issues with the sizing of this backpack
Final Verdict: If you’re looking for a super lightweight dog backpack that offers great storage space, the Kurgo Baxter Dog Backpack is an excellent choice. It offers plenty of storage space, it’s easy to use, and it doubles as a harness!
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4. Mountainsmith K-9 Dog Pack
The Mountainsmith K9 Dog Pack is the perfect option for service and search and rescue dogs; however, it’s well-suited for family pets, as well. It features a four point adjustable chest harness and the strap that goes across the sternum is padded, so it’s very comfortable. It also features an adjustable belly strap, and the back harness adjusts independently from the other straps, for superior comfort. It’s also ergonomically designed to ensure the safest and most comfortable fit.
This back is highly breathable, thanks to the mesh panels, and the 3-M reflective trim, coupled with the bright blue or red color provides excellent visibility. A top handle and the metal D-ring attachment allows for greater control. For storage, there are two zippered pannier pockets which provide plenty of space to accommodate all of the necessities. According to the reviews that we read, pet parents are very pleased with this dog backpack. They stated that it’s very comfortable, offers plenty of space, and that it’s easy to use.
What We Like About It
- Ergonomically designed
- Adjustable chest and back harness
- Adjustable belly strap
- Top handle and D-ring attachment allow for greater handling
- Reflective material and bright colors provide great visibility
- Mesh panels for ventilation
- Two large zipper closure pockets for storage
Reasons to Complain
- Some customers said that it wasn’t as durable as they hoped it would be
Final Verdict: The Mountainsmith K-9 Dog Pack is a great choice for service dogs, search and rescue dogs, as well as family pets. It’s ergonomically designed for greater comfort, features an adjustable chest and back harness, as well as an adjustable belly harness, and it allows for great handling.
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5. Cesar Milan Dog Backpack
The last dog backpack featured on our list comes from Cesar Milan, the dog training guru. It features the popular saddle bag design with two good-sized zipper closure pockets. It’s well-constructed, durable, breathable, and water repellent, so whatever you’re storing inside won’t get wet if it runs into rain or when your pup is fetching those water toys for dogs.
Thanks to the breathable mesh fabric, there’s no need to worry about your pup overheating when he’s wearing this pack while trekking. It’s also lightweight, so it won’t weigh your pooch down. The straps feature elastic, so they stretch and move with your dog, so he won’t feel constricted. Thanks to the reflective piping, you’ll be able to see your furry friend when the sun goes down or if you’re heading out before the sun comes up.
This pack is made for medium and large sized dogs, and the straps are adjustable, so you can get the perfect fit. Based on the reviews that we’ve read, most pet parents who have purchased this backpack are pleased with it.
What We Like About It
- Lightweight design
- Two zipper closure storage pockets
- Adjustable, elastic straps move with your dog for greater comfort
- Reflective trim for increased visibility
- Breathable fabric
- Water repellent
Reasons to Complain
- Some customers said that the pack wasn’t as durable as they hoped it would be
Final Verdict: With the Cesar Milan Dog Backpack, you’ll be able to take along all of the essentials for your hikes or daily walks. It’s breathable, water repellent, and lightweight, making it extremely comfortable and highly versatile.
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6. RUFFWEAR – Approach Pack
The RUFFWEAR Approach backpack boasts a unique five points of adjustment for the perfect fit. A padded handle and no slip straps keep the back secure on the dog’s back. And, two leash attachments offer versatility for guiding your pet.
- Five points of adjustment offer a customized fit and full motion.
- The Approach Pack features two leash attachment points made from aluminum V-rings and secured with a durable webbing loop.
- A padded handle and non-slip straps provide good load dispersion
7. Lifeunion Saddle Bag Backpack
The Lifeunion Saddle bag is made of durable, high-quality polyester which is also waterproof. The chest and back circumference are adjustable, helping you find the most secure fit. And, the side pockets offer easy storage for dog treats, toys and bags.
- Constructed of high-quality polyester material that is durable and waterproof.
- The chest and back circumference are adjustable for the perfect fit.
- Each side has one convenient pocket for easy storage.
8. Wellver Dog Backpack
The Wellver takes comfort and durability to a higher level. The breathable mesh in the middle supports airflow to keep your pet cool. The buckles made it easy to put on or off and it comes in four colors and three sizes.
- Adjustable straps make for the perfect fit and sturdy buckles make putting it on or pulling off easy.
- Breathable middle mesh and soft mesh lining offer your loved pet cooling and comfortable feelings
- Lightweight and washable, the backpack comes in four colors and three sizes.
9. 2PET Dog Backpack
2PET features unique, zippered mesh pockets that are strong enough to hold a water bottle. The soft harness provides the ultimate in comfort. And, for total customization, the packs can be added or removed with velcro!
- This dog carrier backpack includes two roomy saddles that can be easily attached to the harness using the Velcro stripes.
- The backpack has zippered mesh pockets and elastic water bottle holders.
- The soft, easily adjustable one-click harness that allows for a perfect fit.
10. Denver Urban Pack Lightweight Urban Hiking Backpack
The Denver Urban Pack is a lightweight backpack that boasts an adjustable belly strap to distribute the weight and hold it in place. The D ring at the top allows your to gentle guide your dog without and harsh pulling. And the breathable fabric supports airflow to keep your pet cool.
- This bag is made to fit with an adjustable belly strap maximizes both fit and balance.
- The solid construction offers a dual D-ring clip for an easy leash attachment.
- The breathable mesh material at the top helps keep your dog cool and increases air flow.
11. OSPet Saddle Bag Backpack
The OSPET Saddle Bag features adjustable straps that help distribute the weight to increase comfort. Reflective trim is placed all over the bag to ensure that the dog can be seen from all angels even in dark light. And, with four pockets that range in size from small to large, there’s a place for all your essentials–from keys to water bottles.
- Saddle bag design provides your dog with a comfortable method to carry small essentials.
- Reflective trim on dog pack ensures safety from multiple angles.
- Adjustable straps are easy to adjust and help distribute load to increase comfort.
12. smartelf Dog Backpack
Smartelf takes durability to the highest level by constructing their dog backpack out of oxford mesh. The oxford mesh is also breathable for maximum airflow. And, with four pockets that can even hold water bottles, there’s room for all sorts of dog essentials.
- Constructed of sturdy oxford mesh material that is both durable and breathable.
- The 4-Pocket pack can hold water bottles, poop bags, toys…
- The plastic buckle on on the backpack supports easy removal to instantly turn into a vest harness.
13. Crest Stone Explore Dog Backpack
THe Crest Stone features a unique compression webbing that helps balance the carrying load. Plus, the adjustable belly straps help control the fit of the pack. Two large, secure pockets hold any essentials safely in place.
- This bag has two large, secure pockets.
- Added compression webbing helps balance the carrying load.
- The adjustable belly strap maximizes fit and balance.
14. Cesar Millan Dog Backpack
The Cesar Milan backpack does double duty as a carrying case and as an anxiety weight. The bag is breathable to increase air flow but also waterproof to keep your pet and essentials dry. When weighted, the backpack also helps support overall health and exercise.
- The backpack can be weighed down to provide the benefits of 1 hour of exercise in just 30 minutes.
- This backpack also works as anxiety relief and fits dogs approximately 80 lb and 120 lb.
- This bag is durable, breathable, and water repellent to prevent overheating.
15. Pettom Dog Backpack
The Pettom features a waterproof oxford and breathable mesh to keep your dog cool and relaxed. The Petton also boasts a high-quality D-ring that can be attached to a leash to help you guide your dog. And the two spacious side pockets provide room for all your gear.
- The waterproof oxford and breathable mesh harness provides airflow to keep your dog cool.
- Two side pockets offer the ability to carry dog food, first aid kit, dog toys, poop bags, etc.
- Two side pockets offer the ability to carry dog food, first aid kit, dog toys, poop bags, etc.
16. Kaynine Dog Backpack
The Kaynine is crafted from the highest-quality ballistic nylon for the ultimate in durability. Three adjustable straps help you find the perfect and most secure fit for your pet. Three pockets provide roomy space for all your storage needs.
- Crafted from high-quality ballistic nylon and added reflective straps for safety.
- This backpack has three pockets: one main zipper compartment for large items, a medium front pocket for smaller items and a side pocket with opening for waste disposal bag
- The three adjustable straps custom fit the backpack perfectly.
17. Petsfit Dog Travel Camping Backpack
The Petsfit Camping bag features not one, but two adjustable chest strap and one neck strap for ultimate security. The bag is available and adjustable for medium and large sized dogs. And, two large pockets help hold all your essentials.
- This dog vest has two adjustable chest straps and one neck strap to reduce sliding.
- The two dog pockets help sort all your pet’s essentials.
- The backpack fits dogs size medium 54cm-81cm or large – chest size: 65cm-97cm.
18. EXCELLENT ELITE SPANKER Dog Pack
EXCELLENT ELITE believes in the highest of quality. The bag is constructed of top of the line 1000D Nylon and Ykk zippers material. And the UTX-Duraflex quick release buckle allows you to adjust in moments, or release the bag for safety.
- This dog saddlebag backpack is made of high quality 1000D Nylon and Ykk zippers material.
- This bag has an adjustable belly straps with UTX-Duraflex quick release buckle.
- And the top of this dog saddle backpack harness has a plastic buckle, can be attached a dog leash to keep your partner close to you and have more control.
19. AEXYA Dog Backpack
The AEXYA not only has two main zipper side compartments but also has expandable pockets inside! The mesh material of the harness supports airflow to keep your pet cool. And the D-ring allows you to attach the bag to a leash for a close lead.
- This bag boasts two main zipper side compartments with two additional expandable pockets.
- This saddle bag has D-ring leash attachment, adjustable straps and a handle for close control of your dog.
- The mesh harness offers maximum fit, breathability and comfort.
20. Doggles Extreme Dog Backpack
Doggles is all about comfort and convenience. The ergonomic fit offers shoulder cut outs that help fit and balance the backpack comfortably. And the fabric is waterproof with reinforced seams, so the bag should last through all adventures.
- The bag’s design offers a convenient grab handle and D-ring for extra accessories.
- The ergonomic fit boasts shoulder cutouts to comfortably sits on your pup’s back.
- The fabric is waterproof and has durable stitching on all seams.
21. DoggyDobby Dog Hiking Saddle Bag
DoggyDobby backpack is about safety and comfort. The reflective strip on each side makes the dog visible even in low light. The reinforced stitching keeps the bag from breaking or sliding.
- Flexible enough to fit most of medium and large dogs.
- Reflective strip on each side.
- Reinforced stitching on handle.
22. EXPAWLORER Dog Backpack
The EXPAWLORER bag is designed with lightweight polyester and has additional padding to keep your dog comfortable while towing goods. Two different adjustable points offer a more custom fit. And, the ergonomic spine support conforms to your dog’s back to relieve pressure.
- The bag is made from lightweight polyester with an extra-soft padded harness.
- Two different points adjust to fit most dog sizes and the saddlebags are fully removable, easy to detach.
- The ergonomic spine support contours to the dog’s back for a comfortable fit.
23. JIEPAI Tactical Dog Harness Military Training Patrol
The JIEPAI Tactical Pack comes in five colors and three sizes to suit your taste. The mid-chest strap holds the backpack in place and prevents slippage and injury to your pet. And the quick release buckle is both cold and heat resistant so to prevent further injury in the hot sun or cold walks.
- This bag has a fully adjustable quick release plastic buckle that is heat-resistant and cold-resistant.
- The mid-chest strap keeps the vest mounted with balance and does not slip side-to-side
- The top of the vest wire harness has a D-shaped buckle; attach to the dog belt to facilitate better control your dog.
24. PETTAIL Hound Dog Saddlebags
The PETTAIL features adjustable chest and neck straps for extra durability. Plus, the high quality polyester is both durable and waterproof to help support all your adventures. Available in three sizes and colors, the PETTAILis fully customizable!
- The adjustable chest straps and neck circumference help secure everything in place.
- The high-quality polyester material is durable and provides full waterproofing.
- Available in three sizes and four colors.
25. Go Fresh Pet Trail Pack Backpack
The Go Fresh Pet Trail Pack is extremely versatile. With two quick-release snap-click removable dog saddlebags, you can fully customize the look and weight of the bag. And yet, the breathable fabric keeps the dog cool.
- The hiking backpack comes with two quick-release snap-click removable dog saddlebags, two side zipper pockets and two sectioned zip compartments.
- As an alternative option, the dog harness backpack can be worn with or without bags.
- The backpack is constructed of lightweight, breathable material.
26. Long TREK Dog Pack
The Long TREK is made from lightweight polyester and offers a durable coated nylon to add additional durability. Large side pockets can hold a variety of items, from dog bags to collapsible water bowls. The reflective strip helps both you and your dog be visible in low light.
- This bag is made from lightweight polyester and offers a durable coated nylon with an extra-soft padded harness.
- The reflective trim provides extra visibility for hiking.
- The large side pockets include a key holder, interior bottle straps and a rubber grommet.
27. EZYDog Summit Dog Pack
The EX Dog Summit pack is perfect for the dog adventurer. With breathable mesh, your dog stays cool as airflow is maximized. The waterproof zippers and fabric keep your pet dry and a D-ring helps attach to a leash.
- The breathable mesh upper portion offers increased air flow.
- The bag features a grab handle for quick control and a D-ring for leash attachment.
- The waterproof zippers and coated ripstop material to keep items dry.
The Best Backpacks for Dogs: A Buyer’s Guide
Walk into any pet supply store and you’ll find that there is a never-ending supply of products to choose from. Some of those products might seem like they serve no purpose, but if you’re thinking that a dog backpack is one of them, think again: backpacks for dogs are extremely useful! Why would you need one? What features should you be considering if you decide to purchase one? Find the answers to these questions and more in this section of your best backpacks for dogs review.
The Benefits of a Dog Backpack
You might be asking yourself, “why would I ever put a backpack on my dog?” The truth is, there are a few reasons why you might want your pooch to wear his own backpack. Here’s a look at some of the benefits that this dog product provides:
- It goes without saying that the primary benefit of a backpack for dogs is the storage that it provides. You’ll be able to pack up those necessities that are needed on daily walks or long treks with your pooch so that they are easily accessible.
- Gives your dog purpose. Believe it or not, canines like having a job to do. When they’re wearing a backpack, they feel as if they have a sense of purpose. Why? – Because he’ll know that he is helping out. Dogs love being valuable to their human companions, and when they have work to do, they feel like they are doing a good job.
- Increases focus. If your pup has a tendency to pick up a smell and chase after it or if he’s distracted by every little thing that comes into his line of vision, a backpack can actually help him focus. Since he’ll feel like he has a job to do, he’ll be more focused on getting that job done, which means fewer distractions.
- Aids in weight control. If your pup is packing on the pounds or you just want to ensure that he maintains a healthy weight, having him wear a backpack can help you achieve your goal. The extra weight will help him build muscle and burn more fat; plus, it will to strengthen his balance. All of these things combined can help him stay fit and trim, which will help to improve his overall health and well-being.
Features to Consider
If you’re purchasing a backpack for your dog, there are a number of features that you might want to consider:
- The size. Of course, you want to ensure that the pack fits your pup. It should fit just like a harness would; snug enough so that it doesn’t move about, but not too tight that it’s constricting.
- The capacity. What do you plan on storing in the backpack? If you’re only going to be using it for a long hike or a camping trip, you might want a larger capacity pack; however, if you’re only planning on using it for short treks, a smaller backpack will likely suffice.
- The best dog backpacks feature adjustable straps, which allow you to achieve the proper fit. It will also be designed in a way that will hold the cargo squarely on your pup’s back to avoid shifting, which can be uncomfortable.
- If you’re going to be walking during the dark, a brightly colored pack that features reflective materials will ensure that your dog stays visible.
- To avoid overheating, the best backpacks for dogs are made with breathable materials that allow for airflow.
Summing It Up
A dog backpack can be an invaluable tool for you and your pooch. If you do decide to get one, make sure you purchase one that fits properly, offers enough cargo space, and won’t restrict your pup’s mobility. All of the backpacks featured in our review are top-of-the-line and will be sure to make those daily walks or longer hikes a lot more enjoyable.
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