Best Dog Backpack Reviews 2018

If you like going on adventures with your dog, you need a dog backpack. A dog backpack not only reduces the number of things you need to carry; it also builds up your pet’s stamina. Finding a dog backpack in the market today is not difficult, but finding the right one for you is. To make things easier for you, we have searched thoroughly and listed our top 5 of the best dog backpacks brands. Though we have only featured one product from each brand, these brands have many other backpacks for you to check out.

Overview

PROS

CONS

SPECS

Dog Weight

Size

Capacity

Material

Convenience

Our Top Choice

Outward Hound DayPak Dog Backpack

Outward Hound is dedicated to providing dog backpacks that are durable, fun and engaging. It always adds something extra to its products.

It has extendable straps which make it easy to be used for dogs of all sizes. It is very lightweight and easy to carry.

Some reports have shown that the backpack material is not very strong.

Medium

20.5 x 12.4 x 2.2 inches; 0.64lbs

Light

Info NOT provided

4 Expandable pockets

Best Value

OneTigris Cotton Canvas Dog Pack

OneTigris is all about high quality with top class customer service. Its products are made to reduce stress for both dog and owner.

This pack fits most medium and large dogs very well with only minor adjustments required. It is very comfortable on all dogs.

It is not waterproof.

Medium & Large Dog

2.5 x 11.2 x 13 inches;1.5lbs

Lightweight

High density cotton

Bag color will not show dirt

Ruffwear Palisades™ Pack

Since 1994, Ruffwear has been manufacturing top quality dog gear that enhances exploration for a dog and its human companion.

It has bells which will help you locate your dog. It is also very durable and easy to use.

It is a bit pricey.

Medium

15 x 10 x 9 inches; 1.8lbs

Full-Featured

Info NOT provided

Cross-load compression system

Pawaboo Adjustable Dog Backpack

Pawaboo is a trusted company committed to making first-class multi-functional dog backpacks.

The pack is made with very comfortable and durable materials with very spacious pockets.

It has no reflective accents.

39lbs - 60lbs

11.9 x 9.8 x 1.9 inches; 0.57lbs

Easy fit

High quality 600D Oxford cloth

Adjustable straps

Frontpet Explorer Ultra-Light Backpack

Frontpet is renowned for working hard to enhance your pet care experience, strengthening owner-pet bonds.

It is affordable and has a fully adjustable strap with side and rear straps so you can get the perfect fit for your dog.

It doesn't carry a lot so it will pose a challenge if you travel heavy.

Medium

10x 4 x 10 inches;0.79lbs

Superior Storage

Ultra tough rip-stop nylon

5 adjustable points

(Updated November 10, 2017)

Skip ahead and go directly to the reviews.

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Watch Our Dog Backpack Review

How Do I Choose the Best Dog Backpack?

Remember the first day you met your dog and you just knew that they were the one? That instantaneous and impulsive pull you both felt towards each other? In that one moment, we bet you vowed to be together “till death do you part”. Well, at least you did. Your dog probably just “woofed!” and licked your face. Cute, yeah?

Dog owners tend to feel a strong sense of responsibility towards their pets; to provide their pup with the best quality of life available. It’s the reason you spend hours on the internet searching for specialty dog toys, leashes, and dog backpacks. Keeping this in mind, we’ve compiled a list of what to look for in the best backpack for your dog.

First things first, please consult your vet before you buy a backpack, especially if your dog has health issues or is a senior. The breed, size, energy level, and weight of your dog are also key factors. Normally, your dog will be able to carry up to 25% of their own body weight, but no more. You might want to start from probably 10-12% of their weight and increase it as they get accustomed to it. Keep a scale handy and do not guess at the weight of the backpack; it’s supposed to be fun, not drudgery. A heavy pack will weigh heavily on your dog and, soon, your conscience if you have to take them to the vet.

Dog backpacks can be used to store water bottles, food, or other dog accessories, just nothing too heavy. Make a note-to-self: if you suspect that your pet is feeling some pain, even with the lightest of weights, put him in his car seat and drive him straight to the vet. Don’t let his puppy-dog face sway you; he might be ill.

Price

We have already agreed that your bestie deserves only the best. In other words, forget about cheap dog backpacks – unless you want your dog to feel more like a “cheapie” than a bestie. Those things affect your dog adversely, both emotionally and physically. You know you don’t want that.

That said, let’s talk price. Well, good news, with a little over $20, you are “woof” to go! For those of you with higher budgets who are looking for top of the line dog accessories, a luxury backpack can be purchased for around $100.

Features

Now, before you break your piggy bank, let’s talk about some of the specific features to look for in doggy backpacks:

Weight of your dog
Material
Size of your dog
Fit
Capacity

Alright, let’s get into the details.

Construction and Design

Different types of adventures require different types of backpacks. For a walk in the park, go for a backpack that’s snug, comfortable, brightly colored (safety orange is an idea), and Y-shaped to prevent a neck strain. Of course, safety orange was just a suggestion. If you and your dog already have a favorite color, feel free to indulge, just make sure that the color is easily visible so you can easily find your dog if you are accidentally separated.

For a hike, consider the terrain; if rocky, go for a tough material to prevent tears. Ensure that the pack is made of water-resistant material to protect food and treats, and that the harnesses are padded to avoid sore spots. The saddlebags should be removable too in case you need to cross a stream or rest. If you live in a hot region, you should purchase something with water bladders so the heat is somewhat dissipated. Regarding saddlebags, if your dog is cute and portable (‘portable’ sounds cuter than just ‘short’), buy packs with shallower saddlebags, those that do not go beyond an inch above your dog’s elbow.

Whatever your adventure, ensure that the weight of the pack is evenly distributed and that the brunt of the weight rests more on your dog’s shoulders and less on the lower back. A good point to stop is just after the rib cage. Y-shaped chest straps will distribute the weight on the pack evenly and they will reduce the strain on your dog’s neck. An ideal fit isn’t too tight or too loose.

Performance and Ease of Use

When getting your pup their backpack, buy one with ample space. This will prove useful as your dog begins to adjust to the challenge of carrying a backpack and you want to increase the weight he carries or when you need to carry more stuff for a different adventure. If you purchase a pack with low carrying capacity, you might find it frustrating trying to get a new one each time you need to carry a heavier weight.

A backpack with adjustable straps is always a plus, and you don’t need algorithms to understand why. As your dog grows and his muscles develop, you can always adjust the straps for a perfect fit. For a long-lasting pack that won’t easily wear or tear, consider a pack made of tough nylon or a rip stop. This way, you can enjoy your backpack long-term without hitches or stitches.

For long walks and hikes, buy a pack that has removable saddle bags. The reason is simple: if you need to cross a stream or you have to rest, you can easily disengage and re-engage the bags before and after you are done. It’s efficient and saves you a whole lot of stress.

What is the Best Dog Backpack?

Now that you know what you should look out for, scoop your dog (or dogs!) onto your lap and go through the carefully prepared review we made just for you. As you do this together, remember to be attentive to your dog’s responses. If he woofs at a particular product and seems excited, that might just be “the one”. Go ahead and click that link!

Our Top Choice

The Outward Hound DayPak Dog Backpack is a light-capacity backpack that is ideal for most trips with your dog and can be used in all conditions. It has the required amount of space and also some extras that are very useful. If you are looking for a smaller backpack with a different design, you should check out the Outward Hound Kyjen Pal Pak Backpack which is just as affordable.

Outward Hound DayPak Adjustable Saddlebag Style Dog Bag / Accessory – Available in 3 Sizes & 2 Colors

Outward Hound Dog Backpack 22003 – Medium - Blue

Features

Outward Hound started with a simple mission: to give a more fulfilling experience to pet owners and their beloved pets with useful innovations. To achieve this lofty goal, it set out by building a team of experts and designers that are dog lovers. Therefore, when you buy a product from this brand, you can be sure of one thing: you are buying a product that has the thoughtfulness of a dog expert that is also a dog lover. Can you beat that combination? Add to this the fact that the CEO encourages feedback from customers, and you know that you are dealing with a brand that actually cares. The result? Products that actually solve real life problems.

Not only does its products provide great solutions to problems faced by dog owners everywhere, these products are designed to solve these problems in fun and engaging ways, helping you build a stronger bond with your beloved pet. As if these weren't great enough, any product with this brand's name is built to last long, giving you value for every dollar spent. The Outward Hound DayPak Dog Backpack epitomizes this.

The Outward Hound DayPak Dog Backpack is an affordable, stylish backpack that provides optimum comfort to the dog wearing it. It has expandable pockets, giving you more storage space and convenient options for packing stuff for your adventure. Here are some other features that make this backpack great…

Adjustable strap which makes it easy for dogs of almost any size to use it
Reflective accents and bright colors for maximum visibility so you can be sure that you won’t have a hard time spotting your dog
Breathable mesh harness which makes the backpack fit your dog snugly
D-ring clip that makes it easy for you to attach your dog's leash when you are ready to start the adventure

This backpack is available in three sizes and comes in two colors, giving you a number of options to ensure the best for your dog.

Not sure on this one? Outward Hound has many other dog backpacks for you to check out.

Best Value

The OneTigris Cotton Canvas Dog Pack is a stylish backpack that is very durable as it is made with the best high-density cotton canvas. You can be sure that your dog will be comfortable throughout your trips with this backpack. If you are looking for a pack that is just as durable and is waterproof as well, you should try the OneTigris Camo Saddle Dog Backpack.

OneTigris Hound Travel Camping Hiking Saddle Bag for Medium & Large Dogs – Also Available with Leash

OneTigris Dog Backpack Canvas – Dog Pack

Features

OneTigris is one of the few brands that isn’t motivated strictly by profit but also by the love of adventure. Its goal is to always create products that will enhance the adventurous spirit of its customers. It strives, against all odds, to always achieve excellence, thus leading to products that are of superb quality and high functionality. The OneTigris Cotton Canvas Dog Pack exemplifies all of this.

The OneTigris Cotton Canvas Dog Pack is a multifunctional backpack that is highly efficient, effective and durable. It has a unique vintage style that is very fashionable while giving your dog that air of “wild” freedom. It is made with the best high-density cotton canvas to prevent your pet’s fur from hurting so you can count on your dog being comfortable throughout your trip or adventure. Who wants an uncomfortable dog in difficult terrains?

You don’t have to worry about having enough space for everyday items with this backpack, thanks to its two zipper side pockets for optimum utilization of space. You won’t have to worry about looking bad since its color conceals dirt, making it great for those long, rugged adventures. Your dog will stay comfortable through it all, and won’t be bothered by the backpack. That’s the level of thoughtfulness that has been put into its design.

If this is not exactly what you're looking for, OneTigris has another backpack you can check out.

The Ruffwear Palisides Pack is one of the most efficient backpacks available. It has spacious saddle bags for multi-day adventures and a modified weight harness for comfortable weight distribution If you are looking for a backpack with same quality but a different design, you should check out the Ruffwear - Singletrak Low-Profile Hydration Pack for Dogs.

Ruffwear Palisades Multi-Day Backcountry Pack for Dogs – Available in 3 Sizes

Ruffwear Dog Backpack 50201-615M - Medium

Features

Ruffwear “works with dogs” to improve its products. Its main aim is to create gear that is safe, efficient and promote the spirit of adventure. This is exactly what it has been doing and will continue to do. So if you want the very best for your dog, this one brand you can’t afford to ignore.

The Ruffwear Palisides Pack has most of what you need in a dog's backpack. It is durable and easy to maintain. Following are some of the features that make it such a great backpack for your dog…

Comes with hydration bottles which save cost
Has spacious saddle bags for multi-day adventures
Has modified weight harness for comfortable weight distribution
A reflective trim which helps you see your dog even in low visibility areas
Secure leash attachment, making it easy for you to keep your dog close
Comes in a wide range of sizes for maximum comfort

Ruffwear has many other dog backpacks for you to check out if the featured one isn’t the type you are looking for.

The Pawaboo Adjustable Backpack is made of high-quality, 600D Oxford cloth for your dog's maximum comfort. It has adjustable straps for a perfect fit and comes with spacious pockets. If you want a backpack that is just as reliable and also serves as a dog carry bag, we recommend the Pawaboo Pet Carrier Backpack.

Pawaboo Dog Adjustable Saddle Bag Carrier for Traveling Hiking Camping, Suitable for 39-60lbs Pets – Available in 4 Colors

Pawaboo Dog Backpack AED 124 - Orange

Features

Pawaboo is one of the best manufacturers of dog accessories. It is widely known for its commitment to producing top-notch dog backpacks. If you are planning a trip or an adventure and want to ensure that your dog has the right gear, Pawaboo gives you one of the best out there.

The Pawaboo Dog Backpack is an adjustable dog backpack made of a durable material so you can count on using it for a long time. It also has expandable pockets in which you can store extra goods like snacks or drinks. This pack comes with adjustable straps for a perfect fit so you can be sure the backpack won’t wobble on your dog’s back, making your dog uncomfortable and ruining your adventure. There is NO cutting of corners in the material used. This one is made of high-quality Oxford 600D material for durability and an adjustable neck circumference for maximum comfort.

The Pawaboo Dog Backpack is a durable and functional dog backpack. You should check it out.

The Frontpet Explorer Low-Profile Dog Backpack is a lightweight backpack that will be very easy for your dog to carry. It also has a double padded mesh bottom for maximum comfort. You like this backpack? Great! But how does the idea of removable saddle bags sound? If you like that, then you should check out the Frontpet Explorer Dog Harness.

Frontpet Explorer Ultra Light Medium Dog Backpack With Four Individual Low-Profile Storage Compartments

Frontpet Dog Backpack Explorer

Features

Frontpet is dedicated to making pet ownership more satisfying than ever. It does this by emphasizing the joys of owning a pet and reducing the inconveniences through the supply of innovative products that keep your beloved friend happy. Can you be happy if your pet is NOT happy? If you want to give your pet the very best and strengthen your bond with it, Frontpet is here to help.

The Frontpet Explorer Low-Profile Dog Backpack is a versatile dog backpack which can also be used as a harness. It is made of durable rip stop material to ensure that it survives any adventure. Following are some of its other features…

Four dedicated storage pockets with mesh lining for superior storage capacity
Attached sleek pockets which prevent the saddles from moving while in use
Five adjustable points, ensuring you get the best fit for your dog
Bright material allows for high visibility so you can easily spot your pet even in tough terrains
Low profile design which ensures your dog isn't slowed down by an oversized backpack
Comfortable padded material ensures your dog is safe and comfortable while using the harness
Zipper tabs with rubber grips allow you to open and close your side bags quite easily
The harness point is on the mid-center back of the backpack, which helps with weight distribution throughout the backpack

Not fully decided or sure on this one? Frontpet has many other dog backpacks you can check out.

Get the Best Dog Backpack of 2018!

These reviews, we believe, are detailed enough to help you make the right decision for your dog. Pick the right backpack and discover new trails with your canine best friend!

Our Top Choice

Outward Hound DayPak Dog Backpack

Best Value

OneTigris Cotton Canvas Dog Pack

Ruffwear Palisades™ Pack

Pawaboo Adjustable Dog Backpack

Frontpet Explorer Ultra-Light Backpack