Best Dog Backpacks for Hiking of 2024
The Top 5 Comfortable and Safe Dog Backpacks for Hiking, Camping, and Urban Dog Walks
Kelvin is one of five hiking dog testers charged with hiking trails from Colorado to Michigan to Alaska in search of the best dog backpack. Photo by Kat Thomas.
May 12th, 2024
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With a backpack for dogs, your pet can carry their own food, toys, hydration bottle, and poop bags. We explain how easy it is to put on a dog hiking backpack, how much weight your dog can carry in its backpack, and how to choose a dog backpack for your pet.
After researching dog hiking packs and analyzing hundreds of professional and customer reviews, we tested the most popular dog bags to find the best packs for hiking with your dog.
Related: Dog Hiking Gear Checklist
Read more: How to Ski and Snowshoe with Your Dog
This story is not about the category of gear known as a "dog carrier," "pet carrier," "dog backpack carrier," or "dog carrier backpack" (where the human carries the dog, a la the K9 Sport sack).
If you’re looking for human hiking gear, let us help you find the Best Fanny Packs for carrying dog poop bags, Best Hiking Backpacks and Best Lightweight Backpacking Backpack for your trip with your four-legged friend!
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Dog Backpack Summary table
| DOG PACK | TREELINE AWARD | MSRP* | SIZES | NUMBER OF POCKETS | NUMBER OF STRAPS | LEASH ATTACHMENT POINT | HANDLE | ADJUSTABLE |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ruffwear Approach | Best Overall Dog Pack Read review |
$100 | S-XL | 4 | 2 | Y (2) | Y | Y |
| Mountainsmith K-9 | Best Affordable Dog Pack Read review |
$75 | S-L | 2 | 1 | Y | Y | Y |
| Ruffwear Palisades | Best Dog Pack for Backpacking Read review |
$150 | S-XL | 6 | 3 | Y (2) | Y | Y |
| Outward Hound DayPak | Best Urban Dog Pack Read review |
$33 | S/M and L-XL | 4 | 3 | Y | Y | Y |
* Prices reflect MSRP and are subject to change. We note any discounts we see on our Deals page, which is updated daily.
Best Dog Backpacks for Hiking
Best Overall Dog Backpack: Ruffwear Approach
Best use: Hiking
Sizes available: XS, S, M, L/XL
Pack Weight: XS: 0.8 lb S: 1 lb. 1 oz., M: 1 lb. 2 oz., L/XL: 1 lb. 5 oz.
Handle: Yes
Pocket capacity: XS: 6 liters S: 12.5 liters, M: 14.5 liters, L/XL: 24 liters
Number of pockets: 4
Straps: 2
Adjustable: Yes
Leash Attachment point: Yes (2)
What we liked: padding, fits dogs of many sizes, reflective features, lots of attachment points, volume
What we didn’t like: price, not waterproof
Our Overall Best Dog Backpack, the Ruffwear Approach pack, was hands-down the most beloved dog backpack we found. In our tests, it was comfortable and easy to use with dogs of different sizes.
We tested the Ruffwear Approach pack with three dogs of different shapes and sizes on hiking trails in five different states (and drastically different climates):
Champ, my Black Lab/Great Dane mix, who calls Alaska, Maine, and Colorado home
Axel, a Boxer, who calls Colorado home
Karluk, a Black Lab Mix adopted from the Oregon Humane Society, who spends his outdoor time in Oregon and Washington.
The Approach Pack is available in sizes extra-small (available directly from Ruffwear), small, medium, and large/extra-large, making it suitable for just about any dog.
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Karluk wearing his Ruffwear Approach pack in the temperate rainforest of the Cascade Mountain Range in Oregon. Photo by Whitney LaRuffa.
Champ testing the Ruffwear Approach Dog Hiking Pack along Clear Creek in Colorado. Photo courtesy Josette Deschambeault.
What We Like About The Ruffwear Approach Dog Backpack :
• padding along the dog's shoulders and spine
• a metal V-ring to attach your dog's leash between the shoulders (see photo of Champ’s pack above)
• reflective trim and high-visibility color options for spotting your pup in lowlight
• a webbing loop to attach safety beacons (see photo of Champ’s pack above)
• a padded Y-shaped chest piece for your dog's comfort, high-visibility color options
• five adjustable points
• 24 liters of total volume in the L/XL (that’s large enough to fit a doggy sleeping bag in one saddlebag!). Backpacker Magazine testers were able to “fit two liters of water, a collapsible bowl, almost two pounds of snacks, her hiking booties, and a stuffed toy.”
Outdoor media also liked the Ruffwear Approach pack. Backpacker Magazine writes: “‘This pack has more than enough room to carry everything our dog needs for a long hike,’ one tester said after a daylong journey on trails above Golden, Colorado. The 420-denier nylon brushed off encounters with rocks and bushes with ease, and the padding kept his pooch comfortable for the entire hike."
Axel the Boxer has a square-shaped body but the Approach fit him well, too! He (and we) liked the padded chest strap. Choosing a chest strap in orange also helps with visibility. Photo courtesy Josette Deschambeault.
Our Favorite Customer Reviews About The Ruffwear Approach Pack
In addition to our own testing, here are a few of our favorite customer review quotes that told us we had found the motherlode:
Customer and outdoor media reviewers also rated it the best out there, ranking 4.7/5 on Amazon, 4.3/5 by REI, Backpacker’s #1 mention, and 4.7/5 by Adventure Junkies.
“This is a very good quality pack. It has been perfect for overnight hiking/camping trips along the Appalachian Trail. It allows our pup, Apollo, to carry some of his own water and all of his food for a 24-36 hour trip (in addition to packing his own waste out — very helpful!). After he quickly got used to it, he seems quite comfortable in it. The one thing we wish it had was a front clip. Apollo can be quite the puller on trails, and an integrated front clip like the larger pack has would be helpful. We were able to essentially solve the issue by looping the end of our flexible leash around the front chest strap thing. Apollo is a 70-lb Golden, and the size M fits him well!” — Apollo, REI reviewer
One Amazon reviewer noted that while the price was a bit hard to justify compared to cheaper versions that can be found in-store, her German Shepherd had room to grow into his adjustable large/XL size pack. She noted that the bags didn’t flop around or sag too much and that her male dog had no issue peeing with the pack on as long as the adjustable belly strap was fitted to be flush with his belly.
"Yes, this thing isn't cheap, but the chest strap alone makes it worth it. We threw this on our furry companion and didn't have to adjust it/recenter it once on our ~22 mile test drive. It even held up well to him scraping against rocks. The durable handle meant we could use it as an assistive device to get him up and down some larger rocks (what we have come to call 'the airlift'). No chafing. Our pup was able to carry his food and water in comfort (and style!) for a multi-day backpacking trip." — ZoSa, REI reviewer
Very few people had anything negative to say about the Approach, as this dog backpack has been on the market for years and has gone through many updates and iterations to perfect its design.
The few negative remarks we found pertained either to difficulty in correctly sizing dogs, or the lack of waterproofness. (The material is a water-resistant 420 denier nylon. Don’t submerge your dog, but it’ll tackle puddles with ease!)
Maybe the largest complaint was simply the price — at $100, it’s not the cheapest pet pack. Interestingly, we've actually seen the MSRP on this pack go down by $10 in the past year: from $110 in 2023 to $100 this year. But the Approach is lauded consistently as the highest quality dog backpack that we reviewed. We think it’s worth it.
Best Budget Dog Pack: Mountainsmith K-9
Best use: Hiking
Sizes available: S-L
Weight: S: 14.5 ounces, M: 1 pound, L: 1 lb. 3 oz. ounces
Handle: Yes
Pocket capacity: S: 14 liters, M: 24 liters, L/XL: 32 liters
Number of pockets: 2
Straps: 1
Adjustable: Yes
Leash Attachment point: Yes
At half the price of its top competitors, the Mountainsmith K-9 pack is one of the best quality dog backpacks at the most affordable price we could find. The Mountainsmith K-9 Pack is our pick for Best Dog Daypack and Best Budget Dog Pack. It’s 12 L-about half the size of most of the other packs we considered--making it a good pick for short trips with your pet.
The Mountainsmith K-9 features padded chest straps, air-mesh ventilation, a reflective trim along the edges of the pack, an integrated harness (so no need to buy a separate harness!), and two expandable pockets, with two smaller interior pockets, as well. This pack is great because you DON'T need to buy a whole 'nother thing — AND, you can give the dog rest by removing the dog bag. It's a killer 2-in-1. The K-9 dog pack is available in small, medium and large sizes.
Compare Prices On The Mountainsmith K-9 Pack
Who else likes it
The Mountainsmith K-9 pack has 4.5/5 from Amazon reviewers, 4.7/5 from Adventure Junkies, and 4.3/5 from Backcountry.com. Reviewers glowed with praise from the four-legged reviewers and their humans, alike.
The Mountainsmith K-9 pack was hailed as “the most dogonomically correct dog pack that Mountainsmith has ever offered, thanks to the design input from a service-dog veterinarian,” in a an earlier version of this story by REI.
OUR FAVORITE CUSTOMER REVIEW QUOTES ABOUT THE MOUNTAINSMITH K-9 PACK
“BEST FOR: Hikers wanting the very best in quality and comfort for their dog... Ergonomic design, many storage bags and pockets, high quality (sic) materials.” — Adventure Junkies
One Amazon reviewer noted that rather than being connected by a piece of fabric like most dog packs, this pack is more flexible because each saddle bag hangs by two straps from the top with the handle. This flexibility lets the bag hang naturally and comfortably while still being secure.
“Perfect for my Mini Aussie. Purchased a different brand for my little friend, using the manufacturer's size guide. The fit was a bit sloppy and the bags looked "overbig" on her. Then I discovered the Mountainsmith pack on Backcountry's website and decided to give it a try. What a difference! The strap design enables adjusting the pack to an optimum fit, one that the pup adapted to right away. The bags are sized right, and she looks pretty snazzy with it on. Shortly after receiving the pack the two of us spent 5 days hiking 63 miles of the Foothills Trail in South Carolina, with the dog carrying all her own food and snacks. She did great, obviously enjoying herself, with no apparent encumbrance from her backpack. This is a well designed (sic) quality product, and I'm glad I found it.” — Perry L., Steep & Cheap reviewer
“Mountainsmith nailed it with the redesign of this pack. Simple sizing and a great price finally got me to pick up a pack so Kyrra can start carrying her load. Kyrra's a 55 lb Husky/Weimaraner mix with about a 22-inch torso length and the medium fit is perfect. Plenty of adjustment to dial it in whereas I had a hard time getting a good fit with other brands due to the many different sizes and limited adjustability (particularly around her chest).” — Daryl Deprey, Steep & Cheap reviewer
Best Dog Backpack For Backpacking: Ruffwear Palisades
Best use: Backpacking, hiking
Sizes available: S-L/XL
Pack Weight: S: 1 lb. 12 oz., M: 1 lb. 13.6 oz., L/XL: 2 lbs. 2.4 oz.
Handle: Yes
Pocket capacity: S: 12.5 liters, M: 17.5 liters, L/XL: 24 liters
Number of pockets: 6
Straps: 3
Adjustable: Yes
Leash Attachment point: Yes (2)
Shopping for dog hiking backpacks is a lot like online shopping for humans — sometimes, what you ordered just wasn’t designed for your dog's body type. In the dog-pack world, that can happen with non-standard body shapes (again, we’re talking Great Dane or Bulldog shapes, here), and the Ruffwear Palisades pack was Best Backpack for Special Build Dogs dogs as well as our the Best Backpack for Backpacking.
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Karluk hiked the 165-mile long Tahoe Rim Trail with his owner using the Ruffwear Palisades pack. Photo courtesy Whitney LaRuffa.
Fits dogs of different sizes
Treeline Review writers tested the Ruffwear Palisades pack with:
Karluk, an 80-pound Black Lab/Pitbull mix. His testing trips included the 165-mile long Tahoe Rim Trail in California and Nevada and the 300-mile Chinook Trail in the Columbia River Gorge in Washington and Oregon.
Kelvin, a 38-pound Labradoodle, including a 5-day overnight trip in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan and Ice Age Trail in Wisconsin and on the Colorado Trail in Colorado.
Like the Ruffwear Approach pack we recommend as our Overall winner above, the Palisades holds 24 L, so has enough volume for multi-day backpacking trips with your pet.
Features
The best feature of the Ruffwear Palisades is the detachable saddlebags. With the release of mini clips, each removable saddlebag can be released from the harness allowing Duke to rest without his pack weighing him down. (Note, some reviewers mentioned frustration at the difficulty of attaching and releasing the mini clip, but we think once you get a hang of it, the system is a game-changer).
This pack features 12L saddlebags (24L total) with six pockets, two major and four accessory or smaller pockets. The Palisades pack is available in sizes small, medium, large, and extra-large.
Kelvin hiking the Colorado Trail with his Ruffwear Palisades pack. Photo by Kat Thomas.
Adjustable
On the Palisades, the Y-chest strap and belly straps are padded, with additional padding along the spine and shoulder strap (without interfering with the dog collar). The bags also feature compression straps, which allow you to cinch down any excess so that smaller loads don’t flop around on Duke’s back.
Hydration
Bonus: each pack comes with two 1L collapsible water jugs that fit inside the saddlebags. Not only does this fit special build dogs more easily, but it also works better for overnight backpacking trips where dogs will want a more comfortable fit.
Who else likes it
Consistent with our testing, Gear Institute writes that "The Palisades pack is for multi-day adventures or big day trips requiring large loads to be transported.” We took Karluk on 150 miles of backpacking on the Chinook Trail wearing the Palisades and he was able to carry his own water through dry sections.
Gear Institute also notes that, “The saddlebags are removable, leaving your dog in Ruff Wear’s five-point Webmaster type harness. This is useful if you would like to take the saddlebags off for rest times or difficult terrain. With or without the saddlebags in use, the harness can be used to restrain the dog, and is plenty beefy enough for some lifting and support."
The Palisades gets high regards from other professional reviewers we surveyed, too. Adventure Junkies writes that it is best for “hikers wanting fantastic quality and comfort, with excellent functionality... Ergonomic design, tough and abrasion resistant ripstop nylon, removable bags.”
Our Favorite Customer Review Quotes About The Ruffwear Palisades Pack
The Ruffwear Palisades earned the following scores: 4.7/5 from REI reviewers, 4.5/5 from Amazon reviewers, 4.8 from Dog Outdoors, and 90/100 from the Gear Institute.
Here are the quotes that helped convince us that we weren’t the only ones who like this pack:
Karluk wearing the Ruffwear Palisades for an overnight winter backpacking trip in the Pacific Northwest. Photo by Whitney LaRuffa.
"I was really hesitant to buy a dog backpack that cost more than my own Osprey backpack. However, I wanted to get her something that I wouldn't need to replace in a year or two. After reading reviews, I decided to splurge on the Palisades pack. My dog is a greyhound mix, 48 lbs with a 27" chest girth and a tiny waist. It's difficult to get her size right — either it fits her chest but is enormous on her waist, or it's just too small all around. Using the size chart and their sizing recommendation, I got a small. I was nervous because she's not a small dog by any means, but the pack fit her perfectly. The sizing chart is on point — use it! The harness is highly adjustable at multiple points. It took some time to get it right, but I haven't had to readjust at all. I also love that I can pick her up using the handle without too much effort. The harness is really well-made and I love that I can use it without the pack. The pack itself is roomy and has some pockets to separate items. I ordered the Highlands bed and it fits perfectly into a pocket. Overall, we're really happy with the Palisades pack on our day hikes and look forward to using it on longer backpacking trips this year." — elechdub, REI reviewer
"I purchased a size medium for my 65lb collie/shepherd mix and it fits her perfectly! There is enough room that she can carry her own food, water, treats and dog bowls for a 4 day hike into the backcountry. One of the best things is that the pack can be removed and only the harness can be used. I use only the harness for day hikes and daily walks, and add the pack for when we go camping. Lucy has even swam with the pack and it holds up to all her wear and tear while running through the woods chasing squirrels and rabbits! I would highly recommend it for any dog owner!” — KurtW, Backcountry.com reviewer
Another reviewer on Amazon noted that this is the go-to bag for people who are serious about hiking with their dog. They boasted its great quality after their dog wore it on a total of over 200 miles while hiking and seeing no signs of wear; they even stored their dog’s sleeping bag, 2 liters of water, and anywhere between 2-10 cups of dog food. Aside from that, they also enjoyed that the purchase was not just a pack, but also a great harness to use for weekend and non-hiking trips!
Value for the price
One common theme amongst reviews of the Ruffwear Palisades was the price — for better or for worse. That being said, we've seen the MSRP go down $10 in the last year without a change in design, which we take as a good sign.
Most reviewers were happy to pay, given the quality and that it was a pack that would actually fit their dog comfortably. Others were upset that a pack for their pet could be nearly as expensive as a human backpack.
We think if you plan to hike a lot with your dog--and especially hope to backpack or thru-hike with your dog — it’s hard to beat the quality and features of the Ruffwear Palisades.
Best Urban Dog Pack: Outward Hound Daypak
Best use: Long walks, urban adventures
Sizes available: S/M, L/XL
Handle: Yes
Pocket capacity:
Number of pockets: 2
Straps: 3
Adjustable: Yes
Leash Attachment point: Yes
For city-dwelling dogs, we recommend the Outward Hound Daypak Dog Backpack. This light-capacity saddle bag-style pack is breathable, bright, and bestselling (for a reason). This pack features 4 expandable pockets, adjustable straps, reflective piping, and D-ring leash clip, making it both comfortable and safe for your dog. It’s ideal for folks who want to go on long walks in the city with their dog or to have their dog carry its own toys or tennis balls. Although more delicate than other packs so best suited for urban situations, we’ve also tested this pack on hiking and backpacking trips and think it could be a decent budget choice for well-behaved dogs that are unlikely to be harsh on their gear (read: run off into the woods).
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Kelvin’s Outward Hound backpack met all of the criteria on our list and was a contender for best urban dog pack. Photo courtesy Kat Thomas.
How we tested
We tested this pack with Kelvin, a 38-pound Labradoodle on numerous day hikes on the Ice Age Trail in Wisconsin as well as 4 and 5-day backpacking trips in Michigan. Although the capacity is somewhat smaller that other packs, he could carry his own food and bowls.
Sizing and straps
It is worth noting that this pack only comes in either a medium or large size, so be sure to measure your pup before purchasing one.
Volume
The Outward Hound DayPak doesn't have stated volume, but we can fit two water bottles on each side and other urban necessities like poop bags, snacks, and a collapsible water bowl or a small toy or ball.
The Outward Hound Daypack has thinner straps on the belly area than other packs we tested. Kelvin (well, Kelvin’s humans) noted that it feels a bit less secure than our other winning packs, seeing as it rotates side to side more than others we tested.
The Outward Hound carries a smaller volume than the Ruffwear Palisades, which is what we think makes it a better fit for city dogs who are accompanying their owners on the casual morning hike as opposed to multi-day or arduous trips. Still, for a well-behaved dog unlikely to bolt into the woods, this urban-friendly dog pack can work for nature hikes, too.
Honorable Mention Dog Pack:
Onetigris Hoppy Camper Canvas Dog Pack
Best use: Urban, long walks
Sizes available: M/L
Handle:Yes
Number of pockets: 2
Straps: 2
Adjustable: Yes
Leash Attachment point: Yes
The OneTigris Hoppy Camper is a simple, affordable pack (about 1/4 the price of our upgrade pick). It’s a good-looking option for everyone we spoke to, from our Denver-ites who wanted Marley to carry his own tennis balls to and from the dog park, to the cowgirl in Iowa who wanted Axel to carry extra treats, his leash, and booties on their morning stroll across wide pastures. The Hoppy Camper is one of few dog packs available that is made in the USA.
The Hoppy Camper earned these ratings: 4.2/5 from Amazon, 4.3/5 from Adventure Junkies, and 4.4/5 on Chewy.com.
The Hoppy Camper is only available in a tan color, which, while stylish, does not have a reflective strip. This is not great for high-visibility for nighttime walks. (You may want to consider adding reflective trim or a patch to the sides.)
View The Onetigris Hoppy Camper
Karluk at Coyote Wall in the Columbia River Gorge, Washington. Photo by Whitney LaRuffa.
How We Researched
To ensure that we were reviewing only the best for our four-legged trail companions, we researched the most popular pet backpacks and collected the top contenders into our four groups (Best Overall, Daypack, “Special” Designs, and Urban). The four winners were popular and well-reviewed across different platforms, from independent media such as Modern Bark, Backpacker Magazine, Adventure Junkies, and Gear Institute.
In addition, each piece of dog gear was well-reviewed, bestsellers, and highly recommended by everyday users on platforms such as REI, Backcountry.com, and Amazon.
From these latter sites, we verified reviews against FakeSpot, a site that flags falsified or tampered reviews, to verify authenticity.
After considerable review of these third parties, real-life customer feedback, our own expertise, and opinions from multiple hikers who bring canines on all of their trail-centered adventures, we narrowed our list to our top contenders. Then we took to the trails.
Axel the Boxer has a square-shaped body that poses some challenges when sizing dog packs. Photo by Josette Deschambeault.
How we Tested
Four dogs took to the trails in ten different states (and drastically different climates):
Champ: my Black Lab/Great Dane mix, who calls Alaska, Maine, and Colorado home
Axel: a Boxer, who calls Colorado home and is best friends with Champ
Karluk: a Black Lab Mix adopted from the Oregon Humane Society, who spends his outdoor time in Oregon and Washington, but also tested dog backpacks in California and Nevada.
Kelvin: a Labradoodle, who spends his outdoor time in Wisconsin, Michigan, and Illinois
To be considered for each of these categories, we measured each pack against standardized criteria (see below for what made our must have list, which features were nice to have, and what features were dealbreakers). In short, the packs had to be affordable, had to fit a wide range of sizes, had to be durable, and had to be both comfortable and ergonomically designed for the dog.
Karluk tested several of the packs we review. Here, he’s on a mountaineering trip with his human on top of Mt. Adams, Washington with the Ruffwear Approach. Photo courtesy Whitney LaRuffa.
Buying advice
To whittle down the field, we created criteria for our contenders of what these dog hiking backpacks must include:
Adjustable Strap
With dogs with deep chests (think Boxers) and small bellies (think Jack Russell Terriers) in mind, adjustability was not negotiable for us. We looked for pet packs that included an adjustable strap.
We also wanted multiple straps of varying lengths, to allow for smaller builds (like Miniature Australian Shepherds) and big bellies (such as Newfoundlands) alike to carry their share on the trails.
Bonus points were awarded to those packs with an adjustable saddle bag, as well — which allow you to center weight more towards the spine, or down towards the ribcage, to minimize “flopping bags.”
Breathability
An overheating dog means an adventure cut short. Just as you would want a breathable fabric on your jog around town, we looked for dog packs with breathable fabrics, especially along the spine.
Kelvin rolling around next to the trail. Dogs will be dogs, so it’s important to have a durable backpack that can keep up with your dog. Photo by Kat Thomas.
Durability
Whether rubbing up against a park bench, or rolling in the mud miles outside town, we couldn’t ignore the fact that some four-legged friends will happily destroy their dog gear. We scoured reviews for examples of packs holding up to snow, mud, rain, underbrush, trees, creeks, and even teething puppies to make sure these packs would last.
While every single pack had at least one review mentioning seam failure (usually at the leash attachment point, and usually involving strong-pulling dogs), we strove to avoid packs with numerous comments about stitches ripping on the saddle bag or leash points consistently popping off. Instead, we focused on packs that had improved their stitching (either with higher quality thread or reinforced stitches).
We also looked for mentions of quality buckles, thicker handles, and hardy D- or V-rings (the metal attachments on the back of packs or harnesses, where the leash attaches).
Champ drinking water with his Approach pack at Clear Creek, Colorado. Dog packs should be secure enough that dogs can go about their business without concern the backpack will slip. Photo courtesy Josette Deschambeault.
Your Dog's Comfort
Human backpacks use padded shoulders and wide hip belts to make them more comfortable; why shouldn’t dog hiking backpacks?
We checked the contenders for padded straps across the chest, under the arms, and around the belly to eliminate those with tendencies to chafe. Bonus points were awarded to those packs with additional cushioning along the spine, alleviating the pressure that weight can have on doggie backs.
Sizes
Beagles and Bernese Mountain Dogs both need backpack options. We searched for dog backpacks that came in as many sizes as possible, with as much adjustability as possible.
Handles
Human hikers can easily assist their four-legged friends up big steps or out of tight squeezes with the help of a strong handle. Extra points for a padded handle. We prioritize our search for dog packs to include this extra support.
Volume
Our canine companions needed to be able to carry the essentials (i.e. water, poo bags, treats), at the very least. However, we kept in mind that longer adventures require more treats, and hunted down the packs that allowed our pups the space to carry more, if needed. With that in mind, we hunted for packs between 1L (for our burgeoning backpack-pups) and 24L (the average for distance-oriented dog backpacks).
Champ on a trail in Colorado with a leash attached. Many hiking trail systems require dogs to be on leash at all times, making good attachment systems on a dog backpack important. Photo by Josette Deschambeault.
Leash Attachment Points
While maybe not the best option for strong pullers, we felt that packs without a leash attachment point were not optimal. We made our selections based on the criteria of at least one alternative leash attachment point on the dog packs. Most of the packs we considered aren't designed for "heavy pullers" — those dogs who aren't trained well on leashes, or who might be too strong/heavy for a single attachment point. Usually, these pets need a separate dog harness.
Once these boxes were checked, the packs must have a wide range of positive consumer reviews, as well as independent professional reviews.
As we compared, we realized that there were four obvious categories, which we then compared all of our contenders against: Best Overall, Best Budget, Best Backpacking, Best for Special Build Dogs, and Best Urban.
Karluk uses the Ruffwear Approach for day hikes and the Ruffwear Palisades pack for backpacking trips. The best pack for your dog will depend on where you are, the goals of your trip, and your dog’s body. Photo by Whitney LaRuffa.
How to Choose The Dog-Pack For You
Making moves towards purchasing your first dog-pack can be intimidating.
To explore what kind of dog-pack is best for you, ask yourself (and, of course, your furry friend):
Has your dog carried a pack before?
Have they worn a harness before?
Has your dog carried a weighted pack before?
Have they hiked longer distances with you before?
Is your dog “odd” shaped?
We Developed This Flowchart Infographic To Help You Make A Decision On Choosing A Dog Hiking Pack.
Once you answer these questions, you can get an idea of whether to focus on an Overall Dog Hiking Pack, a Budget/Starter Daypack, a Backpacking Pack (also best for odd shaped dogs), or an Urban Pack. Read onto the next section to read more about the differences between the categories.
The human’s perspective of a dog with a hiking backpack. Kelvin here is enjoying the Colorado Trail with the Ruffwear Palisades. Photo by Kat Thomas.
What Are The Different Types Of Dog Backpacks?
As we compared dog packs we realized that there were several categories, which we then compared all of our contenders against: Best Overall, Budget/Starter, Backpacking, Pack for Odd Shaped Dogs, and Urban. After comparing dozens of packs and whittling the contenders’ list to 10, we found the four packs that fit most dog owners’ needs.
Best Dog Hiking Pack For Most Dogs
Our overall winner for those who want to get their pups out on multi-day trips was the Ruffwear Approach pack, as it scored highest in quality, padding, saddlebag volume, and durability.
Starter Dog Hiking Pack
For those looking for a starter pack to get their dogs used to carrying weight over shorter trips, we found the K-9 Mountainsmith pack to tick all of our boxes, without overkill on price or unnecessary space.
Best Dog Backpacking Pack
Our Best Backpacking dog pack is the Ruffwear’s Palisades, which is also great for dogs who have a difficult time fitting into other packs. The harness and adjustable strap system on the Palisades means this pack will ride better for long hikes, rugged terrain, overnight trips, and dogs whose body’s needs aren’t met by traditional dog packs.
Best For “Special Build” Dogs
Ruffwear’s Palisades pack eliminated a common complaint amongst backpacking dog lovers — the difficulty in finding a pack made for “special” dogs (such as my Labrador Retriever/Great Dane mix, who has a broad chest and dramatically tapered waist) — by providing an ultra-adjustable dog-pack designed to center over a dog’s shoulders.
Best For City Dogs
For those looking to work their dog’s mileage up through walks around the neighborhood, the stylish and budget-friendly Onetigris Hoppy Camper Rucksack pack is our urban pack winner.
Best Dog Backpack Carrier
For this story, we didn’t test a dog carrier backpack or a pet carrier pack (where the human puts the dog into a backpack and carries it). However, it’s important to know that this category of dog carrier backpack to carry your dog exists. This article focuses on packs where the dog carries their own gear. If this is what you’re looking for, be careful to avoid a pet carrier designed for humans to wear.
Care and maintenance tips for dog backpacks
Taking good care of your dog's backpack is essential to ensure its longevity and functionality, as well as Fido’s comfort and safety during hikes. Begin by familiarizing yourself with the manufacturer's instructions for cleaning and maintaining the backpack. Dog backpacks are usually made of rugged materials that can handle wherever your dog may take it. Specific recommendations may vary depending on the materials used and what straps are included.
Regular cleaning is key to preventing dirt buildup and maintaining hygiene. Most manufacturers recommend hand washing dog backpacks with a mild detergent and water. We’re fan of Tech Wash, which is designed specifically for use on outdoor products.
Be sure to thoroughly rinse away all soap residue and allow the backpack to air dry completely before putting it on your dog again or storing it away. Avoid using harsh chemicals or bleach, as these can damage the materials.
As you clean the backpack, take the opportunity to inspect it for any signs of wear, tear, or damage. Check for loose seams, fraying straps, or broken buckles. Ensure that zippers are functioning correctly and are not stuck or damaged. Address any issues promptly to prevent further damage and maintain safety during hikes. See our guide on How to Repair Zippers on Outdoor Gear for step-by-step instructions.
When the backpack is not in use, store it in a clean, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture. Consider using a storage bag or container to protect the backpack from dust and debris. Avoid storing it in areas where it may be prone to pests or rodents, as they can cause damage.
Regularly check the fit of the backpack on your dog to ensure it remains comfortable and secure. Adjust straps as needed to accommodate changes in your dog's size or weight. Pay attention to any signs of discomfort or irritation during hikes and make necessary adjustments to ensure your pet's comfort.
If your dog's backpack includes a hydration system, such as a water bladder, follow the manufacturer's instructions for cleaning and maintenance. Thoroughly rinse and dry the hydration system after each use to prevent mold and bacteria growth. Inspect the tubing and bite valve for any signs of damage or wear and replace them as needed.
Lastly, remember that training and conditioning are also important aspects of caring for your dog's backpack. Gradually introduce your dog to wearing the backpack and carrying weight to ensure they are comfortable and confident. Start with lighter loads and shorter hikes, gradually increasing both weight and duration over time. Monitor your dog's behavior and physical condition during hikes to prevent overexertion or injury. See our section below on How to Hike with Your Dog with a Backpack for tips.
It’s easy to overdo it when taking your dog out for their first trip with a backpack. Here are some tips to make hiking with your dog with a backpack easier. Photo by Kat Thomas.
How To Hike With Your Dog With A Dog Hiking Pack
If you’re anything like myself (and Champ), you may have a tendency towards overdoing it on the first attempt.
For our first foray onto a trail, Champ and I attempted a 10-mile hike with 5,000’ of elevation gain to summit A.B Mountain in Skagway, Alaska. To my knowledge, he had never worn a dog harness, much less a hiking backpack, but was eager to get going.
He was not as eager a few miles in, and this over-eager Dog Mom ended up carrying his gear back to the car for him. Needless to say, learn from our (poor) example — just like humans, dogs need to break in their gear, and adjust to carrying weight.
How To Practice Hiking With Your Dog
Your first time using your new dog-pack should not be on a 10-mile out-and-back. Instead, put Kujo’s new pack on around the house, and let him adjust to the feeling of straps around his belly and bags on his back. If he seems comfortable, add a pound or two — treats, canned dog food, even water bottles can do the trick. Take Daisy out for a walk around the neighborhood, and watch to see if she bites at or scratches the straps. Doing so may be a tip-off that there’s something uncomfortable that may cause chafing on longer walks. Adjust straps and placement on your neighborhood jaunts before hitting the trail.
Karluk on a multi-day backpacking trip through Opal Creek Wilderness and Bull of the Woods Wilderness in Oregon. Photo courtesy Whitney LaRuffa.
How Much Weight Should Be In My Dog’S Backpack?
A rough estimation is that dogs can carry up to 25% of their body weight. However, most experts say that dogs should not be carrying more than 10-15% of their body weight. This is also very dependent on the breed, build, age and health of your dog. (Check with your vet before starting a weighted backpacking regimen with your pup!)
For instance, puppies should not be carrying any weight, as their bodies are still growing and adjusting, and cannot handle pulling or carrying weight until they are about a year old. Older dogs, as their joints start to deteriorate, will also carry less weight. A large dog in general can carry more than tiny dogs.
Start with very little weight to begin with. Adding a half of a pound every few weeks of walking will build your pooch’s strength and stamina, but be sure to monitor their progress. A 15 minute walk with weight is about equal to a 30-minute walk without weight.
Are dog backpacks bad for a dog’s back?
Consult with your veterinarian before starting your dog with a backpack, especially if your dog is older, has known joint or other health issues. How much weight you put into your dog’s backpack can impact your dog’s health, so be sure to start slowly and build up to weight.
Should I Size Up Or Down On My Dog Hiking Backpack?
If your pup is caught in between the recommended weights for sizes, most reviews recommend sizing down. It’s easier to loosen straps out fully on a hiking backpack than it is to cinch them down too far.
Your dog’s pack should be more towards the front of your dog than the back. Although Champ is a non-typical size dog, with wide, padded straps, it’s possible to get a pack to fit him correctly without causing rubbing. Photo by Josette Deschambeault.
How Should A Dog Backpack Fit My Dog?
If you’re in a store trying on different packs with Skip, our friends at Adventure Junkies had some great advice on fitting: “The ideal design will have the pack sitting toward the front of the dog, with much of the weight over their front legs. If the pack is set too far towards the rear, then it may place excessive strain on your dog’s spine. Pay close attention to the strap design. Wide, padded straps are best as they spread the load across the dog’s skin. A thin strap will cut into your dog’s skin and result in bruising or painful sores. If you have a smaller dog, take care to ensure that the pack panniers on either side don’t hang too low to the ground. Ideally, the bottom of the panniers should be at least one inch higher than your dog’s elbow joint."
What To Measure On A Dog Hiking Pack
Don’t just base your size choice on recommended weights. Measure Baxter’s chest and belly, and base his size off of those diameters.
How To Cinch Straps On A Pet Backpack
Cross ‘em. One hiker said that with her 65 lb pitbull-mix, she still has difficulty with sizing and cinching straps correctly. Her recommendation? “Criss-cross the belly straps.” She was worried about chafing in her pup’s armpits, due to a lack of padding, but said it has not been a problem — and she’s been taking him for 8-mile walks with this pack!
How To Pack Your Dog’s Backpack
Evenly distribute weight on your dog’s backpack. A common mistake made by beginning dog-packers is lopsided weight in the saddlebag. (In fact, this was the most common negative review point we found — that packs would slide to one side or another.)
For the best fit — and the best time had by Fido — both sides need to be weighted evenly, or else the pack will list to one side. (Think of packing all of your heaviest items on one side of your backpack, then try hiking for a few miles. You wouldn’t enjoy that, and neither would Fido.) The easiest way to weigh down your dog pack? Water bottles.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hiking With Dogs
Kelvin backpacking in the rain in Colorado. Photo by Kat Thomas.
Are Dog Backpacks Good For Dogs?
The short answer is: it depends. On the type of dog you have, the type of trip you’re going on, what/how much they’ll be carrying, your dog’s age, and more.
See these stories from Paw and Claws Vet and Crossroads Animal Hospital to learn more about whether a dog pack is right for your dog and check with your veterinarian before starting a new exercise routine with your pooch.
How Do You Take Your Dog Hiking?
Aside from taking into consideration your dog’s build, age, and stamina, you should also consider outside factors like the terrain, weather, other types of animals you may encounter on the trail, etc. American Hiking Society and Backpacker have great suggestions and things to think about before bringing Rex along with you on the trail. For those considering bringing your dog along in more extreme weather, see our story on How to Ski and Snowshoe With Your Dog in the Winter.
How far you hike with your dog depends on you and your dog. Karluk has hiked back-to-back 25-mile days with his human, but it required many years of training and practice starting when he was a puppy. One way to train is to hike with just a harness. Photo by Whitney LaRuffa.
How Far Can A Dog Hike In A Day?
There’s no hard and fast answer to this other than this — consult your vet and work up to it. Champion and I pushed it too far on his first hike, and he told me by literally laying down on the trail. Nowadays, he tells me it’s time to turn around by walking close to my heels rather than surging ahead. Trust me: unless you have a back-up pet carrier backpack for you to carry your dog yourself, it's not worth pushing your dog.
REI, Ruffwear, and Adventure Journal all have great articles about starting to hike or trail run with your dog, and how to get them in shape to do so. Slowly, smartly, and with small objectives (at first) will go a long way to make sure Rex is comfortable, healthy, and wants to go with you!
What Do You Do With Dog Poop When Hiking?
Just like Leave No Trace states- pack it in, pack it out. Most of the time, I reserve an outer backpack pocket (on my pack) for Champ’s daily droppings, but I’ve also made him carry his own waste bag in a pocket in his own pack.
We thought it was an April Fools’ joke, but it wasn’t. Ruffwear just released Pack Out poop bags so you don’t have to walk back home holding that smelly surprise. The Pack Out Bag features a slot to pull rolled plastic bags through, and a zip-up top to hold the doo. Sport it like a fanny pack and be grateful it’s not in your hands!
The author with her adventure buddy, Champ. Photo courtesy Josette Deschambeault.
Author’s Expertise
It all started when I graduated with a Bachelor’s in English and Outdoor Leadership in the heart of Colorado. (Hello, hiking for credit). Once I graduated, I started the search for the perfect canine companion to accompany me on my outdoor pursuits. I figured I’d find a young mini Aussie or a small Husky, a pup under 50 lbs, who could easily fit in my small truck (and even smaller apartment), and have energy aplenty to run up the trails beside me!
Instead, I found Champ. My fur-baby is an eight-year-old Labrador/Great Dane rescue who joined my life the summer that I moved to Alaska to guide. He is 98 lbs, and takes up ¾ of my truck’s bench seat. His favorite activity is sleeping under my desk, but as soon as the harness comes out, his tail whips like a hurricane in excitement, and it’s all I can do to keep up with him on the trail. We have skied the Alaskan backcountry, jogged loops around Denver ponds, and hiked through the White Mountains of New Hampshire together ever since.
I’ve guided hiking, backpacking, rock climbing, rafting trips for years, managed a hiking and rafting program on the Chilkoot Trail in Southeast Alaska — all with my main man, Champ. We’ve hiked and skied the borders of Alaska, British Columbia, the Yukon, Colorado, Maine, and New Hampshire.
I’ve written about hiking locations and gear for BACKPACKER Magazine for four years. In fact, Champ and I have been able to hike/ski with the Destination Editor’s pooch, Raider, for almost as long. (Champ and Raider are defacto best dog-friends.)
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