Updated: January 15, 2023
Let’s face it, we all love to take our dogs with us wherever we go, be it shopping, walking, or going to the park. It is even better if we could take them with us on bicycle rides, hiking, or any other adventure we may decide to go on. Dog carrier backpacks are a great way to include your dog on your adventures.
Table of Contents:
What Is A Dog Carrier Backpack?
A dog carrier backpack is exactly what it sounds like. It’s a backpack specifically designed to fit your dog inside so you can carry them around with you.
Why Do I Need A Dog Carrier Backpack?
There are various reasons why you may opt to use a dog carrier backpack to transport your dog. You may have a dog who is not able to keep up the pace with you while walking or hiking. While on long walks or hikes, your dog might become too tired to continue on the journey.
Another reason to use a dog carrier backpack is if your dog is elderly or they have a medical condition causing them to be limited in their walking abilities. Some people use these backpacks to transport their dogs on airplanes, as some of these backpacks can double as a kennel and can fit under the seat in front of you on certain planes.
Others like to take their dog with them when riding their bicycles. Lastly, if a dog’s parent has mobility issues, a dog carrier backpack offers them a way to transport their pet in a way that may be more comfortable for them.
It should be noted that dog carrier backpacks are not for long term use. Your dog should only be in the pack for no longer than 30 to 45 minutes at a time. They need to be able to stretch their legs and relieve themselves periodically if you are going on a long walk.
What Are The Benefits To Using Dog Carrier Backpacks?
There are several pros to using dog carrier backpacks. These include:
- Being able to take your dog with you on various adventures you wouldn’t normally be able to, including riding a bicycle or going on a long walk or hike that would otherwise wear them out.
- An easier and more convenient way to transport your dog to vet visits.
- You can carry your dog when walking/hiking over rough terrain.
- Give your dog rest breaks on long walks.
- Bond with your dog by keeping them close to you.
- Can double as a kennel on flights and fit under the seat in front of you (make sure to double check airline requirements and measurements).
What Are The Disadvantages Of Using Dog Carrier Backpacks?
There are several disadvantages to using dog carrier backpacks. These include:
- Most only fit small dogs, usually up to 20 lbs.
- If your dog is small, depending on the type of backpack you get, you may have to add extra support to the bottom of the pack so your dog will be tall enough to stick their head out of any top opening comfortably.
- Having the extra weight of your dog on your back or carrying them in front of you can cause increased discomfort to your back.
- Your dog may not want to stay in the backpack and try to jump out.
- Not for heavy chewers.
- Dogs may be cramped in the backpack.
- Tether used to attach your dog to the backpack is not adjustable. This may result in your dog not being secure in the backpack or having them put in an uncomfortable position inside the pack.
- Your dog may get HOT when in the backpack. If this is your dog, add some ice packs inside the bag or in the pockets if it can be felt through to the main compartment. You can also use a Cooling Bandana to help cool your dog down as well.
What Should I Look For When Buying A Dog Carrier Backpack?
When considering a dog carrier backpack, it is important to look for various features to improve the comfort of your dog and for you.
For Your Dog
- Ventilation. It is important for your dog to have adequate ventilation when in the backpack. This can be mesh sides, ventilation holes, or an area of the pack that can open up to let your dog’s head come out.
- Tether. A tether will help keep your dog secure in the backpack. This will keep them safe if they try to jump out of the pack.
- Sturdy bottom. This will help your pooch feel more secure in the backpack by not having the floor of the pack give way when they are sitting or lying down in it.
- Openings. You should look for a backpack that has more than one way to enable you to get your dog into and out of the bag. The easier it is to get in the better.
- Maneuverability. Make sure your dog is not squished into the backpack. It should be roomy enough for your dog to be comfortable.
For you
- Padded Shoulder Straps. Important so the straps don’t cut into you while wearing your backpack.
- Adjustable Chest and Waist Straps. These straps will help the weight of the backpack be more evenly distributed while wearing it.
- Pockets. Having pockets on your backpack will help store keys, your wallet, water bottles, treats, waste bags, or any other essentials you may need.
- Padded Back. This will decrease any discomfort you may encounter from the structure of the pack.
Removable bottom. A removable inside bottom is important, as it will be easier to clean.
How Do I Measure My Dog For The Correct Size Backpack?
Most dog carrier backpacks will tell you the maximum weight of a dog it can hold, but this is not the best way to determine if your dog will fit inside. It is important to measure your dog before purchasing a carrier backpack. First measure your dog’s length. This would be from the base of your dog’s neck to the base of the tail. Most dogs will sit upright in the backpack with their head sticking out of the pack. So you will also want to measure the height of your dog from the floor to the base of your dog’s neck while they are sitting. Make sure to check with the manufacturer’s instructions and double check their measurements to ensure a good fit for your dog.
The 12 Best Dog Carrier Backpacks
The following is a list of dog carrier backpacks. I did not include any bubble backpacks on this list. The reason I didn’t include them is because in my opinion, these would get too hot for a dog to be in and I would not feel comfortable having my own dog inside one of these.
I also included a backpack specifically designed as a front facing backpack in this list, although all of the backpacks included can be used as either a traditional backpack or front facing pack.
Included as well is a sling. While not traditionally a backpack, it is a way for you to carry your dog while walking or running errands and I know some people prefer it.
Lastly, Please DO NOT use a collar to attach your dog to the tether on the dog carrier backpacks. Only attach them to a harness. If your dog does happen to jump out of your backpack while you are using it and the tether is attached to its collar, there is a chance they may be strangled by it.
So, without further ado…..
Best Overall Dog Carrier Backpack
Apollo Walker Pet Carrier Backpack
This backpack comes in 4 colors and measures 11.4L x 12.6W x 16.8H inches. This is good for small and medium sized dogs (manufacturer does not provide a maximum weight capacity).
Pros/Features:
- The pack has 4 mesh areas: 2 in the front and one on either side of the pack.
- The uppermost section in the front unzips and folds down, allowing for your dog to stick their head out of the pack.
- This has a fleece bottom for your dog’s comfort. It contains a tether to attach to your dog’s harness.
- There is a cushion in the back of the pack, so if you use it to fly with your dog, it will provide them with some extra comfort when in the flat position.
- For your comfort, this backpack comes with padded shoulder straps and a chest and waist buckle for extra support.
- There are pockets on either side for your belongings. This backpack folds flat when not in use.
Cons:
- Some people felt this was a little too “bulky” for them to carry their pet around.
Check Price At: Amazon
Best Runner Up Dog Carrier Backpack
COVONO Expandable Pet Carrier
This carrier is good for dogs up to 18 lbs and 13 inches in height, 12 inches in length. It measures interiorly 13L x 9.3W x 14.8H inches.
Pros/Features:
- The rear of this carrier expands to allow extra room for your pooch to stretch out.
- This features an acrylic window with 3 ventilation holes in the front bottom to allow your dog to see out when lying down in the carrier.
- A large mesh window on the front top that can also be unzipped to allow your dog’s head to come out.
- It also has 2 mesh windows on the sides and an additional 3 ventilation holes on each side.
- This bag also contains a tether to attach to your dog’s harness.
- For your comfort, it comes with both a chest and waist buckle to help distribute weight more evenly and shoulder straps with extra padding.
- The design of this carrier allows for 4 ways to get your dog into and out of the backpack. There is a back entrance, they can go in through either side and also through the top.
- There is a wooden board covered with foam and washable fleece that is attached with Velcro to give your dog support when in the carrier.
- This carrier folds flat when not in use.
Cons:
- There is no storage space to add treats, waste bags, water, etc.
Check Price At: Amazon
Best Dog Carrier Backpack Under $100 USD
Petsfit Expandable Carrier Backpack
This carrier is good for dogs up to 15 pounds and measures 12.6L x 10.2W x 16.5H inches.
Pros/Features:
- This pack also expands in the back, allowing for more room for your dog to move around and get comfortable.
- It contains a tether to attach to your dog’s harness.
- There are mesh panels on the front and either side of the pack, providing ventilation.
- The mesh on the top of the front panel opens up to allow your dog to keep its head out of the backpack.
- It has 2 openings, one in the front and one in the back, where your dog can get into and out of the pack.
- The bottom of the backpack is double sided for your dog’s comfort: one side for warmth and the other to help them keep cool and is washable.
- For your comfort, the backpack comes with padded straps and a chest and waist strap to evenly distribute the weight of the pack.
- There are also pockets on either side to store small items, such as your keys, wallet, or waste bags.
Cons:
- The bottom part of the backpack, when expanded, is not able to be removed, and therefore, cannot be washed.
Check Price At: Amazon
Best Dog Carrier Backpack Under $50 USD
IREENUO Cat Backpack Carrier
This is listed as a cat backpack carrier, but can be used for dogs as well up to 17 lbs and measures 13L x 10.6W x 16.5H inches.
Pros/Features:
- The backpack contains 4 mesh areas. One in the bottom of the front panel, and one at the top of the front panel, which can be opened up to allow for more air and your dog to stick its head out, and one on either side of the pack.
- The bottom of the backpack has a board with a furry side for warmth in winter and the other side with material to help keep them cool in summer.
- The back of the pack is also expandable to give your dog some extra room to spread out.
- This backpack has a tether to attach to your dog’s harness.
- The zippers have a secure lock feature to prevent your pup from opening them from the inside.
- For your comfort, there are padded straps and a chest and waist strap for even distribution of weight.
- There are also pockets on either side of the pack to store small items.
Cons:
- This is not recommended for heavy chewers, as one reviewer wrote of their dog chewing up the bottom board and another mentioned there are straps that are visible when the back is expanded that may prove to be irresistible to those chewers.
- Other reviewers commented that the pockets were not as big as they would have liked.
Check Price At: Amazon
Best Dog Carrier Backpack Under $25 USD
PetAmi Premium Pet Carrier Backpack
This backpack is good for small dogs up to 12 pounds and measures 11.5L x 9W x 16H inches. The backpack also comes in 7 different colors.
Pros/Features:
- It has an attached strap to clip to your dog’s harness.
- There is a Sherpa lined bottom for comfort.
- It also includes padded shoulder straps and a chest and waist strap for your convenience and extra support.
- It contains mesh on the top, front and both sides for ventilation.
- This backpack also has 2 mesh side pockets to hold any additional supplies you may want to bring with you, like a water bottle and the included collapsible water bowl.
Cons:
- The backpack may not keep its shape and fold in a bit at the top.
- Some people felt it was a little too uncomfortable for them, with the straps not being as padded as they would have liked.
- Others stated the carrier rubbed against their low back when walking, resulting in them only being able to use it for short walks.
Check Price At: Chewy, Amazon, Walmart
Best Dog Carrier Backpack Splurge
Kurgo Dog Carrier Backpack
This is a hiking backpack which measures 13W x 21H x 10D inches and is for dogs up to 25 pounds.
Pros/Features:
- It has a waterproof bottom and a removable machine washable interior pad.
- This backpack has grab handles on the top and front of the bag to more easily lift your dog.
- It has a mesh “window” on the top that can be rolled up to allow your dog’s head to come out of the pack.
- There is one mesh panel on either side of the bag.
- There’s an interior strap with carabiner clip to attach to your dog’s harness.
- For owners, it comes with a padded laptop area.
- There are two compartments for water bottles.
- It has a chest and waist strap for easier carrying.
Cons:
- This pack comes with 2 poles to help give structure to the bag so it does not collapse on your dog while inside. Some reviewers stated the poles tended to move out of place while the pack was being used or they had a difficult time inserting them.
- The backpack is made with various compartments and places to put water bottles, etc, but it was noted that anything that you put in the bag, even the water bottles on the sides, takes up space that your dog could enjoy. This could be an issue if you have a dog on the larger side.
- It only comes with a carabiner clip and not a tether, so you may have a difficult time attaching it to your dog’s harness, depending on your dog’s size.
Check Price At: Amazon, Chewy, Petco, Walmart
Best Dog Carrier Backpack With Wheels
Snoozer Roll Around 4-in-1 Pet Carrier
This measures 15H x 13W x 10D inches on the outside and 12-15H x 11W x 47D inches on the inside (there is a slope to the front accounting for the range of the height) and comes in two sizes and three colors. It is made to be used with dogs up to 15 lbs.
Pros/Features:
- This item may be used as a backpack, can be used with wheels, act as a carry-on, and lastly, a car seat.
- There is mesh in the front and both sides to provide ventilation for your dog.
- The top of the front mesh can be rolled down so your dog can stick their head out of the bag.
Cons:
- This backpack needs to be assembled, as it comes in 3 pieces when it arrives.
- The large size is too big to fit under airline seats, but people were able to use the medium size without a problem.
- Some reviewers had an issue with the bottom plate coming off while they were rolling their pup around in it.
Check Price At: Amazon, Chewy, Petsmart
Best Sling
Cuby Dog and Cat Sling Carrier
This sling measures 18.5L x 9.05W x 7.87H inches and can be used for dogs ups to 10 pounds.
Pros/Features:
- It has a tether on the inside to attach to your dog’s harness.
- The sling comes in 9 colors and is reversible with a different design on either side.
- It is made of cotton and has a thick strap to increase your comfort.
- It is machine washable.
Cons:
- The strap is not adjustable, so it may be a bit uncomfortable depending on your height.
- Some people complained they got very hot wearing this.
Check Price At: Amazon
Best Front Carrier
WOYYHO Pet Dog Carrier Backpack
This comes in two sizes, medium and large, with the large size able to accommodate a dog up to 14 pounds and measures 15L x 9.1W x 18.5H inches. The medium measures 14.6L x 8.3W x 16.5H inches and is for dogs up to 10 pounds. This backpack comes in 6 colors and is made of mesh and polyester.
Pros/Features:
- The window area where your dog’s head comes out is adjustable in size to better suit your dog.
- The bottom plate is removable and washable.
- It has a tether to attach your dog’s harness.
- This pack has front and side pocket for your belongings.
- For your comfort, there are adjustable shoulder, chest and waist straps.
Cons:
- The inside tether may not be strong enough to hold your dog.
Check Price At: Amazon
Other Dog Carrier Backpack Options
LOLLIMEOW Pet Carrier Backpack
This backpack comes in 3 colors and 2 designs, a regular pet carrier backpack, and one with an expansion in the back. This measures 15.2L x 11.4W x 16.5H and fits dogs up to 16 pounds.
Pros/Features:
- It is made of mesh material on three sides, with the front mesh area separated into a top and bottom portion.
- The top mesh area can be unzipped to allow your dog’s head to stick out and enjoy the view.
- The pack includes a tether to attach to your dog’s harness.
- The top and one of the sides unzippers, allowing your dog to get into and out of the backpack either from the side or the top.
- There are pockets on either side of the pack.
- This backpack has a removable bottom with fleece on one side to keep your dog warm and material on the other to keep them cool.
- For your comfort, there is a buckle attached to the shoulder strap for extra stability when using the backpack.
- This pack folds flat when not in use.
- The LOLLIMEOW Pet Carrier Backpack is airline approved, but you should check the measurements with your airline to make sure it will fit under the seat in front of you.
Cons:
- There is only one extra strap that crosses your chest. There is not another one to go across your waist for extra support when using the backpack.
- Some people reported a “plastic” smell and stated it needed to be aired out when they unpacked it.
- A few people had issues with the zippers not working properly.
- The backpack can be uncomfortable for some, with the bottom piece digging into people’s back when they walked with it.
Check Price At: Amazon
Gen7Pets Black Geometric Roller-Carrier
This measures 19H x 10.5D x 16.5W on the outside and 15.5H x 8.5D x 13.5W on the inside and can be used with dogs up to 20lbs.
Pros/Features:
- It has two mesh panels on the front and one on either side for ventilation.
- This pack contains a tether to attach to your dog’s harness.
- There are pockets on either side for storage.
- Reviewers commented on how the bag fits well under airline seats.
Cons:
- Reviewers felt it was smaller than they thought it would be.
Check Price At: Amazon, Chewy, Walmart
K9 Sports Sack Dog Carrier Adjustable Backpack – Air
This backpack is designed for dogs up to 30 pounds. It comes in 2 sizes and 9 colors. The manufacturer recommends measuring the length (collar to base of tail) and girth (widest part of your dog’s chest) of your dog and choosing the size that fits your dog’s biggest measurement.
Pros/Features:
- It contains mesh panels on either side.
- There is a carabiner clip to attach to your dog’s harness.
- It has leg openings to make your dog more comfortable.
- There is a pocket on either side.
- For your comfort, it has a chest and lumbar strap for a more secure hold.
Cons:
- Some people had difficulty getting their dog into and out of it.
Check Price At: Amazon, Chewy, Petco, Petsmart
Using a dog carrier backpack can allow you to enjoy more activities with your dog. This can include longer walks, hikes, or even bike riding. It can help an elderly dog or one with health issues continue to be able to enjoy doing outdoor activities with you. Dog carrier backpacks can also help someone with mobility issues be able to spend more time outside with their pups. Whichever backpack you choose, have fun getting out there and enjoy your time together!
Please check out our other posts on Health, Indoor, Outdoor, and Travel accessories for your dog, as well as Reviews of various products and travel destinations.