Best Dog Backpacks of 2025

Janie Foster Avatar
Janie Foster
Last Updated: Jan 14, 2025

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Dog backpacks are a great way to keep your furry friend comfortable and safe while on the go. These backpacks are specially designed to fit dogs of all sizes and shapes, and they come in a variety of colors and styles. Some backpacks are designed for hiking and camping, while others are perfect for everyday use. They feature adjustable straps and padded back panels to ensure a comfortable fit for your dog. Many backpacks also come with extra pockets and compartments for storing treats, water, and other essentials. With a dog backpack, you can take your furry friend with you wherever you go, without worrying about their safety or comfort.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

OneTigris Dog Backpack for Medium & Large Dogs Cover #TOP 1
OneTigris Dog Backpack for Medium & Large Dogs
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Ruffwear Front Range Dog Backpack Cover #TOP 2
Ruffwear Front Range Dog Backpack
ftb score rating icon 9.8
PetAmi Medium Dog Backpack Cover #TOP 3
PetAmi Medium Dog Backpack
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Dog Backpacks

#TOP 1

OneTigris Dog Backpack for Medium & Large Dogs

Dog Saddle Bag
Green
Large
OneTigris Dog Backpack for Medium & Large Dogs Cover
OneTigris Dog Backpack for Medium & Large Dogs, Nylon Backpack for Dogs Tactical Pet Backpack with Side Pockets for Hiking Walking Training Running (Green, Large)

The OneTigris Dog Backpack is made with durable 1000D nylon and mesh lining to provide breathability and comfort on long outings. It has a 3L pouch with two side pockets for carrying water, food, treats, and toys. The side pockets have cross-bungee cords for strapping on extra gear. The backpack also features hidden zippers to prevent the dog's hair from getting stuck and an adjustable hook-and-loop belly strap with UTX-Duraflex buckles to keep the pack in place. It comes with a reinforced grab handle and two adjustable straps that fit different dog breeds and sizes.

What We Like
Great fit and comfort
Durable and high-quality materials
Spacious pockets for storage
Secure with Velcro and buckles
Well-balanced for active dogs
What We Don't Like
Buckle straps hard to adjust
Velcro collects pet fur
#TOP 2

Ruffwear Front Range Dog Backpack

50601-355M
River Rock Green
Medium
Ruffwear Front Range Dog Backpack Cover
Ruffwear, Front Range Dog Day Pack, Backpack with Handle for Hikes & Day Trips, River Rock Green, Medium

The Ruffwear Dog Day Pack is designed to make outdoor adventures easier for you and your furry friend. With its weight-forward saddlebags, this pack keeps the load balanced, letting your dog carry their essentials comfortably. The five adjustable points ensure a snug fit, making it perfect for extended wear. You'll appreciate the low-profile padded handle, which helps you assist your dog over obstacles with ease. Plus, with three leash attachment points, you can choose the best option for your control needs, whether you're enjoying a relaxed walk or need more guidance.

What We Like
Great storage capacity
Easy to adjust
Comfortable padding
Lightweight design
Well-designed and built
What We Don't Like
Straps may loosen over time
Unclean item received
#TOP 3

PetAmi Medium Dog Backpack

Blue
Medium
PetAmi Medium Dog Backpack Cover
PetAmi Dog Backpack for Medium Large Dogs, Dog Saddle Bag for Dogs to Wear, Harness Saddlebag with Reflective Safety Side Pockets for Hiking, Camping, Vest Dog Pack for Travel (Blue, Medium)

The PetAmi Dog Saddle Bag is perfect for medium to large dogs, offering a comfortable fit with adjustable straps. Its durable ripstop nylon construction ensures it can withstand outdoor adventures, making it ideal for hiking or camping. The bag features reflective stripes, enhancing visibility during low-light conditions, which is crucial for safety during outdoor activities. Additionally, it includes expandable side pockets and a poop bag dispenser, allowing you to carry all your dog's essentials easily, so you can enjoy your adventures together without worry.

What We Like
Convenient storage compartments
Strong and flexible material
Adjustable straps for comfort
Good for outdoor activities
Budget-friendly option
What We Don't Like
Fitting issues for some dogs
Quality may vary
#TOP 4

OneTigris Y-Shaped Dog Backpack

CAMELUS
Green
Medium
OneTigris Y-Shaped Dog Backpack Cover
OneTigris Y-Shaped Dog Backpack with Handle, Pockets & No Pull D-Rings, Lightweight Hiking Gear for Dogs Hunting Camping Travel (Medium, Green)

The OneTigris Y-Shaped Dog Backpack is a durable and water-resistant backpack designed for dogs to carry their adventure gear. The Y-shaped harness design provides a snug fit without hindering movement, while the no-pull D-ring attachment points and top grab handle offer convenience and flexibility. The backpack has zippered side harnesses with pockets to carry essential items, and is available in multiple sizes with adjustable buckles. The backpack is lightweight and breathable, and features light reflective trim for nighttime visibility and roadside safety.

What We Like
Comfortable fit for dogs
Adjustable straps for sizing
Lightweight and easy to use
Sturdy construction for active dogs
Convenient pockets for items
What We Don't Like
Pockets may be small
Fabric quality concerns
#TOP 5

Cesar Millan Dog Backpack

CM000LG-BLUw
Blue
Large
Cesar Millan Dog Backpack Cover
Cesar Millan Dog Backpack Large Blue

If you are a dog owner with limited time, the Cesar Dog Backpack is perfect for you. As seen on TV, this backpack is designed by Cesar Millan, a renowned dog behavior authority, to help dogs with too much energy get the exercise they need. It is a great tool for working dogs or dogs with a lot of energy, that can be weighed down to provide the benefits of 1 hour of exercise in just 30 minutes. With this backpack, you can also give your dog purpose by giving them a job. This backpack is perfect for large dogs between approximately 80 lb and 120 lb and is great for hiking. It is durable, breathable, and water repellent, with padded and lined underside and smart straps that adapt to your dog's motions and have a reflective trim for safety on nighttime and early morning walks.

What We Like
Great construction quality
Comfortable padded straps
Excited dog during walks
Versatile storage capacity
Encourages active lifestyle
What We Don't Like
Size may not fit all
Potential for breakage
#TOP 6

OneTigris Dog Pack Backpack for Hiking and Walking

TG-GBB01
Green
X-Small
OneTigris Dog Pack Backpack for Hiking and Walking Cover
OneTigris Dog Pack, Backpack Durable Small Medium Dog Pack with Litter Bag Exit for Camping Hiking Daily Walking (Ranger Green, X-Small)

The OneTigris Dog Pack Backpack is made of durable 1000D Nylon with a Nylon mesh lining for breathability, making it comfortable for your dog to wear. It has a load capacity of 1.6L and features a main compartment, interior mesh pocket, and a lower poop bag pocket with a retrieval exit. The backpack is fully adjustable with quick-release buckles to fit different shapes and sizes of canines. It is ideal for everyday walks, outdoor trips, and helping overweight dogs to carry weight and exercise. It can also be used as a canine emergency kit to hold medicines and other essentials.

What We Like
Durable and weather-resistant material
Adjustable for comfortable fit
Stylish design
Multiple pockets for organization
Great for outdoor adventures
What We Don't Like
Straps may come undone
Can slide to one side
#TOP 7

EXCELLENT ELITE SPANKER Dog Saddle Bag Backpack

DG121-AU-Grey
Grey
EXCELLENT ELITE SPANKER Dog Saddle Bag Backpack Cover
EXCELLENT ELITE SPANKER Dog Pack Hound Dog Saddle Bag Backpack for Travel Camping Hiking Medium & Large Dog with 2 Capacious Side Pockets(Gry-L)

This high-quality dog saddle bag backpack is made of 1000D Nylon and features adjustable front and belly straps with UTX-Duraflex quick release buckle, a molle system for adding more items, and capacious side pockets for carrying water, food, treats, toys, and personal items. The backpack also includes a top handle for redirecting your dog's forward motion and an aluminum V-ring for attaching a leash to keep your dog close. The magic sticker ID panel allows for customization.

What We Like
Durable and sturdy material
Spacious pockets for storage
Adjustable for various dog sizes
Fits securely without slipping
Emergency handle on top
What We Don't Like
Front straps can be too long
Occasional slight imbalance
#TOP 8

Himal Outdoors Dog Backpack

One Size
Brown
Large
Himal Outdoors Dog Backpack Cover
Himal Outdoors Dog Backpack, Dog Hiking Backpack, Hound Saddle Bag for Large Dog with Side Pockets & Adjustable Strap

The Himal Outdoors Dog Pack is a durable and comfortable backpack designed for large dogs. Made of 600D Nylon with a mesh lining, it provides cooling and comfortable feelings for your furry friend. The adjustable size ensures a proper fit and keeps the pack in place, making it suitable for different dog breeds and sizes. With its large capacity rooms, this dog pack offers ample space to carry essentials such as dog food, water, snacks, and waste disposal bags. The well-designed features, including a handle for crossing obstacles and a rear-mounted leash hook, add convenience and versatility to your outdoor adventures with your dog. Plus, Himal Outdoors guarantees a full refund or replacement if the product has any defects, providing you with excellent customer service.

What We Like
Adjustable straps for secure fit
Spacious side pockets
Sturdy and well-made
Comfortable for long walks
Convenient for carrying supplies
What We Don't Like
Color may differ from description
Open pockets can be ineffective
#TOP 9

Outward Hound DayPak Dog Backpack

22003
Blue
Outward Hound DayPak Dog Backpack Cover
Outward Hound DayPak Blue Dog Saddleback Backpack, Medium

The Outward Hound DayPak is a lightweight and comfortable dog saddleback backpack designed with four expandable storage compartments for food, water, and training accessories. The breathable mesh fabric, adjustable straps, and bright colors ensure your pet's comfort and high visibility. Available in medium and large sizes based on your dog's girth measurement.

What We Like
Great fit for various dog sizes
Helps burn energy effectively
Durable and long-lasting
Cute design and bright color
Good storage capacity with side pockets
What We Don't Like
May slide to one side
Handle not strong enough for lifting
#TOP 10

OneTigris HOPPY CAMPER Dog Backpack

Brown
Medium
OneTigris HOPPY CAMPER Dog Backpack Cover
OneTigris Dog Hiking Backpack, Dog Pack for Medium Large Dogs, HOPPY CAMPER 3.0 Dog Saddle Bag Harness Outdoor Hiking (M, Brown)

The OneTigris Dog Pack is designed with canine comfort in mind. Its Y-shaped chest piece allows your dog to move freely while providing a secure fit. Adjust the front chest straps for a customized fit, making it suitable for dogs of all shapes and sizes. The vintage style adds an appealing look, featuring a main compartment and side pockets for carrying treats, toys, and water. Made from durable cotton canvas and equipped with strong stainless steel D-rings and quick-release buckles, this backpack promises reliability during your outdoor adventures.

What We Like
Great fit for active dogs
Ample storage with pockets
Adjustable and durable design
Excited dog during outings
Convenient for carrying essentials
What We Don't Like
Front straps slightly difficult
Velcro attracts dog hair
Best Dog Backpacks Feature Image

How to Select Dog Backpacks: The Comprehensive Guide

If you are a dog owner who has a passion for traveling and hiking and wants to bring your furry friend with you, you must buy a dog backpack carrier. Your canine companion cannot pace with your intensity while hiking.

So it would be impossible to keep your puppy with you. But if you have a good-quality dog backpack carrier, then your puppy can stay with you everywhere you go.

It would help if you bought such a carrier that is convenient for you and your puppy. There is a wide variety of dog backpack carriers in the market.

What to Consider Before Buying a Dog Backpack Carrier?

Have you made your mind about buying a dog backpack carrier for your pup?

So before buying a carrier, you must consider the following things:

Size

You must buy a dog backpack carrier according to the size and weight of your dog. The page should be large enough so your furry friend would be able to stand up easily or turn around completely. The best backpack carrier is one in which your puppy lies down comfortably.

Your dog's needs

Each dog has a different instinct. So you should buy a carrier that matches your dog's instinct. A hard-sided carrier is best for an escape artist dog. If you have a fearful dog, you must purchase a backpack carrier in which your puppy can hide or sleep.

Material

Before buying a dog backpack carrier, you must check its material. A suitable backpack carrier is made of mesh or other breathable material. It should not trap heat inside.

For flat-nosed dogs like pugs, you must buy a backpack carrier with good air vents because these dogs are overweight and tend to overheat quickly during the summer season. The material should be water-proof, chew-proof, and durable.

Suitable style

You will find backpack carriers of different styles in the market. But you should select a backpack that meets the requirements of your dog.

The different styles of backpack carriers are as follow:

Standard hard-sided carriers

These are highly preferred for large sized-dogs due to their rugged construction and durability. These are made from plastic and wire material that are easy to clean. These carriers provide excellent ventilation, particularly for long fur breeds. These are best for humid or hot climates. Sharp claws or teeth cannot easily damage these.

Soft-sided carriers

These are portable and lightweight carriers. These are best for smaller dogs. These are less expensive and available in different colors, shades, and patterns. The fabric material is used in their formation. These carriers have padded interiors that provide more comfort to your puppy. These offer more air circulation as compared to other carriers. However, these carriers are difficult to clean. Due to its fabric material, this carrier does not dry quickly.

Wearable dog carriers

These look like baby carriers. These carriers keep your hand free and make it easy for you to carry your dog with you.

Wheeled carriers

These carriers are not recommended for hiking. But you can use these carriers while traveling by plane.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long can a dog spend in a backpack carrier?

The time limit depends on the climate of your area. On average you must keep your pup in a carrier for not more than 45 minutes in a hotter climate. However, in cold weather, your pup can spend more than an hour in a backpack carrier.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Are dog backpacks a good idea?

Yes, dog backpacks are a good idea. They serve a utilitarian purpose by allowing you to carry items on walks or hikes, but they also provide benefits for your furry friend. Dog backpacks can keep your dog healthier and happier, making daily walks and outdoor adventures more rewarding for both of you.

2. Are dog carrying backpacks safe?

When used properly based on your dog's needs, dog carrying backpacks are safe. It's important to ensure that the backpack is properly ventilated, the dog isn't too heavy, and they are placed in the correct position. This will help provide a safe and comfortable experience for your dog while using a backpack carrier.

3. Are dog carrier backpacks comfortable?

High-quality dog carrier backpacks provide a secure and comfortable space for your dog. Look for backpacks with features like padded interiors, auto-lock zippers to prevent your dog from opening them, safety harness clips, and a water- and strain-resistant lining. These features ensure that your dog stays comfortable while being carried in a backpack.

4. Do dogs like being carried in a backpack?

Not all dogs may enjoy being carried in a backpack, especially if they are not used to the sensation. Some dogs may never adjust to wearing a backpack, even with slow and gradual introduction. However, many dogs, regardless of breed, can enjoy wearing a backpack during hikes, walks, or visits to the dog park.

5. How long can a dog be in a dog backpack?

Dogs should not be kept in a backpack for longer than 30 minutes or an hour at most. Being confined in one position for too long can be uncomfortable for them. It's important to give your dog breaks and allow them to walk and stretch their legs regularly during outdoor adventures.

6. What is the safest way to carry a dog?

To carry a dog safely, put one arm between the front legs and under the chest, using your other hand to support their butt and back as you lift. Hold your dog close, cradling them between your body and arms. This provides support and ensures that your dog feels secure while being carried.

Editor's Notes

During our dog backpack research, we found 24 dog backpack products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 47,447 customer reviews through our big data system to write the dog backpacks list. We found that most customers choose dog backpacks with an average price of $29.84.

The dog backpacks are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of dog backpacks, including OneTigris, Ruffwear, PetAmi, Cesar Millan, EXCELLENT ELITE SPANKER. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 375 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

Written by
Janie Foster Avatar

Janie Foster is a writer & pet blogger from Los Angeles, she enjoys living with her two cats and three dogs. She owned her first dog 10 years ago and then started her personal blog to record her dog's daily life. Throughout her personal life, she has developed specialized knowledge in pet care, pet nutrition, feeding habits, and more.

Dog Backpacks Comparison Table

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Brand OneTigris Ruffwear PetAmi OneTigris Cesar Millan OneTigris EXCELLENT ELITE SPANKER Himal Outdoors Outward Hound OneTigris
Item Weight 1.28 pounds 15.8 ounces 12.8 ounces 10.8 ounces 1 pounds 7.4 ounces 1.35 pounds 14.1 ounces 10.9 ounces 1.5 pounds
Color Green River Rock Green Blue Green - Green Grey Brown Blue Brown
Material 1000D Nylon 300 denier polyester ripstop, closed-cell foam, polyester knit mesh, nylon webbing, anodized aluminum, ITW Nexus Airloc side-release buckles Premium Polyester Nylon - 1000D Nylon, YKK Zippers, UTX D-Flex Buckles, Stainless Steel D-Ring Nylon Nylon Mesh, Nylon Cotton Canvas, UTX-Duraflex
Item Package Dimensions L x W x H 12.24 x 10.24 x 3.39 inches - 10.16 x 5.59 x 3.11 inches 11.57 x 8.86 x 2.76 inches - 9.25 x 6.97 x 2.52 inches 12 x 9 x 3 inches 11.06 x 7.8 x 2.56 inches 12.01 x 8.43 x 2.99 inches 11.3 x 8.39 x 3.62 inches
Brand Name OneTigris - PetAmi OneTigris - OneTigris EXCELLENT ELITE SPANKER Himal Outdoors Outward Hound OneTigris
Target Audience Keyword dogs - dogs dogs - house-cats, dogs dogs dogs dogs dogs
Size Large - Medium Medium - X-Small 11.00" x 1.50" x 7.00" Large Medium (Chest Girth: 21"-27") Medium
Style Casual - - - - Modern - Adjustable Daypak Outdoor
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.1
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