If you frequently take your dog on day-long excursions, you don’t have to carry all his supplies in addition to your own. Instead, get your dog a backpack and let him help you out! With a backpack, your canine companion can carry his own water, food, treats, and other necessities when you’re out and about for the day. If you have a hyperactive dog, using a weighted dog backpack can also help calm him down and give him a better workout every time you go for a walk.
We reviewed dozens of dog backpacks to identify the best of the best. Durability, comfort, and adjustability were some of the most important factors we took into consideration. We also looked at whether each backpack could be converted into a dog harness. We narrowed our search down to 3 of the best dog backpacks on the market today.
1. Tailup™ Dog Hiking Backpack
Whether you like to take your dog hiking or you just need a reliable gear-carrying harness for your service animal, the Tailup™ Dog Hiking Backpack is an excellent carry option. It’s made from water-resistant 600D double-layer polyester, offering excellent durability and lightness, and also has a soft mesh-lined underside for breathability and comfort.



Product information
- Size: S, M, L
- Color: Red, Green, Pink, Black, Blue, Orange
- Suit for: Small Dog, Medium Dog, Large Dog (From 7.5 kg to 40 kg)
- Material: Oxford, Mesh, Neoprene
2. Chicdog™ Dog Backpack Harness
Specially designed for pet travel, with adjustable straps. Quick install before traveling and quick removal when pet rests. This saddle bag can store water, food, and a toy. Oxford cloth, waterproof, UV proof, lightweight and breathable. Durable, large-sized zippered bag on each side. Convenient to keep goods/essentials for you and/or your pet.


Product information
- Size: M, L
- Color: Camouflage Green
- Suit for: Medium Dog, Large Dog
- Material: Oxford, Mesh, Neoprene
3. Lovoyager™ Dog Hiking Backpack Waterproof
With enough storage capacity for multiple-day trips, trekking or camping packs feature a lightweight design and are often made from highly durable and waterproof materials. This is a good choice for adventurous dog owners!



Product information
- Size: M, L
- Color: Red
- Suit for: Medium Dog, Large Dog
- Material: Waterproof Nylon
Why You Should Buy A Dog Backpack Harness
Your Dog Gets More Exercise: Do you have a rambunctious dog that you just can’t seem to tire out, no matter how many walks you take him on? Well, I am happy to tell you that having your dog carry a saddle bag and some of his belongings will help tire him out, calm him down, and have him to falling straight to sleep upon arriving home!
Makes it easier to find your dog: Have you ever had one of those moments out on the trail where you can’t for the life of you see where Mr. Waggy McTail is hiding? I know that I have. Buying a brightly-colored saddle bag helps solve this problem, especially if you happen to be walking near areas that allow hunting.
Gives him something to do: From seeing-eye dogs and sniffer dogs to sled dogs and seizure alert dogs – it’s pretty simple, dogs just love having a job to do. It gives them real purpose! Giving your dog a pack to carry will give him a sense of purpose and a job. This is especially the case for certain task-focused breeds, like collies and retrievers.
It means they can come on more trips: Are you an avid hiker but haven’t had enough room in your pack for Fido to come along on your adventures? Well, now that he’s prepared to carry his own gear, you can get ready for more adventures together. That old saying that, “life is better shared” definitely rings true here!
A discreet poop carrying method: We all know that feeling of setting off on a walk and having your dog do his business right away. You’re then forced to carry a steaming bag of poop for the rest of your “romantic stroll” with your partner. But, with a doggie backpack, we can finally say, “enough” and get our furry friends to carry their own messes!
Frequently Asked Questions
Which size should I buy?
It depends entirely on the breed and size of dog that you have. While many companies offer a rough guide for certain breeds, we always recommend getting out the tape measure and measuring your dog to ensure optimal fit. After all, having an ill-fitting pack for your dog can cause rubbing and bald patches, or even injury to the back.
What is a safe weight limit for my dog to carry?
Again, this varies by breed – with some notoriously tough canines able to carry as much as 25 percent of their own bodyweight. This is the exception, though, and the majority of dogs are only able to carry 10-15 percent of the ideal body weight for their height/breed.
Is Dog Backpack Harness safe?
They are, indeed! As long as you buy the right size, don’t overfill it, and double check that it’s fitted correctly – you should be A-OK!
Can puppies wear them?
The minimum age for a dog to wear a backpack while carrying things inside of it is one year. For puppies under that age, you can begin to train them to wear the backpack, but no items should be placed in the pack, as their musculoskeletal structure is still growing, and excess weight during this period could be detrimental.
Won’t it hurt my dog’s back?
No. A properly-sized, well-fitted, and correctly-laden pack shouldn’t cause any problems. However, if your dog suffers from back problems or joint disease that makes carrying weight harder for them – they should not wear a Dog Backpack Harness.
How long will it take to train my dog to carry stuff?
This depends on your training schedule, the age of your dog, and his level of obedience thus far. But, it’s usually no more than a few sessions until they’re pretty used to it!
Final Thoughts
A life filled with adventure is the best kind! So, why not outfit your furry best friend so that he’s ready for all the fun life can throw at him?
Whether you’re just planning a trip to the dog park, or want to go further afield on a multi-day hiking expedition, a Dog Backpack Harness is a great addition to your pet gear. Not to mention, it will make your dog feel like he’s truly a part of the gang and give him a job to do!
With the added health benefits he’ll get from changing up his exercise routine by carrying some weight, you’ll also help to keep your dog healthy for the long run.