It’s hard to beat the fun of adventuring with your four-legged friend. But the extra gear requirements can add up. This is where a good dog backpack comes into play. Backpacks for dogs are more than cute accessories — they allow your pooch to haul necessities like food and water.

　　From dog saddlebags to dog backpack harnesses, there is a plethora of dog hiking gear out there for people who like to hike with dogs. We looked through the options to find the best dog backpacks on the market and came up with the following list. Our lead tester, Meghan LaHatte put these packs through the wringer with the help of her pup, Opa. The pair frolicked through miles of Colorado backcountry, carefully assessing the comfort functionality, and durability of numerous dog pack styles.

　　At the end of our list of recommendations, we also put together some tips for finding the right fit and how to pack it for your furry friend. Scroll through to see all of our favorite dog backpacks. And if you’re new to dog packs, take a look at our in-depth comparison chart and helpful FAQ sections.

　　Editors Note: We updated our Dog Backpack guide on March 27, 2024 by adding the Ruffwear Front Range™ Day Pack to our stellar line-up. We also ensured our product list was up-to-date with current models, colors, and designs.

　　The Best Dog Backpacks of 2024 Best Overall Dog Backpack: Ruffwear Approach Dog Pack Best Budget Dog Backpack: OneTigris Hoppy Camper Dog Pack 2.0 Best Runner-Up Dog Backpack: Ruffwear Front Range™ Day Pack Best Ultralight Dog Backpack: Ultimate Direction Dog Vest Best Tactical Dog Backpack: OneTigris Mammoth Dog Pack Best Overall Dog Backpack Ruffwear Approach Dog Pack Specs Volume 6 L, 12.5 L, 14.5 L, 24 L Weight 12.8 oz., 1 lb. 1 oz., 1 lb. 2 oz., 1 lb. 5 oz. Chest girth 17 42 Number of pockets Four

　　Pros Roomy Reflective trim Easily adjustable Small top pockets for easy access Cons Minimal padding on the chest strap Meghan LaHatte Oregon-based company Ruffwear is known for trail testing every product it makes. And that testing is readily apparent with its Approach Dog Pack ($110).

　　This everyday pack offers adjustable straps for a secure and comfortable fit, thanks in part to the integrated harness, which is built for a perfect fit and pack stability.

　　It also features five points of adjustment to allow for a customizable fit. The radial-cut saddlebags form a compression system that enhances the fit and makes it easier for your pooch to carry loads.

　　The lightweight materials are durable as well. You won’t need to worry about abrasion or wear when your dog goes racing off into the underbrush to chase a chipmunk.

　　Overall, we love the Ruffwear Approach Dog Pack for its simplicity and the comfort it provides, even while carrying a load. The top pockets make smaller items like treats and poop bags easily accessible. And the larger side pockets can carry the rest of your gear with ease.

　　You can even strap larger items like dog beds to the top. There are two leash attachment options, and the padded handle lets you grab your pooch like a duffel bag.

　　$100 at REI$100 at Amazon Best Budget Dog Pack OneTigris Hoppy Camper Dog Pack 2.0 Specs Volume Unavailable Weight 1 lb., 1 lb. 5 oz. Chest girth 25 36 Number of pockets Four

　　Pros Front and rear leash attachment options Secure fit Cotton canvas material Cons Handle not designed for carrying a dog No reflective material Meghan LaHatte The tactical-inspired Hoppy Camper 2.0 ($37) from OneTigris is built for rough terrain. It’s one of the least expensive packs on this list, but its cotton canvas material makes it one of the most durable as well.

　　The canvas build holds up well against rocks, brush, and just about anything else your dog will come up against on the trail. The interior is lined with mesh to keep your dog cool and comfortable.

　　The two main zipper compartments can carry food, water, and bowls. The smaller side pockets can hold waste bags and treats. The top handle is ideal for holding and controlling — but not carrying — your dog.

　　The understated design is the only real gripe we have with the Hoppy Camper. The brown, green, and black options look sharp, but they’re best used in urban settings. The colors blend in with the outdoors, making it harder to find your buddy if he goes dashing off into the woods.

　　Check Price at AmazonCheck Price at OneTigris Best Runner-Up Dog Pack Ruffwear Front Range Day Pack Specs Volume 4.5 L, 8 L, 10.5 L, 18.5 L Weight 11.2 oz., 15.2 oz., 1 lb. 0.8 oz.,1 lb. 5.6 oz. Chest girth 17-42” Number of pockets 2

　　Pros Easy fit with 5 points of adjustment Three leash attachment points Plenty of room for necessary supplies Cons Limited color schemes in new design A bit large for a day pack Meghan LaHatte Recently redesigned and improved by Ruffwear, the Front Range Day Pack ($70), is a superb option for pups needing a well-fitting backpack that doesn’t sacrifice style and storage. Designed for day hikes and explorative adventures, there is plenty of room for water bladders, paw balm, poop bags, treats and gear in this backpack. 

　　The new Front Range pack has an easier adjustment system with plastic sliders that assist with tightening and loosening while the pack is on your dog. Our tester actually has the older model and can confirm that customizing the fit is much more streamlined in this recent iteration. Gone are the days of lopsided fits and constant readjusting with these added tailor points and buckles. 

　　Test subject Opa, a 65-pound shepherd mix, tried this backpack out on multiple hikes in mud and snow in Colorado. She wore the size L-XL and it fit her well after some fiddling with the straps and buckles. Even as she ran through miles of rough sagebrush, the Front Range’s durable materials held up extremely well despite constantly being scratched and poked by the foliage. This is thanks to the 300-denier polyester ripstop that comprises the shell. Better yet, the minimal exterior design made it so she didn’t get caught on any branches, an aspect sometimes overlooked in pack designs.

　　In terms of weight distribution and support, Ruffwear blew it out of the park with this backpack. The radial cut harness shifts the packed load of the Front Range Day Pack forward and creates a natural compression on your dog’s torso. This keeps the packed weight impressively stable while evenly spreading out the weight so your pooch doesn’t get any hot spots or pressure points while romping about. 

　　The Front Range backpack is advertised as a day pack, but our tester found that it is better suited for overnight or multi-day excursions due to the larger size and storage space. However, it is typically better to have more space than less when packing for even the shortest hikes. Available only in two colorways, a pastel green and dark black, it would be nice to see Ruffwear offer some more options. 

　　Between the three secure leash attachment points and overall ergonomic design, the Ruffwear Front Range Day Pack is a fantastic dog backpack for folks seeking plenty of storage space without causing their best friend any discomfort during that next weekend adventure. 

　　$70 at REI$80 at Amazon Best Ultralight Dog Pack Ultimate Direction Dog Vest Specs Volume 5.8 L, 8.6 L, 10.3 L Weight 11 oz. Chest girth 22 42 Number of pockets Four

　　Pros Lightweight Bowl included Can hold up to 2 L of water Cons No padding on straps Meghan LaHatte Colorado-based running gear company Ultimate Direction is known for its excellent ultralight running packs and accessories. Its Dog Vest ($80) marks yet another hit out of the park.

　　This lightweight vest is perfect for your four-legged running partner. The pack is made with a nylon ripstop body and stretch nylon mesh.

　　The multipoint harness system customizes the fit, ensuring comfort. And the top ring keeps your leash securely attached.

　　Large, expandable side pockets hold food and accessories. Side-stash pockets keep smaller items like waste bags and a leash within easy reach. The included bowl collapses for an easy fit, and zippered bottle pockets mean your pooch can carry your water as well.

　　Ultimate Direction’s Dog Vest is a great way to keep your dog equipped on long trail runs. At just 11 oz., this pack is ideal for full days on arduous terrain.

　　$28 at BackcountryCheck Price at Ultimate Direction Best Tactical Dog Pack OneTigris Mammoth Dog Backpack Specs Volume 6 L Weight S: 14.6 oz. / L: 16 oz. Chest girth 20” 36” Number of pockets 2 interior and 2 exterior bungee pockets

　　Pros Durable material Large straps and buckles are easy to maneuver Decent capacity with outer bungee pockets and velcro attachments Cons Exterior bungees can get caught on branches or fences Design may be too cumbersome for smaller dogs Meghan LaHatte If you’re on the hunt for a dog backpack that is both durable and generous with capacity, be sure to check out the OneTigris Mammoth Dog Backpack ($36). For under 40 bucks, this pack certainly brings a lot to the table without completely breaking the bank. 

　　What we loved? This tactical design is made with a Mil-spec 1000D nylon, making it hyper-durable against any unexpected rips or tears while on the trail. The two spacious 3L pouches with outer bungee pockets provide enough storage for water, food, a bowl, a rain jacket, and other necessities. We found that despite loading up the pouches and taking the dog for an extensive hike, the pack stayed well-balanced on her without leaning one way or another. 

　　Our one gripe with this dog backpack is that the outer bungees tend to get caught on branches and sticks. Our tester’s dog basically became a walking tumbleweed after one got stuck to the bungees on their hike. However, the strong materials and adjustability still make this pack one of our top picks.

　　If you’re a hunter or a backpacker planning a weekend trip in the backcountry for you and the pooch, the OneTigris Mammoth Dog Backpack is a sure-fire choice for its decent packing space, utilitarian design, and versatility.

　　$40 at AmazonCheck Price at Chewy Best of the Rest Kurgo Baxter Pack Specs Volume 3.75 L, 7.5 L Weight 14 oz., 1 lb. 4 oz. Chest girth 27 40 Number of pockets Two

　　Pros Padded spine Roomy saddlebags Cons Not waterproof Straps need extra cinching for narrow-chested dogs Meghan LaHatte Kurgo’s Baxter dog backpack ($60) features a highly adjustable fit and padded spine support to make sure your dog is comfortable when carrying a load.

　　The two large saddlebags provide plenty of room for food, treats, toys, and bowls. Smaller storage pockets are easy to access for smaller items like treats and poo bags.

　　Details like breathable mesh and reflective strips for visibility make this one of our favorites. And the bottle opener on the chest strap lets your pooch join in on the post-hike celebration. Take note, however, that this pack is a bit on the bigger size, and may not work for smaller dogs.

　　The rear-mounted leash hook lets your good boy take the lead. If your dog needs a hand getting over some sketchy terrain, you can use the padded handle to help him over the obstacle.

　　Check Price at ScheelsCheck Price at Kurgo Mountainsmith K-9 Dog Pack Specs Volume 7 L, 12 L, 16 L Weight 15 oz., 1 lb., 1 lb. 3 oz. Chest girth fit 20 40 Number of pockets Two

　　Pros Tons of pack space Padded sternum Lots of adjustments Cons Water-resistant, not waterproof Meghan LaHatte Designed with the aid of a local Colorado veterinarian, Mountainsmith’s K-9 Dog Pack ($75) is one of the best-fitting packs on the market. An adjustable back harness complements the four-point adjustable belly harness. This lets you really dial in the fit for maximum doggie comfort.

　　The application is simple as well. The pack goes on easily — just throw it over your dog’s head and lift the sides to buckle it on. It makes putting it on an excited pup much easier.

　　These packs max out at a whopping 16 L for the large size. This means you can carry just about everything you need for a hike and then some — plus some extra weight to slow your zoomer down.

　　Reflective trim helps you see your pooch in low light. And the single-haul handle on the top lets you help them over technical areas.

　　Ideal for thru-hikers and backpackers who want to bring their canine companion along, the Mountainsmith’s K-9 Dog Pack is a superb choice.

　　$75 at Backcountry$75 at Mountainsmith Outward Hound Day Pack Dog Backpack Specs Volume Not listed Weight 10.8 oz. Chest girth 21 32 Number of pockets Four

　　Pros Price Multiple sizing options Cons No chest padding Open stash pockets Meghan LaHatte With such a low price point, the Daypack Dog Backpack ($26) from Outward Hound is an excellent option for day hikers or as an entry-point pack.

　　This extremely lightweight pack has two large side pockets with smaller stash pockets on either side. The large pockets are expandable, which is a nice touch. This allows you to zip the pockets down to a smaller size when you’re not carrying much. Breathable mesh runs the length of the back, keeping your dog cool on warm days.

　　One gripe is the stash pockets on the side don’t have closures. They still work well for waste bags and treats, but we don’t recommend putting your keys or wallet in there. Otherwise, this is a great pack for people who want to introduce their dogs to hiking with gear.

　　$33 at AmazonCheck Price at Chewy Ruffwear Palisades Dog Pack Specs Volume 12.5 L, 17.5 L, 24 L Weight 1 lb. 12 oz., 1 lb. 14 oz., 2 lb. 2 oz. Chest girth 22 42 Number of pockets Four

　　Pros Collapsible water pouches included Third belly strap Removable saddlebags Cons Pricey Meghan LaHatte It’s on the pricier end of the spectrum, but with Ruffwear’s Palisades Dog Pack ($160), you get what you pay for.

　　Built with long-distance, multiday adventures in mind, the Palisades has 24 L of space in its largest iteration. Even the smallest pack can hold 12.5 L of gear. It’s also loaded with very smart features, notably the removable saddlebags.

　　The storage bags unclip without having to remove the entire harness. This lets you give your pooch a rest without having to take off the whole setup.

　　A third chest strap helps you dial in the fit and minimizes sliding. Cross-load compression straps cinch down your gear when the bags aren’t full.

　　The Palisades puts a premium on visibility as well. The bright red color is easy to spot, and the reflective strips are complemented by a light loop for attaching a safety light.

　　$150 at REI$150 at Amazon Lifeunion Adjustable Service Dog Supply Backpack Specs Volume Unavailable Weight 12 oz. (small) Chest girth 22.8 35 Number of pockets Two

　　Pros Durable yet lightweight Affordable Good quality zippers Cons Not ideal for use as a harness Only two pockets Meghan LaHatte The Lifeunion Saddle Bag backpack ($26-28) is the best in class in terms of durability. This simple bag offers everything you need for regular adventures with your pup. Though this pack is relatively small and compact, it offers a ton of organized storage space.

　　On the outside, the Lifeunion pack sports 600-denier double polyester construction. A built-in rubber handle and a strong D-ring leash attachment provide excellent control on the trail, in the parking lot, and everywhere in between. All of the zippers are high-quality and long-lasting.

　　For such a durable pack, this fine piece of canine gear is relatively lightweight, thanks to its mesh and polyester construction. The pack comes in three sizes, and dogs between 19 and 100 pounds will easily fit. Even though this pack is quite adjustable, owners of very small dogs will need to look elsewhere.

　　$25 at Amazon Dog Backpacks Comparison Chart

　　Tester dog Opa styling the Front Range Day Pack on a snowy trail in western Colorado; (photo/Meghan LaHatte)

　　How We Tested Dog Backpacks We love our pups here at GearJunkie. And there’s nothing more we love than bringing them along on our excursions — which is why we’ve put good effort into finding the perfect dog backpacks so they can carry a bit of their own kit on the go. No dog is the same as the next, which is why we’ve tested dog packs from across the spectrum to find a pup backpack that’ll work for any furry best friend.

　　While testing these packs, we paid special attention to how they carried a load, knowing that an uneven carry can be an uncomfortable way to spend a day for your dog. We also noted overall capacity, padding, and comfort, as well as the trustworthiness of the leash attachments, which can all make or break a good dog backpack.

　　Much of our testing took place while hiking and climbing in Colorado. After miles of trail (and a good number of treats), we’ve assembled our list of the best dog backpacks available today. As new packs hit the market, we’ll saddle up our pups for testing and update our list with the latest and greatest to hit the trails.

　　Buyers Guide: How to Choose the Best Dog Backpack Theres a lot to consider when purchasing a pack for your best buddy. Read on for comprehensive advice on pack size, fit, value, and much more.

　　Capacity The whole point of buying a backpack for your dog is so it can carry gear. So, getting a pack that can’t hold much more than a few poop bags doesnt make sense.

　　For day hikes or short walks, a small dog backpack with a 1-2L capacity will do. But for longer hikes or runs, you’ll want more room for water, snacks, and anything else you two might need on your trek.

　　A backpack with a 3-5L capacity usually does the trick here. If you’ve got a beefy dog and you’re going on a multi-day backpacking trip, consider a larger pack. We’ve got packs on this list that can go up to 25 L in capacity. This should be enough to carry everything your dog needs.

　　Load Dispersion Your dog is not going to enjoy carrying an uneven load. If their pack carries weight unevenly in any direction, your dog will at best be uncomfortable. At worst, this can cause an injury. Look for a pack that carries its load evenly on both sides.

　　Also, make sure the weight is carried well from front to back. Any good dog backpack has even capacity on both sides and carries the weight closer to the shoulders for solid support.

　　Weight As a general rule of thumb, a dog should carry no more than 25% of its body weight. Keep in mind, that number is the maximum amount. Depending on your dog’s age and fitness level, this number can vary from 10% up to 25%.

　　Some breeds are better at carrying more weight. Puppies and senior dogs are going to need lighter loads. Keep an eye on your dog while you hike. If it looks like he’s flagging or uncomfortable, be ready to take some of his load and carry it in your pack.

　　The OneTigris Mammoth Dog Pack is durable and highly customizable; (photo/Meghan LaHatte) Leash Attachment Points Whether or not you let your four-legged buddy run free on the trail, there will be times when you need to put a leash on. Ensure the pack you buy for your dog has at least one attachment point. Many have two points of attachment — one near the shoulder blades and one on the back near the tail.

　　Many people prefer to use the leash attachment on the front because some dogs tend to pull more when the leash is closer to the dog’s tail. For shorter walks and day trips, consider the simplicity of a dog harness.

　　Value Price Of course, shop for a dog backpack that fits within your budget. In general, more expensive packs tend to have more features. But there are many quality packs in the mid-to-low price range.

　　Expect to spend from $75 to $100 for a comfortable, durable pack that sports some solid features. Larger, more feature-rich packs can cost closer to $150.

　　If you’re not sure what kind of pack to get for your dog, take a look at the budget options listed above. You can always start with an inexpensive pack and upgrade when you know what features you want.

　　Fit Comfort

　　Testing dog packs on a stretch of dirt road in Colorado; (photo/Meghan LaHatte) Your first concern when shopping for a pack is making sure your dog is comfortable. Look for features like padded straps and mesh material. The padded straps help reduce chafing and irritation during longer hikes. The mesh or sweat-wicking material helps protect your dog from overheating.

　　Make sure the load is distributed evenly so your dog doesn’t have to compensate for it on the hike. The biggest factor in preventing discomfort is making sure the pack fits your dog.

　　How to Measure Your Dog for a Backpack Most websites list the varying sizes and associate them with a dog’s weight. However, dogs come in all shapes and sizes. The best way to fit your dog is to get the proper measurements.

　　Use a piece of string or a flexible tape measure to find the circumference of your dog’s upper neck, lower neck, and chest. After that, measure your dog’s length from the tail to the chest.

　　Compare those measurements to the dog pack you’re considering to find the right size. Keep in mind some packs won’t work for certain dogs, like those with small necks and deep chests. Also take into consideration your dog’s coat thickness, as that can affect the fit and comfort of a dog pack.

　　When you get the pack, try it on your dog and adjust as necessary to make sure it fits. When fitting the pack, follow the two-finger rule. If the straps are snug but leave room for two fingers between the gear and your dog, it’s a good fit. Be sure to keep any fur out of the zippers or buckles to prevent any pinches or itchiness for your pooch.

　　Tips for Using Dog Backpacks Start With Short Hikes Low Weight No matter how fit your dog is, carrying a lot of weight over a long distance right away will come as a shock. Just like training for a long run, it’s good to ease your dog into carrying a pack. If you find your dog is weary or skittish of putting the backpack on, try giving it treats and positive reinforcement when pulling the pack out for use.

　　Once on, start with short walks with an empty backpack at first. This lets your dog get used to wearing a pack. Then, add weight and distance as you go.

　　If you’re planning a specific trip, it’s a good idea to work your way up to distances and weights close to what your dog will carry on the trip. As the date of the trip gets closer, keep adding distance and weight. This can go a long way toward ensuring that your furry friend enjoys his time outside.

　　Keep It Snug Secure

　　Nothing can ruin your hike like chafing and irritation. The same goes for your dog. Make sure the pack fits properly and securely, following the two-finger rule above.

　　Straps can loosen as you hike. Make sure you check your dog’s straps occasionally and adjust them as necessary.

　　Pick the Right Size Pack A huge part of avoiding chafing and hot spots is ensuring your dog’s pack is the right size. Most websites offer different sizes according to weight. This is a good start.

　　Compare the specs listed on the pack’s website to make sure it’s a good fit. When you get the pack, check its fit before you go out.

　　Adjust the straps so you can fit two fingers between your dog and the strap. This ensures a snug fit that isn’t too tight.

　　Know Your Dog Weight and size are only two factors when deciding the right pack for your dog. Consider factors like age and health when shopping around.

　　Puppies and senior dogs need to carry less weight. Consider a smaller pack that can hold around 10-15% of your dog’s weight. The same goes for if your dog is out of shape or recovering from sickness or injury.

　　Also, disposition is a factor. If you have a more rambunctious dog, consider a burlier harness and a sturdy top handle. This helps you keep control of your dog if you encounter other animals on the trail.

　　Tester dog Opa was able to run freely without any discomfort while wearing the Front Range pack; (photo/Meghan LaHatte)

　　FAQ What is the best dog backpack? First and foremost, the best backpack is the one that fits each dog well. A good-fitting pack helps keep your dog comfortable on the trail. After that, make sure it can carry the right amount of weight for your dog’s ability.

　　A pack that won’t carry what you need for your pup won’t be very useful. Also, the best dog backpacks provide you with plenty of ways to control and secure your dog when the need arises.

　　Are backpacks safe for dogs? Absolutely, but an ill-fitting or overweight pack can harm your dog. Make sure the weight and fit are right for your pooch before you head out.

　　The proper weight your dog can carry varies from 10% to 25% of your dog’s body weight. The variance depends mainly on your dog’s size, age, and fitness level. With the correct measurements, a little research, and a good fitting when you get your pack, you can ensure the right fit.

　　What should I put in my dog’s backpack for hiking? It varies, depending on how much your dog can carry. Waste bags and treats are some items even the smallest dog hiking backpack can hold.

　　If you have the room, extra food, water, and bowls are a great idea as well. You can even strap a rolled-up dog bed to some of the bigger packs.

　　How much weight can a dog carry in a backpack? The general rule is to never let your dog carry more than 25% of its weight. Depending on the dog, this can be as low as 10%. Senior dogs and puppies are going to be on the lower end of the spectrum.

　　As you hike, keep a close eye on your pooch. If he’s looking fatigued or is laboring under the weight, remove some gear and put it in your pack.

　　The Best Dog Harnesses of 2024 A dog harness can improve connection, safely restrain your pooch, and allow for better control in a myriad of situations. Here are the best dog harnesses of the year.

　　The 7 Best National Parks to Visit With Dogs While a road trip to your favorite national park seems like the perfect opportunity to bring Fido, you may be surprised that most national parks aren’t incredibly dog-friendly. Here are the best ones that are.