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Take Your Dog With You in the Best Backpack Dog Carrier

Written by Jarett Gilpin
Last updated: Jun 24, 2024, 12:44 PM
Affiliate disclosure (read)
highly rated backpack dog carrier

Going on a long trek in a beautiful natural place is a great way to unwind and enjoy the beautiful scenery. So, what would make the adventure even better? Take your dog with you! However, bringing your canine friend on a long hike on rough terrain or on an urban adventure with crowds and traffic can be dangerous — you need to make sure that your dog stays safe. Backpack dog carriers are one way to keep your pet out of harm’s way while still bringing them along for the ride.

If your dog is limited by its stamina, an injury, or is old and lacks sufficient energy, investing in a dog backpack is your answer. Perfect for traveling and hiking, these backpacks allow you and your beloved companion to share the great outdoors or even just a brisk walk on a sunny day. With so many choices on the market, choosing one can be a bit overwhelming. But fear not! We’ve conducted extensive research to bring you our list of the top backpack dog carriers in 2024 so that you never need to leave your pup behind no matter where your adventure takes you.

View all contents
  • Buyer’s Guide to Finding a Backpack Dog Carrier
    • 1 What Is a Dog Carrier Backpack and Why Buy One?
    • 2 How To Accurately Measure Your Dog’s Size To Choose the Right Carrier?
    • 3 What to Keep In Mind When Buying a Backpack Dog Carrier?
    • 4 Is a Dog Carrier Backpack Worth the Investment?
  • People Also Asked
  • Contributors

Our Top Picks for the Best Backpack Dog Carrier of 2024

  • PetAmi Deluxe Pet Carrier Backpack: Top Pick Overall (shop now)
    Read more about this ↓
  • Kurgo Dog Carrier Backpack: Most Comfortable Option (shop now)
    Read more about this ↓
  • Ytonet Dog Carrier Backpack: Top Versatile Choice (shop now)
    Read more about this ↓
  • WOYYHO Pet Dog Carrier Backpack: Top Ergonomic Design (shop now)
    Read more about this ↓
  • Morpilot Dog Backpack Carrier: Most Ventilated Option (shop now)
    Read more about this ↓

PetAmi Deluxe Pet Carrier Backpack

Top Pick Overall
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This durable, sturdy backpack will give you and your pup peace of mind as you hike the toughest trails. Packed with features, this bag has a zip mesh window to let your pet look outside during your expedition. With its two-way entry, your dog can easily move in and out with ease. You can rest assured about your dog’s safety as this knapsack has thick and plush sherpa-lined bedding to cushion your canine against bumps, providing plenty of room to relax.

Featuring cushioned straps for easy portability, this backpack allows you to walk all day without feeling tired or sore. The bag also includes waist and chest clasps for a secure fit. What’s more, you can leave the extra feeding bowls at home as this rucksack comes with a foldable dish to feed your dog. Its side pockets store additional supplies allowing you to keep your pet hydrated and happy while on the road.

Pros
  • Made with high-grade, long-lasting polyester 
  • Safety strap and buckle for added protection
  • Comes with a collapsible bowl
Cons
  • Zippers are not very sturdy to withstand pressure from aggressive dogs

Kurgo Dog Carrier Backpack

Most Comfortable Option
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Next up on our list is the multi-featured dog carrier rucksack from Kurgo. This backpack allows you to adventure in the woods or mountains with your dog, no matter how small or short your dog’s legs may be. Designed for adventure, this dog-carrying backpack is both robust and comfortable enough to use on a regular basis. What’s more, the TSA has authorized this backpack for airline travel, so investing in this multi-purpose backpack is a win-win.

This carrier has softly padded compartments, so you can keep your items in one compartment while your pup can snooze in the other. An interior tether latches onto your pet’s harness keeping your dog safe and secure throughout your travels. What’s more, this backpack features side water bottle holders and zippered pockets to keep all your essentials within reach. You can take this waterproof, stain-resistant dog carrier with you everywhere you go without a second thought.

Pros
  • Adjustable and padded straps
  • Top and front carrier handles
  • Water and muck proof
Cons
  • Only suitable for pups up to 25 lbs. 

Ytonet Dog Carrier Backpack

Top Versatile Choice
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This pet backpack is crafted from environmentally friendly polyester strong enough to withstand scratches from anxious or scared pets. The rucksack has a sturdy, reinforced structure keeping your four-legged companions safe while allowing you to concentrate on your journey.

Inside, you can clamp your dog’s collar or harness to the leash clip to prevent your pooch from jumping out of the bag when you open it. And an easy-access window lets your dog pop its head out for some fresh air. In this backpack, your dog will clearly see the scenery and breathe freely, allowing them to feel calm and at ease.

Pros
  • Comfortable to wear
  • Easy to carry
  • Safe design
Cons
  • The inside strap to clip leash is a bit short

WOYYHO Pet Dog Carrier Backpack

Top Ergonomic Design
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This backpack is ergonomic and highly comfortable, minimizing the stress on the wearer’s shoulder and back. It’s made of thick padding and breathable mesh providing substantial cushioning when you take your pooch on a bumpy road. Squishy, washable pads and a robust detachable bottom plate make cleaning this pack a breeze.

This backpack is made of high-quality polyester and its mesh paneling will keep you cool on hot days. Want to engage and communicate with your pet throughout the journey? The adjustable neck hole window allows your pet to pop its head out from the top of the cage to breathe fresh air and see the outside world. This pet carrier backpack is a must-have if you want to keep your dog safe and entertained.

Pros
  • Removable bottom plate
  • Ergonomic and comfortable to wear
  • Extra straps for support and stability
Cons
  • The clip might not withstand jumps and jolts on rough terrain

Morpilot Dog Backpack Carrier

Most Ventilated Option
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If you care about the environment, this polyester bag made from eco-friendly materials is your go-to choice. The Morpilot Dog Backpack Carrier is made from a durable, scratch- and wear-resistant material making this a pack that will last for years. With four-sided mesh, this well-ventilated dog carrier gives your canine a wide view of their surroundings, keeping them calm and entertained.

The mesh shoulder straps are breathable, keeping you cool even on the hottest days. Ergonomic features — like adjustable shoulder and chest straps, and a waist belt that can be tightened or loosened according to your body size — help distribute the weight and alleviate back pain. Overall this pet backpack has a comfortable, secure fit.

Pros
  • Durable and portable
  • Spacious and well-ventilated
  • Easy to carry
Cons
  • The sides might cave inwards if you choose the wrong size

Buyer’s Guide to Finding a Backpack Dog Carrier

Buying a backpack dog carrier is an important purchase. It shows you care about your pup and want them along for the ride. So how to choose a backpack that’s comfortable, breathable, and efficient for both you and your dog? Good question. Choosing the right dog backpack carrier can be tricky and overwhelming. Below, we’ve written a thoroughly researched guide to purchasing a high-quality dog carrier backpack so you can carry your dog just about anywhere. Let’s take a look!

What Is a Dog Carrier Backpack and Why Buy One?

A dog carrier backpack is a backpack you wear on the front or backside of your body. It has a compartment so your small dog or pet can fit inside allowing you to carry them along as you walk, hike, travel, or adventure. If sized right, there’s enough room inside of the backpack for your dog to sit upright and even pop their head out if they’d like.

While dog carriers might look like regular backpacks, they have unique features including well-ventilated mesh, padded bedding, and safety tethers to clip a dog harness to. With these carriers, you can safely carry your pet through busy cities or up rugged terrain.

If you travel or fly often, or if you enjoy exploring in general, investing in a decent quality backpack to take your dog with you on hikes, city walks, or camping is essential. Dog carriers are also useful if your dog is older or has limited stamina and can’t easily keep up with you on long walks. Pet carriers are ideal for those with small-sized dogs as these carriers can be limited in space.

How To Accurately Measure Your Dog’s Size To Choose the Right Carrier?

When it comes to selecting a dog carrier it’s critical to know your pet’s measurements before making a purchase. To get the right and most comfortable carrier for your dog, you must know your canine companion’s weight, height, and overall size.

Measure your dog’s height starting right from the top of its shoulder straight to the floor. Choose a portable backpack that matches the measurement of your dog’s shoulder or back height; this will allow them to sit comfortably when inside. Next, measure your dog’s weight and match both your dog’s weight and height to the charts provided by the manufacturers. For dogs who are between sizes or dogs that fall under two different categories, experts recommend going with a larger carrier over a smaller one for your pooch’s comfort.

What to Keep In Mind When Buying a Backpack Dog Carrier?

Comfort

Your comfort — as the wearer — is crucial, but the comfort of your dog is equally important. When your dog is strapped to your back, they’re completely dependent on your movements and actions. It’s essential to purchase a carrier that gives them comfort and assures them they’re safe. Keep in mind that bags that fit dogs snugly are better for intensive activities and bags that allow your pet to move freely are better for leisurely walks.

Unfortunately, pet carriers often lack storage space for essentials like leashes, bottles, and bowls. Consider this when choosing your pack, especially if you intend on hiking for the whole day.

Safety

Your dog’s well-being should be your top priority. Try to opt for well-known brands when purchasing a dog carrier backpack and make sure your selection is durable, high-quality, safe, and long-lasting. Look for backpacks that feature safety clips and buckles, a harness clamp, and enough room for a pup to easily move their legs.

Ventilation

The finest dog-carrying backpacks should have sufficient ventilation so that your dog can enjoy some fresh air while you’re out and about. Dogs’ minds work in much the same way as yours do when you’re stuck in a cramped space, which is why it’s critical to provide adequate ventilation and windows. Choose a carrier backpack that has a thin mesh lining and a window so your dog can pop their head out if they’d like.

Material

Comfort is important for both you and your pet. Be sure to choose a dog carrier that features a soft, plushy fabric so your dog can relax and even nap while you’re out. A fabric that is stiff, tight, or hard will be uncomfortable and may cause your dog to feel anxious or uneasy.

Is a Dog Carrier Backpack Worth the Investment?

If you travel frequently with your dog, a sturdy carrier is required for international or domestic travel. If you plan to use your dog carrier backpack out in nature, they’re certainly worth the investment as small dogs may have trouble keeping up with you as you walk and may easily tire. Sometimes, in loud or busy settings, little pups can easily become anxious and scared. Having a dog backpack allows you to take your pet with you while keeping them safe and comfortable.

Cozy, comfortable, and enjoyable are all adjectives that describe a top-quality dog backpack. Lastly, taking your dog on a plane, bus, or train is a breeze when you have one of these ingenious pet carriers. In a dog carrier backpack, your dog will feel secure and content while traveling.

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