The Best Backpacks For Pets – Travel Safely With Your Four-Legged Friend

The Complete Guide to Choosing the Best Backpack for Your Furry Friend

Whether you enjoy long hikes with your dog or just want to take Fido along on errands around town, a pet backpack can make outdoor activities more enjoyable for both of you. However, with so many options on the market, it can be tough to know which type is best suited to your pet’s needs and personality. In this article, I’ll break down the main factors to consider when backpack shopping for pets and provide recommendations for different animal shapes and sizes.

What to Consider When Choosing a Pet Backpack

Here are the top things to evaluate when picking out the right carrier for your pet:

1. Size: Make sure to measure your pet and select a bag that fits their body type comfortably without being too loose or tight. Oversized packs can shift around while undersized ones may cause stress.
2. Weight capacity: Check the maximum load the bag can handle and don’t overload it. Your pet needs room to move inside.
3. Comfort: Look for features like breathable mesh panels, padded shoulder straps, and a padded bottom to keep your pet stress-free.
4. Visibility: Choose a brightly colored pack so your pet is easy to spot, especially if running off trail. Reflective strips provide extra visibility at night.
5. Durability: Reinforced seams and weather-resistant materials allow the bag to withstand wear from hiking and outdoor terrain.
6. Ventilation: Mesh panels and openings provide airflow to avoid overheating your pet on warm days.
7. Safety: Look for secure zippers and clips to prevent escape attempts plus handles for carrying and lifting.

Types of Pet Backpacks

There are a few main styles to consider based on your pet’s size:

1. Small dog backpacks: Fit toys, teacup, and smaller breeds. Look for packs 8-12 inches wide.
2. Medium dog backpacks: Suit dogs 15-30 pounds. Bags 10-16 inches wide work well.
3. Large dog backpacks: For dogs 30+ pounds. Choose packs 14 inches wide or larger.
4. Adjustable styles: Great multi-pets since you can modify sizing. Buckles allow fitting multiple sizes.

There are also special styles made for cats that resemble front slings or pouches to keep them calm and contained. Always make sure your pet is comfortable before taking them on long excursions!

Recommendations Based on Pet Type

Here are my top picks based on animal:

Dogs

Ruffwear Approach: Very durable for hiking with padded straps and breathable mesh. Fits small to large dogs. From my experience, it’s built to last.

Kurgo Journey: Great for casual neighborhood walks due to its lightweight construction. Adjusts to most medium breeds. I’ve used this style myself and dogs seem to really dig it.

Outward Hound Daypack: Affordable option for short trips to the park. Fits compactly in small car trunks. It gets the job done for casual outings, yo.

Cats

Petsfit Sling Carrier: Comfy front-facing pouch puts nervous felines at ease. Padded bottom provides cushion. Helps avoid scratched-up owners like yours truly on bumpy rides.

ABO Gear Backpack: Top-loading cater gives curious cats a sense of security. Mesh sides offer views. Strap looks kinda funky fresh on cats if you ask me, dawg.

PAW5 Sling Carrier: Breathable mesh allows air flow. Clipped opening secures jumpers. Great for vet trips if your cat gets straight buggin’, no cap.

Tips for Training Your Pet to Use a Backpack

Introducing a new carrier takes patience. Here are some suggestions:

1. Start with short practice sessions indoors without the pack on at first. Reward calm behavior with treats.
2. Let them investigate the empty pack on the ground. When comfortable, offer praise and snacks inside it with the zipper open.
3. Slowly work up to zipping the pack with them inside for a few seconds at a time. Use positive reinforcement and take breaks if stressed.
4. Practice wearing the pack around the house before venturing outside. Go at your pet’s pace over several sessions to build confidence.

It may take a few weeks to fully adapt. Some pets may never feel totally at ease – respect their limits. Safety should always come before fun on the trails.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to other common questions people have when choosing pet backpacks:

Q: How old does my pet need to be?
Most are suitable once a puppy or kitten is fully grown around 6-12 months. They must be comfortable wearing harnesses first.

Q: What about overheating risks?
Always provide breaks in the shade on hot days. Signs like heavy panting mean it’s too much. Ice water and a wet towel can help cool down overheated pups mid-hike.

Q: Can multiple pets share one pack?
It’s possible but not ideal due to space and safety issues. It’s best if each pet has their own appropriately sized carrier.

What if my pet gets car sick?
Try meds and practice short car rides first before adding the backpack. Some pets just aren’t cut out for vehicle travel so respect their limits.

Q: How do I clean the carrier?
Machine wash the padded pieces and spot clean mesh or hose down for rude odors. Let fully dry before next use to prevent mildew growth in damp areas.

I hope this guide helps you pick the perfect backpack to enjoy quality time outside with your furry friend! Let me know if any other questions come up.

Compare Pet Backpacks by Features

Backpack	Capacity	Weight Limit	Pockets	Extras
Ruffwear Web Master	20-30 lbs	Up to 40 lbs	2 pockets	Ventilated, leash attachment
Kurgo Tru-Fit	15-25 lbs	Up to 50 lbs	1 pocket	Adjustable straps, reflective trim
Petsfit Ventilated	10-15 lbs	Up to 30 lbs	2 pockets	Vented mesh, cushioned straps
OUTWARD HOUND Daypack	5-10 lbs	Up to 25 lbs	1 pocket	Reflective trim, durable material

FAQ

1. Are backpacks safe for pets?

   Generally, backpacks are okay for pets as long as they don’t weigh too much. The pack shouldn’t be more than 10% of your pet’s body weight. Make certain the straps don’t put pressure on their neck or chest.

2. How do I get my pet used to wearing a backpack?

   At first, let them sniff and inspect the pack without putting it on. Eventually, reward them with treats as they have it on for very short periods. Gradually extend the time over sessions. Be calm and positive so they associate it with something nice instead of something they dislike.

3. What types of backpacks are best for pets?

   Backpacks made of mesh or lightweight materials breathe better than those made of plastic or vinyl. Look for padded, wide straps that evenly distribute weight. Choose a style with a built-in water bottle so your pet stays hydrated. Reflective strips are good for hiking in low light. Mesh pockets hold necessities handy.

4. At what age can I start using a backpack?

   Most experts say to wait till your puppy is fully grown. For smaller breeds this is around 6-9 months, for larger breeds more like 1-2 years. Their bones and sockets are still forming before then. Once mature, start with brief, light sessions to let them adjust gradually. Go slow and be sort of careful not to push it.

   

5. What other tips make backpacking safe and fun?

   Pack light and take plenty of breaks. Have water available at all times. Watch for signs like panting or slowing and turn back if needed. Reward them when they do well. And don’t forget sunscreen if it’s sunny out! Their coat doesn’t block UV rays like ours does. Mostly just make the ride enjoyable for both of you.

6. My pet seems anxious wearing a backpack. What can I do?

   Some pets simply won’t like it no matter what. However, you might try desensitizing them with shorter indoor sessions and high-value treats first. Spielberg calming aid can take the edge off too. Be patient and let them set the comfort level. If they continually act stressed, it may not be for them. Don’t force it at the cost of them enjoying the walk.

7. Is there a weight limit for backpack use?

   While 10% of body weight is a rule of thumb, every pet is different. Larger and more agile breeds can handle a greater percentage. Talk to your vet to be safe. And always watch for signs of fatigue like panting. Adjust the load or take more breaks if needed. Better to carry some gear yourself than overburden them. Safety should come before convenience.