11 Best Dog Backpack Carrier Selections For Hiking, Walking, Or Travel

Dog Accessories, Dogs, Pet product reviews

Last Updated - December 12, 2023

A dog backpack carrier is the best accessory you can have when you have a restless soul and want to share the adventure with your furry friend. If you have a dog who may have ailments, a puppy who may not be able to keep up, or an older dog who gets tired easily, a dog backpack carrier may just be perfect for the situation.

In this guide, we will share everything you need to know about dog backpack carriers and including the best backpack carriers available on the market today. If you are unsure which one to get for your dog, seek veterinary advice from your veterinarian.

What Is A Dog Backpack Carrier?

Dog carrier backpack is designed like a backpack that allows dog owners to carry dogs on their back. Dog backpacks are a convenient way to transport your dog without causing any injury. Perfect for taking your dog hiking, biking, motorcycle rides, camping, or traveling in urban areas.

What To Look For When Shopping For A Dog Carrier Backpack

Material

The construction material should be durable and stable. The dog carrier backpack shouldn't collapse when your dog goes inside.

Materials like water-resistant nylon fabric provide durability and keep your pet safe if it rains. The ideal material should also be waterproof, muck proof, and anti-scratch.

Size & Weight Limit

Every carrier will indicate the maximum weight and size it can hold. Before searching for the best dog carrier backpack, first, measure the size and weight of your dog.

Comfort

When it comes to dog backpack carriers, all the features do not matter if it is comfortable for both you and your dog. With features like extra padding and chest and waist straps, it can provide you and your dog maximum comfort.

For maximum comfort for your dog, look for ones that allow your dog to poke its legs and tails. If your dog is strapped in and can't move, stop frequently and let your dog stretch.

Usage

Before you start searching for dog carrier backpacks, determine what you will mainly be using them for. Does it have to be TSA-approved? Do you need wheels? Is it exclusively for hiking?

Extra Features

A design like a side storage pockets and storage pouches can provide you with extra storage space to store your and your pet's essentials like treats, toys, collapsible water bowls, etc.

Some backpacks also include an expandable design for extra space, and this gives you all the advantages of a supportive carrier without needing too much space for storage.

Safety

Some dog backpack carriers come with a safety strap and buck that keep your dog safe and prevent it from escaping.

Ventilation

The dog carrier backpack must have proper ventilation to keep your dog aerated on the go.

11 Best Dog Backpack Carriers

Kurgo Heather Black K9 Rucksack for Dogs

Most Versatile Dog Carrier Backpacks

overall 

4.9/5

Price

$$

Comfort

Durability

Ventilation

Kurgo Heather Black K9 Rucksack for Dogs

A backpack with plenty of room, with laptop and iPad sleeve, and use as a carrier for your dog. This Kurgo Heather Black K9 Rucksack For Dogs is a versatile and stylish solution to carry your friend without worrying about their safety. With a waterproof bottom, padded back for comfort, and top/side ventilation, you'll go everywhere and anywhere together. With a sternum strap, you can get some extra support and top buckles that are also bottle openers. Simply secure the interior tether on your pet's harness, and you are all set to go!

Material

N/A

Size

12.5"L X 9" W X 18.5" H

Recommendation

Suitable for dogs up to 25 lbs.

What We Like

  • Waterproof, muckproof
  • A sternum strap for extra support
  • Side and top ventilation
  • Laptop sleeve. iPad sleeve
  • Interior tether to attach your dogs harness

What We Don't Like

  • Only suitable for dogs up to 25 lbs
  • Not the best for short legged dogs

Backpack Carrier Bubble Bag

Best For Small And Toy Breeds

overall 

4.9/5

Price

$$

Comfort

Durability

Ventilation

Backpack Carrier Bubble Bag

Whether you want to take your dog on a hike or fly to another city, this Backpack Carrier Bubble Bag may just be worthy of you checking out. Unlike the other pet carrier backpacks, this one gives your pet full visibility. Perfect for smaller dogs, toy breeds, or a cat. The built-in locking mechanism can prevent your pet from running away or getting lost when the bag is open. The solid ABS material and oxford cloth with nine-hole and air mesh brings both better air circulation and an anti-scratch effect.

Material

PLASTIC

Size

16.1'' H x 11.4'' W x 10.6'' D

Recommendation

weighs between 11-15 pounds

What We Like

  • Transparent capsule design provides your pet with a 180° view
  • Airline-approved
  • Straps of the backpack can absorb sweat
  • Strap can relieve the pressure from your backpack
  • Built-in locking mechanism can prevent your pet from running away

What We Don't Like

  • Only suitable for dogs up to 11-15 lbs

Reddy Black Cotton Canvas Pet Carrier Backpack Made With Recycled Materials

Best Small Dog Carrier Backpack

overall 

4.5/5

Price

$

Comfort

Durability

Ventilation

Reddy Black Cotton Canvas Pet Carrier Backpack Made With Recycled Materials

The Reddy Black Cotton Canvas Pet Carrier Backpack Made With Recycled Materials lets your best friend tag along in luxurious comfort from the coffee shop to mountain tops and all of your daily routines in between. With ergonomic support and air-mesh padded shoulder straps, this backpack pet carrier also offers you a hands-free way to travel comfortably with your pet. Crafted from water-repellent cotton canvas, it includes a removable mat that is machine washable. It can hold dogs up to 25 pounds, making this one of the best dog backpack carriers for small dogs.

Material

COTTON CANVAS

Size

8'' L x 16'' H x 13'' w

Recommendation

weighs up to 25 pounds

What We Like

  • Water-repellent cotton canvas
  • Features a zippered pocket with clasp for keys, bottle holder and durable protective feet
  • Air-mesh padded shoulder straps with front clasp
  • Mesh windows for ventilation and visibility
  • Mat with removable, machine-washable faux shearling cover

What We Don't Like

  • Only suitable for dogs up to 25 lbs
  • Doesn't keep it's shape
  • May not suitable for long breeds

K9 Sport Sack Air 2 Mint Backpack Dog Carrier

Best For Medium Sized Dogs

overall 

4.8/5

Price

$

Comfort

Durability

Ventilation

K9 Sport Sack Air 2 Mint Backpack Dog Carrier

The K9 Sport Sack Air 2 is the backpack dog carrier people know best. It is a durable, breathable, mid-level backpack perfect for smaller to medium-sized dogs. The Air 2 offers essential safety and comfort. And features needed for a comfortable experience like a wide base for your pet, side and back cinch strap, fur flap, and adjustable collar enclosure. This backpack is ideal for intermediate-grade walks, hikes, public transportation, and bike rides. The Air 2 is constructed with durable Cordura fabric and form-fitting mesh on the sides for breathability. Available in sizes XS-L.

Material

Cordura® fabric

Size

Multiple

Recommendation

weighs up to 30 pounds

What We Like

  • Durable, breathable
  • Ventilated side panels for cooling
  • Adjustable dual side pockets
  • Sternum strap with avalanche whistle clip
  • Wide Base
  • Multiple size available

What We Don't Like

  • Only suitable for dogs up to 30 lbs
  • Recommend watch the tutorials on how to fit your fur baby

K9 Sport Sack Rover 2

Best Dog Carrier Backpack For Larger Dogs

overall 

4.7/5

Price

$$$

Comfort

Durability

Ventilation

K9 Sport Sack Rover 2

The K9 Sport Sack Rover 2 is THE big dog backpack carrier that now doubles as a backpacking pack. Rover 2 technology is top of the line in safety and comfort for you and your pet. Adjustable shoulder/torso sizing makes this backpack more suitable than ever as long as you can withstand the weight. With internal padding, it is comfortable for your dog to stay in. When you're not carrying your furry friend, the backpack easily converts to carrying your gear with up to 60 liters of space. Use this backpack for strenuous hikes, bike rides, and public transit.

Material

300D Ripstop Oxford Polyester

Size

Multiple

Recommendation

weighs up to 80 pounds

What We Like

  • Ideal for carrying medium to large dogs
  • Adjustable shoulder/torso height
  • Removable lap belt with hip pockets & waste bag dispenser
  • Internal frame with inner padding
  • Detachable dog sun/rain hood
  • Multiple size available

What We Don't Like

  • Recommend watch the tutorials on how to fit your fur baby

Pecute Pet Carrier Backpack

Best Pet Carrier Backpack For Maximum Air Circulation

overall 

4.7/5

Price

$

Comfort

Durability

Ventilation

Pecute Pet Carrier Backpack

Unlike other dog carriers, the Petcute Pet Carrier Backpack is an expandable back design that gives your additional pet space to rest. With four side breathable mesh windows, your dog will be able to enjoy maximum fresh air circulation. It also allows your dog to observe the surrounding movement to reduce anxiety and provide more comfort. When you are ready, store away the carrier backpack, it can be folded and take up very little space—crafted from high-quality oxford cloth that is waterproof, anti-scratch, and non-toxic.

Material

Cationic oxford cloth

Size

13.39 x 10.63 x 17.32 inches

Recommendation

weighs up to 18 pounds

What We Like

  • An expandable back design gives your pet more space
  • Comes with 4-side breathable mesh windows, giving plenty of air for pets
  • Shock absorption design
  • Breathable
  • Affordable
  • Waterproof, anti-scratch, environmentally friendly, non-toxic and non-irritating
  • A removable firm bottom 

What We Don't Like

  • Expandable area not the largest
  • May take training to get dog inside

KOPEKS Deluxe Travel Airline-Approved Dog & Cat Carrier Backpack

Best Dog Carrier Backpack For Traveling

overall 

4.6/5

Price

$

Comfort

Durability

Ventilation

KOPEKS Deluxe Travel Airline-Approved Dog & Cat Carrier Backpack

Bring your dog along on your next trip with the KOPEKS Deluxe Backpack Travel Pet Carrier. It comes with a telescoping handle, a shoulder strap, and a handle for three convenient ways to carry your best friend around. This carrier is made with oxford fabric and has three ventilation mesh panels. A front mesh window and two side windows provide a cool environment and easy visibility. It includes a two-wheeled platform for easy maneuvering and also has two large pockets to store everything you and your companion need. Whether you are going on an adventure or just down the road, KOPEKS Deluxe Backpack Travel Pet Carrier will keep your sidekick safe and comfortable. Airline approved so you can go anywhere or everywhere with your pet.

Material

POLYESTER

Size

13 x 12 x 20 inches

Recommendation

weighs up to 9 pounds

What We Like

  • Offers 3 convenient ways to carry your pet
  • Made with oxford fabric and has 3 ventilation mesh panels that provide a cool
  • Includes a two-wheeled platform for easy maneuvering
  • Comes with a telescoping handle, a shoulder strap and a handle 

What We Don't Like

  • Only suitable for dogs up to 9 lbs

Katziela Voyager Backpack Gray & Green Pet Carrier

Best For Outdoor Excursions

overall 

4.6/5

Price

$

Comfort

Durability

Ventilation

Katziela Voyager Backpack Gray & Green Pet Carrier

This Katziela Voyager Backpack is perfect for all your outdoor excursions and hikes for the restless soul in you. With pockets for storage and comfortable shoulder straps, the Voyager backpack is perfect for long walks, jogging, running, and rough trails. Meets TSA requirements, you can take a dog carrier on most airplane flights. Plenty of ventilation with a top can be left over for your pet to stick its head out. With a shade cover, you can snap it on to protect your pup from the sun. And lastly, this carrier comes with a removable firm bottom that is super comfy and cozy for your pet to lay and sleep on.

Material

FABRIC

Size

9 x 14 x 12 in

Recommendation

weighs up to 15 pounds

What We Like

  • Airplane friendly
  • The side of the bag has two holders for waste bag rolls and dispensers
  • Plenty of ventilation
  • A removable firm bottom
  • Features soft, comfy and cozy fleece padding for your pet to sit or sleep on comfortably

What We Don't Like

  • Only suitable for dogs up to 15 lbs

Katziela Kangaroo Pouch Front Pack Medium Dog Carrier

Best Dog Carrier Front Backpack

overall 

4.7/5

Price

$

Comfort

Durability

Ventilation

Katziela Kangaroo Pouch Front Pack Medium Dog Carrier

The Katziela Kangaroo Pouch Breathable Mesh Dog Carrier will take you and your dog on plenty of new adventures together! This dog carrier has four holes for your furry friend to slip in and comfortably stretch his front and back legs—offering a safe and secure way to carry your dog. The foam padding on the back of the pouch keeps your pooch cozy, while the padded shoulder straps help distribute weight and reduce strain on your upper body. In addition to carrying around your tired pal, this carrier is the perfect tool for trimming nails, cleaning his face, or administering medicine. Available in three sizes: medium to extra large.

Material

Nylon, Mesh

Size

10 x 5 x 18 inches

Recommendation

weighs up to 13 pounds

What We Like

  • 4-holed harness cradles your dog
  • Padded shoulder straps help distribute weight and reduce strain
  • Perfect for trimming nails, giving medicine or carrying around your dog
  • Zipper expands to provide more space for your pup and prevent any tightness

What We Don't Like

  • Only suitable for dogs up to 13 lbs

K9 Sport Sack KNAVIGATE Forward Facing Backpack Dog Carrier

Best For Hiking

overall 

4.7/5

Price

$$

Comfort

Durability

Ventilation

K9 Sport Sack KNAVIGATE Forward Facing Backpack Dog Carrier

With this K9 Sport Sack Knavigate Forward Facing Backpack, Fido can face the same direction as you and see what is coming ahead. This forward-facing dog carrier is packed with features to keep you both comfortable when you hit the road, including a hip belt, full-side ventilation, padding, and a chest strap. The sturdy internal frame and safety features offer security, while built-in storage gives you a place to stash your keys and wallet. Full side ventilation will help keep your canine cool, non-matter where you will go. With four sizes available, you can find one that is perfect for your best friend.

Material

Polyester, Nylon

Size

MULTIPLE

Recommendation

20-35 POUNDS

What We Like

  • Forward-facing design 
  • Multiple size available
  • Hip belt and sternum strap help keep the backpack comfortably in place
  • Sturdy internal frame
  • Built-in storage
  • Full-side ventilation

What We Don't Like

  • Only suitable for dogs up to 35 lbs

LoveThyBeast Pet Carrier Backpack

Best For Getaway

overall 

4.7/5

Price

$

Comfort

Durability

Ventilation

LoveThyBeast Pet Carrier Backpack

It's never been easier to carry your furry friend and your laptop together in one place! Whether you are taking your friend to work, on a wild weekend getaway, or exploring the sky and sea, the extra cush bag ensures maximum coziness. The backpack is fully enclosed, so you don't have to worry while jet-setting. The structured carrier has both top and side entry for easy access. Adjustable straps let you maximize your comfort and ensure that your friend is secure. Generous front pocket to fit any laptop! Side pockets are the perfect places to stash your pet's essentials or yours.

Material

Nylon

Size

18"H x 14"W x 6"D

Recommendation

up 25 pounds

What We Like

  • Exterior zip pocket fits most laptops
  • Interior leash clip
  • Spot clean
  • Lightweight
  • Durable

What We Don't Like

  • Only suitable for dogs up to 25 lbs

FAQs

Are Pet Carrier Backpacks Safe?

If you purchase a dog backpack carrier designed for dog use, it is safe as long as the dog meets the backpack weight and size limit.

Are Dog Backpacks Comfortable for Dogs?

Yes, they are comfortable for your dog and are more comfortable than other options because it balances the weight on your back. If your dog is sitting inside, let your dog out frequently to stretch its legs.

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About the Author

Doctor of veterinary medicine with extensive experience in animal welfare with a strong interest in feline medicine and plans to pursue ABVP-Feline specialty board certification. A key member of many local veterinary associations and avid reader of animal related science journals and studies.