How to Build a Dog's Backpack

Cesar Milan, the dog whisperer, recommends outfitting your dog with a backpack for a variety of reasons. Dogs with high energy benefit from wearing a backpack because it tires them out quicker. In addition, the backpack gives dogs a sense of structure and responsibility, which helps with behavior. On walks, doggy backpacks are also a practical way to haul stuff for your dog, such as snacks, water and baggies. Building a dog backpack is a viable alternative to purchasing a ready-made pack and allows you to customize the look and fit for your dog.

Things You'll Need

  • Measuring tape
  • Scissors
  • Child's backpack with chest strap
  • 1- to 2-inch wide straps
  • Pins
  • Marker
  • Medium needle
  • Thread
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Instructions

    • 1

      Measure the distance from the dog's front left leg to the front right leg. This is the measurement for the chest strap. Wrap the measuring tape under the dog's leg and shoulder to its back. This is the measurement for the left and right backpack strap.

    • 2

      Cut the straps off of the child's backpack and remove any threads.

    • 3

      Cut the straps according to your dog's shoulder measurements.

    • 4

      Place the backpack on the dog's back and fit the first strap under its leg and attach the strap to the backpack with pins. Wrap the second strap in the same manner and attach it to the backpack.

    • 5

      Use the marker to mark locations and orientation of the straps in case the pins come loose. Carefully remove the backpack. Hand sew the straps to the backpack with a needle and thread.

    • 6

      Put the backpack on the dog, one leg through a strap at a time. Adjust the chest strap and clip it across the dogs chest.