How to Use a Dog Backpack Correctly

Hiking with a well-trained dog can be a fun experience. For long hikes, however, it can be difficult to carry all of the things that are necessary to keep both you and your dog safe and comfortable. Fitted correctly with the right kind of backpack, your dog can help you carry some items depending on its size and weight.

Things You'll Need

  • Cloth tape measure
  • Sturdy backpack designed for dogs
  • Collar (optional)
  • Leash (optional)
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Instructions

    • 1

      Determine the correct backpack size. Small dogs̵7; backpacks usually have two straps, across the front of the chest and around the dog̵7;s body just behind its elbows. Place the measuring tape snugly on or around the dog̵7;s body at these points and record the measurements.

    • 2

      Some small dog backpacks and most large dogs̵7; backpacks may add a third strap for additional security at the waist. This measurement should be made roughly two-thirds of the way down the length of the dog̵7;s body, right behind the dog̵7;s rib cage.

    • 3

      Determine the style of backpack best suited to your dog. While all dogs tend to benefit from a nonrestrictive, V-style harness front, long-coated breeds with ruffs might incur an additional benefit. According to the Dog Scouts of America, short-coated or hairless dogs might benefit from additional padding on the strap, as would hairless dogs or dogs lacking body fat. Toy dogs or dogs new to backpacking might benefit from backpacks made of lightweight fabric.

    • 4

      Determine which backpack best suits your activity. Unless you will be hiking only in fair weather, then your dog̵7;s backpack should be water-resistant. If you are going to be hiking in areas that might be dark or if you may be out with your dog at night time, add a reflective strip or coating to your dog̵7;s backpack.

    • 5

      Make certain that the straps fit snugly around the dog̵7;s body without rubbing, which might cause sores or calluses. Before taking your dog on long walks or hikes, ensure that the backpack itself sits comfortably on your dog̵7;s body and does not cause unnecessary pain or friction under normal use.

    • 6

      Determine how much weight or gear your dog can carry. According to the DogStar Kennel website, dogs in prime condition and that are used to backpacking are capable of carrying up to 25 percent of their normal body weight over distances; however, expecting your dog to carry so much weight over an extended period might cause your dog to suffer physically. Small dog packs are limited in their capacity, but even such packs can be used to tote collapsible dog bowls and small bottles of water, for example.

    • 7

      Gradually accustom your dog to carrying weight. According to the Dog Scouts of America, you should start your dog by asking it to carry an empty pack and gradually add weight until your dog reaches its reasonable carry limit.