Best Dog Backpacks for Real Adventure Dogs

Is your dog a true explorer? If your adventure companion walks on all fours, then you need to make sure he has the right gear for the journey. Make sure your canine explorer is prepared to conquer nature with the best dog supply backpack.

Dog hiking backpacks are useful for hiking, camping trips, multi-day trips, or even just a long walk. The pack allows your dog to carry his own hiking gear, taking some of the weight off of your pack when you all go on family camping trips.

They are also helpful for giving your dog a good workout. The extra weight of the backpack helps to build and maintain muscle to support joint health.

A great dog hiking backpack is not just any old backpack, though. To keep your fur baby dog safe and comfortable, you need the best dog hiking backpack for your mutt.

To help you find the right pack for your pooch to conquer the trails with, we reviewed some of our favourite best dog backpacks.

Best Hiking Backpacks for Dogs

We picked our favourite hiking backpacks and broke down the benefits and features of each to help you find the best option for your unique pet and their unique adventures. We'll be reviewing the following top-rated dog backpacks and dog backpack carriers:

• • Ruffwear Palisades Dog Backpack
  • Ruffwear Front Range Day Pack
  • RC Pets Quest Day Pack
  • Ruffwear Approach Backpack
  • Kurgo Baxter Backpack

Whether you are looking for maximum capacity for multi-day hikes or something lightweight and simple for beginners, we can help you find the perfect pack for your next adventure.

We'll rank each pack from $ to $$$, with $ being the best budget-friendly dog backpack and $$$ representing the best dog backpacks for hardcore adventure dogs that prefer all the bells and whistles.

1. Ruffwear Palisades Dog Backpack

Photo Credit: @ollie.explores

The Ruffwear Palisades Dog Pack enhances long weekend backcountry adventures. This is the largest backpack from Ruffwear and is designed for serious hikers and adventure dogs. The backpack ensures your dog’s comfort while walking and hiking.

Take a look at the specs for this impressive pack:

Fit

• • • 5 points of adjustment to properly position the saddlebags
    • Full range of sizes - small, medium, large/X-large
    • Adjustable straps on the front and rear
    • Unique adjustable compression tabs for when it's less full, so it isn’t awkward and bulky
    • Non-slip girth straps offer more even load distribution between the two saddle packs

Function

• • • Detachable saddlebags, you are getting a harness and a backpack
    • Comes with 2 x 1 L hydration bladders to keep your dog hydrated
    • Multiple compartments big enough to fit enough supplies for a multi-day backpacking trip
    • 2 leash attachments, top and back, and a light loop attachment
    • Padded handle to allow for additional support across difficult terrain

Price - $$$$

This is a pricey option, but it's the best overall choice for serious adventure enthusiasts. If you are looking for a backpack that meets all of your dog’s needs, then this one has it all. In our opinion, the Palisades is well worth the money.

2. Ruffwear Front Range Pack

Photo Credit -@adventuring.with.finesse

For the more casual hiker and short treks, the Ruffwear Day Pack is the perfect dog backpack for day trips and local trails with your pooch. This pack is big enough to carry basic dog hiking essentials, but not so big that the pack is cumbersome for newbies and smaller doggos.

Check out the Day Pack features to see if it's the right fit:

Fit

• • • Comes in 4 sizes, extra small to large/extra-large
    • 5 adjustment points at the neck, shoulders, and girth
    • Weight-forward saddle packs to properly distribute weight
    • Comfortable padded chest piece

Function

• • • A minimalist two-in-one Front Range Harness and backpack combo
    • 3 leash attachments - aluminum ring, webbed ring on top, and webbed ring on the chest strap
    • Padded handle to assist your dog to get through/over more difficult terrain
    • 2 saddle bags with stretchable mesh pockets to carry and organize gear

Prices - $$

The price point of this pack is on the lower end of the price range for comparable adventure packs. It doesn’t have upgraded options, like detachable saddlebags, but the smaller saddlebags allow for it to be used as just a harness without being too bulky.

3. RC Pets Quest Day Pack

Going on a longer trek with your furry friend and adventure dog backpack? The RC Pets Quest Day Pack holds all your dog's adventure essentials, like poop bags,  bottles, outdoor travel bowls, dog bowls, snacks, a dog-first aid kit, and any extra gear your pooch might need. 

With 6 connection points of adjustment on the dog carrier, this dog backpack carrier is also a best friend secure harness to keep your dog safe. Just remove the panniers, and you have a lightweight, durable dog harness that fits your dog’s body perfectly.  You can easily attach a leash or ID tags.

Fit

• • • 6 adjustable points and a 3-point harness for a secure fit
    • Available in 3 sizes for medium to large breeds
    •  

Function

• • • This 2-in-1 walking accessory doubles as a harness and a dog backpack
    • Reflective piping and built-in eyelet for RC Pets Poppin' Light
    • Spacious, adjustable, and detachable panniers
    • Handle to for quick control or your dog across dangerous terrain

Price - $$$

While not the cheapest dog backpack, the RC Pets Quest Day Pack offers more adjustability and larger saddle bags than similar packs. Avid hikers know that weather is unpredictable, which is why the water-resistant shell is an excellent feature that adds to the value of this dog pack.

4. Ruffwear Approach Dog Backpack

Photo Credit - @farley_the_labrador

The Ruffwear Approach Pack is the smaller, more compact member of the Ruffwear backpack family. It's perfect for long day hikes, camping, and many other outdoor adventures with your dog. The dog backpack carrier is tough and versatile. The V-ring lets you help your furry friend over obstacles.

Fit 

• • • 5 adjustable points to properly fit the pack to your dog
    • The non-slip girth strap helps keep the backpack in place
    •  4 available sizes, from as small as 17" all the way up to 42"
    • The radial-cut pack allows the saddlebags to sit higher up on the dog's shoulders

Function

• • • With optimal storage capacity for a day hike without feeling excessively bulky or large
    • 2 spacious saddle bags to hold anywhere from 7 L to 24 L or XL capacity depending on the size
    • Reflective trim to improve low-light visibility, and a light loop perfect for attaching the Ruffwear Beacon
    • Padded handle to allow you to support your dog across difficult terrain

Price - $$$

This is a moderate price point, allowing you to have similar features to the upgraded Palisades Pack with a few of the extras, like spacious saddlebags and additional storage space, for a more manageable cost. If you are looking for a dog backpack for single-day hikes and shorter excursions, then this pack will be suitable for your dog and your budget.

5. Kurgo Baxter Backpack

The Kurgo Baxter Pack is proof that a quality dog backpack doesn't have to give you sticker shock. This standard dog backpack is made with durable and lightweight material to stand up to our dog's adventures. If you have a large dog then you’ll need to order a big Baxter. Always measure your dog prior to ordering the backpack. 

With 8 points of adjustment on the shoulder straps and chest strap, this pack will fit securely on your dog, giving him a full and comfortable range of motion. The contoured spine support makes the Baxter pack sure that weight is evenly distributed and won't affect your dog's gait. Your pup will forget they are even wearing a dog carrier backpack. 

Fit

• • • Ergonomic spine support to ensure even weight distribution
    • 8 adjustment points for a secure fit
    • Available in 2 sizes for medium to large breeds
    • Padded chest piece for comfort and safety

Function

• • • 2 adjustable saddle bags
    • Reflective trim for low-light visibility
    • Rear-mounted leash hook and large padded handle for quick control
    • Breathable mesh ventilation

Price - $$

You'll be hard-pressed to find better value and a more secure fit than the Kurgo Baxter Dog Backpack. Though not our cheapest option, it's a very reasonably priced option and offers many of the same benefits as the higher-end brands. It's a little too small for long haul or multi-day treks but is a great lightweight option for casual day hikes.

Best Dog Backpack Carrier

For really young or tiny dogs, your usual hikes might be more than they can handle. Instead of trying to fit a comically oversized backpack onto your little pup, look for a dog backpack that is designed to carry your dog, not the other way around. 

Using a dog backpack carrier can provide several benefits for both you and your dog. The best puppy backpack carriers give you freedom and more.  Let’s examine all of the pros of using a dog backpack carrier.

Here are some potential advantages of using a dog backpack carrier:

• • Convenience and Mobility: A backpack carrier allows you to easily transport your dog while keeping your hands free.
  • Safety and Security: A carrier backpack provides a secure and enclosed space for your dog.
  • Extended Adventures: You can take your dog on longer outings or hikes that they might not be able to complete on their own.
  • Comfort and Support: Padded shoulder straps and back panels distribute the weight evenly and are comfortable to wear.
  • Bonding and Socialization: Backpack carriers promote bonding and socialization. Your dog remains close to you, which helps strengthen your relationship and build trust in new environments.

Kurgo G-Train Backpack Carrier

Built for adventure, the Kurgo G-Train Backpack Carrier is the perfect solution for active pet parents on the go. Whether you're hitting the trails, commuting across the city, or just giving your short-legged sidekick a break, the G-Train has you covered.

Designed like a serious hiking pack, the G-Train also features a ventilated, padded compartment to keep pets up to 25 lbs safe and comfortable. It's tough, waterproof, and easy to clean — made to handle dirt, rain, and everything in between.

And because your comfort matters too, the G-Train includes load-supporting shoulder straps and a padded back panel, making it easy to carry your dog wherever the road (or trail) takes you. For outdoor excursions or everyday errands, the Kurgo G-Train is the ultimate dog backpack carrier for life on the move.

Ruffwear Hitch Hiker Dog Backpack

For dogs and humans who live to explore, the Ruffwear Hitch Hiker Dog Backpack is built to handle the wild. This compact, technical pack is perfect for trail-ready pups who love adventure but need a little support along the way.

The Hitch Hiker features an integrated leash and hands-free system, giving your dog room to roam while keeping them close when it matters. Built with durable, weather-resistant materials and a low-profile design, it’s ready for rugged hikes, riverside rambles, and everything in between.

Comfort is key too. The ergonomic fit, padded back panel, and adjustable straps make it easy to wear for long treks. Lightweight yet tough, the Hitch Hiker is the go-to dog backpack for backcountry adventures, weekend hikes, and every trail in between.

Best Dog Backpack FAQs

What Should I Put in My Dog's Backpack?

Depending on the size of your dog's backpack and your dog, they can typically carry their own hiking essentials like water, poop backs, treats, pet wipes etc. Make sure both sides of the bag are evenly distributed and don't add more than 25% of your dog's body weight.

Does My Dog Need a Backpack?

Technically no, but it is a great way to take some of the load off of you and to help them build more stamina and strength by adding a little extra weight. Toy breeds, dogs with mobility issues or injuries, and some senior dogs may not be suited for wearing a dog backpack.

What is the Difference Between a Dog Backpack and a Dog Backpack Carrier?

Dog backpacks are packs that your dog wears so they can carry some of their own adventure gear, while a dog backpack carrier is a pack that you wear to carry your small or tired dog on a hike.

What are the Benefits of Using a Dog Backpack?

Dog backpacks give active dogs a job to do, help burn energy, and allow them to carry their own supplies on hikes or day trips.

What Features Should I Look for in a Dog Backpack?

Key features include padded and adjustable straps, breathable  or water proof materials, durable zippers, reflective accents for visibility, and ergonomic saddlebags. Extra features like detachable saddle bags, built in harnesses, additional clips for walking accessories, and even water bladders for on the go hydration are also things more experienced hikers and adventurers seek out.