Backpacking with your dog can be a wonderful experience. Whether you are going for a long summer hike or for an evening stroll around your local park, your dog should not be without a their own dog backpack.
Dog backpacks are increasingly popular as more and more owners take their pets for walks with their dog able to carry their own stuff. As a result there are hundreds of dog backpacks on the market, so how do you go about choosing the right one? Firstly you need to determine which type of pack your dog needs.
If you are going on a walk around your neighbourhood, your dog will need a different pack to if you were going on a three-day excursion or camping trip.
If you are simply planning a long walk around your local area than a lightweight pack with enough room to carry your dog's water dish would suffice. However, if you are planning a long hike in the countryside you will need a pack that is more durable with padding, even storage areas and reinforced seams.
Now that you have a rough idea of what type of pack you need, the next thing to consider is the size back pack. Experts say a dog can carry between 25% and 50% of its own weight, so take some time to think about the weight and height of your dog and their capabilities. Of course you want a spacious backpack, but if you give your dog more than they can carry you would be putting their health at risk.
Dog backpacks usually have one or two belly straps to keep it secure on the back. Using two straps is advised provided they are correctly modified to the dog's build. Although dog backpacks are made of the same material as normal backpacks, it would be wise to choose one that is waterproof, especially if your dog's active and likes going for a swim when near water.
Ensure you choose a dog backpack that appears comfortable and is wide enough to cover your dog's back correctly. The best thing to do is to purchase a dog backpack, when your dog is there. Let them try it on, rather than assume that it will fit.
