Reddit mentions: The best dog carrier backpacks

So my Ragnar hated the car too. He used to scream (generally in my ear....) he hated it so bad. I felt awful about it but he needed to go to the vet or be in the car to get places that he loved (hiking up a mountain,etc) so we started doing short rides a couple times a week. Particularly to places where he would be happy like the pet store to pick out a new toy or a park to play. He started associating the car rides with good things not just the vet and we went on longer and longer rides. He now LOVES to ride. I admit I also do not put him in a carrier and it is dangerous. Not because I worry about him affecting my driving (getting under the pedals etc) but because if we were to get into an accident he would certainly get thrown around the car and get hurt. But he loves to look around and watch out the window so I did buy a seat buckle that attaches to his harness that will help with that.

I also started training him with a backpack carrier that he can go in and out of the top if I leave open which I almost always do. If we are out in public and he's had enough (people love him and are very curious about Bengals) he'll retreat into it on his own. He just hates being confined but once he figured out the top is normally open (except when he's being cranky out or something like that) he doesn't mind it at all. I also leave it open in the house on the floor so he really thinks of it as his space. I don't like the pod style because it looked like it would trap heat in and since we hike alot I wanted something breathable and comfortable for both of us as well. So we went with this one https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01DXO5J78?psc=1&ref=ppx_pop_mob_b_asin_title
I also have a very large 14lb (and still growing! ) Bengal so this may be a bit big for the average size cat. It's great for hikes or even just a walk around the park. And it's easy for me to throw over my shoulder in case I need it or not.

These things worked for my boy really well and hopefully will work for your girl! It was a process and training definitely took some time but the reward is well worth it. I hope this helps and good luck!

Fun! I'll let you know some of my dog gear, but your preferences and dog will be different.

I usually bring three different leashes with me, depending a little on where I'm going. She can't really be off leash, so I take a 30 ft line to give her space to wander or splash in the river on a break. If the trail is too busy or the hike is a pretty short one, this often gets left behind or never used.

A basic 15 ft leash is perfect for hiking with her. It gives her a bit more space, but isn't long enough to cause much trouble getting wrapped around things, and I can easily pull her closer to me when I need. I tied a couple knots in it for easier grabbing and holding at different lengths. I can also use a locking carabiner (I always have a couple on hand) to attach the handle to my backpack for hands-free.

I also love my Tuff Mutt hands-free waist leash. It has two handles if I need to hold her closer, and I really like the bungee. The only downside is that it's a bit heavy for a leash, but I find it's worth the weight, and I'm almost always just doing day hikes so it's fine. I don't know really know how it compares to other hands-free leashes though since it's the only one I've used.

I recently got a Ruffwear Front Range harness for hikes. It is the only harness I've been able to put on her, so I really can't compare much. Seems to fit her comfortably and works well as a back-clip harness. I haven't been able to use it as a front-clip without it sliding around too much. But I don't really need the front-clip when hiking, so I'm pretty pleased with it overall. If my dog wasn't so finicky about harnesses, I'd be trying other options though. You might prefer one with a handle, I've heard good things about the Ruffwear Webmaster.

I currently have an Outward Hound travel bowl for water, but I'm not a huge fan of it. My dog doesn't always drink all the water I pour, so then I've wasted water. And I either have to put a wet bowl back in my bag or clip to the outside and hear the annoying swish of it rubbing against the bag. It's not a big deal, and it works, but I'm eyeing one of these instead.

Happy hiking!

We backpack with our dogs. I can try to think of a few...

I'm a little paranoid since I've seen lost dogs on the trail before (seriously our most horrifying trail experience was hearing the cries of a lost and injured dog somewhere off the trail and not being able to locate it), so we keep ours leashed when hiking and tethered at camp. We bought a 20' tether and loop it around a central tree when we set up for the night. They have plenty of room to roam, but can't stray too far.

We have a set of collapsible bowls like these. I keep one clipped to the outside of my pack for water breaks while hiking.

Our dogs carry their own food. We fitted them with packs and make sure to keep the weight at or under 15% of their body weight. Obviously it lightens as the trip goes on. They drink a ton of water while hiking, so keep an extra canteen or two with you. You dont want them over-heating. I know if we pass a creek, our dogs love to take a break to lay in the water and cool off their bellies. Bring at least an extra day's worth of food with you just in case.

We prefer to keep our dogs in the tent at night. They make great radiators when it cools down and they are so tried they sleep like rocks.

Obviously make sure they are updated on their flea and tick meds ahead of time.

Hmmm... if you have any specific questions let me know. We love taking our big boys with us and they always have a blast.

Yep. I've been looking to buy one of these for my new cats who we yoinked off the street so we can keep them sociable and outgoing and happy to be travelling/outdoors. I believe it's this model, which is made to either be open with the cat hooked in (like the video), or with the top zipped it acts more like a cat carrier where you don't have to hook them in, but they can feel a little more freedom with the extra windows. Texens makes a few carriers like this and I'm honestly super undecided between them, they seem to be well-reviewed, nice look and quality, etc. I know this one has popped up on reddit a few times. I'm planning on asking for/splurging on one for Christmas this year!

Make sure she has a harness (not just a collar!) that is attached to a seatbelt clip. I have spent so many hours trying to figure out how to get two puppies home soon and this seems like the best answer for a restless small) medium dog.

Your dog might be hard to fit into a harness, but that's what she needs. If she's too small to fit her in a harness, get a soft sided carrier that you can buckle in.

I bought the carrier below to get my "big" small dogs home. You might need to look at a few choices to keep your pupper safe.

Pet Gear I-GO2 Roller Backpack, Travel Carrier, Car Seat for Cats/Dogs, Mesh Ventilation, Included Tether, Telescoping Handle, Storage Pouch https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002AMYWDW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_Fcl0Bb481E3DM

You are a good person for caring about this. So many people just let their dogs flail around without thinking about what their dog would look like going through a windshield.

My cat doesn't seem to mind. There's a good stretch along the floor he can run across when we play, and I make sure (more like he does) that I play with him two or three times a day. The confined space also means he can jump between the counter, table, and seat freely. The fact they sleep 12-16 hours per day helps. I'd make sure you can take it outside once in a while too. I just got one of these and it's the perfect size for a cat.

this guy came to me about 2 months ago. we found him at our apartment complex and he's been a huge blessing! he's one of the best things that's happened to me since one of my childhood pets a couple of years ago.

i like to go out a lot to the park and carry my little guy with me and the item i've listed would help greatly in him getting water :)

this is just a bit more than $5 so i hope that doesn't exclude me!

~I wub my animals~

I strongly doubt that a carrier like the one you linked will be comfortable for a cat, especially for longer hours. While we all know that cats are pretty flexible and can be comfortable in all sorts of positions, the carrier you linked forces the cat into one unnatural position that the cat cannot get out of. I suspect that even the most patient cat will try to escape from that after a while and wiggle and claw itself out.

IMO a box with backpack straps and a zipper that allows your kitty to move around and change position is the better solution.

Something like this:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0744DMP6R/

(Note that I have no experience with the item I linked, I just find the system more cat-friendly.)

So we use the yourcatbackpack fat cat one sometimes because we got it for free through Instagram and it has a greater weight capacity and pockets but it’s really not his favorite. He seems more cramped inside and is too tall to look out the bubble. And the bottom has bent underneath his weight so it makes it even more cramped inside for him.

He LOVES this one: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01DXO5J78/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_05FBCb8469861

But it doesn’t have pockets and we’ve had an issue with him punching his big fat face through the mesh and breaking the zipper but we were able to fix it and the customer service was really helpful as well. He has more space to lay down in this one than the bubble carrier types and if I offer him both, he always goes to the petsfit one

We got this one, https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000UTA1G4/ref=twister_B074MZ9LGR?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1 , for our GP mainly because it was cheap and had somewhat decent reviews. We didn't want to spend $80 on a pack he wouldn't ware. We did a couple of dry runs around the house and then on shorter hikes (less than 4 hrs total) with no issues. It's a great beginner pack, but can be a bit of a pain to adjust the straps because of the fur. It holds his collapsible water bowl, two 1L nalgene bottles, and poop bags. I think we will probably end up getting a nicer one that is easier to adjust when this one bites the dust. The best part of the pack IMO, he can carry his own poop bags 12 miles :)

They seem to like it. It was only their first time so they were a little nervous. The bag is made of canvas which is a really tough material so I wouldn't worry about him chewing through it. It still gives them a lot of viewing area too! The top of the bag is mesh as well as both of the sides. From what I can tell the mesh is pretty tough too. The bubble window is also really cool because it allows them to see more rather than just a flat window. [Here's] (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N32SR0V/ref=sspa_mw_detail_5?psc=1) the Amazon link if you'd like to check it out :)

I do a lot of camping/with my pups.

Depending on what area you're in / if your pups are on anything for ticks, you should probably being a tick remover - something simple like this. If your dog does get a tick, KEEP THE TICK so you can get it tested for Lyme .. (this only really applies if the tick is attached to the dog for 24h+, so make sure to keep checking your dog for ticks).

For hydration, get a collapsible water bowl or a Guply - they make keeping your dog hyrdated super easy.

Depending on weather, you may want to get a sleeping bag for your dog. Ruffwear makes dog sleeping bags, but I'm cheap so I just bought a cheap kids sleeping bag which works fine for my dogs.

Lastly, I had a dog growing up who would get carsick. We just gave him gravol and he was fine (I'm not sure of the dosage, maybe someone else can help me out here).

I used to take my Shih Tsu everywhere on my scooter in a front pack, like This. Usually short trips, but once did a trip of more than 200 miles in one day. It's important to keep their head tucked inside the bag. If there's any chance they will want have head out, be sure you put Doggles on the dog to protect eyes.

[It's a puppy backpack! ] (http://www.amazon.com/SarahTom-7-Inch-Backpack-Dogs-Plaid/dp/B005SZUGME/ref=sr_1_18?s=pet-supplies&ie=UTF8&qid=1376086008&sr=1-18) Good luck with school! I am so glad you are getting your life together! And give that cutie pie a kiss for me :D

I know timbuk2 has a bag specifically for carrying dogs and it's rated up to 20lbs (9kg) but i'd look at the dimensions to make sure it'd fit your dog.

(I don't have the bag, but timbuk2 is a good company)

Here's one from outward hound

Here's a roller backpack one

Petsfit Comfort Dogs Carriers/Backpack Hold Pets up to 15 lb https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01DXO5J78/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_JFh-Ab6J7BWBF


This is what we got, we will see how it works as she grows but right now it’s perfect and it’s looking like she’s going to be on the smaller side.

I have one of those! Mines a little different though. Hard shell on the outer with just a bubble window. It looks like the jetsons. My cat doesn’t love going in, but she’s cool once we zip it up.

Edit to add the link to the one I bought, though it looks like they’re out of the aqua color I picked.


Anzone Pet Portable Carrier Space... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B077CYKMPD?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

Turd there in the pic is about 18lbs, so he is pretty big and fits in there just fine with plenty of room to spare.

here are the dimensions and link to it on amazon. Dimension: 13.4 "L x 10.2 "W x 16.9 "H. Carrier Weight:4.4 Pound fits pet UP to 15 pounds cat and 12 pounds dog

https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B01LX02UKK/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1


i dont think any house cat would have trouble fitting in there. even a giant maine coon should fit i would think.

I'd recommend this for carrying your dog in. Mine loves riding with me and this is a far safer option.

Its a bag like this. I got one for my cat and he loves it. It is so much easier to bring around than a normal carrier. Plus, he likes to go for walks around the neighborhood in it also.

The large Snoozer Roll Around would work well for you. This is a cheaper, but still quality, alternative. If the heat is a concern, they make cooling vests for dogs. Personally I use this, but if you live in a humid climate (ie. Florida), it won't work as well-- however, if you live in an arid climate (ie. Arizona), it'll work great, you'll just need to resoak it fairly often.

If anyone wants that dog carrier. I personally love mine.

K9 Sport Sack | Dog Carrier Backpack for Small and Medium Pets | Front Facing Adjustable Pack with Storage Bag | Fully Ventilated | Veterinarian Approved (Small, Air - Cobalt Blue) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MQS34ZQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_.fz0Cb163WDKS

> Also, don't expose them to too much play in the heat.

Very much this. They're determined and will often over-exert themselves while playing or on walks.

I bring a small water-bottle and a portable water-bowl for walks in the summer, that will help keep their throats wet and not quite so raspy. Hard panting can cause their narrow throats to get inflamed, which then restricts the breathing more.

You can also splash a little water on their chest/throats to help keep them cool in warm weather.

After lots of people on this sub said they liked the Petfits one with the pockets. I heeded their advice and got it

https://www.amazon.com/Petsfit-Comfort-Carrier-Backpack-Cycling/dp/B07G35NJX8

He seems to love it though he prefers sitting on it instead of in it. Get the grey one since it's apparently the only one with pockets. They're just big enough for a baggie of food, his leash and a few other things we'd need.

Seconding the Kong idea. This is my list, based on the Digital Dog Training Book linked to in the sidebar:

Puppy Immediate Needs

• puppy Kongs probably want 3–4 of these and maybe in different sizes
  
  
• metal crate (adjustable, buy for size of fully-grown dog)
  
  
• travel crate (not adjustable, buy for size of dog currently, if needed)
  
  
• fur remover x2—one for me and one for my partner
  
  
• dog appeasing pheromone plugin We use a similar one for our cats and will definitely be using it when the puppy arrives to appease the cats and also this one to make the transition from mommy's home to our home easier for the pup
  
  
• freeze-dried liver treats these tend to be "high value" treats for all dogs, so are a good place to start, but YMMV
  
  
• treat pouch
  
  Later Needs/Growing Puppy/Dog Needs
  
  
• portable water bowl
  
  
• portable water bowl
  
  
• poop bags
  
  
• adult kongs: Realtree football, Squirrel Dude, Kong biscuit ball 1, Kong biscuit ball 2, Kong genius 1, Kong genius 2, Updog Odin
  
  
• harness
  
  
• leash/collar light there's a million of these but this one doesn't need any batteries (!)
  
  
  I also have an extensive Etsy list with collars, leashes, running leashes, and tags.

My pup is also black, and large (75 lbs), and unfortunately has warm, long hair to top it off (Newfie mix).

http://i.imgur.com/0oDP28z.jpg

Fortunately, though, these are our stomping grounds behind my house:

https://i.imgur.com/HaGnQL9.png

Water everywhere! It makes for a very happy dog.

We make sure to run in the early morning when it's cool, or after dark, and make sure she drinks plenty of water during the day. I clip a collapsible bowl (this one - not sure what you're testing for, but this one works fine, and it happens to read 'raise the woof' which is hilarious) to our waist leash and fill it up at drinking fountains if we're going to be far from water, or just let her hop in the river or ponds and drink that every couple miles.

Saw a woman with her cat in a backpack that had a clear bubble-window. Awesome.

(Link )

I was thinking of enclosed ones like this or this. There are quite a few different styles on Amazon. It looks like most of them have a tether clip too!

I know there are vet clinics in Selkirk that might be closer than for you to drive in winnipeg. Selkirk Vet Services is great.

I think Selkirk animal hospital will send vets out, but I believe that's for herd and large animal type calls. Generally they expect you to bring small animals in.

I've had some stubborn cats in my time. I found a cat back pack like this https://www.amazon.ca/Petsfit-Comfort-Dogs-Carriers-Backpack/dp/B01DXO5J78 is more comforting for them.

Make sure to get a comfortable dog backpack or something you can cram them both into in an emergency, but leave both of your hands free.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0096SCXQQ/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B0096SCXQQ&linkCode=as2&tag=httpwaltersus-20

I have a similar style for my chihuahua (4.6#) and he isn’t a huge fan, but he tolerates it better than the plastic kennel types. I have this one: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N32SR0V

I ride with my 20lb standard dachshund often! I cannot speak highly enough of the k9 backpack. I have absolutely no fear that he is going to fall out, it has holes for his little paws to poke through so he can feel like he is hanging onto my shoulders, and it puts their weight in a great place, it's adjustable (gf is 5ft and I'm 6ft and it fits us both perfectly. )

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06X3XJ3BK/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apa_i_a4CZDb2SX2TEM

Here is the one I got for my cat. She is approximately 15 pounds (hence the walks), and fits quite well for a limited time. Because of her size, she can not comfortably lie down inside, so we take lots of breaks when out and about. It is well ventilated, and she loves looking out of the window.

This is the pack I use for her. It's not perfect, but it works. She likes to ride sideways in it so she can lay down which makes it a bit imbalanced but not bad.

I love it. It is really liberating. Now we can go on any trail and I just throw a covered ice or heat pack in there. Here it is. http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0096SCXQQ/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?qid=1375800008&sr=8-3&pi=AC_SX110_SY190

Just something like this. Noting special.

Note: I am not endorsing this product, as I don't have this exact one.

Ask and ye shall receive, OP. Happy trails! https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0096SCXQQ/ref=psd_mlt_nbc_B01EAEMI4M_r

We have something like this: https://www.amazon.com/LEMONDA-Portable-Backpack-Waterproof-Traveler/dp/B0759JJJRT/ref=sr_1_7?keywords=cat+backpack&qid=1565157240&s=gateway&sr=8-7


Half of it is hard shell, so giving enough protection. There are holes all around it and you can switch that plastic globe for like plastic mesh, to get even more airflow.

Yeah, pet backpacks are a thing.

God Speed, SpaceCat!

A better idea might be what we used to do with my dog. We bought what was essentially a saddle bag and we'd put our water bottles in it. Probably weighed 10-15 pounds at the beginning of the hike. Worked out well because as he got more tired the bag would get lighter from us drinking the water.

Edit: like this.

Here you go: https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B0759JJJRT/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Decent quality, although I'm sure there is better out there. When I'm carrying my little astronaut, it feels very stable. Lots of ventilation as well - There are holes for airflow and also mesh on the sides. My only complaint was that the exterior shell came with scratches. I had thought about returning it, but figured it's probably going to end up scuffed up anyway.

it may not matter that much but this looks like the exact one

Petsfit 17"H x13"L x11"D Inches Comfort Dogs Carriers Backpack Grey and Green Trim,Hold Pets Up to 15 LBS,Go for Walk, Hiking and Cycling https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01DXO5J78/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_YsPEzb4C84TJA

It's a backpack. He had to carry his own water, waterbowl and cookies. I got it at a thrift store for $4!


OMG I just looked it up to send you a link. I'm more of a doofus than my dog. It's to carry small dogs, not a backpack for big dogs.


Well, that happened.

I carry two large house cats (one is 12 pounds, the other 14) in this on my scooter to the vet. They're unfazed, don't hate the carrier, and have no issues with the scooter.

Side streets only, and very careful, but not bad.

http://www.amazon.com/Pet-Gear-Traveler-Rolling-Backpack/dp/B002AMYWDW/ref=pd_sim_petsupplies_1?ie=UTF8&refRID=05HGMC40AB53SGNW4YM0

No worries! I saw that and a couple others, thanks for pointing to the one you got!

I think this is the expensive one I saw on Instagram and promoted by Jackson Galaxy:

PETRIP Cat Carrier Cat Backpack https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07GNCY9KV/

Found it on Amazon. Texsens Backpack Pet Carrier.

They make some but most are for dogs 20lbs or less. Check amazon.

Here you go

Here's another style, you could probably make your own

Another idea

This might be the winner

I'm not big on the lack of ventilation. This has more. PETRIP Dog Backpack Carrier Cat Backpack for Large Cats 22 lbs Dog Travel Bag Pet Backpack Carrier for Medium Small Dogs Cat Carrier for Hiking Airline Approved Pet Carrier https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07GNCY9KV/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_3B1xDbA2K5HJ3

Giantex Astronaut Pet Cat Dog Puppy Carrier Travel Bag Space Capsule Backpack Breathable (Light Green) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01NBR6431/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_1baSAbVJF4JA1

Outward Hound PoochPouch Front... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0081XIJ9M?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B014LZ5H9I/ref=ox_sc_act_image_2?smid=A2ZR16TA6YDEN6&psc=1

https://www.amazon.com/Lemonda-Portable-Carrier-Waterproof-Backpack/dp/B0759JJJRT/ref=mp_s_a_1_4?keywords=animal%2Bbackpack%2Bcarrier&qid=1558055096&s=gateway&sprefix=animal%2Bbackpack&sr=8-4&th=1&psc=1

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B07D6N4BY6/ref=ox_sc_act_image_3?smid=A2K4BW2CCE0BZF&psc=1

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B07MMP8VFP/ref=ox_sc_act_image_1?smid=A23I0KBQ2GS5RQ&psc=1

Texsens Canvas Transparent and Breathable Capsule Portable Pet Backpack for Spring Outing(Dark gray) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N32SR0V/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_f1V5BbKVCYHXF

I have the outward hound front carrier and have used it several times. It's not expensive and I haven't had any issues with it.
http://www.amazon.com/Outward-Hound-21008-PoochPouch-Adjustable/dp/B0081XIJ9M/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1456980026&sr=8-1&keywords=outward+hound+carrier

Not OP, but I think it is this one https://www.amazon.com/Petsfit-Comfort-Dogs-Carriers-Backpack/dp/B01DXO5J78/ref=sr_1_4?keywords=petsfit+backpack&qid=1567520935&s=gateway&sr=8-4

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0081XIJ9M/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

this is what I use for my little old man.

amazon...i think this is the one we have: http://www.amazon.com/Pet-Gear-Traveler-Rolling-Backpack/dp/B002AMYWDW

We had to buy a larger carrier to accomodate our Maine Coon, so we got this suitcase looking thing, so ours can't do that any more. It has straps to carry it like a backpack, a rolling attachment (like for a carry on suitcase) and several handles so it can be carried different ways. It's kinda like this one, but not the same model exactly.

I actually went into <insert regional grocery store name> with him in that carrier once to drop off a prescription. No one noticed until I pointed him out to our acquaintance at the pharmacy (the prescription was for him, and why I had him with me).

Get one of these, have them carry their own water, and waste: https://www.amazon.com/Outward-Hound-Daypak-Backpack-Hiking/dp/B000UTA1G4

This one

We bought it after some extensive research. No complaints!