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Does your dog have excess energy? Perhaps you want to provide a greater workout than a walk around the block. Or maybe you like to hike with your dog. If so, then a dog backpack might be the answer. But before you strap one on, you need to know whether backpacking is right for your dog and how to introduce a backpack properly.
The Benefits of a Dog Backpack
The most obvious advantage of a dog backpack is that your dog can carry their own supplies. That’s particularly beneficial when hiking or camping with your dog, as you won’t have to carry everything yourself. In fact, transporting items will give your dog a job to do. Many dogs, especially those in the working group or herding groups, love having a purpose. Carrying their water bowl or poop bags can boost their mental well-being and contribute towards preventing unwanted behaviors, like excessive barking, that can manifest when a dog doesn’t have an outlet for that energy.
When weighted down, dog backpacks are also great for physical exercise. They help condition your dog and build muscle. Plus, just like weighted vests for us, a weighted backpack ups the workout level so you can tire your dog in about half the time. A short walk around the neighborhood is more like a hike, and a hike can truly tire out a high-energy dog.
Even an empty backpack can benefit some dogs. If your dog is unable to carry anything, the backpack might still put them in work mode. The gentle pressure of a pack around your dog’s torso may also feel reassuring in the same way a calming vest can, which may be especially helpful for fearful or anxious dogs.
Which Dogs Are Candidates for a Backpack
Dog backpacks aren’t for every dog. Some won’t enjoy the feel of the pack, although proper training and gradual introductions can make a big difference in how well they adapt. But there are other reasons to avoid a dog backpack as well. Puppies who are still growing and senior dogs with health issues, like arthritis, should only wear an empty pack or not use one at all, as you don’t want extra weight on their joints. The same goes for dogs who are overweight or out of shape: hold off on adding any weight to the pack until your dog reaches a healthier weight and better fitness level. Any extra pounds will put added strain on joints and muscles that are already working hard.
Before using a backpack with any dog, consult your veterinarian to ensure it’s a safe choice. Some conditions your dog might not be best to carry extra weight could be:
- Back problems
- Hip dysplasia
- Elbow dysplasia
- Heart conditions
- Breathing problems
No matter the size of your dog, ensure the pack is always at a safe weight. The total weight of the pack and its contents should be no more than 10% of your dog’s body weight. This is if your dog is at a healthy weight and well-conditioned. So a 20-pound dog could carry up to 2 pounds in total. Your veterinarian can help you determine whether your dog can handle anything heavier based on their breed and fitness level.
How to Use a Backpack for Your Dog
When adjusting your dog’s backpack, the straps should be tight enough that the pack doesn’t move around or slip off, but not so tight as to cause discomfort or chafing. As a rule of thumb, you should be able to fit one or two fingers under each strap. You should set the straps in place so the pack sits evenly on both sides of your dog’s body.
When adding objects to the pack, be sure you evenly distribute the weight on both sides. For example, you shouldn’t put full water bottles on one side and poop bags on the other, as that weight imbalance can throw off your dog’s gait and make them feel uncomfortable.
If you want more precise control over the weight, use objects like dried beans or rice that will conform to your dog’s body. This will let you fine-tune the weight on each side. Finally, avoid placing sharp objects like your car keys in your dog’s pack. They can cause discomfort or injury.
Other Essential Gear Dogs Need When Backpacking
Consider placing items in your dog’s pack that will be helpful for both of you, like:
- Water for both you and your dog
- Collapsible water bowl
- Poop bags
- High-protein snacks for both you and your dog
- Toys like a ball or a flying disc
- Small dog first aid kit
- Small flashlight
- Frozen water bottles or cooling packs on hot days to keep your dog from overheating
How to Train Your Dog to Wear a Backpack
Your dog should enjoy wearing their pack, so training your dog to wear a backpack is important. Start before you ever step outside and progress gradually, including lots of positive associations, like praise and treats, along the way.
- Allow your dog to inspect and sniff the empty pack.
- Drape the backpack over your dog like a blanket. Don’t do the straps up yet.
- Reward your dog for wearing the loose pack, then remove it and repeat the process.
- Once your dog happily anticipates the appearance of the backpack, you’re ready to close the straps. Don’t worry about adjustment yet, just snap the clasps and reward your dog before taking the pack off again.
- Start to tightening the straps once your dog is at ease, adjusting them a little bit on each repetition.
- When the pack is fitting correctly, let your dog wander the house to help them develop awareness around their new body shape. You can even stuff the pack with something light like newspaper or tissue to mimic the bulk of a full pack. Continue to praise and treat your dog for wearing the backpack around the house.
- Now it’s time to head out. Leave the pack empty for the first several walks, so your dog gets used to it. Keep your walks short and upbeat with play sessions or sniff breaks so your dog associates wearing the pack with having fun.
Once your dog looks excited when you take out the pack before a walk, it’s time to increase the distance or add objects if you so choose. Start with something light, then slowly increase the weight. But eEvery time you add weight, go back to a few short walks to allow your dog to adjust.
If you start with a light pack and short, simple navigation, then build to heavier weight and more complex maneuvers, like stairs or climbing logs, your dog will build their conditioning and get a great workout. And by keeping it fun, your dog will look forward to wearing their backpack on your strolls through the neighborhood or hikes through the wilderness.