Carrying your pup or small dog on your adventures has never been easier with the right dog carrier backpack. Whether you're heading out for a hike, running errands, or traveling, a dog backpack is a convenient way to keep your furry friend by your side. But with so many options on the market, how do you select the perfect one for your pet? Here's what you need to know to make an informed purchase.

Assessing the Right Size and Fit

When it comes to dog carriers, size does matter. A backpack that's too small can make your dog feel cramped, while one that's too large can cause instability and discomfort. Measure your dog's length from collar to tail, as well as their height and width, to ensure you find a bag that provides enough space. For small dogs, it's crucial to find a snug fit that still offers room to sit and lie down comfortably.

Comfort is Key

Your comfort is just as important as your pet's when selecting a dog carrier backpack. Look for options with wide straps and ample padding to distribute your dog's weight evenly across your shoulders and back. This will make carrying your pup for extended periods much more manageable. Additionally, ensure the backpack has a padded panel that rests against your back for added support.

Durability and Quality Matter

A high-quality dog backpack will withstand the test of time and the rigors of travel. Opt for carriers made from durable fabric that can block out moisture and resist wear and tear. Check reviews to learn about the experiences of other pet owners, and select a product that has a reputation for lasting quality.

Safety Features

Safety should never be compromised. Suitable dog carrier backpacks will have secure zippers, a safety collar hook to prevent escapes, and breathable mesh for adequate ventilation. It's also wise to look for a backpack with reflective strips or bright colors to increase visibility during evening walks or hikes.

Style and Additional Features

Dog backpacks come in various styles to accommodate your taste and needs. Some are designed to double as a car seat or portable dog house, while others have additional compartments for storing items like your phone, keys, or even a laptop. Consider what you'll be using the backpack for and select a style that aligns with your lifestyle.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Keeping the dog backpack clean is essential for your pet's health and comfort. Look for a backpack that's easy to clean, with removable padding or a lining that can be wiped down or machine-washed. A clean bag will ensure a more pleasant experience for both you and your pup.

Summary

Choosing the right dog carrier backpack involves considering several factors, including size, comfort, durability, safety, style, and ease of cleaning. By taking the time to assess each of these aspects, you can find a backpack that will make traveling with your furry friend safe, comfortable, and enjoyable for both of you.

Need help? We've done the research for you and found the Best Dog Carrier Backpack on Amazon. Every day, we read hundreds of reviews and try the highest-rated products we have on our list.

Best Dog Carrier Backpack - Reviews

The Best

Pecute - Pet Carrier Backpack, for Small Dogs.

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Product information

These dog backpacks measure 13.4" L x 10.6" W x 17.3" H, offering an ideal fit for small to medium-sized cats and small dogs or puppies. It's designed to comfortably accommodate dogs weighing up to 15 lbs or cats weighing up to 18 lbs. This size ensures that your furry friend has enough space to rest and move around during your travels.

One of the standout features of this pet backpack is its expandable back design. When expanded, the backpack measures 13.4" L x 24.4" W x 17.3" H. This expansion not only provides more room for your pet to relax but also increases the airflow within the backpack. This feature is particularly beneficial as it allows your pet to move around more freely, reducing anxiety during travel.

The backpack's design focuses on visibility and ventilation. It features a 3-panel acrylic board design that ensures excellent light transmission and visibility for your pet. Additionally, it includes four ventilation holes, two on each side and two at the top, paired with a breathable mesh. This design ensures optimal airflow, preventing any sultry heat buildup inside the backpack. For added comfort, a pet cushion is included in the bottom of the backpack. This cushion comes with a removable, washable cover, providing a comfortable spot for your pet to rest while you're on the move.

It offers ample space for your pet to move around, ensuring their comfort during long travels.

Not only does this provide excellent airflow, but it also prevents overheating, making it ideal for warm climates and strenuous activities like hiking.

The backpack is designed with multiple entry points making it easy for your pet to get in and out of the carrier.

It's designed to fit dogs weighing up to 15 lbs or cats weighing up to 18 lbs.

while the backpack can comfortably accommodate small to medium-sized pets, it may not be suitable for larger pets.

The backpack is designed to hold pets up to 18 lbs. This weight limit might be a disadvantage for owners of heavier pets.

While the carrier does have some storage pockets, it may not be enough for pet owners who wish to carry additional supplies like toys, treats, or a water bottle.

Our Thoughts - The Pecute Pet Carrier Backpack offers a blend of comfort, convenience, and breathability for small to medium-sized pets. However, it might fall short for larger or heavier pets.

Very Good

COVONO - Expandable Dog and Cat Backpack Carrier.

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Product information

One of the unique features of this pet backpack is its rear expandable design. This innovative feature allows for the interior space of the backpack to be effectively doubled. This expansion not only facilitates increased air circulation within these dog backpacks but also provides your pet with a more comfortable environment. The added space allows your furry friend to move around freely, ensuring their comfort throughout your journey.

The backpack's design places significant emphasis on ventilation and visibility - two crucial elements for your pet's comfort and peace of mind. One large transparent acrylic window graces the backpack, allowing your pet to enjoy the outside view. Additionally, the backpack features three breathable mesh windows and nine venting holes. These features work in tandem to ensure plenty of fresh air circulates within the backpack, while also providing an excellent view for your pet.

What sets this backpack apart are the waist and chest buckles that come with it. These buckles provide extra support and help to maintain the stability of the backpack, preventing your pet from slipping or moving around too much during travel. Furthermore, the backpack's shoulder straps are equipped with extra thick padding. This thoughtful addition ensures you experience more comfort during long trips, making the journey enjoyable for both you and your pet.

The expandable design allows the backpack to double in space, offering your pet a big enough room to move around.

The carrier boasts a super-ventilated design, which aids in keeping your pet cool and comfortable during travel. This is especially beneficial during warm weather or long trips.

For those who frequently travel by air, this carrier is airline-approved, making it an ideal choice for jet-setting pet owners.

Whether you're hiking, camping, or simply traveling, this backpack is designed to accommodate different activities, making it a versatile choice for pet owners.

Limited color options. If aesthetics are important to you, this might be a point of consideration.

While the carrier is suitable for small animals, it may not comfortably fit larger pets. It's essential to measure your pet before purchasing to ensure a good fit.

Similar to size limitations, there are also weight restrictions. Ensure your pet falls within these limits for safety and comfort.

Our Thoughts - The COVONO Expandable Pet Carrier Backpack offers a blend of comfort, ventilation, and versatility. However, the size and weight limitations, coupled with limited color options, maybe potential drawbacks for some pet owners.

Good Value

Texsens - Backpack Cats and Dogs Carriers.

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Product information

This pet carrier backpack, measuring 12.6" L x 11.4" W x 16.5" H, is ideal for pets that like to travel in style and comfort. It's designed to accommodate dogs up to 15 pounds and cats up to 18 pounds, making it an excellent choice for owners of cats, small dogs, and most other small to medium-sized pets. However, for optimal fit and comfort, ensure your pet measures within 14.5 inches in overall height and 12 inches in width.

The design of the carrier features PVC mesh on three sides. This well-thought-out design promotes optimal airflow, ensuring your pet stays cool and comfortable during your travels. The mesh also allows you to easily check on your pet without needing to open the carrier, providing convenience while maintaining a secure environment for your pet.

One of the standout features of this cat carrier backpack is its chest buckles. These buckles are designed to reduce the burden on the wearer, making longer journeys more comfortable. Additionally, they prevent the shoulder straps from slipping, providing stability, especially when your pet moves. Built with high-quality materials, this premium pet carrier is both scratch-resistant and sturdy, promising long-lasting use and reliability.

Designed with PVC mesh on three sides. This breathable design aids in optimal airflow, ensuring your pet remains comfortable during travel.

It makes carrying your pet around less strenuous, enhancing comfort for the pet owner.

With dimensions of 15.2" L x 11.4" W x 16.5" H, it can comfortably accommodate dogs up to 15 pounds and cats up to 18 pounds.

Whether you're hiking, camping, or traveling, this backpack is designed to be versatile, making it an ideal choice for various activities.

It offers limited color options. If aesthetics matter to you, this could be a drawback.

While the backpack is suitable for small to medium-sized pets, larger pets may not fit comfortably.

Some users have raised concerns about the durability of the bubble window. It might not withstand heavy scratching or chewing from pets.

Our Thoughts - The Texsens Innovative Traveler Bubble Backpack Pet Carriers offer several advantages such as breathability, reduced shoulder weight, and sizeable dimensions, it may fall short in terms of color variety and durability of certain components.

Good

Lekebobor - Backpack Carrier for Small Dogs.

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Product information

This pet carrier backpack is thoughtfully designed with mesh windows on all four sides, promoting optimal airflow for your pet's comfort. The four entrances - at the sides, front, and back - offer easy access to the carrier and allow your pet to enjoy the outside scenery during your travels. An added feature of this carrier is the expandable soft mat. This mat provides a comfortable space for your pet to relax and unwind during the journey, enhancing their travel experience.

The pet carrier backpack features an expandable back, providing your pet with additional space to move around comfortably. This feature not only enhances your pet's comfort but also helps to reduce anxiety during travel. When not in use, the carrier can be collapsed flat for easy storage. Measuring 13 x 9.8 x 16.5 inches, the backpack is suitable for most small to medium-sized pets, accommodating weights of up to 18 lbs.

The carrier is crafted from high-quality, water-repellent 300D Oxford fabric, ensuring its durability and long-lasting use. It includes two side pockets, offering convenient storage for essential pet supplies. A unique feature of this carrier is the roller blind, which can be pulled down to protect your pet from the sun. Portable and versatile, this travel backpack carrier is perfect for various activities, including traveling, camping, hiking, biking, visits to the vet, or leisurely walks in the park.

It's designed with an expandable back, providing your pet with more space for activity. Moreover, it is foldable, making it convenient for storage.

The carrier features a breathable mesh, allowing for optimal airflow and ensuring your pet stays comfortable during travels.

This backpack carrier is suitable for small dogs and medium cats, accommodating pets up to 18 lbs.

Whether you're traveling by car, airplane, or going hiking, this carrier is designed for various uses.

It offers limited color options. If aesthetics matter to you, this could be a drawback.

While the backpack is suitable for small dogs and medium cats, larger pets may not fit comfortably.

Our Thoughts - The Lekebobor Large Cat Backpack Carrier offers several advantages like expandability, breathability, and versatility, making it a solid choice for small dogs and medium cats. However, its limited color options and possible size limitations could be potential drawbacks for some pet owners.

Good

Apollo Walker - Carrier Backpack for Large/Small Cats and Dogs.

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Product information

This pet carrier backpack is crafted with the highest level of convenience and comfort in mind for both you and your pet. It's the perfect companion whether you're hiking, traveling, taking your furry friend to the vet, or simply enjoying a casual walk in the park. With dimensions of approximately 11.4" x 12.6" x 16.8" (L x W x H), it offers more space than most competitors in the market. This size comfortably accommodates medium-sized cats and dogs, and can even house large-sized cats and other medium pets.

The design of the backpack places a high emphasis on ventilation, ensuring optimal airflow for your pet's comfort and health. Ease of access is facilitated through a two-way entry system, making it simple for your pet to get in and out of the carrier. Another significant feature is the top mesh window which provides additional headroom and increased visibility for your pet. The backpack also includes thick, soft fleece bedding, creating a cozy environment for your pet to rest and relax. The firm structure of the backpack ensures there's ample space for your pet to move around comfortably.

Safety is paramount in the APOLLO WALKER pet backpack carrier. Your pet remains secure during various activities such as flying, walking, cycling, or hiking, thanks to the claw-proof mesh and reinforced zippers. A leash tether is included in the design, which can be attached to your dog or cat's collar if you choose to open the top window. This allows your pet to enjoy the surroundings while remaining safely contained within the carrier.

The backpack is equipped with claw-proof mesh and reinforced zippers, ensuring your pet remains secure during travel.

The carrier comes with cushion back support, providing comfort for the pet owner during long hikes or travels.

This backpack can comfortably accommodate small dogs, medium cats, and even large cats, making it a versatile choice for pet owners.

It offers limited color options. If aesthetics are important to you, this might be a point of consideration.

While the backpack can accommodate various sizes of pets, there might be limitations for particularly large dogs.

Our Thoughts - The Apollo Walker Pet Carrier Backpack offers a blend of safety features, comfort, and versatility, making it a solid choice for pet owners. However, limited color options and potential size limitations could be drawbacks for some.

Good

PetAmi - Dog Backpack Carrier, Airline Approved.

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Product information

The PetAmi Cat Carrier Backpack, measuring 12.5" x 10.2" x 16.3" (L x W x H), is meticulously designed to offer maximum convenience and comfort for both you and your pet. Whether you're hiking, camping, taking a weekend trip, visiting the vet, or simply walking your dog in the park, this carrier serves as an ideal companion. The backpack features two convenient side entrances, providing easy access for your pet. With its ample space and comfortable bed, your pet can travel in absolute comfort.

This pet backpack boasts a well-ventilated design that promotes optimal airflow, contributing to a comfortable and healthy environment for your pet. It features a two-way entry system for easy access and a zip-up mesh window that provides additional headroom and visibility for your pet. The backpack is also fitted with thick, cozy Sherpa-lined bedding, creating a perfect spot for your pet to rest and relax. Reinforced with a firm structure, this carrier makes for an ideal backpack for hiking, camping, walking, traveling, road trips, and even airplane travel.

Safety is a key feature of this carrier. It comes equipped with a safety strap and buckle to secure your pet and prevent escapes. As a TSA-approved carrier, it allows for hassle-free travel through airports and on planes, giving you peace of mind during your journeys. The backpack also includes additional pockets, providing ample space to store all essential supplies and must-haves for your pet.

Comfort is not compromised in the design of this backpack. The back and shoulder straps are laden with extra thick padding, ensuring your comfort during long trips. This cat backpack also comes with waist and chest buckles, providing additional support for you. With its thoughtful design and features, this backpack ensures a pleasant travel experience for both you and your pet.

It boasts a well-ventilated design, providing optimal airflow that keeps your pet comfortable during travels.

With dimensions measuring 12.5" x 10.2" x 16.3" (L x W x H), this carrier offers ample room for your pet, ensuring a comfortable journey.

The backpack comes with safety back support, making it comfortable for the pet owner during long walks or travels.

This pet carrier is airline-approved, making it an excellent choice for pet owners who frequently travel by air.

Some pet owners might find the two-way entry design restrictive. Some pets may prefer more open spaces or multiple entry points.

While the backpack is designed for small to large pets, extremely large dogs may not fit comfortably.

The PetAmi Dog Backpack Carrier offers several advantages like optimal ventilation, ample room, and airline approval, it may fall short for those seeking multiple entry points and accommodating extremely large dogs.

FAQ Section

What is the ideal size for a dog carrier backpack? 
The ideal size should be big enough to allow your dog to sit, turn around, and lie down comfortably, but snug enough to prevent excessive movement. Always measure your dog and compare it to the manufacturer's size chart before making a purchase.

How important is the weight capacity of a dog carrier backpack? 
It's crucial to choose a backpack that can accommodate your dog's weight. Overloading a backpack can lead to discomfort for both the human and the pet, and can also compromise the bag's structural integrity.

Can all dogs be carried in a backpack? 
Not all dogs are suitable for carrying in a backpack. Large dogs or those with health issues may not be comfortable or safe in a carrier. Always consult with your veterinarian if you're unsure whether a backpack is a good option for your dog.

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