Best Dog Backpack Carriers of 2023
From keeping your hands free while running errands to providing a restful perch for tired paws on long walks, a dog backpack carrier is a great way to bring along a small to medium-sized furry friend. There are various styles of dog backpack, which will allow a dog to sit, lie down, or rest in an upright pose. Of course, we also want the option to let its adorable head peek out.
Best Overall for Small Breeds Kurgo Nomad Carrier Backpack
The dual-use Kurgo Nomad Carrier Backpack is suitable for small dogs that weigh less than 15 pounds, and it can be configured as either a backpack or a carrier, including both backpack straps and two beefy, dual-carry handles.
The Kurgo Nomad benefits from a classic backpack look that doesn't immediately suggest a pet carrier. Its broad back panel also offers several ways for your dog to travel, since the compartment can be fully opened or closed, or just allow enough room for a snout to poke out. There's an interior tether that you can attach to your dog's collar to keep it in place.
The interior of the Kurgo is lined with waterproof fabric, and the internal pad where your dog sits can be removed and machine washed. The exterior is similarly water-resistant, with a DWR coating that should keep your dog dry. In addition to the external pockets, which include a large, zippered front compartment and two side stow pouches, the Kurgo Nomad has an interior tablet sleeve.
The bottom of the bag is waterproof with ventilation panels on each side. The zippered main compartment also has two separate zippers, so you can either zip it fully closed or zip up a separate mesh panel for additional ventilation.
Best Overall for Medium Breeds K9 Sport Sack Air Dog Carrier
If your dog is comfortable in an upright position, the K9 Sport Sack PLUS 2 will make it easy for you to bring it along on adventures. The backpack comes in three sizes, which can accommodate dogs ranging in weight from 8 to 40 pounds. The sizing chart also has length guidelines, so you should measure your dog from collar to base of tail to find the right fit.
Once securely inside the backpack, a dog's head and front legs will remain uncovered for snoot boops, high fives, and paw-shakes. The sides are ventilated with small mesh pockets, and a padded back panel helps to keep your dog cool. For a human's comfort, the bag features wide straps designed to relieve pressure and a padded back panel.
The K9 Sport Sack also includes a 14 x 9 inch detachable storage bag, for carrying additional items like a collapsible water bowl, snacks, keys, and more.
Best Outdoors Kurgo G-Train Dog Carrier Backpack
Made with waterproof, dirt resistant fabric and featuring reflective strips and a sturdy base, the Kurgo G-Train Dog Carrier Backpack is designed for bringing your dog along on outdoor excursions.
Padded shoulder straps, along with an adjustable strap at the sternum and hip, offer support and help to alleviate pressure. However, when the backpack is on the bag is designed so that dog and human are facing in opposite directions.
Mesh on both sides provides ventilation along with slim pockets for easy access to anything you want to keep on hand, like a water bottle or snacks. An internal padded pocket can accommodate a laptop, and there are loops on the exterior for attachment of other items.
Best for Older Dogs Apollo Walker Pet Carrier Backpack
If you want to give your dog a place to rest while continuing with your walk, this sturdy dog backpack will allow you to continue enjoying the outdoors together.
With mesh sides and top, your dog will be able to feel the wind across its little furry body to keep it cool. You can also unzip each mesh panel to let your dog poke its head out, and an internal clip that attaches to a collar or harness will keep your dog securely inside the backpack. For the wearer of the dog backpack, thick padded straps, along with a sternum and waist strap, will alleviate pressure on the back and distribute your dog's weight.
