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A dog riding on the back of its owner in a dog carrier backpack. Credit: Getty Images / visualspace

The Best Dog Carrier Backpacks of 2024

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A dog riding on the back of its owner in a dog carrier backpack. Credit: Getty Images / visualspace

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Product image of Kurgo G-Train Dog Carrier Backpack

Kurgo G-Train Dog Carrier Backpack

From the airport to hiking trails, the Kurgo G-Train is a high-quality dog carrier backpack made for small cats and dogs. Read More

Pros

  • Convenient carry handle
  • Breathable
  • Comfortable

Cons

  • Expensive
Product image of Apollo Walker Pet Carrier Backpack

Apollo Walker Pet Carrier Backpack

For a spacious dog carrier backpack that gives your pet plenty of room to stay comfortable on your walk or hike, this dog carrier backpack is a reliable pick. Read More

Pros

  • Spacious
  • Comfortable
  • Multiple color options

Cons

  • Too big for an airplane
Product image of  Covono Expandable Pet Carrier

Covono Expandable Pet Carrier

An 18-pound capacity makes this pet backpack best for smaller pets. It gets high ratings for ease of use and great ventilation. Read More

Pros

  • Lots of ventilation
  • Includes inner leash

Cons

  • Zippers are just ok
Product image of Pecute Pet Carrier Backpack

Pecute Pet Carrier Backpack

The Pecute offers an expandable pet carrier backpack to ensure extra room and comfort for your furry friend and easy storage for you. Read More

Pros

  • Pop-out feature for dual usage
  • Easy to clean
  • Dries quickly

Cons

  • Not great for hot weather
  • Weight limits may not be accurate
Product image of PetAmi Deluxe Pet Carrier Backpack

PetAmi Deluxe Pet Carrier Backpack

Removable sherpa lining offers additional comfort for your pet, and large mesh windows ensure that your dog has plenty of fresh air during their ride. Read More

Pros

  • Multiple entry points
  • Mesh siding for great ventilation

Cons

  • Flimsy materials

It’s hard to think of anything cuter than a dog—except for maybe a dog in a dog carrier backpack. These products are ideal for senior dogs that often need extra help due to their age, but even young dogs that run into issues with long excursions can benefit. A dog carrier backpack might be perfect if you like to take your dog on all your adventures. It may also help to always have a dog travel bowl handy for when your pup gets a little parched.

To help you find the best dog carrier backpack, we dug through thousands of reviews for a variety of great options available online. Based on our research, these are the best dog carrier backpacks you can get online right now.

Product image of Kurgo G-Train Dog Carrier Backpack
Kurgo G-Train Dog Carrier Backpack
  • Dimensions: 12.99 "L x 10" W x 21.77" H
  • Weight Limit: 25 lbs

Suitible for everything from the airport to hiking trails, the Kurgo G-Train is a high-quality dog carrier backpack for small cats and dogs. It features an interior swivel leather that latches onto your dog’s harness to keep them secure. The cushioned, lightweight design of this dog carrier backpack, as well as its breathable side, top, back panel, and windows, make this a comfortable option for both you and your dog.

What’s more, the G-Train includes a carry handle, shoulder straps that can be folded away, and a secure hip belt and sternum strap for the dog parent. This dog carrier even has a laptop compartment for the working dog mom or dad. Overall, the Kurgo G-Train dog carrier backpack has a thoughtful design for both dogs and their owners.

Pros

  • Convenient carry handle

  • Breathable

  • Comfortable

Cons

  • Expensive

Product image of Apollo Walker Pet Carrier Backpack
Apollo Walker Pet Carrier Backpack
  • Dimensions: 12.6" L x 11.4" W x 16.8" H
  • Weight Limit: Not specified

For a spacious dog carrier backpack that gives your pet plenty of room to stay comfortable on your walk or hike, the Apollo Walker Pet Carrier Backpack is a reliable pick. Although its larger size makes this dog carrier backpack difficult to bring on airplanes, its extra space gives your dog some freedom while on the move. Two-way entry makes it easy for your dog to enter and exit this dog carrier backpack, while the leash tether keeps them secure when in it. This dog carrier backpack also has a soft fleece bedding and is designed with breathable material to keep your dog cool and happy.

You can easily adjust the chest and waist straps in this dog carrier backpack for your own comfort. What’s more, this dog carrier backpack can easily collapse and fold for simple storage.

Pros

  • Spacious

  • Comfortable

  • Multiple color options

Cons

  • Too big for an airplane

Product image of  Covono Expandable Pet Carrier
Covono Expandable Pet Carrier
  • Dimensions: 23.4" L x 13.4" W x 16.5" H
  • Weight Limit: 18 lbs

Equipped with a large acrylic window, three breathable mesh panels, and nine venting holes, you’ll have a great view of your pooch while they enjoy plenty of fresh air in this dog carrier backpack. Nicely structured with both a waist strap and chest buckle, this dog carrier backpack has plenty of extra support, making it easy to maintain the stability of the dog carrier backpack while your pet enjoys the ride.

The rear-expandable design of this dog carrier backpack makes it easier to ensure your pet is comfortable, and it doubles as a solution for increased air circulation. Also included with this dog carrier backpack is an inner safety leash for pets who fancy themselves professional escape artists.

With a max load capacity of 18 pounds, this dog carrier backpack is best for smaller animals. That being said, you should probably measure your pet before purchase this dog carrier backpack to ensure a good fit. Reviews mention that the quality of this dog carrier backpack is great, and those who have run into various issues praised Conovo’s customer service.

Pros

  • Lots of ventilation

  • Includes inner leash

Cons

  • Zippers are just ok

Product image of Pecute Pet Carrier Backpack
Pecute Pet Carrier Backpack
  • Dimensions: 24.4" L x 13.4" W x 17.3" H
  • Weight Limit: 15–20 lbs

Petcute offers an expandable dog carrier backpack to ensure extra room and comfort for your furry friend and easy storage for you. Durable materials like 300-denier Oxford cloth and PVC composite lend to the dog carrier backpack’s scratch resistance as well. This dog carrier backpack's mesh zippered skylight and acrylic side windows also ensure optimal viewing and airflow for your pet.

Because this dog carrier backpack is expandable, it’s a great option if you don’t want to invest in a backpack separate from your regular dog carrier backpack; it can be used as both. While it is a great option as an all-in-one carrier, some pet parents mention that this dog carrier backpack won’t fit underneath an airplane seat, so it may not be a great option for air travel.

Some Petcute dog carrier backpack users report issues with the bottom platform sliding, which can cause discomfort in their lower back. Others say its weight limit may be closer to 10 or 15 pounds than the manufacturer-recommended 20, so this dog carrier backpack may not be the right pick if you have a larger dog. A one-way opening and a retaining leash ensure dogs won’t scurry off once let out of the dog carrier backpack; some reviewers don’t trust the zipper locks.

Pros

  • Pop-out feature for dual usage

  • Easy to clean

  • Dries quickly

Cons

  • Not great for hot weather

  • Weight limits may not be accurate

Product image of PetAmi Deluxe Pet Carrier Backpack
PetAmi Deluxe Pet Carrier Backpack
  • Dimensions: 12.5" L x 10.2" W x 16.3" H
  • Weight Limit: 18 lbs

The PetAmi dog carrier backpack comes in a variety of colors and offers front and side access for your pet. A removable sherpa lining offers additional comfort for your pet, and large mesh windows ensure that your dog has plenty of fresh air during its ride-along. As with some other dog-carrying backpacks, the PetAmi has padded straps for your comfort, and chest and waist buckles make for smoother transport for your dog.

While these additional features are meant to make you and your pet feel more secure, this dog carrier backpack's materials (primarily polyester) strike us as a little flimsy. For occasional use, this dog carrier backpack would be a good choice. But for long-term outdoor use, we might suggest another dog carrier backpack. The PetAmi carrier is recommended for pets up to 18 pounds, 10 inches long, and 14 inches tall while seated.

Pros

  • Multiple entry points

  • Mesh siding for great ventilation

Cons

  • Flimsy materials

Product image of Texsens Bubble Backpack
Texsens Bubble Backpack
  • Dimensions: 13.4" L x 10.2" W x 16.9" H
  • Weight Limit: 18 lbs

Recommended for dogs up to 18 pounds, and up to 11 inches long and 15 inches tall, the Texsens Bubble dog carrier backpack is a sleek, ultra-modern backpack that’s approved for travel by most major airlines. A PU leather overlay, grommeted air holes, and breathable inserts for maximum ventilation also make this a great dog carrier backpack for puppies and smaller breeds who may tire easily.

What we like most about this dog carrier backpack is its round mesh window, which can easily be swapped for an included plastic bubble in cold or rainy weather. Large, zippered openings run the length of both sides, allowing easy access to your pup, and padded straps ensure comfort for the wearer.

One important thing to note about this dog carrier backpack is that due to its size, pets are intended to sit rather than lay down. This dog carrier comes in a variety of colors, making it even more fun to pick out your perfect pack.

Pros

  • Bubble window great for inclement weather

  • Easy entrance and exit

  • Padded shoulder straps

Cons

  • Not ideal for larger dogs

Product image of Pawaboo Pet Carrier Backpack
Pawaboo Pet Carrier Backpack
  • Dimensions: Up to 16.5" L x 10.4" W x 0.5" H (Extra Large)
  • Weight Limit: 18 lbs

The only convertible front-and-back-carry backpack we chose, the Pawaboo Pet Carrier Backpack is super lightweight and fits dogs from five to 18 pounds. This lightweight dog carrier backpack is easy to get your dog in and out of without much hassle, and a size chart makes it simple to pick the right fit for your furry friend. (It’s available in four different sizes.)

This is a pretty barebones option when it comes to dog carrier backpacks. Though it does have padding for your comfort, reviewers say that it could be more comfortable with some quality-of-life adjustments.

The Pawaboo dog carrier backpack doesn’t have any sort of enclosure and provides dogs with less mobility. So, if you have an especially anxious dog, or are looking to hike in various weather conditions, this dog carrier backpack might not be the right pick for you. But if you’re just looking for an easy, lightweight option, this dog carrier backpack is a solid, inexpensive choice.

Pros

  • Affordable

  • Easy to take on and off

  • Convertible

Cons

  • Padding could be better

  • Not great in rain

  • Doesn’t fit great

Product image of K9 Sport Sack Adjustable Carrier Backpack
K9 Sport Sack Adjustable Carrier Backpack
  • Dimensions vary depending on style
  • Weight Limit: 30 lbs

U.S.-based K9 Sport Sack is the only vet-approved dog carrier backpack we have found. With multiple sizes and colors and a size chart to find the perfect fit, this dog carrier backpack is suitable for dogs up to 30 pounds. Although this backpack has padded straps, and a padded backside intended for comfort, the lack of a hip strap has some users feeling less secure than other dog carrier backpacks on the market. And some find it uncomfortable to wear in general, especially with larger breeds.

This dog carrier backpack is not waterproof and won’t keep your dog covered in bad weather; some users suggest pre-soaking it to prevent color bleeding ahead of use. We recommend the K9 Sport Sack dog carrier backpack for occasional use with smaller dog breeds.

K9 Sport Sack offers a variety of different dog carrier backpack options, so be sure to check their size charts for a given style before making your final purchase.

Pros

  • Vet approved

  • Comes in multiple sizes

Cons

  • Not waterproof

  • Colors may bleed when wet

What to Consider When Buying the Best Dog Carrier Backpack

Choosing the Best Dog Carrier Backpack

Finding the best dog carrier backpack for your pet can be tricky. There are many different reasons for putting your dog in a backpack, but before committing to a dog carrier backpack, you’ll want to do some research. Finding the best dog carrier backpack specifically designed to support your dog’s size and weight is important for keeping your puppy safe when you’re out adventuring together.

Going hands-free on your hikes can be a great decision, but you’ll want to keep your pet’s comfort in mind—as well as your own. Some dog carrier backpacks come with additional support so your pet won’t jostle around, while others include secure straps for even weight distribution. Things like ventilation, whether or not the pack is made of waterproof or water-resistant material, and weight limits are all important to consider when looking for the best dog carrier or dog backpack.

At the end of the day, carrying any pet over long distances is bound to get heavy, so keep that in mind, especially if you have a medium-sized dog. While we’d love to take our pets everywhere, your dog’s weight might limit how far you can go while backpacking.

Are Dog Carrier Backpacks Safe For Dogs?

Dog carrier backpacks are safe for dogs as long as they have proper ventilation so your dog can breathe comfortably. When shopping for a dog carrier backpack, you should look for one with mesh material cushioned padding and that is sturdy so your dog can have a smooth, safe ride while in the dog carrier backpack.

How Long Can a Dog Stay in a Dog Carrier Backpack?

Many different factors will determine how long your dog can and should stay in a dog carrier backpack. If your dog has trouble sitting still, you shouldn’t leave them in the dog carrier backpack for more than 45 minutes to an hour. If you plan on going on a long trip, then try to give them breaks by placing them on your lap or taking them for quick walks. You should also try to get your dog comfortable sitting in a dog carrier backpack before taking them on a long trip.

As long as the dog carrier backpack fits the size of your dog, has ventilation, and is cushioned to sustain comfort, then your dog can stay in a dog carrier backpack for as long as they are willing to.

Meet the writers

Ceara Perez-Murphy

Ceara Perez-Murphy

Staff Writer

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Ceara Perez-Murphy is a staff writer at Reviewed. In her free time she likes trying out new recipes in the kitchen, exploring new restaurants and spending time outdoors with her dogs.

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Lily Hartman

Lily Hartman

Staff Writer, Search

Lily Hartman is a staff writer who also enjoys writing magazine articles about health and outdoor recreation. In her free time, she likes to hike, camp, run, and lift weights.

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