Dog Backpacks

I don't have a backpack for Maverick and don't think I'd ever consider getting him one because we aren't out hiking every week or anything.

The way I see a drawback about a backpack for a dog is the same way I think of it as a backpack for a human. You don't want to put too much to weigh down your dog and it also can't be good for your dog for extended use.

If you do consider a dog backpack, keep it light and keep the weight even. I'm also assuming you'll be using this backpack on hiking adventures and whatnot? If you're just using it for a stroll through the park or part of town, I wouldn't recommend it.

Cassie has a backpack for when we go for walks. It's empty. But it transformed Cassie from a terrible walker to a perfect princess. Highly recommend.

Like I said, I keep mine empty. Well, maybe a few extra baggies. But nothing significant. If you do put items in the backpack, make sure to get one where the weight is kept over the front shoulders, and not on the spine. And keep it as even as possible, and not too heavy.

Proper sizing is critical. Make sure that it's adjusted right, and doesn't cause even the slightest discomfort (because over the course of a walk, even minor discomfort can escalate)

You don't need to spend a fortune. I bought mine on Amazon for US$25. But I saw packs going for close to US$100. They might be better for hiking or carrying... but for basic walks, my $25 pack was just fine.

dezymond said:

If you're just using it for a stroll through the park or part of town, I wouldn't recommend it.

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On the contrary, an empty backpack can really help with walking behavior.

My Cassie was a terrible walker. All over the place, pulling, dragging, etc. Neighbor recommended a backpack. I was like, yeah, right. But I was desperate. So I tried it. Literally as soon as I put it on Cassie, she turned into a refined princess. She walked next to me, and didn't pull or stray. Even when she saw people, I could see the restraint that she put on herself as she kept walking and didn't go after them.

Aside from 'having a job to do', I can't explain the draw. But Cassie LOVES it. She gets so excited when I pull it out, and she's so proud to wear it.

Who knew, right?

I think putting a backpack on your dog is a great idea IF your dog is in good physical health (meaning no arthritic issues or mobility problems). Ruffwear has great backpacks and I would highly recommend them. Putting a pack on your dog, initially you should do it without added weight then slowly you can get to carrying a water bottle or two. It tends to give a dog a sense of purpose as you stated and if done correctly. Introduction to the process is key to its success.

Castaway said:

On the contrary, an empty backpack can really help with walking behavior.

My Cassie was a terrible walker. All over the place, pulling, dragging, etc. Neighbor recommended a backpack. I was like, yeah, right. But I was desperate. So I tried it. Literally as soon as I put it on Cassie, she turned into a refined princess. She walked next to me, and didn't pull or stray. Even when she saw people, I could see the restraint that she put on herself as she kept walking and didn't go after them.

Aside from 'having a job to do', I can't explain the draw. But Cassie LOVES it. She gets so excited when I pull it out, and she's so proud to wear it.

Who knew, right?

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Do you use it every walk? Or have you noticed that it helped with walking without the backpack on?

dezymond said:

Do you use it every walk? Or have you noticed that it helped with walking without the backpack on?

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Honestly, she enjoys the pack so much, I haven't tried walking her without it. She's just so proud of it.

Living in Florida, we only get to enjoy walks during the cooler months (they swim year round to make up for it). During the days, it can be too hot/humid, and at night the mosquitoes will eat us alive. Thankfully, it's starting to cool down, so we will be able to resume our walks soon.

I'll have to give it a shot this winter, and see how she does. It might take a bit for her to get used to the walks again, so I might wait a few times.