The Best Dog Carrier Backpacks in 2025
You want to take your dog with you on all of your adventures, but this can be difficult over rough terrain. Luckily, dog carrier backpacks give you a great way to bring your best friend while keeping them safe and secure. These backpacks usually come designed to fit small or medium dogs, but there are ones available for larger ones.
It’s easy to get overwhelmed when you first start to shop for this backpack because there are so many choices, styles, colors, and options available. We’ve picked out the top six best dog carrier backpacks and reviewed them. You can compare them side by side, and you can also take a look at our short buyer’s guide to get an idea of what you want to look for when you shop.
Our Top List
Last update on 2024-12-18 at 18:46 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
1. K9 Sport Sack – Backpack for Pets
Since dogs come in all shapes and sizes, your dog backpack should too. You can choose from six sizes ranging from extra small to 2X with this backpack, and it comes in 19 different color choices. There is a detachable hood to keep your dog dry if it rains.
The measurement guide ensures you get the correct size for your dog, and the bag straps comfortably around your waist for added support. Each pack comes backed by a 60-day guarantee, and the company will return your money if you’re not 100% satisfied.
Takeaways
- Cooling – Side ventilation and temperature regulation fabric
- Sizes – Six
- Storage Pockets – Yes
- Support – Weight distribution straps
Pros
- Available in several colors and sizes
- Offers lumbar support
- Detachable hood
- Storage bag with hydro pack
Cons
- Not wide enough for stocky builds
2. Kurgo Backpack
This hands-free backpack comes in three different styles from traditional backpack to side carrying bag. It comes with a water-resistant fabric on the top and a waterproof bottom to keep your dog dry. You can take this backpack on airlines as it is TSA approved, or it’s durable enough to take out hiking in rugged conditions.
You’ll get a lifetime warranty when you purchase this product against damage or defects. Several zippered compartments make it quick and easy to store your dog’s treats, leash, and items.
Takeaways
- Cooling – Ventilated panels
- Sizes – One
- Support – Has a stiff bottom and reinforced sides
- Weight Capacity – Up to 25 pounds
Pros
- Available in three different designs
- Has several padded pockets for dog treats and toys
- Comes with a harness clip inside the backpack
- Approved by the TSA
Cons
- Only supports up to 25 pounds
- Support poles can move
3. Petsfit Backpack Carrier for Hiking
Your pet will sit on a padded bottom for maximum comfort with this backpack, and there is a leash attachment inside that secures your dog or cat. There are chest and hip straps with padding that allow you to comfortably carry this pack for longer distances, and you can adjust them for larger builds. Your pet can go into the pack through front and side entry points.
The large ventilation panels give plenty of airflow through the bag, and they allow your dog to see out. Finally, the backpack folds flat for easy storage, and this is great for smaller houses.
Takeaways
- Cooling – Several large panels
- Sizes – One
- Support – Padded chest and hip straps
- Weight Capacity – Smaller pets
Pros
- Comes in four colors
- Has several adjustable straps
- Mesh panels roll up and secure
- Folds flat for storage
Cons
- Pulls on your shoulders
- Not big enough for your pets to lie down
4. PetAmi Backpack for Cats & Dogs
This backpack comes made out of soft and durable 600D-grade polyester, and this makes it a very durable but lightweight option. You’ll get the choice of nine color combinations that look sharp against the black edging, and it has large mesh holes for maximum ventilation.
The waist and chest straps allow you to comfortably distribute your dog’s weight and support them for longer adventures. There are side pockets to store all of your dog’s items, and you get a collapsible water bowl included in every purchase.
Takeaways
- Cooling – Large mesh windows and breathable polyester
- Sizes – One
- Support – Features chest and waist straps
- Weight Capacity – Up to eight pounds
Pros
- Has durable zippers to secure the top
- Large ventilation windows allow your dog to see out
- Has a safety strap to hook to your dog’s collar or harness
- Lightweight polyester
Cons
- Only fits small dogs
- Doesn’t stand up by itself
5. Pawfect Pets Soft-Sided Backpack
The manufacturer claims this bad is escape proof, and this bag comes with zipper buckles and claw-proof mesh to keep your pet safely inside. There is a leash tether on the top of the carrier to attach your pet’s harness or collar for added security, and several different airlines approve this bag for flying.
The large ventilation windows will keep your pet cool while you have them inside, and you can wear it as a traditional backpack or flip it on its side and carry it that way. There is extra-thick padding on the handle and bottom of the carrier for comfort as well.
Takeaways
- Cooling – Large mesh panels
- Sizes – One
- Support – Padded shoulder or hand straps
- Weight Capacity – Extra-small dogs and cats
Pros
- Has an eye-catching look
- Can use it as a backpack or a messenger bag
- Features claw-proof mesh
- Zippers lock closed with mini buckles
Cons
- Only one size
- Backpacks skeleton isn’t durable
6. Pawaboo Adjustable Backpack
This sling-type backpack works well for animals under 15 pounds, and it has a legs and tail out design that is comfortable for your pet. The zipper and elastic openings adjust to fit different girths, and you can tailor your sizes to give your pet a snug and secure fit. The quick-release buckles allow you to adjust and install the backpack with one hand.
The mesh and polyester material will keep your pet cool while they ride in the backpack, and the padded shoulder straps ensure you stay comfortable. You can wear this bag on your back, front, or side without a problem.
Takeaways
- Cooling – Breathable mesh with polyester
- Sizes – One
- Support – Padded shoulder straps with elastic openings
- Weight Capacity – Up to 15 pounds
Pros
- Can wear the backpack several ways
- Has elastic openings that are adjustable
- Quick-release buckles
- Padded shoulder straps
Cons
- Straps are very thin
- Not a lot of support on the upper portion
Verdict & Review
K9 Sport Sack
Pros
- Several color & size options
- Lumbar support
- Hood detachable
- Storage bag + hydro pack
Cons
- Too narrow for stocky dogs
Our choice for the best dog carrier backpack is the K9 Sport Sack because it comes in several sizes and color options that allow you to tailor it to your pet. The detachable rain hood keeps your dog dry in all weather conditions.
We liked that each pack came with a 100% satisfaction guarantee, and the company will offer a full refund if you’re not happy for whatever reason. The bag straps around your waist and shoulders for maximum support and comfort as well. Finally, this bag works well for several sized pets, and it ensures you can take your furry friend everywhere with you.
Buyers Guide
It’s important that you know exactly what to shop for when you start comparing products. Anyone who wants to take their dog with them on adventures while keeping them safe should have one. We did the research for you, and we believe the most valuable criteria to consider is below.
Buying Criteria
There are several important factors to keep in mind when you shop, and you can compare each point for the different backpacks to see which one suits your situation the best. The most important factors are:
Material
The goal is to get a material that is durable enough to withstand wear and tear, but the material should be breathable and allow for enough airflow to keep your dog comfortable. Some of the most popular material is a mix of polyester and nylon, and this makes it slightly stretchy. It’s also lightweight, and this is important for your comfort as well.
Pockets
Pockets give you convenient areas to store your dog’s treats, water bowls, food, and leash. Your backpack should have at least one or two pockets attached, and the pockets should be in a variety of sizes. Make sure you double-check how these pockets secure your items as well.
Security
You want your dog to stay secure the entire time they’re in the backpack, and a leash or harness hook can prevent them from bouncing around. Remember to look at the zippers to see how durable they are. Another area to inspect is the mesh because you don’t want it to tear from your dog’s claws.
Size
Most manufacturers have size recommendations on their backpacks, and it’s important that you pay attention to them to ensure your dog has enough room to move around and be comfortable. Measure your dog’s length from the base of their tails to their neck to get their length, and measure your dog from the top of their head to their feet to get their height. Take these measurements and their weight to look for the correct size.
Support
Your backpack should support your dog and you. Ideally, the backpack will come with a padded and rigid bottom that your dog can stand or sit on without worrying about it moving around. The backpack should have padded shoulder straps and waist straps, so they don’t dig into you when you carry it.
We are the Pet Dog Pals, a group of avid pet owners, bloggers, product testers, and writers for all your canine needs! We own a collective 16 dogs and 21 cats to help us test and review pet products. Our top lists and tips come from experience to help you be the best dog owner you can be!