Dog backpack

Quite a large number of hikers and backpackers take their dog along with them on hikes. No matter the length of the trip, you always have to make some extra room for your four legged friends gear. Dog backpacks are a great way to save personal pack space while still brings everything you need for your dog. Any size or shape of dog can enjoy backing.  There are several things to consider before you engage in this great new activity:

1.      Right Selection

Whether you want padding or not on your pack depend on the weight and the amount of pulling your dog will do.  It will also depend on what type of coat your dog has.  A short coated breed would benefit more from a padded harness if there will be a lot of rubbing of the pack.  Padding is usually in the form of polar fleece or fake lamb’s wool.  Some packs are padded under the saddlebags, and some are padded around the neck and chest areas of the harness.

Packs should be made from a light-weight; water-proof material, with adjustable nylon web straps and quick-snap buckles for ease in getting on and off.

2. Exercise

Just like any other physical activity, you will want to prepare yourself and your dog for the new strain on the muscles which may not have been used regularly.  Start out slowly, walking only a mile or less the first day.  Slowly build on the distance you will cover on your hikes.  Remember to stretch your muscles before exercising.  When you start having your dog carry his pack, start with it empty, and add weight gradually each trip.

3. Appropriate weight

Dogs can carry a good deal of weight on their backs, which is helpful in trekking across country, as your dog can then lighten your load by carrying his own provisions at the very least.  It is important to place the weight which your dog will carry over the shoulder blade area, and not in the middle of the back. 

Other points to be considered

1. If your dog’s pack is loaded, and he is doing any kind of climbing, uphill walking or pulling, you will want to be sure to have a non-restrictive harness on your pack. 

2. Each time you pack a mile or more with your dog, keep track of the distance, date, weather and trail conditions in a log book. 

3. There are various clubs which offer titles for backpacking.  Some are breed clubs for specific dogs. Each one has different requirements as to what must be carried in your pack and what percentage of the dog’s total body weight must be carried to qualify for their titles. 

4. Color is a matter of personal preference, but remembers that your dog will be in the woods, and a high visibility color, like orange, yellow, or red will help you spot your dog from a distance, without mistaking him for a game animal.