Dog Hiking Packs: Tips, Reviews, and Our Favorites
Java doesn’t own a ton of gear (or so I tell myself), but he does have the essentials: a pack, collapsible bowls, a sleeping pad, sleeping bag, blanket, and a few trusty bandanas. Okay, maybe there’s more gear to review than I thought! For now, though, let’s focus on one of the most important items for hiking pups: dog packs.
After testing six different packs, I feel like we’ve earned a bit of expertise in the dog pack department. Here’s what we’ve learned through trial, error, and plenty of adventures.
How Much Weight Can Your Pup Carry?
The general guideline is that dogs can carry 10–25% of their body weight in a pack. However, this varies based on your dog’s fitness, the difficulty of the hike, and the weather. Here’s what works for Java:
- Easy Day Hikes: Java can carry up to 12 lbs (about 25% of his body weight) without any issues. For these hikes, I’ll load his pack with water bottles, treats, and maybe a few extras.
- Backpacking Trips: I keep his pack lighter—around 8 lbs—to avoid overexertion on longer, more challenging hikes.
Here’s an example of what Java typically carries on a backpacking trip:
- Two 16oz water bottles: ~2 lbs total
- Collapsible food and water dish: ~4.8 oz
- Treats: ~8 oz
- Food (2 days’ worth): ~4 lbs
- Poop bags: ~0.01 oz
- Pack weight: ~1 lb
Total weight: ~8 lbs
The key is to adjust the weight based on the trail and your pup’s energy level. Start light and work your way up as they get used to carrying a pack.
How to Fit a Dog Pack
Proper fit is everything. A poorly fitted pack can rub, cause discomfort, or even lead to injury. Most packs come with a sizing guide, and the chest, waist, and neck circumference are the most critical measurements to get right.
Tips for Fitting a Pack:
- Chest Fit: The chest strap is the most important. If this strap fits snugly (but not too tight), the rest of the pack is usually easy to adjust.
- Adjust for Balance: Even weight distribution is key. Uneven weight can cause the pack to tilt, making it uncomfortable for your pup.
- Watch for Rub Spots: Pay attention to areas like the armpits and chest where straps can rub. If you notice irritation, try a different style or adjust the straps.
Types of Packs
Java has two go-to packs depending on the type of adventure:
- Daypack: Smaller pockets for carrying essentials like water, treats, and ice packs on hot days.
- Overnight Pack: Larger pockets for carrying food, water, and supplies. I avoid overloading it or making it too bulky to prevent wear and tear, especially on rocky trails.
Reviews: The Packs We’ve Tested
1. Outward Hound Daypack (Favorite for Day Hikes)
- Why We Love It: Affordable, durable, and well-designed for shorter trips. The pockets are small but perfect for essentials, and it’s easy to adjust for a snug fit.
- Cons: Limited capacity for overnight trips.
2. Wellver Dog Backpack (Best for Value and Longer Trips)
- Why We Love It: This Amazon find lasted the longest and gave me the most bang for my buck. It handled wear and tear well and fit Java comfortably.
- Cons: Slightly bulkier than the Outward Hound pack but manageable for longer adventures.
3. Ruffwear Approach Pack (Durable but Pricey)
- Why We Like It: Comfortable and functional, with a great design for weight distribution.
- Why It’s Not My Top Pick: The bottom tore after a few New Hampshire trips, and it didn’t hold up as well as expected for the price. I’ve gone through three of these packs!
4. Kurgo Dog Saddlebag Backpack (Least Favorite)
- Why We Don’t Recommend It: This pack never fit Java well. It was constantly lopsided, causing the pockets to drag and tear. The poor fit made it uncomfortable for him and frustrating for me.
Finding the Right Pack
Every dog is different, so finding the perfect pack for your pup might take some trial and error. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Fit: Watch for rub spots, especially under the armpits and along the chest.
- Size: Ensure the pack isn’t too bulky or heavy for your pup.
- Durability: Choose a pack made from sturdy materials, especially for rugged terrain.
Final Thoughts: Happy Packing!
At the end of the day, the right pack should enhance your adventures with your dog—not hinder them. Whether you’re tackling a short day hike or a multi-day backpacking trip, the right pack will help your pup carry their weight (literally) while keeping them comfortable.
Remember, the goal is to enjoy the great outdoors with your furry companion. Be patient while finding the perfect pack, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different brands and styles. Happy trails! 🐾
