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Backpacking with your furry friend? The right dog backpack makes all the difference. Our detailed guide examines the top Rei backpacks, highlighting their features and performance for both short trips and extended adventures.

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Reviews

Ruffwear Trail Runner Dog Running Vest

With breathable mesh construction and dual water bottle pockets, the Ruffwear Trail Runner Vest keeps both you and your canine companion well-hydrated during outdoor adventures. From Portuguese Water Dogs to Aussies, this versatile vest has proven itself on everything from local trails to multi-day through-hikes. The reinforced back design and adjustable webbing ensure a secure fit while allowing freedom of movement, making it a solid upgrade from traditional harnesses that slide around during runs.

Reddy Quilted Rei Dog Backpack

This delightful pink backpack combines style and functionality for your small dog. The quilted design adds a charming touch, while recycled materials make it eco-friendly. With a waste bag dispenser and adjustable straps, it's a practical addition to your pet's wardrobe.

Ruffwear Singletrak Dog Backpack

Made for adventure, this dog backpack keeps your pup comfortable during outdoor excursions. The adjustable design and close-fitting pockets let your dog move freely, whether you're biking or backpacking. With dual water bottle holders and a padded handle, it's easy to share the load when you need to take breaks.

Kurgo Green Cascade Harness

This adorable Kurgo hiking harness double as a backpack, featuring durable ripstop fabric and a breathable foam back plate. With plenty of storage including special poop bag pockets, adjustable straps, and secure leash attachments, it's no wonder other dog owners raved about how well it fits and how practical all the features are. The bright colors and reflective details make it a fun choice for any dog who enjoys adventures outside.

Non-Stop Amundsen Dog Backpack

This sturdy dog backpack features spacious storage and an ergonomic design that keeps it stable on your pet's back. Made for active dogs, it excels in both weight-bearing and everyday use, as countless satisfied owners have discovered. The adjustable harness and secure fit make it a practical choice for short to multi-day adventures with your furry friend.

Mountaineer Dog Backpack

Made for active dogs, this backpack pairs a stylish harness with roomy pack storage. The customizable fit and adjustable straps ensure a secure, comfortable carry for both short walks and multi-day hikes. Whether you're heading to the park or planning an overnight adventure, this Canadian-made backpack has you and your pup covered.

Kurgo Baxter Dog Backpack

The Kurgo Baxter backpack represents a significant advancement in canine hiking gear, offering exceptional comfort through its eight-point adjustable system while providing ample storage in the dual hoof pouches. The backpack's padded spine design and premium material construction have earned high praise from users, particularly when carrying substantial loads. The reflective elements and secure top handle enhance both visibility and control during evening or challenging hikes.

Wanderer Dog Backpack

With its durable construction and water-resistant coating, this backpack and harness set is built for outdoor adventures. The quick-release EZ Fit straps and locking Velcro closures make it a breeze to adjust, while the secure latch system keeps your gear in place during your hike or trip. The backpack's sleek design matches other pieces in the collection, making it a practical addition to your canine's wardrobe.

Juno Dog Co. Doggy Travel Backpack

This stylish travel backpack checks all the boxes for dog-friendly adventures, from hydrating with the built-in water bottle to mealtime with the foldable bowl. The included food bag and poop scoop make packing a breeze, while the thoughtful microfiber towel brings an extra touch of convenience. Overall, it's a practical solution for keeping your furry friend comfortable on the go.

Rei Little Chonk Dog Backpack

The Maxine One backpack carrier has become a game-changer for dog owners who want to safely bring their pets along on adventures. With its advanced ergonomic design and supportive structure, it keeps both dog and human comfortable during longer excursions. The padded design and multiple strap adjustments demonstrate the brand's commitment to creating a secure, breathable carrier that can grow with your pet. Whether you're tackling trails or just exploring your neighborhood, this backpack provides the support your furry friend needs while leaving you free to enjoy the journey.

REI Red Dog Backpack

This backpack carrier keeps your small to medium-sized dog comfortable during adventures with its breathable mesh and padded straps. The flexible neck design and safety leash hook give you peace of mind while exploring with your furry friend. Built for durability with a 26-pound weight limit and canvas construction that's backed by solid craftsmanship reviews.

Caraa Dog Backpack in Cognac Vegan Leather

The small vegan leather backpack measures 4.5 inches tall and 5 inches long, featuring adjustable straps with clips and a single pocket for storing items like waste bags or leashes. The D-ring design enables secure attachment to your dog's harness.

Rei Dog Backpack

This medium-sized dog backpack pairs a comfortable Y-design with 6 adjustable nylon buckles for secure, no-choking wear. Made from durable Oxford material with a breathable mesh back panel, it features waterproof protection and four reflective strips for enhanced visibility during evening walks.

Ibiyaya Champion Large Backpack Dog Carrier

This spacious dog carrier/backpack handles medium to large breeds with comfort, featuring padded straps and a breathable mesh design. The versatile system adapts to your needs with options for backpacking, rolling as a suitcases, or using the included trolley platform. Built for durability and ease of use, pet parents appreciate its practical design and generous capacity.

K9 Sport Sack Air 2 Dog Backpack

The K9 Sport Sack Air 2 is a well-received mid-size backpack carrier that's vet-approved and built for comfort. With durable Cordura construction and ample mesh ventilation, it keeps dogs cool during hikes and errands. The backpack efficiently shares weight between dog and human, though the upper back/neck area can feel warm during summer walks.

Ruffwear Highlands Dog Sleeping Bag

The Ruffwear Highlands dog sleeping bag combines warmth with convenience, featuring a half-length zipper that lets your pup slide in like a cozy blanket. Our tester's senior dog took some convincing to adopt it as a sleep spot, but once he settled in, it kept him toasty at 34-degree nights. The lightweight design compresses well for backpacking trips, though you might want to consider the Large size for bigger dogs with sprawl tendencies.

Bark Rowdy Ruckus Rucksack Dog Toy

The Bark Rowdy Ruckus Rucksack combines durable construction with hidden pockets for treats. Its best feature? The super-crisp crinkles and powerful squeaker that keep dogs engaged for hours. Perfect for active dogs who enjoy exploring the outdoors.

Ruffwear Haul Bag

When you're rushing to grab your dog's gear before heading out the door, the last thing you want is to dig through a disorganized bag. That's where the Ruffwear Haul Bag comes in – with its thoughtfully designed compartments and roomy 37-liter capacity, you'll find everything you need for your adventure, from leak-proof water bottles to first aid kits. The adjustable shoulder strap means you can wear it cross-body or over your shoulder, while the waterproof polyester exterior tackles whatever weather comes your way.

K9 Sport Sack Plus 2

The K9 Sport Sack Plus 2 combines impressive durability with thoughtful design elements that prioritize both safety and comfort. The fully ventilated sides and adjustable straps create a breathing space that keeps dogs cool during active adventures, while the padded back panel and lumbar support help distribute weight evenly across the carrier's broad, secure frame.

Kurgo G-Train Dog Backpack

The Kurgo G-Train Dog Carrier Backpack has earned high praise from users who put it through rigorous testing during long hikes and backcountry adventures. Made for small to medium dogs up to 11 kg, it doubles as a comfortable carrier with its padded hip belt and sternum strap. The ventilated mesh design keeps both dog and human cool, while the roomy interior can fit a laptop and two water bottles. Users particularly love how it transforms from backpack to carrier, with stowaway shoulder straps that make it perfect for short trips or carrying essential gear.

Ruffwear Front Range Day Pack

Crafted for serious hikers, this durable pack pairs a sleek design with generous storage. The innovative saddlebag system keeps weight off your dog's back while the multiple adjustment points ensure a custom fit. The padded handle and secure leash attachments make it perfect for long days out on the trail.

ZippyPaws Graphite Adventure Backpack

This cute graphite backpack lets your pup carry his own water, treats, and poop bags on hikes. The dual pockets keep the load balanced, while breathable fabric helps keep your dog cool during walks. With 36 happy reviews and a 3.7 rating, it's a comfy addition to your dog's outdoor gear.

Sherpa Trek Tote 2-in-1 Backpack and Tote Dog Carrier

This stylish pet carrier doubles as a comfortable backpack or tote for your furry friend. Made in China with a faux-lambswool liner and padded straps, it features multiple exits for your pet's convenience and comes apart for easy cleaning. The versatile design makes it perfect for hikes, vet visits, or daily walks with your dog or cat.

Mountainsmith K-9 Dog Pack

This Mountainsmith dog pack features a secure 4-point harness system with padded straps, keeping your pet comfortable during longer walks. The spacious pannier design lets your dog carry essentials like food and water, with the weight evenly distributed across their back. The pack's adjustable design means it'll grow with your pup, while the padded handle makes carrying it easy for you.

K9 Sport Sack Knavigate Lunar Rock X-Small

The Knavigate packs a lot of thoughtful features into a comfortable package for both dog and human. From the padded hip belt that takes weight off your back to the clever storage solutions that keep your pet and gear sorted, this backpack carrier feels like it was built with real adventure in mind – which shows in its durability and thoughtful design details that make both long hikes and short walks enjoyable for everyone involved.

Ruffwear Palisades Pack

This durable hiking pack from Ruffwear can carry up to 25% of your dog's body weight, making it suitable for multi-day trips. The breathable harness features a roomy design with cross-load compression and multiple pockets for organizing gear. While some users have noted minor issues with strap adjustments and leash attachment, the overall build quality and comfortable design make it a popular choice among dog owners who spend time backpacking with their pets.

K9 Sport Sack Trainer Green Small

This lightweight dog carrier helps prevent back strain with its padded design while keeping your pet comfortable during walks and short hikes. The vented sides and water bottle pocket make it practical for outdoor activities, though some users recommend using it with a smaller dog or considering a larger size option. The adjustable straps and simple fold-down design earn high praise from owners who appreciate its ease of use and durable construction.

Ruffwear Approach Dog Pack

The Ruffwear Approach Dog Pack combines a well-fitting harness with spacious, form-fitting side bags for both short day hikes and overnight adventures. The orange small pack, measuring just over 12 inches by 20 inches, holds approximately 15 pounds – ideal for small dogs like Thaddeus, who carries a light load of essentials including his rain gear and first aid kit. Reviews praise its durability, with many users reporting positive experiences even after heavy use in varied terrain. While a few noted initial sizing challenges, the pack's popularity stems from its comfortable design and practical features like the centrally mounted handle and multiple attachment points.

Coppthinktu Dog Backpack

This dog carrier backpack features an elastic design that snugly adapts to your pet's body shape, ensuring both comfort and security during hikes and trips. With the innovative legs-out front-facing design, your furry friend stays cool and relaxed while you enjoy your walk. The carrier's engineered comfort system distributes weight evenly, making it a practical solution for transporting dogs without the usual confinement feel.

Wilderdog Dog Backpack Huckleberry / Small

With its well-padded harness and four adjustable points, this cute little backpack keeps your pup comfy while carrying their own gear. The clever design lets you grab your dog by the top handle if needed, and the detachable saddlebags can fit everything from water bottles to poop bags. While some customers found the sizing a bit hit-or-miss, most agreed it's a solid investment for dogs who like to hike and carry their own supplies.

Terrain Dog Adventure Pack

The Terrain Dog Adventure Pack is an innovative storage solution that allows your furry friend to carry some of their gear during outdoor adventures. Built for comfort, the pack features a padded harness and shock-absorbing chest plate covered in durable 2520D ballistic nylon. Whether you're hiking, camping, or just exploring local trails, this well-made pack handles the load surprisingly well, with many users praising its durability and storage capacity. The removable side packs and easy adjustments make it a practical choice for both short walks and multi-day trips.

Buyer's Guide

Rei's dog backpacks combine durability, comfort, and practical features to help you and your pup explore the great outdoors. Proper selection requires considering your dog's size, the length of your excursions, and the type of gear you plan to carry.

Size and Fit

Measure your dog's chest circumference and back length to determine the right backpack size. The chest strap should fit snugly, while the back should sit level with no sagging. Look for adjustable straps to ensure a secure fit that prevents slipping and rubbing.

Chest and Back Pads

Rei backpacks typically include padded, mesh-lined chest and back panels for ventilation and comfort. Quality padding distributes weight evenly and prevents pressure points. Consider the material's breathability, especially for longer hikes or warm weather conditions.

Load Capacity

The standard capacity ranges from 10 to 20 liters, suitable for day trips to overnight excursions. The backpack's design should allow easy access to your dog's food, water, and other essentials without requiring you to remove the entire pack.

Additional Features

Look for backpacks with multiple carrying options: as a harness (for smaller dogs or short trips), a pack (for medium-sized dogs), or a backpack (for larger dogs). Integration with leash attachments and hydration systems can enhance convenience and functionality.

FAQ

What makes the Rei Dog Backpack unique?

The Rei Dog Backpack offers a comfortable and practical solution for hiking with your furry friend. Unlike other back packs, this model features a padded back panel and well-ventilated air mesh to keep your dog cool during long walks. The backpack also includes a top-loading design that makes it easy to adjust the weight distribution.

The pack's hydration-compatible design allows you to attach a water reservoir, and the built-in poop bag attachment makes cleanup hassle-free. These thoughtful features make the Rei Dog Backpack a standout choice in its category.

How do I properly size my dog for a backpack?

To ensure the pack fits correctly, measure your dog's chest circumference at the widest point, typically just behind the front legs. The backpack's chest strap should sit snugly but allow two fingers to fit between the strap and your dog's body.

Measure your dog's back length from the base of the neck to the base of the tail. The backpack's base should sit slightly behind the shoulder blades for proper weight distribution. Adjust the hip belt and thigh straps to prevent the pack from riding up or sagging.

What materials are the Rei Dog Backpack made from?

The pack's exterior is made from durable 600D polyester with TPU coating for water resistance. The padding and shoulder straps are constructed of high-density foam with air mesh ventilation, providing both support and breathability.

Key features like the hydration sleeve and poop bag attachment are made from tear-resistant materials that can handle both water and pet waste. These components combine to create a backpack that stands up well to regular outdoor use.

Can any dog wear the Rei Backpack?

The pack is designed for medium to large dogs weighing between 15 to 55 pounds (7 to 25 kg). While it may work for smaller dogs, they may not get the full support benefits. Check your dog's weight and build before purchasing to ensure a proper fit.

Short-backed breeds and dogs with excessively curly hair might not fit comfortably in the current design. Always measure your dog to determine if the pack will work for your pet's specific needs.

How much gear can the Rei Dog Backpack carry?

The pack's main storage capacity is 22 liters, making it suitable for overnight trips or extended day hikes. You can fit a hydration bladder, additional water bottles, snacks, a first aid kit, and basic camping gear like a tent stakes or sleeping pad.

For heavy packers (40+ pounds), the upper weight limit may require additional support from your own backpack to distribute the load properly. Always test the pack with your dog before embarking on longer trips.

How do I maintain the Rei Dog Backpack?

Clean the pack after each use to prevent odor and mildew. The primary care involves washing the exterior with mild soap and water, then rinsing thoroughly and air drying completely before use. The padded straps can be spot cleaned with a damp cloth.

Check the attachments for wear and tear regularly, especially the hip belt and shoulder straps. Replace or repair any damaged components to ensure the pack remains comfortable and safe for your dog during use.