The 7 Best Dog Backpack Carriers of 2025, Tested by PEOPLE

Mar. 15, 2025

In This ArticleView AllIn This ArticleOur Top PicksReviewsAdd to CartWhat to KnowBehind the ScenesFAQWhy Trust PEOPLE?What Is PEOPLE Tested?

In This ArticleView All

In This Article

View All

Our Top Picks

Reviews

Add to Cart

What to Know

Behind the Scenes

FAQ

Why Trust PEOPLE?

What Is PEOPLE Tested?

Photo:People / Neo Ruiz

People / Neo Ruiz

Don’t you wish you could take your dog everywhere you go? Having a shoulder bag or dog backpack carrier can often allow your pup into places where you wouldn’t likely see a large dog, such as retail stores and boutiques. It can also allow you totravel with your dogmore comfortably, whether on a bike, bus, or through the airport.

Experts Say"Look for a carrier that is well-padded and has good ventilation to keep your dog comfortable and cool." —Taylor Wilkinson, veterinary technician and operations coordinator for The Vets

Experts Say

“Look for a carrier that is well-padded and has good ventilation to keep your dog comfortable and cool.” —Taylor Wilkinson, veterinary technician and operations coordinator for The Vets

Ahead, the best dog backpack carriers PEOPLE Tested.

Our Top PicksBest for Tiny Dogs:JESPET Pet Backpack Carrier at Amazon$55Jump to ReviewBest for Small Dogs:Kurgo Nomad Carrier Backpack at Amazon$100Jump to ReviewBest for Medium Dogs:K9 Sport Sack Plus 2 Dog Carrier at Amazon$95Jump to ReviewBest Design:Apollo Walker Pet Carrier Backpack at Amazon$40Jump to ReviewBest for Hiking:Kurgo G-Train Dog Carrier Backpack at Amazon$145Jump to ReviewBest Sling:SALEYUDODO Reflective Pet Sling Carrier at Amazon$24$19Jump to ReviewBest Splurge:Love Thy Beast Black Nylon Canvas Backpack at Lovethybeast.comJump to ReviewBest Airline-Approved Pet Carrier:Love Thy Beast Nylon Pet Travel Carrier at Lovethybeast.comJump to ReviewBest Dog Crate:Petmate Aspen Pet Porter Dog Kennel at Amazon$105Jump to ReviewBest Pet Camera:SALEFurbo 360 Dog Camera at Amazon$99$64Jump to Review

Best for Tiny Dogs:JESPET Pet Backpack Carrier at Amazon$55Jump to ReviewBest for Small Dogs:Kurgo Nomad Carrier Backpack at Amazon$100Jump to ReviewBest for Medium Dogs:K9 Sport Sack Plus 2 Dog Carrier at Amazon$95Jump to ReviewBest Design:Apollo Walker Pet Carrier Backpack at Amazon$40Jump to ReviewBest for Hiking:Kurgo G-Train Dog Carrier Backpack at Amazon$145Jump to ReviewBest Sling:SALEYUDODO Reflective Pet Sling Carrier at Amazon$24$19Jump to ReviewBest Splurge:Love Thy Beast Black Nylon Canvas Backpack at Lovethybeast.comJump to ReviewBest Airline-Approved Pet Carrier:Love Thy Beast Nylon Pet Travel Carrier at Lovethybeast.comJump to ReviewBest Dog Crate:Petmate Aspen Pet Porter Dog Kennel at Amazon$105Jump to ReviewBest Pet Camera:SALEFurbo 360 Dog Camera at Amazon$99$64Jump to Review

Best for Tiny Dogs:JESPET Pet Backpack Carrier at Amazon$55Jump to Review

Best for Tiny Dogs:JESPET Pet Backpack Carrier at Amazon$55

Best for Tiny Dogs:

Best for Small Dogs:Kurgo Nomad Carrier Backpack at Amazon$100Jump to Review

Best for Small Dogs:Kurgo Nomad Carrier Backpack at Amazon$100

Best for Small Dogs:

Best for Medium Dogs:K9 Sport Sack Plus 2 Dog Carrier at Amazon$95Jump to Review

Best for Medium Dogs:K9 Sport Sack Plus 2 Dog Carrier at Amazon$95

Best for Medium Dogs:

Best Design:Apollo Walker Pet Carrier Backpack at Amazon$40Jump to Review

Best Design:Apollo Walker Pet Carrier Backpack at Amazon$40

Best Design:

Best for Hiking:Kurgo G-Train Dog Carrier Backpack at Amazon$145Jump to Review

Best for Hiking:Kurgo G-Train Dog Carrier Backpack at Amazon$145

Best for Hiking:

Best Sling:SALEYUDODO Reflective Pet Sling Carrier at Amazon$24$19Jump to Review

Best Sling:SALEYUDODO Reflective Pet Sling Carrier at Amazon$24$19

Best Sling:

SALE

Best Splurge:Love Thy Beast Black Nylon Canvas Backpack at Lovethybeast.comJump to Review

Best Splurge:Love Thy Beast Black Nylon Canvas Backpack at Lovethybeast.com

Best Splurge:

Best Airline-Approved Pet Carrier:Love Thy Beast Nylon Pet Travel Carrier at Lovethybeast.comJump to Review

Best Airline-Approved Pet Carrier:Love Thy Beast Nylon Pet Travel Carrier at Lovethybeast.com

Best Airline-Approved Pet Carrier:

Best Dog Crate:Petmate Aspen Pet Porter Dog Kennel at Amazon$105Jump to Review

Best Dog Crate:Petmate Aspen Pet Porter Dog Kennel at Amazon$105

Best Dog Crate:

Best Pet Camera:SALEFurbo 360 Dog Camera at Amazon$99$64Jump to Review

Best Pet Camera:SALEFurbo 360 Dog Camera at Amazon$99$64

Best Pet Camera:

Best for Tiny DogsJESPET Pet Backpack CarrierPHOTO: Amazon$55$50 at AmazonOur RatingsPerformance5/5Quality5/5Value5/5Comfort5/5Star QualitiesDoubles as a regular carrier when laid on its sideExtra pockets for easily accessible treatsAdjustable, padded straps for comfortable wearRed FlagsA bit cumbersome to carryWe loved the JESPET & GOOPAWS Pet Backpack for tiny dogs (we think it’s best for pooches weighing under 10 pounds). Made of scratch-resistant fabric with mesh panels and a fleece-lined inner pad, this backpack is comfortable to wear and cozy for your pup to sit in. This dog backpack carrier features a thick plastic mat (with a removable, machine-washable cover) in the bottom, so it maintains its shape beneath your pet’s weight.One of this dog backpack carrier’s highlights is that it doubles as a travel crate. When upright, the backpack is spacious enough for small dogs to sit comfortably; when laid on its side, they can lie down. While this makes it a bit more cumbersome to carry, it’s worth it for this feature. It also has three zipper openings: a main top opening and two mesh window openings. The backpack has pockets on each side to store poop bags, treats, or anything you’d like on hand. It also has a waist strap to ensure it remains sturdy on your back. When the plastic bottom liner is removed, the backpack can fold flat for easy storage.Size:13 x 12 x 17 inches |Material:Scratch-resistant material (not specified) and fleece|Colors:3PHOTO: People / Nicole AndersonPHOTO: People / Nicole Anderson

Best for Tiny DogsJESPET Pet Backpack CarrierPHOTO: Amazon$55$50 at AmazonOur RatingsPerformance5/5Quality5/5Value5/5Comfort5/5

Best for Tiny DogsJESPET Pet Backpack Carrier

Best for Tiny Dogs

JESPET Pet Backpack Carrier

PHOTO: Amazon

$55$50 at Amazon

Our RatingsPerformance5/5Quality5/5Value5/5Comfort5/5

Our Ratings

Performance

5/5

Quality

Value

Comfort

Star QualitiesDoubles as a regular carrier when laid on its sideExtra pockets for easily accessible treatsAdjustable, padded straps for comfortable wearRed FlagsA bit cumbersome to carry

Star QualitiesDoubles as a regular carrier when laid on its sideExtra pockets for easily accessible treatsAdjustable, padded straps for comfortable wear

Doubles as a regular carrier when laid on its side

Extra pockets for easily accessible treats

Adjustable, padded straps for comfortable wear

Red FlagsA bit cumbersome to carry

A bit cumbersome to carry

We loved the JESPET & GOOPAWS Pet Backpack for tiny dogs (we think it’s best for pooches weighing under 10 pounds). Made of scratch-resistant fabric with mesh panels and a fleece-lined inner pad, this backpack is comfortable to wear and cozy for your pup to sit in. This dog backpack carrier features a thick plastic mat (with a removable, machine-washable cover) in the bottom, so it maintains its shape beneath your pet’s weight.

One of this dog backpack carrier’s highlights is that it doubles as a travel crate. When upright, the backpack is spacious enough for small dogs to sit comfortably; when laid on its side, they can lie down. While this makes it a bit more cumbersome to carry, it’s worth it for this feature. It also has three zipper openings: a main top opening and two mesh window openings. The backpack has pockets on each side to store poop bags, treats, or anything you’d like on hand. It also has a waist strap to ensure it remains sturdy on your back. When the plastic bottom liner is removed, the backpack can fold flat for easy storage.

Size:13 x 12 x 17 inches |Material:Scratch-resistant material (not specified) and fleece|Colors:3

PHOTO: People / Nicole AndersonPHOTO: People / Nicole Anderson

Best for Small DogsKurgo Nomad Carrier BackpackPHOTO: Amazon$100$90 at AmazonView on Kurgo.comOur RatingsPerformance4.5/5Quality4.5/5Value5/5Comfort4.5/5Star QualitiesCan be worn as a backpack or used as a handheld carrierHas extra storage for personal itemsFeatures an interior safety tetherRed FlagsStraps are on the thinner sideWhile many dog backpack carriers look a bit dated (read: unstylish), the Kurgo Nomad Backpack has a squared silhouette similar to a Fjällräven backpack, complete with a zippered front compartment, two side pockets, and reinforced top handles, so you can carry the bag as easily on your back as you can in the crook of your arm. What makes the silhouette especially dog-friendly is the interior tether clip and large vented panels on either side to ensure ample airflow. Additionally, the bottom of the backpack has a thick, waterproof base lined with a removable, machine-washable pad to ensure longevity, stability, and mess-free wear.Something that sets this backpack apart is its wearer-friendly design. Unlike many dog backpack carriers (and carriers in general), this one has plenty of space for storing wallets, keys, phones, and more. There’s even an interior padded tablet sleeve (though, if your pup’s a chewer, you may not want to use it).Size:11.25 x 7.5 x 15 inches |Material:Nylon|Colors:2

Best for Small DogsKurgo Nomad Carrier BackpackPHOTO: Amazon$100$90 at AmazonView on Kurgo.comOur RatingsPerformance4.5/5Quality4.5/5Value5/5Comfort4.5/5

Best for Small DogsKurgo Nomad Carrier Backpack

Best for Small Dogs

Kurgo Nomad Carrier Backpack

$100$90 at AmazonView on Kurgo.com

Our RatingsPerformance4.5/5Quality4.5/5Value5/5Comfort4.5/5

4.5/5

Star QualitiesCan be worn as a backpack or used as a handheld carrierHas extra storage for personal itemsFeatures an interior safety tetherRed FlagsStraps are on the thinner side

Star QualitiesCan be worn as a backpack or used as a handheld carrierHas extra storage for personal itemsFeatures an interior safety tether

Can be worn as a backpack or used as a handheld carrier

Has extra storage for personal items

Features an interior safety tether

Red FlagsStraps are on the thinner side

Straps are on the thinner side

While many dog backpack carriers look a bit dated (read: unstylish), the Kurgo Nomad Backpack has a squared silhouette similar to a Fjällräven backpack, complete with a zippered front compartment, two side pockets, and reinforced top handles, so you can carry the bag as easily on your back as you can in the crook of your arm. What makes the silhouette especially dog-friendly is the interior tether clip and large vented panels on either side to ensure ample airflow. Additionally, the bottom of the backpack has a thick, waterproof base lined with a removable, machine-washable pad to ensure longevity, stability, and mess-free wear.

Something that sets this backpack apart is its wearer-friendly design. Unlike many dog backpack carriers (and carriers in general), this one has plenty of space for storing wallets, keys, phones, and more. There’s even an interior padded tablet sleeve (though, if your pup’s a chewer, you may not want to use it).

Size:11.25 x 7.5 x 15 inches |Material:Nylon|Colors:2

Best for Medium DogsK9 Sport Sack Plus 2 Dog CarrierPHOTO: Amazon$95 at Amazon$100 at WalmartView on K9sportsack.comOur RatingsPerformance5/5Comfort5/5Quality5/5Value3.5/5Star QualitiesDesigned to let dogs ride piggybackMade with durable, high-quality materialsHas a removable compartmentOur anxious dog remained calm when carried in this bagRed FlagsNot all pups will tolerate the armhole designThe K9 Sport Sack Air is a great option for those who enjoy hiking or bike riding. Designed with armholes, the top-rated backpack lets dogs ride piggyback, facing forward, while on the go. Once your pup is strapped in, you can clip on the removable backpack compartment to store water, treats, toys, and more. It also features adjustable padded straps and a padded back for comfortable wear.Since it requires your dog’s front legs to be stuck through the back of the pack, and it’s meant to be tightened around their body for support, it may feel too constricting for some (even though it’s specifically designed to not feel that way). That said, one of our testers found that her anxious, older dog with joint issues had no problem with the carrier. It was a bit of a struggle to get him inside, but once inside, he fit comfortably and remained calm while in transit. This carrier is pricey, but we found that its impressive storage and adjustable design make it well worth it.Size:9 x 8 x 15 inches (XS); 10 x 8 x 17 inches (S); 11 x 9 x 19 inches (M); 12 x 10 x 22 inches (L) |Material:Polyester and nylon|Colors:3

Best for Medium DogsK9 Sport Sack Plus 2 Dog CarrierPHOTO: Amazon$95 at Amazon$100 at WalmartView on K9sportsack.comOur RatingsPerformance5/5Comfort5/5Quality5/5Value3.5/5

Best for Medium DogsK9 Sport Sack Plus 2 Dog Carrier

Best for Medium Dogs

K9 Sport Sack Plus 2 Dog Carrier

$95 at Amazon$100 at WalmartView on K9sportsack.com

Our RatingsPerformance5/5Comfort5/5Quality5/5Value3.5/5

3.5/5

Star QualitiesDesigned to let dogs ride piggybackMade with durable, high-quality materialsHas a removable compartmentOur anxious dog remained calm when carried in this bagRed FlagsNot all pups will tolerate the armhole design

Star QualitiesDesigned to let dogs ride piggybackMade with durable, high-quality materialsHas a removable compartmentOur anxious dog remained calm when carried in this bag

Designed to let dogs ride piggyback

Made with durable, high-quality materials

Has a removable compartment

Our anxious dog remained calm when carried in this bag

Red FlagsNot all pups will tolerate the armhole design

Not all pups will tolerate the armhole design

The K9 Sport Sack Air is a great option for those who enjoy hiking or bike riding. Designed with armholes, the top-rated backpack lets dogs ride piggyback, facing forward, while on the go. Once your pup is strapped in, you can clip on the removable backpack compartment to store water, treats, toys, and more. It also features adjustable padded straps and a padded back for comfortable wear.

Since it requires your dog’s front legs to be stuck through the back of the pack, and it’s meant to be tightened around their body for support, it may feel too constricting for some (even though it’s specifically designed to not feel that way). That said, one of our testers found that her anxious, older dog with joint issues had no problem with the carrier. It was a bit of a struggle to get him inside, but once inside, he fit comfortably and remained calm while in transit. This carrier is pricey, but we found that its impressive storage and adjustable design make it well worth it.

Size:9 x 8 x 15 inches (XS); 10 x 8 x 17 inches (S); 11 x 9 x 19 inches (M); 12 x 10 x 22 inches (L) |Material:Polyester and nylon|Colors:3

Best DesignApollo Walker Pet Carrier BackpackPHOTO: Amazon$40 at AmazonOur RatingsPerformance5/5Quality5/5Value5/5Comfort5/5Star QualitiesOne of the least expensive dog backpacks we testedThere’s an expandable optionFolds flat for easy storageRed FlagsDoesn’t have additional pockets for storageWith 5-star ratings across the board, the Apollo Walker Pet Carrier Backpack is among the top four that we tested — and it has an affordable price. Perfect for running errands, this dog backpack carrier features a spacious, squared-off silhouette accented with four wide mesh panels that can be zipped open or closed. Where the panels on the sides of the backpack only open from the top down, two front panels zip open individually. This design allows pets to easily look out whether they’re sitting or lying down in the backpack.While so many openings might seem like cause for concern, this pack is equipped with a connected safety tether. From a wearer’s perspective, the pack features thick padded straps, chest and waist belts, and a padded back for a stable design. And since it folds down flat, it won’t take up much storage space.Size:12.6 x 11.4 x 16.8 inches |Material:Polycast|Colors:7PHOTO: People / Valerie de LeonPHOTO: People / Valerie de Leon

Best DesignApollo Walker Pet Carrier BackpackPHOTO: Amazon$40 at AmazonOur RatingsPerformance5/5Quality5/5Value5/5Comfort5/5

Best DesignApollo Walker Pet Carrier Backpack

Best Design

Apollo Walker Pet Carrier Backpack

$40 at Amazon

Star QualitiesOne of the least expensive dog backpacks we testedThere’s an expandable optionFolds flat for easy storageRed FlagsDoesn’t have additional pockets for storage

Star QualitiesOne of the least expensive dog backpacks we testedThere’s an expandable optionFolds flat for easy storage

One of the least expensive dog backpacks we tested

There’s an expandable option

Folds flat for easy storage

Red FlagsDoesn’t have additional pockets for storage

Doesn’t have additional pockets for storage

With 5-star ratings across the board, the Apollo Walker Pet Carrier Backpack is among the top four that we tested — and it has an affordable price. Perfect for running errands, this dog backpack carrier features a spacious, squared-off silhouette accented with four wide mesh panels that can be zipped open or closed. Where the panels on the sides of the backpack only open from the top down, two front panels zip open individually. This design allows pets to easily look out whether they’re sitting or lying down in the backpack.

While so many openings might seem like cause for concern, this pack is equipped with a connected safety tether. From a wearer’s perspective, the pack features thick padded straps, chest and waist belts, and a padded back for a stable design. And since it folds down flat, it won’t take up much storage space.

Size:12.6 x 11.4 x 16.8 inches |Material:Polycast|Colors:7

PHOTO: People / Valerie de LeonPHOTO: People / Valerie de Leon

Best for HikingKurgo G-Train Dog Carrier BackpackPHOTO: Amazon$145 at Amazon$145 at ChewyView on PETCOOur RatingsPerformance4.5/5Quality5/5Value4/5Comfort4/5

Best for HikingKurgo G-Train Dog Carrier Backpack

Best for Hiking

Kurgo G-Train Dog Carrier Backpack

$145 at Amazon$145 at ChewyView on PETCO

Our RatingsPerformance4.5/5Quality5/5Value4/5Comfort4/5

4/5

Star QualitiesDoubles as a standard carrierFeatures a mesh window for your dog’s viewing pleasurePlenty of added space for pet and human belongingsRed FlagsPricier than other picksWaist straps may not hit comfortably depending on your height

Star QualitiesDoubles as a standard carrierFeatures a mesh window for your dog’s viewing pleasurePlenty of added space for pet and human belongings

Doubles as a standard carrier

Features a mesh window for your dog’s viewing pleasure

Plenty of added space for pet and human belongings

Red FlagsPricier than other picksWaist straps may not hit comfortably depending on your height

Pricier than other picks

Waist straps may not hit comfortably depending on your height

The Kurgo G-Train Dog Carrier Backpack is a fan-favorite pick that performed especially well in our tests. Designed to look like a traditional hiking backpack, this carrier features thick padded straps; a padded back; hip and sternum straps for added balance and security; a reinforced, waterproof bottom; and two stretchy mesh water bottle pockets. It even has a padded laptop sleeve.

Size:13 x 10 x 21 inches |Material:Polyester|Colors:4

PHOTO: People / Charles UsherPHOTO: People / Charles Usher

Best SlingYUDODO Reflective Pet Sling CarrierPHOTO: Amazon$24$19 at AmazonOur RatingsPerformance5/5Quality5/5Value5/5Comfort5/5Star QualitiesCan be worn on the front of your bodyClose proximity may calm pupMade with breathable meshRed FlagsOnly works for dogs weighing 14 pounds or lessOnly has a phone pocketThe YUDODO Reflective Pet Dog Sling Carrier lets you carry your pup hands-free (as long as your dog weighs less than 14 pounds). The 5-star-rated, messenger-style pack is designed to be worn across the front of your body to let your pup nestle on your stomach/chest. The close contact might just keep them calmer on the go, as most dogs find heartbeats to be soothing.While this sling is fully enclosed with just your pup’s head poking out, it’s made of sturdy yet well-ventilated breathable mesh. Additionally, thanks to its design, your pup will be able to comfortably lie down. Keep in mind, though, that it only has a slip phone pocket and since it places most of the weight on one shoulder, you may feel your pup’s weight faster than with a classic backpack. Still, the direct eye on your little one makes it a must-have in our book.Size:15 x 3.9  x 7.8 inches (L) |Material:PU leather and mesh|Colors:13PHOTO: People / Shannon AmannPHOTO: People / Shannon Amann

Best SlingYUDODO Reflective Pet Sling CarrierPHOTO: Amazon$24$19 at AmazonOur RatingsPerformance5/5Quality5/5Value5/5Comfort5/5

Best SlingYUDODO Reflective Pet Sling Carrier

Best Sling

YUDODO Reflective Pet Sling Carrier

$24$19 at Amazon

Star QualitiesCan be worn on the front of your bodyClose proximity may calm pupMade with breathable meshRed FlagsOnly works for dogs weighing 14 pounds or lessOnly has a phone pocket

Star QualitiesCan be worn on the front of your bodyClose proximity may calm pupMade with breathable mesh

Can be worn on the front of your body

Close proximity may calm pup

Made with breathable mesh

Red FlagsOnly works for dogs weighing 14 pounds or lessOnly has a phone pocket

Only works for dogs weighing 14 pounds or less

Only has a phone pocket

The YUDODO Reflective Pet Dog Sling Carrier lets you carry your pup hands-free (as long as your dog weighs less than 14 pounds). The 5-star-rated, messenger-style pack is designed to be worn across the front of your body to let your pup nestle on your stomach/chest. The close contact might just keep them calmer on the go, as most dogs find heartbeats to be soothing.

While this sling is fully enclosed with just your pup’s head poking out, it’s made of sturdy yet well-ventilated breathable mesh. Additionally, thanks to its design, your pup will be able to comfortably lie down. Keep in mind, though, that it only has a slip phone pocket and since it places most of the weight on one shoulder, you may feel your pup’s weight faster than with a classic backpack. Still, the direct eye on your little one makes it a must-have in our book.

Size:15 x 3.9  x 7.8 inches (L) |Material:PU leather and mesh|Colors:13

PHOTO: People / Shannon AmannPHOTO: People / Shannon Amann

Best SplurgeLove Thy Beast Black Nylon Canvas BackpackPHOTO: Love Thy BeastView on Lovethybeast.comOur RatingsPerformance2/5Quality4/5Value3/5Comfort4/5Star QualitiesEquipped with an interior security leashFront pocket storage, plus carabiner loopsHas a sleek silhouetteRed FlagsNot super spaciousIf style is of the utmost importance to you, the Love Thy Beast Nylon Canvas Backpack Carrier, which is intended for pups up to 25 pounds, is worth considering. With a business-casual design that looks a lot like a traditional work backpack, the carrier is much sleeker than your average dog carrier. It has a large front zip pocket and side slip pockets, but the rest of the pack is dedicated to the pup. However, the front of the bag is totally opaque, so they’ll only be able to see out the sides.This high-quality, comfortable bag has a padded nylon back and plush adjustable straps. One of our editors has this bag and loves it. (She puts a blanket in the bottom and lets her Chihuahua snuggle up in it.) Only you can decide if it’s worth the splurge, though.Size:18 x 14 x 6 inches |Material:Nylon canvas|Colors:1

Best SplurgeLove Thy Beast Black Nylon Canvas BackpackPHOTO: Love Thy BeastView on Lovethybeast.comOur RatingsPerformance2/5Quality4/5Value3/5Comfort4/5

Best SplurgeLove Thy Beast Black Nylon Canvas Backpack

Best Splurge

Love Thy Beast Black Nylon Canvas Backpack

PHOTO: Love Thy Beast

View on Lovethybeast.com

Our RatingsPerformance2/5Quality4/5Value3/5Comfort4/5

2/5

3/5

Star QualitiesEquipped with an interior security leashFront pocket storage, plus carabiner loopsHas a sleek silhouetteRed FlagsNot super spacious

Star QualitiesEquipped with an interior security leashFront pocket storage, plus carabiner loopsHas a sleek silhouette

Equipped with an interior security leash

Front pocket storage, plus carabiner loops

Has a sleek silhouette

Red FlagsNot super spacious

Not super spacious

If style is of the utmost importance to you, the Love Thy Beast Nylon Canvas Backpack Carrier, which is intended for pups up to 25 pounds, is worth considering. With a business-casual design that looks a lot like a traditional work backpack, the carrier is much sleeker than your average dog carrier. It has a large front zip pocket and side slip pockets, but the rest of the pack is dedicated to the pup. However, the front of the bag is totally opaque, so they’ll only be able to see out the sides.

This high-quality, comfortable bag has a padded nylon back and plush adjustable straps. One of our editors has this bag and loves it. (She puts a blanket in the bottom and lets her Chihuahua snuggle up in it.) Only you can decide if it’s worth the splurge, though.

Size:18 x 14 x 6 inches |Material:Nylon canvas|Colors:1

While you’re shopping for dog backpack carriers, consider adding the following PEOPLE-Tested favorites to your cart. We’ve dubbed them winners for their respective pet care categories, so we feel confident you’ll love them.

Love Thy Beast Nylon Pet Travel CarrierView on Lovethybeast.comPetmate Aspen Pet Porter Dog Kennel$105 at AmazonView on Cabelas.comView on Petmate.comFurbo 360 Dog Camera$99$64 at AmazonView on Furbo.comWisdom Panel Essential Dog DNA Test$105$85 at Amazon$100 at ChewyView on Wisdompanel.com

Love Thy Beast Nylon Pet Travel CarrierView on Lovethybeast.com

Love Thy Beast Nylon Pet Travel Carrier

Petmate Aspen Pet Porter Dog Kennel$105 at AmazonView on Cabelas.comView on Petmate.com

Petmate Aspen Pet Porter Dog Kennel

$105 at AmazonView on Cabelas.comView on Petmate.com

Furbo 360 Dog Camera$99$64 at AmazonView on Furbo.com

Furbo 360 Dog Camera

$99$64 at AmazonView on Furbo.com

Wisdom Panel Essential Dog DNA Test$105$85 at Amazon$100 at ChewyView on Wisdompanel.com

Wisdom Panel Essential Dog DNA Test

$105$85 at Amazon$100 at ChewyView on Wisdompanel.com

What to Know About Dog Backpack Carriers

Size and Weight Capacity

When shopping for a dog backpack carrier, it’s important to consider several factors to ensure the safety and comfort of your dog, says veterinary technician Taylor Wilkinson, operations coordinator for The Vets.

“Choose a carrier that fits your dog’s size and weight and is sturdy enough to support their weight,” Wilkinson says. When considering the different dog backpack carrier sizes, think about how your pet likes to travel. Do they prefer to sit up or lie down? Knowing this can help you pick the ideal design. From there, make sure the size is appropriate (your pup should always be comfortable) and check to make sure your dog is well within the weight limits.

Comfort and Ventilation

“Look for a carrier that is well-padded and has good ventilation to keep your dog comfortable and cool,” Wilkinson says. This is especially important since dogs don’t sweat. Prioritizing air flow will ensure your pup isn’t panting like crazy within its pack. TheApollo Walker Carrierhas ample ventilation in the front, top, and sides of the carrier, as well as roll-down features.

Security

Since most dog backpack carriers are worn on the back, Wilkinson emphasizes the importance of security straps and closures. Many dogs know how to use their nose to wiggle a zipper open, while some are even willing to jump out altogether. By tethering them in place and opting for a pack with reinforced zippers, you’ll be able to prevent potential accidents or escapes. Several of our picks, including our choice for small dogs, theKurgo Nomad Carrier Backpack, have an interior safety tether.

Straps for yourself can also be helpful. Depending on the size of your dog, you may want chest and waist straps to help stabilize your pet’s weight on your back. This will help minimize strain on your shoulders and the chance of toppling backward with them in tow. TheKurgo G-Train Dog Carrier Backpackhas padded back, hip, and sternum straps for added balance and security,

At the end of three weeks, we rated each dog backpack on overall performance, comfort, quality, and value. In doing so, we narrowed it down to the best dog backpack carriers of 2024.

Frequently Asked QuestionsYes. “Dog backpack carriers can be safe if used properly and if the carrier is of good quality and the appropriate size for the dog,” Wilkinson says. “However, it’s important to note that not all dogs are comfortable being carried in backpack carriers, and some may become stressed or anxious.“It depends on your dog’s size, energy, and anxiety levels, as well as the ventilation of the carrier itself. “In general, it’s recommended to limit the time a dog spends in a backpack carrier to 30 minutes to an hour at a time, with breaks in between,” Wilkinson says. “It’s important to monitor your dog’s behavior and signs of distress or discomfort, such as panting or trying to escape, and remove the backpack if necessary. It’s also important to avoid leaving your dog unattended in the carrier for extended periods, especially in hot or cold weather.“It’s subjective. “Not all dogs like being in a backpack carrier, as it can be a new and unfamiliar experience for them,” Wilkinson says. “Some dogs may feel stressed, anxious, or uncomfortable being confined in a carrier, while others may feel more secure and enjoy the close physical contact with their owner.” To help your dog become more comfortable with their carrier, try treating them every time they go near it, offering more treats when they step inside. Doing so will help them associate the backpack with a rewarding experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. “Dog backpack carriers can be safe if used properly and if the carrier is of good quality and the appropriate size for the dog,” Wilkinson says. “However, it’s important to note that not all dogs are comfortable being carried in backpack carriers, and some may become stressed or anxious.”

It depends on your dog’s size, energy, and anxiety levels, as well as the ventilation of the carrier itself. “In general, it’s recommended to limit the time a dog spends in a backpack carrier to 30 minutes to an hour at a time, with breaks in between,” Wilkinson says. “It’s important to monitor your dog’s behavior and signs of distress or discomfort, such as panting or trying to escape, and remove the backpack if necessary. It’s also important to avoid leaving your dog unattended in the carrier for extended periods, especially in hot or cold weather.”

It’s subjective. “Not all dogs like being in a backpack carrier, as it can be a new and unfamiliar experience for them,” Wilkinson says. “Some dogs may feel stressed, anxious, or uncomfortable being confined in a carrier, while others may feel more secure and enjoy the close physical contact with their owner.” To help your dog become more comfortable with their carrier, try treating them every time they go near it, offering more treats when they step inside. Doing so will help them associate the backpack with a rewarding experience.

Rebecca Norrisis a writer, specializing in the beauty and lifestyle space. She is a George Mason University graduate, earning a B.A. in media: production, consumption, and critique, along with a minor in electronic journalism. For this article, she consulted our in-depth testing insights where we evaluated each bag on its overall performance, comfort, quality, and value while using the backpack carriers for three weeks. Norris also spoke with veterinary technician Taylor Wilkinson, operations coordinator for The Vets, to find out what to look for in an ideal dog backpack carrier.

Our Expert PanelTaylor Wilkinsonis a veterinary technician and the operations coordinator for The Vets, a stress-free way to book vet appointments

Our Expert Panel

Taylor Wilkinsonis a veterinary technician and the operations coordinator for The Vets, a stress-free way to book vet appointments

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