Dog backpacks

Dog backpack: carry your dog without holding a bag at arm's length

The dog backpack solves a problem every small-dog owner knows: after ten minutes, a bag carried in your hand or on one shoulder becomes a chore. On your back, the load is spread across both shoulders, your hands stay free for a handrail or keys, and your dog stays close to you — which calms it more than you might think.

It is the most versatile format for the city, public transport and trips to the vet. It has a clear limit, and we would rather say so straight away: beyond about ten kilos, it is no longer the right choice.

Choosing by your dog's weight

• Up to 5 kg — chihuahua, yorkshire, puppy: light and compact models, carrying is never a problem. See small dog carriers
• Up to 10 kg — the most requested format and the upper limit for comfortable carrying. Padded shoulder straps and a chest strap become essential. See 10 kg dog backpacks
• From 15 to 20 kg — carrying is no longer sensible over time: a reinforced structure and, above all, wheels. See large dog transport

The stated load tells you what the seams can hold, not whether your dog fits inside. Measure from the muzzle to the base of the tail, compare with the inside dimensions and leave some room. Your dog must be able to stand up, turn around and lie down. Between two sizes, take the larger one.

Carrying: what changes everything beyond ten minutes

A 4 kg bag can be carried without a second thought. At 9 kg, it is a different story: the weight pulls backwards, shifts with every move the dog makes, and the journey feels long.

Two things fix most of it. Wide, padded shoulder straps that do not dig into the shoulder. And above all a chest strap, which pulls the load against your back instead of letting it swing backwards. Without one, a bulky bag sits far from the body and tires you quickly.

Many of our models are 2-in-1: worn on the back, or pulled on wheels when the ground allows. It is the best compromise from 8 kg upwards — you carry on the stairs, you roll on the pavement.

Window, mesh or solid fabric?

A clear window gives an open view: a dog that can see what is going on and can see you relaxes faster than one shut in the dark. Breathable mesh ventilates better and weighs less, which matters in summer. The best of both worlds is a model that combines them — a window on one side, mesh on the others, and an opaque wall where the dog can turn away when it has had enough.

One point not to overlook: a plastic dome lets the sun in and traps the air. In hot weather, look for shade, avoid long journeys and choose a very well ventilated model.

What to check before ordering

• The inside dimensions compared with your dog's length, before anything else.
• Ventilation on several sides, not just a window at the front.
• A firm base: on a soft base, the dog slides around and stays tense the whole journey.
• An inner leash to clip the harness to. Dogs escape when the bag is opened, never during the journey.
• A chest strap from 6 to 7 kg.
• A wide opening, ideally from the top: you lower the dog in, you do not push it.

By use

Hiking — ventilated back, stabilising straps, long-lasting comfort. Our hiking guide

Cabin flights — the bag must fit under the seat in front of you, within the dimensions set by your airline. See cabin formats

Car — a backpack is not made for this: in the car you need a model secured by the seat belt or wedged on the floor. See car carriers

Short trips — for the local vet, a shoulder bag or a front carrier is more than enough. See shoulder bags & satchels and front carriers & pet slings.

And if a backpack does not suit your dog's size, the whole range is in dog carriers.

Our advice

• Dog backpack: how to choose the right one?
• Which carrier size should you choose?
• Dog carrier: bag, backpack or crate?
• 10 kg dog backpack: how to choose well
• Front carrier for dogs: the right choice for small breeds

Frequently asked questions

Is a backpack comfortable for a dog?

Yes, as long as it is the right size and well ventilated: the dog must be able to turn around and air must circulate on several sides. Get your dog used to it gradually, a few minutes at home first.

Up to what weight can you carry a dog in a backpack?

Carrying on your back stays comfortable up to about 10 kg depending on your build. Beyond that, choose a reinforced or wheeled model.

Do you need a chest strap?

From 6 to 7 kg, yes. It pulls the weight against your back instead of letting it drag backwards, and completely changes comfort on a long journey.

How do I get my dog used to the backpack?

Leave it open at home for several days with a blanket that smells of home. When your dog goes in on its own, close it for a few seconds, then gradually longer. Never force it.