Dogs carry their own supplies with a dog backpack.

 
A dog backpack is ideal for the backcountry hiking dog.  The dog backpack is designed to be supportive for your canine friend while allowing enough room for storage.  Your canine friend can carry the weight of the backpack combined with the supplies yet it should not exceed 25% to 30% of the total weight of your dog.  Since dogs come in different shapes and sizes so do the dog backpacks.  Keep in mind the following when shopping for a dog backpack:

• The backpack should be selected based on the size and weight of your dog
• The backpack should rest on the back and carry over the shoulders and front of the dog as well.   The weight should be placed mostly on the dog’s shoulders not its back.
• Saddle bag designs distributes the weight more evenly
• The backpack should offer padding for back support for the dog
• Buy a backpack that’s bright in color or features reflectors so that your dog is visible in the wilderness
• Consider the size of “saddle bags” when purchasing dog backpack.  There needs to be room for a collapsible water bowl/food bowl, dog food and water, a leash and clean up bags. Approach Dog Backpack II (M and L) (Fall 07)   is featured on the left.  It's affordable yet only supportive for short day hikes  and for dogs weighing up to 50  lbs.
• Determine what length of backcountry trips you’ll be doing.  The length will determine which type of backpack to purchase for your dog.

Hot Tip:  When spending time in the backcountry secure dog food in a vacuum sealed bag to lessen the scent for wildlife before storing it in the dog backpack.

 
Fitting your dog with the backpack requires using the two finger rule.  Once the backpack is secure on your dog, insert two fingers between the fur and the strap.  If it’s snug with the two fingers test than it’s secure and will not be too tight for your dog. Great for distance day hikes and backpacking trips is the  Palisades Dog Backpack II (Medium) which is featured above right.

Warm your dog up to the notion of the backpack by introducing your dog to it.  Let your dog roam around the house with the backpack on, before bringing your dog into the backcountry.  Start with the saddlebags being empty and slowly fill the bags so that your dog will be “trained” and familiar with the dog backpack when he/she hits the trails.

Take your canine friend into the backcountry and have them carry their own supplies with the supportive, fillable dog backpack.  It will lighten your load. Remember, choosing the right backpack is not only essential for you but also for your dog.

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