What Is the Best Dog Backpack Carrier for Hiking?
Table of Contents
- Dog Backpack Carrier Rating Table
- 1. K9 Sport Sack Trainer Dog Backpack
- 2. K9 Sport Sack Air 2 Dog Backpack
- 3. K9 Sport Sack Plus 2 Dog Backpack
- 4. K9 Sport Sack Knavigate Dog Backpack
- 5. K9 Sport Sack Rover 2 Dog Backpack
- What Is the Best Pet Carrier Backpack for Hiking?
- K9 Sport Sack Air 2 Dog Backpack Features
- K9 Sport Sack Air Plus 2 Dog Backpack Features
- K9 Sport Sack Knavigate Dog Backpack Features
- K9 Sport Sack Rover 2 Dog Backpack Features
- Are Dog Backpacks Comfortable for Dogs?
- What Is the Best Puppy Carrier Backpack?
- How to Choose the Best Dog Carrier Backpack
- Why Would You Choose the K9 Air 2 Dog Backpack?
- Why Would You Choose the K9 Air 2 Plus Dog Backpack?
- Why Would You Choose the K9 Knavigate Dog Backpack?
- Why Would You Choose the K9 Rover 2 Dog Backpack?
- The Overall Dog Backpack Winner
- Is the K9 Sport Sack Bad for Dogs?
- Dog Carrier Backpacks
If you are planning for a dog walk or hike and you need a dog backpack carrier, you may have noticed there's so much choice when it comes to searching for the perfect dog carrier backpack. If this sounds like you, this dog backpack comparison guide will help you choose one that fits your needs by reviewing 5 of the best dog carriers from K9 Sports Sack - The premium backpacks for dogs!
Unfortunately, it's hard to choose which dog backpack is right for you. Many of you have asked what the best dog backpack carrier for hiking is, and whilst we can review all of the different dog backpacks from Amazon and other places, it would be pointless.
There is currently just one market leader for the best dog backpack range from a specialist in America, where their sole objective has been to craft the ultimate dog carriers for walking. The K9 Sports Sack is the best overall backpack for dogs. K9 Sport Sack.
When you ask, "what is the best dog backpack carrier" it depends on you and your dog's requirements. However, we take the question seriously, knowing that only the best will do for your furry family member. With that in mind, the K9 Sport Sack is the only brand we have personally had success with; therefore, I will review and break down the best dog backpack carriers for hiking from K9 Sport Sack.
When it comes to the best dog backpack carriers, you will need premium quality that won't let you or your dog down. So, we have listed the best dog backpack carriers below.
We have pulled together a table of the top pet carrier backpacks for you to carry your dog when hiking, travelling, walking, biking or even ultramarathoning. These are the ultimate backpacks that will ensure that you can go with your pet wherever you go!
Dog Backpack Carrier Rating Table
Below is a table of the best dog backpack carriers and then we have a full explanation of the pros and cons of each below.
K9 Bag | PROS | CONS | Rating |
---|---|---|---|
Trainer | Affordable, easy to use and entry level | Mainly useful for smaller dogs and shorter walks. | **** (5 stars) |
Urban 2 | Best for those who love fashionable backpacks for city urban life. | It is made for short city strolls rather than long hikes. | **** (5 stars) |
Air 2 | Lightweight & great for small dogs. | No padded back panel, no mid section support. | *** (3 stars) |
Plus 2 | Extra detachable bag, padded back panel | No lap belt, no internal frame | **** (4 stars) |
Knavigate | Waist straps, lap belt, padded back panel storage compartment lumbar support straps. | No dog hood | ***** (5 stars) |
Rover 2 | Best for larger dogs, Adjustable, lap belt, detachable hood, lumbar straps, ripstop material | Over-engineered for a casual hiker, can be heavy | **** (5 stars) |
Keep reading to find out our opinions and breakdown on each of these outstanding pet backpack carriers to help you make the right choice.
1. K9 Sport Sack Trainer Dog Backpack
The K9 Trainer is an affordable, easy to use, entry-level pet carrier backpack. Available in sizes XS-L, it is ideal for smaller breeds, dogs still growing, training, and learning to socialise.
Available in various bright colour options, the K9 Trainer should be used for short, non-strenuous activities like short walks, hikes, public transportation, and other similar activities.
This carrier fits most comfortably on dog owners with a slight build. To give you an idea, our French Bulldog is not a big boy at 13kg, and we would say he is too big for this bag. I would probably opt for the Plus 2 if 13kg or bigger.
2. K9 Sport Sack Air 2 Dog Backpack
This pet carrier backpack is a K9 sport sack which is a breathable smaller bag perfect for smaller dogs.
This K9 Sport Sack Air 2 is capable of carrying smaller dogs weighing up to 13kg (30 lbs). It is lightweight and great as a starter backpack for roaming the streets and going on walks with your small dog. There are side pockets to keep your mobile phone in and some dog treats.
If you are on a budget and you are not planning on long hikes and tough adventures then this work be more than capable of carrying your dog around.
3. K9 Sport Sack Plus 2 Dog Backpack
This pet carrier backpack is a K9 sport sack with an additional detachable pouch which is perfect for carrying additional pet adventure accessories.
4. K9 Sport Sack Knavigate Dog Backpack
A K9 sport sack for a more intense adventure with extra support wrapped around your midsection to reduce the load on your shoulders as well as having additional storage.
5. K9 Sport Sack Rover 2 Dog Backpack
K9 Sport Sack Rover 2 Dog Backpack
The K9 sport sack which is only for the big dogs with all of the bells and whistles.
This pet carrier backpack will convert into a standard hikers backpack if you take your dog out and it can be used to carry up to 60 litres of outdoor gear. it has an adjustable range on the shoulder/torso height with a removable lap belt with hip pockets and a waste bag dispenser. It even comes with a a detachable hood for being out in the hot sun or pouring rain.
The Rover 2 can carry a whopping 36kg (80 lbs)! If you are someone who seeks serious adventure and your dog joins you and you need a dog carrier backpack with all the bells and whistles then you won't go far wrong with this bag. You will pay a premium price but you will get one serious, long lasting, premium dog carrier. This truly is the cream of the crop.
What Is the Best Pet Carrier Backpack for Hiking?
For us to know which is the best dog carrier for hiking, we need to understand the different key features on each of the dog carrier backpacks and how they help us when we go hiking. Here is a breakdown of the best features of the dog hiking backpack carriers.
K9 Sport Sack Air 2 Dog Backpack Features
The best features about the K9 Sport Sack Air 2 is that it's lightweight and the most affordable backpack in the range. A great starting point for hiking with smaller dogs.
Lightweight | Minimum extra features and lightweight for a small dog. |
Affordable | The price can be as low as £59.99 |
K9 Sport Sack Air Plus 2 Dog Backpack Features
The best features about the K9 Sport Sack Air 2 Plus is that it's still a lightweight bag but it has extra storage for accessories such as your phone and dog treats. It also accepts a water bladder to stay hydrated if you like to bike with a dog backpack on.
Full Mesh Side Ventilations | Will keep your dog cool on hikes, great for summer days. |
Water bladder compatible | If you love cycling then this backpack allows you to stay hydrated during exercise whilst carrying your dog. |
Extra Pouch | Extra detachable bag for carrying more items. |
K9 Sport Sack Knavigate Dog Backpack Features
The best features about the K9 Sport Sack Knavigate is that it's internal frame means it is built for a sturdy dog adventure. The lap belt distributes the weight across your body making it a great all rounder for those who need an every day backpack which can be used as an exceptional hiking bag too.
Lap Belt | Take the strain away from your shoulders and spread the wait |
Internal Frame | This ensures the backpack is incredibly rigid for adventures. |
K9 Sport Sack Rover 2 Dog Backpack Features
The best features about the K9 Sport Sack Rover 2 include the weight it can carry, the extra features such as the detachable rain hood and other bells and whistles. This is the ultimate backpack for those who want it all.
80 lbs (36kg) | Can carry heavy dogs and is made for the ultimate adventure |
Detachable rain hood | Perfect for all weather conditions |
All Features Included | Has all the features of the other backpacks |
Are Dog Backpacks Comfortable for Dogs?
The K9 dog carrier backpacks are comfortable so long as your dog sits down in the bag and you are careful when placing them in the bag. Using treats and positive reinforcement along with 30 to 45 minute sessions with breaks to stretch their legs will create a comfortable, positive experience for your dogs.
What Is the Best Puppy Carrier Backpack?
The best puppy carrier backpack will depend on the puppy breed. A small puppy such as a French Bulldog or Pomeranian will require a puppy backpack such as the K9 Air 2 whereas a larger puppy such as a Labrador or Boxer will be better off in a bigger backpack such as the K9 sport sack 2 Plus or the K9 Sport Sack Knavigate.
You also need to consider that your puppy will grow rather quick. The best option here is to go for a slightly larger backpack and then order some K9 booster blocks. These will boost your puppy up in the bag just like booster seats are used for children in the back of the car. Once your puppy gets bigger, you can start removing the booster blocks and the bag will continue to fit your dog.
How to Choose the Best Dog Carrier Backpack
Choosing the best pet carrier backpack starts with you. Understanding what features you need, what kind of hikes you will go on and what weather you will need to deal with will all help you to make the right choice. The K9 range are all premium dog carrier backpacks and many many purchases and reviews have shown how happy everyone is with their K9 purchase.
Why Would You Choose the K9 Air 2 Dog Backpack?
Travelling around urban areas and hopping on and off trains with a smaller dog then you need a backpack which can do the fundamentals and suits a smaller dog.
Why Would You Choose the K9 Air 2 Plus Dog Backpack?
Travelling around with your dog and need to mix it up a little with countryside walks and the odd long hike then you are going to need some accessories with you. You will need storage for this, so the K9 Sport sack plus 2 is a better choice with its storage compartment.
Why Would You Choose the K9 Knavigate Dog Backpack?
If you plan on some hiking and trekking which takes a bit more effort, you need something more sturdy with good wide, comfortable shoulder straps with areas for packing away other goods, a bag made for adventure that is made for the true outdoor experience then you want the K9 Knavigate.
Why Would You Choose the K9 Rover 2 Dog Backpack?
If you are an elite runner, an ultra-marathon runner or just truly adventurous and love to have all the gizmos which will handle all environments, such as camping out and days of adventure or you just have a very big dog which you need to be able to carry, then the Rover 2 should be your choice of dog rucksack. It really is number one if you need a big dog carrier backpack for your dog.
The Overall Dog Backpack Winner
The K9 Sport Sack Knavigate is the overall winner for best dog carrier backpack. It sits firmly in the middle of the backpacks and holds great features without being too over-engineered such as the Rover 2, which is a fantastic backpack but is not for everyone. All of the backpacks are great choices and the best backpack is the one that best fits your adventures.
Is the K9 Sport Sack Bad for Dogs?
The whole purpose of the K9 sport sack is that it's designed for dogs to be transported in comfort and safety. The k9 sport sack dog carrier bag is not bad for dogs as long as it has the right features and luckily for us they have been designed with these features in mind.
Would you like to know how great the experience can be when hiking together in a K9 backpack? See below.
Looking for Dog Backpack Carriers?
Dog Carrier Backpacks
Happy Travfurling!