Being able to bring your dog everywhere with you is the best feeling as a proud dog owner. You want your dog to enjoy as many outdoor activities as possible with you. With that being said, it can sometimes be a challenge to bring your dog with you on a bike ride or a long hike. This is especially true for small dogs who might not be physically able for a long hike.
That is where dog carrier backpacks for small dogs come in.
Dog carrier backpacks allow your dog to sit into them comfortably while you carry them on your back, or front depending on the type of carrier you are using. The added advantage of having a smaller dog means that you can easily carry them on your back without much difficulty.
These excellent backpacks allow you to keep your small dog someplace safe while you bike or hike or even when during air travel. Dog carrier backpacks ensure your dog is kept in a cool dry space. They also allow your dog to take breaks during a long hike.
The great features of dog carrier backpacks for small dogs allow you to bring your doggy companion with you wherever you go without the stress or worry that your dog might become overtired or unsafe.
With all of that being said, I’m excited to share with you this review of the 10 best dog carrier backpacks for small dogs. There will also be some FAQs at the end of the article for you to read.
Table of Contents
Best Overall
1 Kurgo G-Train Dog Carrier Backpack
The Kurgo G-Train Dog Carrier Backpack is the best overall dog carrier backpack for small dogs. It offers the best quality for a whole host of different scenarios including hiking, biking, and air travel.
The Kurgo is suitable for dogs that weigh up to 25lbs which is perfect for small dog owners as it will allow for plenty of space for your dog to be comfortable in.
This backpack features a light-weight sporty design with a carrying handle that allows it to transform from a backpack into a traditional carrier. This is great flexibility that allows you to use the backpack as you need to.
As well as this, the backpack is made from breathable material that is water and stain-resistant. What’s more, it can easily be wiped clean. This is excellent to know after you have been on a long hike and the bag has become muddy or wet.
Also worth noting is that this backpack is TSA airline approved, which means you can even bring it with you when you and your dog are traveling via air.
Finally, the Kurgo G-Train dog carrier backpack comes with a lifetime warranty so you know you are getting a backpack that will be long-lasting and durable.
Best Budget
2 Pawaboo Pet Carrier Backpack
The best budget dog carrier backpack comes in at under $25 and is the Pawaboo Pet Carrier Backpack.
This backpack is great value for money as it can be worn in a number of different ways. This makes it super flexible for any scenario you might have from a long hike to a camping trip.
The legs out design and hook and loop closure allows you to easily fit your dog into which makes getting your dog in and out of it a breeze. This combined with a thick layer of inner sponge and breathable mesh fabric also makes it comfortable for your dog to sit into.
The wide, adjustable, and padded shoulder straps allow you to comfortably carry your dog on your back or front while you are walking around.
The Pawaboo backpack is recommended for use for small dogs up to 15lbs. This is perfect for small dog owners including for a Bichon Frise.
There are also several unique colors to choose from. This allows you to express your own, or your dog’s style.
Best Under $50
3 PetAmi Deluxe Pet Carrier Backpack
The PetAmi Deluxe Pet Carrier Backpack is my pick for the best dog carrier backpack under $50.
It is suitable for dogs and cats up to 18lbs which is great for small dog owners as well as those of you with a dog and a cat. This allows you to buy a carrier backpack for multiple different scenarios.
The PetAmi Pet carrier features 2 sided zipper openings to easily get your dog in and out. Additionally, it has a front mesh opening that allows your dog to see out so they don’t get bored or anxious.
The inside of the pet carrier features a structured frame which is reinforced to ensure it doesn’t collapse when in use. The inside also has a sherpa-lined bedding and plenty of space which allows for a comfortable experience for your dog.
The shoulder straps of the PetAmi Deluxe Pet Carrier Backpack have extra padding to ensure your comfort while carrying it. What’s more, the backpack is equipped with waist and chest straps for extra support and security when being used.
Finally, this carrier backpack is available in several different colors to ensure you have a unique backpack.
Best Front-Facing Dog Carrier
4 Alfie Pet – Amos Pet Front Sling Carrier
The Amos Pet Front Sling Carrier from Alfie is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a dog carrier with style as well as comfort.
This carrier can be worn on your front or your shoulder as a sling which allows for added flexibility.
The wide shoulder straps are padded which allows for maximum comfort when carrying the carrier with your dog inside.
It is suitable for puppies and small dogs up to 15lbs which is excellent for dogs like the Bichon Frise.
What’s great about this pet carrier is that it features an additional 5 pockets which allows you to store a whole host of items to make life easier when transporting your dog around.
The carrier’s design also includes an inner hook that you can connect to a harness for example. This gives you added security and prevents your dog from escaping.
The Amos Pet Front Sling Carrier features a very fashionable design which makes it a great choice for bringing your dog with you everywhere you go.
Best Dog Backpack Carrier With Wheels
5 Pet Gear I-GO2 Roller Backpack
An excellent dog backpack carrier that features wheels is the Pet Gear I-GO2 Roller Backpack. Not many other dog backpack carriers have wheels so this is an excellent choice for a ton of different scenarios.
The wheels and the telescoping handle allows you to transform the carrier for whatever purpose you need. From a backpack to a roller bag to a car seat.
The Medium Escort sized version of this backpack can carry small dogs up to 15lbs. There are larger options available but this size is well suited to a small dog like a Bichon Frise.
It is a well-ventilated carrier with a fleece-lined interior which allows for a comfortable experience for your dog. Additionally, it has an internal tether for added security to prevent your dog from jumping out and escaping.
The adjustable straps on the Pet Gear I-GO2 Roller Backpack allow for comfort for you over long periods and the carrier also comes with an additional pocket for you to store things like some dog treats or a collapsible water bowl for example.
Best Dog Sling Carrier
6 YUDODO Pet Dog Sling Carrier
A dog sling carrier is different from a traditional dog backpack carrier and is worth considering as an option for a dog carrier. My top pick for a dog sling carrier is the YUDODO Pet Dog Sling Carrier.
This carrier is available in 3 different sizes and the large size is suitable for dogs up to 14lbs which is just right for a small dog like a Bichon Frise.
With that said, it’s a good idea to measure and weigh your dog to ensure they’ll fit comfortably.
The advantage of a sling carrier is it is useful for short commutes to and from a friend’s house or something similar. The design of the YUDODO pet carrier in particular is super stylish and available in several colors.
It is made from leather and mesh material making it breathable and comfortable for both the owner and the dog. What’s more, the adjustable shoulder straps make it suitable for a small to a tall person without difficulty.
Also featured on the YUDODO Pet Dog Sling Carrier is a mesh pocket which is great for storing your phone or some dog treats.
Best Legs Out Dog Backpack Carrier
7 Henkelion Dog Carrier Backpack
My pick for the best legs out dog backpack carrier is the Henkelion Dog Carrier Backpack. The legs out design is a variation on the traditional dog carrier backpack that some dogs may find more comfortable.
This carrier can be worn on the front or the back making it extremely versatile for any situation from cycling to walking.
It is suitable for dogs up to 15lbs. This should be able to accommodate a small dog like a Bichon Frise. It’s important to measure and weigh your dog first to ensure you buy the correct size carrier.
The backpack is made from polyester fabric and a breathable mesh that is light, durable, and waterproof. This also ensures that both you and your dog are comfortable when using the backpack.
The adjustable straps on the Henkelion Dog Carrier Backpack allows you to configure the backpack to suit your body allowing for maximum comfort when carrying your dog around.
Best For Biking
8 K9 Sport Sack
The K9 Sport Sack is a great dog backpack carrier for when you are biking with your dog. Its compact and secure design ensures your dog will stay comfortably in place while you are cycling.
It features secure and adjustable shoulder straps that allow for maximum comfort for you and your dog.
It also has as an inner hook that you can attach your dog’s harness to. This will ensure your dog stays safe and secure when inside and can’t hop out.
The K9 Sport Sack is made from durable and well-ventilated material which means your dog won’t overheat on longer trips.
Best For Hiking
9 Mogoko Comfortable Dog Cat Carrier Backpack
The best dog carrier backpack for hiking is the Mogoko Comfortable Dog Cat Carrier Backpack.
It is available in 3 different sizes, the largest size can fit a dog up to 15lbs in weight. This is perfectly suitable for a small dog like a Bichon Frise. This is providing you have weighed and measured your dog beforehand to make sure they will fit comfortably inside the carrier.
This carrier features an adorable peephole for your dog to look out from when you are hiking. This has the added benefit of ensuring your dog is well ventilated and won’t overheat on hot days.
The backpack is made from polyester fiber and a breathable mesh that is perfect for ventilation and comfort for both you and your dog.
The Mogoko backpack also has adjustable and padded shoulder straps which allows you to fit the backpack comfortably to your body. The addition of a waist strap reduces the pressure on your shoulders making this even more comfortable to wear on hikes.
Inside of the backpack, there is a hook that you can attach to your dog’s harness making it extra secure for your dog.
The carrier also has mesh pockets which are great for storing water and food for your dog that is needed during a hike.
Best For Air Travel
10 Morpilot Dog Backpack Carrier
The best dog backpack carrier for air travel is the Morpilot Dog Backpack Carrier. This backpack is airline approved and its design ensures it offers your dog the most comfort on their trip.
The long size of the carrier combined with the removable furry mat ensures your small dog can curl up comfortably and have a nap during a flight.
This carrier is recommended for dogs and cats up to 15lbs. This works well for small dogs like a Bichon Frise or similar.
With that said, it’s always a good idea to measure and weigh your dog to ensure they will fit comfortably in the carrier.
The carrier is made from durable polyester and features breathable mesh which ensures your dog will be kept cool.
The furry mat inside of the carrier can easily be removed and easily cleaned for repeated use.
Also included with this backpack carrier is a collapsible dog bowl which is ideal to have so you can give your dog water whenever they need it.
The carrier features a number of straps and handles allowing you to carry it in several different configurations from carrying by hand to carrying over your shoulder.
How To Find The Perfect Dog Backpack Carrier
Being able to find the most suitable dog backpack carrier for your needs is something that requires a good amount of thought. With that being said, here are some things to consider to find the perfect carrier for you and your dog.
- Weight Limit – It’s important to note the maximum weight a dog backpack carrier can support as well as your dog’s weight to ensure your dog will be safe.
- Dog Size – The size of your dog as well as the dimensions of the dog carrier are also important to ensure your dog can fit into the carrier comfortably.
- Function – What you will be using the dog carrier for is another important point to consider. Most backpacks can be used for a range of functions like hiking or camping so it’s important to determine this before buying a dog backpack carrier.
- Features – The features included on the carrier are important to review. Things to look out for include adjustable shoulder straps, breathable materials, waterproof materials, and maybe even the color options. It depends on your requirements.
When To Use A Dog Backpack Carrier?
You might be wondering when and where you can use a dog backpack carrier. They seem like an excellent idea but you want to ensure you’ll get the most use out of it in every appropriate situation.
With that in mind here are some great examples of when to use a dog backpack carrier:
- Hiking – The most common example of when to use a dog backpack carrier is certainly on a long hike.
- Biking – Another great reason to make use of a carrier is when you’re biking.
- Camping – Camping is a great example of an activity where you can use a dog backpack carrier.
- Air Travel – Dog backpack carriers are a great place to put your dog when you’re traveling by air.
- General Travel – Dog backpack carriers make a great alternative to a traditional dog crate for short trips.
- With an older dog – If you have an older dog that maybe can’t walk as much as they used to, a carrier can be a great way to bring them with you anyway.
- In crowded spaces – If your dog becomes anxious or nervous in large or crowded spaces, a carrier is an excellent solution to this problem.
FAQs
How long can my dog spend in a carrier backpack?
Can my dog fit in a carrier backpack?
All dog carrier backpacks will detail the measurements of the backpack and the maximum weight they can carry so it’s important to learn this before you buy your backpack.
Recommended Accessories
Guardians Collapsible Dog Bowls
lesotc Pet Water Bottle for Dogs
Pogi’s Grooming Wipes
Conclusion
You’ve made it to the end of this article! Thank you for reading to the end.
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