Leaving your dog behind when you go hiking can be a sad and traumatic experience. Dogs love being with their owners, and what could be better than some quality time in the great outdoors?

For that reason, we present you with the best hiking backpacks for dogs. As you will soon learn, these bags are a necessity, not a luxury. They are convenient and functional, and yet they look fantastic. So, stay with us to learn more about daypacks for dogs. Also, we’ll give you a quick tour and explain the prominent features of the top-rated models.

Why Should You Buy A Dog Backpack In the First Place?

First of all, these backpacks come with plenty of storage space. Thus, you can fill the saddlebags with dog food, treats, or toys. Water bottles can also fit in most bags, but you can also put your phone or other gear into one of these backpacks. The possibilities are almost endless, as long as you don’t exceed the weight limit. Depending on the fitness of the dog, the load should never weigh more than 20-25% of the dog’s weight.   

So, daypacks for dogs could allow you to enjoy nature hands-free. On top of that, these backpacks will often transform your laidback doggo into a full-blown working machine. Our furry friends love to feel useful, and one such bag will provide them with a sense of importance. Of course, the weight will also enhance the dog’s fitness as you spend more and more time in the great outdoors.

OneTigris Happy Camper 2.0

Dogs and military go together like milk and cookies, and our first model features a vintage military-looking design. The classic shape of the iconic OneTigris Happy Camper 2.0 is one of the most prominent characteristics of this dog backpack. However, there’s more where that came from, and we are going to explore all of those details.

OneTigris Dog BackPack Hound Travel Camping Hiking Backpack Saddle Bag Rucksack for Medium & Large Dog

For example, this hiking backpack is ergonomic and comfortable because it comes with a padded mesh underside. The high-density cotton canvas is sturdy and resilient. At the same time, the mesh on the bottom area will provide plenty of ventilation and breathability. OneTigris Happy Camper 2.0 comes equipped with two adjustable straps. One strap goes underneath the dog’s chest while the other one connects to the front.

Two old-fashioned saddlebags are semi-open, but they also come with rugged dual-way zippers. These pockets are multifunctional, and they will allow you to take your pup on a camping trip or a backpacking adventure. Plus, this backpack comes equipped with two D-ring attachments for the leash. Of course, these stainless steel rings are rock solid.

Bum’s Pack Dog Backpack

The next entry on our list of the best dog backpacks could provide your canine with plenty of protection and comfort. Why do we say this? Well, the eye-catching Bum’s Pack Dog Backpack can serve as a life jacket as well. The secret lies in the float coat that provides extra buoyancy to this model. So, if the dog falls in a river or a lake, you will have nothing to worry about. On top of that, reflector strips can increase visibility during nighttime. As such, these luminous patches boost the points for the safety of this hiking daypack.

Bum's Pack Dog Backpack

Suitable for medium or large-sized dogs, Bum’s Pack backpack is a cool-looking model that combines durability with style. For instance, this daypack comes equipped with oversized pouches that provide lots of storage space.  Plus, Bum’s Pack also features a bottle holder, and you will even receive a drink bottle as a bonus.

The heavy-duty 1000D nylon is water-resistant and easy to clean. Adjustable straps are there to keep the backpack in place at all times. The sturdy D-ring will let you connect the leash and wander through the woods without any fears or concerns.

Kaynine Dog Pack

Unlike the other models on this list, the Kaynine Dog Pack does not feature saddlebag-style design. Instead, this item looks like a classic school bag. In other words, the Kaynine Dog Pack does not come with two pouches that hang on the sides of the dog’s body. When it comes to this hiking backpack, the bag sits on the dog’s backs.

The Kaynine Dog Pack comes in three sizes and three colors. But no matter which option you choose, the sturdy bag will keep its shape no matter how active your pup will be. The ballistic nylon is as tough as they get, but this daypack also comes with a breathable underside. In essence, the Kaynine backpack has one primary compartment and one medium front pocket. Plus, this hiking bag features a side pocket, which can serve as a poop-bag dispenser.

Quick-release buckles will allow you to attach the harness without any hassle. Likewise, the Kaynine Dog Pack comes equipped with YKK zippers as well as a heavy-duty metal ring. This U-shaped piece will let you attach the leash and control your dog’s movements. But even if the pup wanders off, reflective straps will help you find your four-legged friends even in low light.

Mountainsmith K-9 Dog Backpack

Without a doubt, Mountainsmith is one of the leaders in the market when it comes to backpacks and harnesses for dogs. After all, this American brand has been a part of the industry ever since 1979. Of course, Mountainsmith has a full line of products for an outdoor adventure. Yet, we will focus on their best-selling model, the top-rated Mountainsmith K-9 Backpack.

In terms of build quality, this model is in a league of its own. Stylish and functional, the K-9 backpack is also durable and sturdy. Aside from the rip-stop nylon, this dog bag also includes perforated EVA foam for improved comfort. Two zipped pannier-pockets will hang from the sides of the dog’s body, and you can attach the position of these compartments.

Adjustable straps are also available on the chest and the back of the dog. Also, this harness comes with a belly strap that will keep the backpack in place at all times. The non-slip buckle system is as safe as they get. On the top of the harness, you will find a D-ring attachment point as well as a comfortable carry handle. Of course, the Mountainsmith K-9 Backpack is water-resistant and lightweight.

Outward Hound Dog Pack

The final entry on our list of the best hiking backpacks for dogs comes from Outward Hound. This renowned brand is also one of the heavy-hitters in the industry. So, it’s not surprising to see the Outward Hound Hiking Hero among the elite backpacks. Available in three sizes and two color options, this dog bag is stylish as well as rugged.

Adjustable straps will provide the perfect fit, but they will also allow for a full range of motion. So, your furry friend will not feel any discomfort while wearing the Hiking Hero. On top of that, the breathable mesh will offer excellent airflow and ventilation. The Outward Hound Hiking Hero also comes equipped with four expandable pockets. These saddlebags are convenient and easy to use.

The reflective piping will enhance the visibility, and the same goes for the available colors of this backpack. For instance, the neon green color scheme is perfect for backpacking and camping trips. All in all, Outward Hound Hiking Hero will let your dog share the load and carry the gear with ease. In the meantime, you will be able to focus on the fun. It’s a win/wins situation.