You have probably seen a dog backpack carrier in a local park or perhaps at a pet store. They look a lot like the backpacks that students wear on their back to school. But instead of books, they hold your dog!

Why Do I Need a Dog Backpack Carrier?

Three words: convenience, safety and fun! Let’s take a look at each in more detail:

• Convenience: A backpack carrier for dogs allows you to do the activities you love such as biking, jogging and hiking while taking your dog along for the ride. There are also airline approved dog carriers that allow you to travel with your dog. A side benefit of all this is that you form a stronger bond with your dog by including him in your activities.
• Safety: Smaller dogs may have difficulty keeping pace with you on physical activities, and it’s tough to keep up with them if you’re active. That’s where backpack dog carriers come in handy. Since you’ve got them strapped on, you don’t have to worry about stepping on them, running over them, or them getting into fights with other dogs.
• Fun: You know how much dogs love to ride in cars right? Imagine how much fun they will have zooming along with you on a run or bike ride! They also love the thrill of going to new places, so with a carrier, they can explore different places along with you.

Considerations For Buying a Dog Backpack Carrier

Other than the quality of the carrier’s workmanship, the most important factor to look at is the size. You want to make sure your dog has room to maneuver. They aren’t comfortable if they feel squashed into the bag, and if they are not comfortable, you’ve defeated the purpose of getting a dog carrier. At the same time, you want the backpack to be secure, which is another reason why the size of the carrier is such an important consideration.

Another consideration is the material. Some packs are thinner, while others are thicker and more rugged. The rugged ones cost more, but will more likely last longer and stand up to the rigors of your activities as well as time. If you are just wanting to take your dog on leisurely walks, a less expensive brand or thinner variety may be perfect for you.

My Experience With a Backpack Carrier For Dogs

My dog was a bit leery of the carrier at first, but she got over it relatively quickly. It was much like leash training—it seems pretty scary to the dog at first, but once they realize a leash equals fun time out of the house or yard with their owner, they are more than happy to have it on. Same with the carrier—once my dog realized what fun was associated with the carrier, she couldn’t wait to get in and see where it took her!

The bottom line, you owe it to yourself and your pet to look into getting a dog backpack carrier for convenience, safety and fun!

© 2011, Basset Hound Answers. All rights reserved.