Backpacks for your dogs
Something truly magical happens when I bring out my dog’s backpack. His eyes are big and bright; there’s a dance, a bounce, he spins in circles, has a very animated tail, and follows up with a sit.
“Yes, yes…put it on!”
He would put it on himself if he were able.
Is it the backpack itself that has him in such a state of joy, or the anticipation of what the pack represents? A walk in the woods!
I’ve seen the same happy dance with my friend’s dogs and dogs at trailhead parking lots. It’s incredible to me that a dog could be so excited and agreeable to wearing something entirely unnatural for their species.
Halo wears his pack, perhaps, 50% of the time, and still happily complies with the contraption. Why? Do dogs understand that they are carrying their shared the supplies? Do they want to be just like their human companions -all geared up? Are dogs just so fantastic that they’ll do whatever we ask of them?
Halo has several packs in various sizes and carrying capacity. He hasn’t complained about any one of them.
The Kurgo being the most used, primarily because the smaller size doesn’t trap as much body heat. It fits a water bottle on each side with room for a few snacks. It’s the summertime half day pack. It’s small size, however, requires that I carry extra water for him, but it’s worth it to prevent overheating my furry snowdog.
His first backpack was an Outward hound pack that I got from Amazon primarily for the inexpensive price. It works great in colder weather and has considerably more room. It has stood the test of time and still in good condition after three seasons of use. Outward Hound Kyjen Dog Daypack Adjustable Light Weight Medium Red
Ruffwear – Palisades Multi-Day Backcountry Pack for Dogs, Red Currant, Medium
The Ruffwear is probably the best quality and the most comfortable for Halo in colder weather. My good friend, with a lab-mix, uses it year round. I highly recommend this backpack.
There are a lot of options for backpacks for our canine companions. One will surely fit you and your dog’s needs as well as your budget.
There are other benefits of your dog wearing a pack.
-You are carrying less weight.
-Your dog is burning more energy carrying a backpack. Owners of high energy dogs can appreciate that this is a blessing.
-For Halo…a tired husky is a happy husky. For us…a pleasantly quiet house for the evening.
A word of caution, however, it’s important to understand the ability and health of your dog.
-Is he fit and able to carry the added weight?
-Dogs carrying a backpack will require more water and burn more calories than without a pack. You’ll need to accommodate the extra supply.
-Climate and terrain should be taken into consideration as well. We’ve been on trails with a pretty steep incline, and I have decided to take Halo’s pack off for the descent off the mountain to avoid too much forward weight. If I question it being too warm for Halo, I skip the backpack altogether.
-Keep the pack light for puppies and young dogs while their joints are still developing.
-You know the drill…talk with your veterinarian about any concerns you may have.
I introduced the first backpack to Halo by showing it to him, then treating. I had him try it on and gave him treats. I let him wear it around the house for a bit, praising and treating. Went for a walk with it empty then gradually added more weight to the pack over the next few hikes. In a very short time, he was a pro.
Hmm….. a positive introduction, praise and treats…maybe that’s why he loves his backpack.
All of Halo’s backpacks have links to Amazon. I purchased all of them from Amazon myself, and yes, I am an affiliate and will earn a couple of bucks if you order through the link, about the price of a cup of coffee. I love coffee!
Do a little research and find the right pack for you and your dog.
Happy hiking! 🐾
