Best Dog Carrier Review – Top Rated Models with Buying Guide
Transporting your beloved pooch is not an easy task as it can cause additional stress and health problems and getting the best dog carrier is what’s needed. It is highly important to find an appropriate product for your pet’s age, size, breed, and personality. So, if you’re looking for the right carrier, we took the liberty to check out some products and give you more information about them. One particular item that we liked was the Ytonet Comfort Backpack Bag for Small Dogs as it is designed to hold pets up to 18 pounds. It is made of eco-friendly polyester to provide increased durability against external factors and scratching. It also provides easy access for your pet and excellent air ventilation and visibility so that it can enjoy a comfortable trip. If this dog carrier is not available for sale right away, a good alternative would be the Kurgo K9 Ruck Sack.
Comparison table
The product is designed to offer increased comfort and enough space for pets up to 18 pounds. It is equipped with a firmly reinforced structure and is made of eco-friendly materials that are durable against scratching. It features back padded straps for comfort. The bottom and sides of this carrier are quite difficult to wash, while the zippers could use reinforcement so that they don’t open too easily. Whether you’re going camping or to see the vet, this carrier is a convenient and safe means of transportation for all pooches under 18 pounds. It’s all your dog needs to see the world without tiring its legs. This item is designed for small animals up to 25 pounds. It is made with a waterproof bottom to prevent leakage. The fabric is resistant against stains and easy to clean. The product offers plenty of room to store your pet’s essentials, including food, leash, and accessories. The bag is bulky but doesn’t provide enough room for pets over 17 pounds to stretch their paws. If your dog weighs more, you may need a sturdier backpack or carrier. Do you and your beloved pet enjoy traveling on long distances? Invest in this carrier and you can safely take your dog with you on any kind of adventure, even if it requires traveling by plane. Available in stylish color choices, the Kurgo pet backpack is the ultimate carrier. It comes with enough pockets to store all your pet’s essentials. It even has an interior zipper pocket to safely carry your laptop or tablet with you so you won’t need an additional bag when traveling. We don’t recommend keeping the mesh part open too much if your pet is not fully trained as it may jump out. Moreover, the product doesn’t seem sturdy enough to carry heavy pets. Equipped with numerous storage pockets and available in multiple colors, this backpack is a great choice for pet enthusiasts who want to bring their pooch with them everywhere they go.
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Also To Consider
10 Best Dog Carriers (Updated Reviews) in 2023
Finding the best dog backpack is not an easy task, especially with so many options available on the market. And, while we couldn’t get through all dog carrier reviews, we did select some items that might be worthy of your interest. Showcased below you’ll find everything you need to know about them.
- 1. Ytonet Comfort Backpack Bag for Small Dogs
- 2. Kurgo K9 Ruck Sack
- 3. Kurgo Small K9 Ruck Sack
- 4. Proplums Multifunction Pet Sport Sack
- 5. PetAmi Deluxe Pet Carrier
- 6. Pawaboo Pet Backpack Travel Bag
- 7. PetAmi Premium Pet Carrier Backpack
- 8. K9 Sport Sack Adjustable Pack
- 9. Tomkas Small Outdoor Travel Dog Carrier
- 10. Uheng Airline-Approved Cushion Back Pet Carrier
- Our Comprehensive Buying Guide
- Frequently Asked Questions
1. Ytonet Comfort Backpack Bag for Small Dogs
This item is a great choice for all those looking to take their pets on a small adventure. Equipped with a firmly reinforced structure, this product will keep your pet safely inside, allowing you to focus on your trip.
Unlike other dog backpacks, the new Ytonet is specifically designed for your pet’s comfort. It provides two large compartments for easy access inside and outside the carrier so that your pet can always take its head outside and enjoy the fresh air. The large mesh zippered pocket provides both visibility and increased air ventilation.
We also liked the big number of additional pockets this carrier offers, enough to store all your pet’s essentials for the ride – leash, food, toys, and other accessories. And, as opposed to other products that need to be carried in your hand, this backpack comes with adjustable and extra padded shoulder straps to provide increased comfort when carrying your pooch.
The product is made of sturdy and reinforced materials that won’t break or scratch easily, even when your pet is anxious to get out and see the world.
It comes with various pockets for storing all your dog’s essentials, including leash, food, grooming accessories, snacks, toys, water, and others.
The comfortable soft pad at the bottom is perfect for when your pet wants to rest but it is also removable and washable for easy cleaning.
The backpack features adjustable shoulder straps with thick padding to provide a comfortable ride and prevent back pains and aches.
Not all pets might appreciate what this small dog carrier backpack has to offer. The item isn’t sturdy enough and doesn’t come with padding to protect the spine.
The mesh inserts are too small and may not provide enough visibility for your pet.
2. Kurgo K9 Ruck Sack
This product is available in four different colors and designs and it is specifically made for pets up to 25 pounds. This dog backpack for hiking is made of sturdy and reliable materials that won’t break or scratch easily. In addition, the weatherproof coating protects your pooch from severe winds or rainfalls, keeping it dry and warm throughout the trip.
This item is TSA approved and features a machine-washable interior pad that allows you to always keep it clean and smelling fresh.
The ventilated, padded design ensures increased levels of comfort for you and your pet. We also liked the fact that the backpack comes with plenty of storage space so you can keep all your dog’s essentials, including food and water bowls, toys, snacks, treats, grooming products, leash, and others.
The top and front grab handles, combined with the adjustable, padded straps provide easy carrying and transportation without causing back or neck pains.
The carrier is specifically designed to hold pets up to 25 pounds, making it an excellent choice for small dog breeds that are looking for an adventure.
The item is made of sturdy, reliable, and lightweight fabrics that won’t break or scratch easily. The water-resistant fabric top comes with a waterproof armor-sole bottom to prevent leaks and keep your dog dry throughout the trip.
The breathable mesh side and top ensure proper air circulation and increased visibility so that your pooch can see what’s going on outside at all times.
This affordable dog backpack is also equipped with a padded laptop or tablet compartment, and a few zippered pockets of various dimensions to store all the essentials.
The carrier is too bulky and doesn’t provide enough room inside for dogs over 15 pounds. Although it is designed for pups up to 25 pounds, a larger animal won’t have enough space to rest or stretch its paws inside.
3. Kurgo Small K9 Ruck Sack
If you’re looking for a functional and fashionable dog carrier, this product from Kurgo might prove an interesting solution. It is designed for dogs and cats up to 25 pounds and is made of sturdy materials that will last you many years and trips from now on.
The waterproof yet breathable backpack also comes with a removable interior pad that is machine washable. The mesh padded back provides improved comfort and lets your skin breathe properly so you won’t sweat.
One of the things we like the most about this product is the interior zipper pocket for the laptop, meaning you don’t need to carry an additional bag with you every time you’re leaving town. There is also a back pocket suitable for your iPad, and both these pockets come with fleece lining for extra protection against shocks, moisture, and your dog’s boredom signs.
The item is available in four colors and design choices so that you can easily pick the option that best suits you and your pet’s traveling style.
There is enough room for small breed pooches to rest and stretch their paws, meaning this backpack provides an increased level of comfort for an enjoyable ride, no matter how long it is.
The backpack is made of breathable yet sturdy fabrics that ensure proper air ventilation, keeping extra moisture or water away.
The product features many pockets of different sizes, suitable for storing all your pet’s essentials, including leash, water and food bowl, snacks, treats, toys, and grooming products. There are also separate pockets for your laptop and iPad.
The product seems sturdy and reliable but not big enough for dogs over 16 pounds. We recommend measuring your pet and comparing the dimensions with the ones of this backpack so your dog won’t feel crammed when traveling inside it.
4. Proplums Multifunction Pet Sport Sack
If you’re looking for the best dog backpack carrier for hiking, this product could prove a good investment. Designed to meet the needs of small to medium-sized dogs, the multifunctional backpack will help you carry your pooch in absolute comfort and style anywhere you go.
It is made of high-quality materials that are 100% waterproof, protecting your beloved pet even when it’s rainy outside. The Duraflex UTX buckles and YKK zippers provide extra sturdiness, keeping your pet safe and secure throughout the trip.
The wide and extra padded adjustable straps ensure comfortable carrying, without causing you back or neck problems. Moreover, you can choose to wear the rucksack on your back or front, depending on your pet’s preferences.
It also features mesh panels for air ventilation and visibility, as well as numerous pockets of various sizes to store all your dog’s items – collapsible food and water bowls, snacks, treats, grooming products, medicines, leash, and others.
The item is made of waterproof nylon that will withstand low temperatures and rainy days, keeping your furry animal cool and dry throughout the day.
The rucksack carrier can be easily worn on your back or front, helping your pet enjoy a comfortable ride, enjoying the scenery and breathing fresh air all the time.
The dog backpack harness in the interior, as well as the high-quality buckles and zippers, provide extra safety and comfort, keeping your pet inside and preventing it from jumping out of the backpack and hurting itself.
The external pockets of various sizes, including the ones made of mesh ensure plenty of storage space for you and your pet’s accessories.
Keep in mind that it may not be the best option for all dog breeds. Adult corgis or other similarly-sized dogs may not have enough room to sit and relax.
5. PetAmi Deluxe Pet Carrier
Available in a dozen colors and styles, you will easily find the right choice to match your dog’s personality. The product is designed for maximum convenience and comfort and represents a great choice when you’re going camping, hiking or planning a short trip to the vet.
It is made with durable 600D high-grade polyester that won’t tear, break or scratch easily. The well-ventilated design allows enough air to come inside, keeping your pet cool and dry throughout the day.
There are two different entries, ensuring easy access inside and outside the backpack for your dog. The zip-up mesh window is large enough to allow airflow and provides increased visibility for your pet when traveling. In other words, your pooch will be able to see everything on the outside, sparking its curiosity and interest.
This backpack comes with a firmly reinforced structure to prevent collapsing while your pet is inside. Moreover, the back and shoulder straps feature extra padding for an increased level of comfort and safety both for you and the animal.
The item is made of high-quality, thick polyester that won’t scratch or tear easily, making it a great choice for all small and medium-sized animals, especially dogs and cats.
The large zip-up mesh window has a double purpose – provide maximum air circulation so your pet will stay cool and dry no matter the temperatures outside, and also ensuring maximum visibility so that it can enjoy the ride.
The backpack features external pockets of different sizes for storing all your pet’s essentials, including leash, toys, snacks, treats, and water bottle.
The back and shoulder straps come with thick padding for increased comfort during long trips, preventing back, neck, and shoulder aches.
The zippers’ quality could be improved. Also, the overall construction feels flimsy as some people mentioned, meaning you should use the backpack only on pets that are up to 10-12 pounds to avoid any unpleasant situations.
6. Pawaboo Pet Backpack Travel Bag
This hands-free animal carrier is available in four different sizes and nine colors, so picking the right model for your pet will be easy. It is recommended for small breeds of cats and dogs that don’t weigh more than 15 pounds.
The item is made from a blend of breathable mesh and polyester fibers, offering increased durability and comfort. The two mesh side panels ensure maximum air circulation, regulating the temperature and keeping your furry friend cool and dry throughout the trip.
The carrier is easy to use thanks to the legs-out and tail-out design that provides safety and comfort for your pet. All you have to do is flip it open, put your pet inside, zip-up, and adjust the Velcro closure. What we also liked about the model is that you can wear it both on the front or your back, reducing pressure on your shoulders and preventing pains in the long term.
The carrier is available in four different sizes and nine colors, making it easy to choose the right product for your pet, according to its size.
The hands-free design is convenient and, thanks to the adjustable straps with clips, you can wear the carrier both on your front or back. This allows you to reduce pressure on your shoulders and also keep your pooch close to your heart for releasing stress and anxiety during the trip.
It is made of durable and breathable fabrics and the mesh panels ensure maximum air circulation, keeping your pet dry and cool.
The hook and loop, elastic openings, and zipper help you easily fit your dog inside the carrier.
This carrier system might cause pain and even damage to your pet’s spine and legs if worn for an extended period.
There aren’t any security elements to keep the dog inside and prevent it from falling except zippers.
7. PetAmi Premium Pet Carrier Backpack
Available in seven colors, including dark gray, royal blue, red, and pink, this product is designed for small animals, being able to comfortably fit pets up to 8 pounds.
It is made of durable 600D high-grade polyester and features one large mesh top and another large mesh opening for increased air ventilation and maximum visibility. This way, your pet will keep its perfect body temperature and will also be able to enjoy the ride by seeing everything.
It comes with waist and chest buckles for extra support, while the wide, adjustable, and padded straps provide comfortable carrying.
Designed with safety in mind, this product features a strap to secure your pet and prevent escape that can cause accidents. In addition, it offers a few external pockets to store all your pet’s essentials, as well as a collapsible pet bowl to keep your furry friend hydrated at all times.
We can’t guarantee you this is the best dog backpack for hiking but it is certainly an option worth considering due to its sturdy design and durable polyester fibers that offer increased protection for your pet.
The product comes with side pockets for extra storage capacity, as well as a collapsible pet bowl so that your pet stays hydrated.
Another plus of this backpack is that it comes with waist and chest buckles for extra support and comfort.
The wide, padded, and adjustable straps will minimize shoulder and back friction and will prevent back pains.
Keep in mind that this backpack is designed for small dog breeds only, so other breeds like French Bulldogs, Beagles, and even Corgis may not have enough room to comfortably sit and stretch their paws.
The backpack may give off a chemical smell at first, which may create discomfort, especially since dogs have very sensitive noses.
8. K9 Sport Sack Adjustable Pack
Unlike many other items available for a similar price, this product from K9 Sport Sack can be purchased in no less than six sizes, ranging from Extra Small to XX-Large, suitable enough to accommodate small and medium pets. It is also available in various colors, so you can pick the one that your dog prefers the most or the one that matches its personality.
According to the manufacturer, the backpack is specifically designed to withstand pets up to 30 pounds, which means it could be a good pick for French Bulldogs, Mini Goldendoodles, Beagles, and Corgis.
The unique design of the product allows your pet to stay close to your back, reducing stress and anxiety while also offering a comfortable cushion to relax and enjoy the ride. Thus, it represents a good option for small puppies or older dogs that have mobility problems and might suffer from joint and bone pains.
This is one of the few products available in no less than six sizes, meaning there is a higher chance for you to pick the right one according to your pup’s dimensions and needs. If the pooch falls in-between sizes, it is always best to order a size bigger, to allow some room for your beloved pet to stretch its paws.
The backpack is made of sturdy and reliable materials that won’t break, stretch or scratch easily, keeping your dog protected no matter the length of the trip.
It features over five different safety features, including hook and loop, straps, buckles, and zippers to secure your pet and keep it comfortable.
There is also plenty of storage room to keep all your pet’s essentials for the ride, including a water bowl, food, snacks, treats, leash, and toys.
Unfortunately, this product is not waterproof, meaning it won’t protect your precious pup when it’s raining outside. Also, the fabric seems to bleed onto clothing when in contact with water, so you should use the carrier on sunny days only.
9. Tomkas Small Outdoor Travel Dog Carrier
Available in cool prints and bold colors, this carrier is suitable for pups and small dogs between 3 and 10 pounds. It is made of comfortable fabrics and it is 100% machine washable, meaning you can easily clean it as often as you want.
The fabric is thick enough to provide softness and enough cushioning, padding, and support so that your small bundle of joy will enjoy its ride.
It comes with a security lock and a belt that can be moved to change the size of the opening to fit various sizes of pets.
What we also liked is that the item is reversible, offering versatility and a two-way look. The carrier comes with a zipper pocket on the front side where you can carry your personal items and your pet’s accessories, including poo bags, wallet, phone, keys, and some treats for your pooch.
We recommend using the bag for short trips – walking, shopping or for a quick visit to the vet.
The reversible design provides versatility, allowing you to wear the item on both sides for an extra touch of style.
It is specifically designed for puppies and small pets up to 10 pounds, providing enough cushioning and support so that they enjoy a comfortable trip.
It comes with security elements that keep your furkid in place and prevent accidental drops that might injure it.
The carrier also features an external pocket, big enough to store your personal belongings and your pet’s treats or snacks.
The product is mainly designed for small pooches and pups that don’t exceed the weight of 10 pounds, so you should look for a sturdier carrier if your pet will grow heavier than that.
The shoulder strap is not adjustable, so we don’t recommend the item if you’re taller than 5.7 feet as it won’t feel too comfortable to wear.
10. Uheng Airline-Approved Cushion Back Pet Carrier
You can purchase this carrier in four different sizes, ranging from S to XL, suitable for pups up to 40 pounds. It is made with 600D high-grade polyester for a long-lasting experience and also comes in four different colors to choose from.
Designed with safety in mind, the backpack features a firmly reinforced structure that won’t collapse while your pet is inside. The same strong structure provides sufficient room for your beloved ball of fur to stretch its paws and move around while traveling.
Unlike other items, this dog carrier comes with a one-foot mat to keep the bag clean and absorb extra moisture. There is also plenty of storage space thanks to the side pouches, meaning you can carry your essentials and your pet’s supplies – leash, water bottle, snacks, and even a grooming brush.
The mesh inserts on the sides provide increased air ventilation, maintaining your dog’s optimal body temperature and preventing it from feeling too hot.
Finding the right backpack size for your pet won’t be hard as you can pick from four different sizes. The XL bag can hold a furry animal up to 40 pounds.
The item is made of thick and reliable fabrics and features mesh sides for increased visibility and maximum air ventilation, keeping your pooch cool and dry throughout the day.
The product is constructed to meet the requirements of most airline companies, meaning you can use the bag to carry your beloved animal inside the airplane.
It comes with external pockets that provide enough storage space for your pet’s essentials, including food, snacks, and toys.
Although marketed for all pets under 40 pounds, this backpack may not be suitable for cats.
It may be difficult for you to put the pet inside due to the base pockets that don’t allow the bottom to open up all the way.
Our Comprehensive Buying Guide
We know your dog deserves the best but this doesn’t mean that an affordable dog carrier won’t do the trick. If you pay attention to these features, you will find the best dog backpack carrier to safely and comfortably transport your pooch anywhere you want.
Size
Whether we’re talking about a small dog backpack or a large dog backpack carrier, the size must match your pet’s dimensions and still provide enough extra space for it to stretch its paws and stay comfortable throughout the trip. It is highly important to check the dimensions of the item, as well as the customers’ reviews to make sure your pooch won’t feel crowded.
Most carriers will also tell you the maximum weight supported, and it is usually between 12 and 25 pounds. However, pets that already weigh more than 18-20 pounds might find a traditional backpack too small for their needs, especially if we’re talking about a trip that lasts more than a couple of hours.
Fabrics
Even if you opt for a cheap dog carrier, the quality of the fabrics is one of the most important things you need to take into account. After all, we are talking about your pet’s safety and comfort, so consider backpacks made of sturdy, strong fabrics such as poly fibers, thick canvas, and even leather.
The product should also be weatherproof so it won’t allow wind or rain to get in contact with your pet.
Reinforced stitching and padding are mandatory for you and your dog’s comfort, so you need to make sure the straps are adjustable and thick enough to prevent back or neck pains when carrying your pawed friend with you.
All dog carriers should also come with mesh inserts to provide increased air circulation and prevent your pet from overheating. We suggest you look for a dog backpack carrier with a mesh wall or a large surface made of mesh as it also ensures visibility, allowing your doggo to enjoy the ride by breathing fresh air and seeing the surroundings.
Storage
One easy way to pick the best dog carrier backpack is to look at the number of pockets. The more pockets your item has, the more storage room available. Most products on the market will provide at least two large exterior pockets with zippers to store all your pet’s essentials, including harness, water bowl and bottle, snacks, food, grooming products, and toys.
However, if you’re looking for a more functional dog hiking backpack carrier, you’ll have to opt for an item with interior pockets as well. Some carriers even come with a special zippered pocket for a laptop or tablet so you won’t have to bring an additional bag with you.
TSA airline compliance
If you want to travel with your pet by plane, you need to strictly follow the TSA guidelines. Not all carriers are allowed in the cabin, and age or weight restrictions for your dog may also apply, depending on the airline company you are flying with.
Thus, it is extremely important to check the rules and regulations in time and make sure the dog carrier backpack you chose meets all the requirements in size, shape, and accessories so that you are allowed to carry your pooch with you on board.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What size dog carrier do I need?
As we previously mentioned, the size of the carrier depends on your pet’s size and weight. You should carefully measure your pet and pick a carrier according to its needs. Always try to go for the biggest size available to offer your dog enough space to rest and stretch its paws during the trip.
If you can, try testing the carrier before you buy it to see how your pooch fits inside and whether or not it likes it. Don’t forget that the product should be made of sturdy materials to support your pet’s weight, as well as with adjustable padded shoulder straps for easy and comfortable carrying.
Q: When flying, does a dog carrier count as a carry on?
According to the regulations of U.S. airlines, a dog carrier counts as a carry on luggage. Depending on the airline company and the type of ticket you bought, you are allowed to bring your pet carrier and a standard size carry-on bag with you in the cabin. If you wish for an additional personal item, most airline companies will charge you a fee.
Don’t forget that you won’t be allowed with a regular cheap dog backpack on board as the item must fit under the seat. Therefore, you have to opt for a hand-held carrier, similar to a gym bag or a duffle bag, specifically designed for pets.
Q: Can you take your dog out of the carrier on the plane?
Only small dogs are allowed on planes as their carrier must fit under the seat at all times. When traveling with your pawed friend on a plane, it is important to know that you are not allowed to take it outside the carrier during the flight.
Carriers cannot be stored on your lap, in the overhead bin, on the aisle or anywhere else but under the seat and must remain there throughout the flight. However, some U.S. airline companies offer the possibility to buy a seat for your pet, as long as it complies with all safety regulations.
Q: Are carriers good for dogs?
They are not the most comfortable way of transporting your beloved animal but, in many cases, they are the only option available.
Thus, we recommend you take your time until you find the right product for your pet’s needs. A dog harness backpack could prove a safer choice because it allows you to keep your pet in a harness, preventing it from jumping out whenever you remove the cover.
Don’t forget to also check the structure and the fabrics used for manufacturing the carrier to ensure the item is strong enough to hold your pet throughout the trip, no matter how long it is.
Q: How do I calm my dog on a plane?
Although you may be inclined to sedate your pet during the flight, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association, this action will increase the risk of respiratory problems and heart complications.
There are plenty of ways to calm your pet on a plane, including offering treats, snacks, and its favorite toys. A snuggie or a blankie with your smell on them will also reduce anxiety and stress, allowing your pet to relax more. Don’t forget about plastic bags and hand cleaners in case accidents happen, and make sure your furry friend is used to its carrier.
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