A dog backpack can enhance the hiking experience for both you and your dog. If you have purchased a dog backpack or are considering purchasing one, you may be wondering what items to pack. You certainly do not want to overload your dog’s pack or forget an essential item.
Based on years and many miles of testing and hiking with my dog, I’ve compiled this list of recommended essential items to keep in your dog’s backpack. Keep in mind that you may want to include different items for overnight hikes versus short day hikes.
Choose the Right Dog Backpack
If you do not have a dog backpack, you’ll want to invest in a good quality pack that will fit your dog without causing the dog any discomfort. If you can, take your dog with you to your local dog supply company. If you can’t take your dog or if you choose to order a pack online, be sure to take accurate measurements.
You want a pack that has adjustable straps to fit around the belly and chest. Look for straps that have buckle padding. Check to see that the pack has easy-to-access pockets for you to put items in and out of during your hike, if needed.
I purchased a pack by Outward Hound for around $30. My dog’s backpack did not come with much reflective material since we do little late night or overnight hikes. However, I have added strips of reflective tape to make the dog and his pack more visible.
Brands: Outward Hound, Ruff Wear, Wolf Packs
Price range: Approximately $20 to $100
Availability: Some pet stores and online retailers
Keep Essential Items in Your Dog Backpack
Now that you’ve selected a good dog backpack, you’ll want to stock a few items in it for everyday hikes. If you’re going to be overnight hiking frequently, you’ll want to add enough water and food for your dog. However, the extra weight may be taxing on your dog so be sure to build up his or her endurance before undertaking your first overnight hike with a fully loaded dog backpack.
I also recommend packing items in waterproof bags. The bags will protect the items in case your dog decides to take a quick dip in a mountain stream or lake, and you’ll have extra garbage bags, if needed.
1. Doggie first aid kit – include a small, lightweight canine first aid kit. Suggested items may include gauze bandages and pads for wounds, styptic pencil to heal seal minor cuts, sterile eye wash to clean minor debris and dust from your dog’s eye, medical scissors, small bottle of hydrogen peroxide, adhesive tape, gloves, ice pack, tweezers for pulling out thorns or stickers, various ointments for pain relief, bug bites or to clean wounds, sting relief pads, small emergency blanket that you use for shock or to carry out your dog if injured, identification card including current vaccinations, any medications that your dog is currently taking, and a canine first aid book.
Try to keep the first aid kit lightweight but usable. Be flexible and add the items that your dog might need.
2. Water and collapsible bowl – I recycle my old water bottles by reusing them for my dog’s water. Fill up several bottles and add one to each side of the dog’s pack to balance the weight. Most hikes have trailside water for your dog to drink. If the trail doesn’t have enough water, you’ll be able to keep your dog healthy and hydrated.
3. Treats, food, and a toy – Pack enough quality treats to keep your dog energized for the duration of the hike. If you’re planning an all day hike or overnight hike, measure out your dog’s meal portions in baggies and include them in the dog backpack. I also include a toy that the dog can chew or play with during breaks.
4. Extra Leash – Pack an extra sturdy leash in the dog backpack. I’ve been on the trail before when my dog’s current leash unexpectedly broke.
5. Poop bags and extra plastic bag – Be sure to scoop your doggie’s droppings even in the woods. I like to carry individual doggie poop bags and then store them in another plastic bag until I can find a trash can.
6. Dog Boots – If you’re planning on hiking over rough terrain or planning an extended hiking trip, pack a set of dog boots to the pack. These items are lightweight and may save your dog from getting injured paw pads. Ruff Wear makes a good set of dog boots ranging from about $20 to $60 per set of 4. Again, be sure to purchase the correct size boots for your dog.
Train Your Dog to Wear the Dog Backpack
If your dog has never worn a canine backpack, don’t load it up and take him or her out for a 5 mile hike on the first trip. Instead, let your dog wear the back empty on its back for short walks around the neighborhood.
Once your dog is used to the feel of the pack, add a few light items and take your dog on a short trail hike. You might want to just include the first aid kit and a couple of snacks on this first hike. Some dogs really do not mind wearing a backpack and other dogs take a few trips to get used to the feel.
Remember to adjust the dog backpack weight to the size of your dog. Small dogs should obviously not carry as much weight as larger dogs. Check the dog backpack instructions for recommendations on load weight.
When your dog feels comfortable, go for a long hike and have fun! You’ll enjoy having less to carry in your own pack and your dog will enjoy hiking in the great outdoors.
