Dogs are incredible animals, and they provide us with fantastic companionship. They are always happy to see us, wag their tails when we come home, and love to play.
Active dog owners who love going on hikes bring their dogs along for fun and exercise. But this is such an excellent activity not just for the owners but also for the dogs! It also helps that dogs are great hikers!
However, imagine going on a hike with your dog and finding yourself carrying a lot of stuff. Or maybe, leaving behind some essential ones. That is where a dog backpack becomes handy.
Whether you are a beginner or an experienced hiker, using a pack specific for your dog can make your hike more fun and comfortable for you and your furry friend.
Here are 20 of the most compelling reasons to use a backpack for your dog on your next adventure!
16 Reasons to Get Your Dog a Backpack
Reason #1: It Is More Comfortable for Your Dog
Dogs are not built like humans, and their bodies are not meant to carry weight like ours are.
When you put a backpack on your dog, the weight is evenly distributed across their body, making it much more comfortable to walk long distances.
Reason #2: It Gives Your Dog a Job
Dogs love to have a job and feel useful. When you put a backpack on your dog, they know that they are responsible for carrying something essential, which can make them feel proud.
They will also enjoy the sense of purpose!
Reason #3: You Can Carry More Stuff
If you go on a hike with your dog, you will want to bring extra water and food for them.
When you use a dog backpack, you can easily pack all of the supplies your dog will need without carrying them yourself.
Reason #4: It Helps Them Stay Cool
Dogs can overheat very quickly, especially if they carry a lot of weight.
A backpack allows your dog to bring their water and food, which helps keep their body temperature down.
Reason #5: They Can Help You Navigate
If you hike in an unfamiliar area, your dog will be able to help you with navigation. Dogs can help you find your way around even the most demanding trails by using their natural senses.
They can easily carry maps with them and other navigation items that may not fit your bag with a pack.
Reason #6: They Can Carry Their Food
If you do not want your dog to get hungry on the trail, pack their food in their backpack! This way, they can carry their food and snacks with them, and you will not have to worry about them going hungry.
Reason #7: They Can Be Your Photographer
If you love taking pictures on your hikes but do not want to lug around a heavy camera, your dog can be your photographer.
There are special backpacks with a built-in camera, so your dog can take pictures of the scenery while you enjoy the hike.
Reason #8: They Can Carry Your Other Essentials
If you are hiking with a lot of gear, your dog can help carry some load.
By packing light, you can put some of your equipment in your dog’s backpack, and they can help bring it for you.
Reason #9: You Can Keep an Eye on Them
When you are hiking with your dog, it is essential to be able to keep an eye on them at all times.
If they wander off the trail, it can be challenging to find them again. But if they are wearing a backpack, you can easily see them and keep them close by.
Reason #10: They Can Help You Stay Safe
If you are hiking in an area with dangerous wildlife, your dog can help keep you safe.
By having your dog wear a dog backpack, you can pack supplies like a first aid kit, a whistle, rope, and pepper spray just in case you need them.
Reason #11: They Can Protect Your Stuff
If your hike is long, your dog can help protect your stuff while sleeping.
By keeping your belongings in their backpack, you can rest assured that they will be safe from animals and thieves.
Reason #12: You Can Make New Friends
If you hike with your dog wearing their bag, you can make new friends.
Dog owners are always happy to meet other dog owners, and they will be more than glad to help you out if you need it. Plus, your dog carrying their backpack will be a great conversation starter!
Reason #13: Makes Your Dog Exercise More
Like how you can burn more calories when you lift weights, having a backpack helps your dog the same way.
With a pack on their backs, they burn twice the calories they spend hiking than without the bags.
Reason #14: Your Dog Will Have Less Tendency to Pull
If your dog has their bag on, it will focus its attention on carrying it. It will help lessen the chances of pulling their leash and dragging you.
It is especially helpful in ” exciting ” places for your dog, like parks, campsites, and other crowded areas.
Reason #15: Your Dog Can Carry Their Poop Containers or Bags
Instead of carrying the poop bags for your dog, your dog can bring them in their bags.
It will be easier to clean up the mess when your dog has to go while you are on a hike. It’s also much more discreet than having to hold poop bags in each hand while you walk.
Reason #16: The Backpack is Flexible
Aside from hikes, you can also use the backpack for all the walks and adventures you will have with your dog. Are you going to the park? No, problem, bring the bag. It will even attract quite the attention.
Maybe you want to go to the mall? No problem, you can bring the bag along! Pair it with fabulous dog clothes, and you have a furry stunner!
When Not to Use a Dog Backpack
No matter how functional a bag is for your dog, there are also some situations where using it is not the best idea.
Some of these situations are listed below.
- When your dog has a back condition, your vet may not advise your dog to carry one because it might strain their back.
- When your dog is highly resistant to carrying the bag, please do not force it. If you must have the bag, your dog will need gradual exposure to it.
Conclusion
Dogs are loyal, loving, and always happy to spend time with their owners. And hiking together is an excellent way to spend time together. Going on a hike with your dog is a great way to bond with them. Your dog can get some exercise and see the world from a new perspective.
But bringing a lot can dampen the fun, so get a dog backpack for your friend to sweeten the deal!
The backpack can serve a lot of purposes. You can use it to help keep your dog stuff. It can also add more weight for exercise purposes. Not to mention, it will look fabulous on your dog! So, what are you waiting for? Grab your pup with their bag and hit the trails!
