This new back pack for dogs has been a long time in development, designed by hikers whose dogs are part of their family. This is the best fitting dog backpack we've seen, because of the chest pads under the front straps, the ergonomic fit around the shoulder that helps fight fatigue, and the wide back pad, which spreads the weight and gets it off the center of the dog's back.

This dog backpack features wide openings to make packing and unpacking easier (adding weight gives a 15-minute walk the impact of a 45-minute walk). Expandable packs have inner compartments, including a Velcro pocket and strap with buckle for keys. Reflective trim keeps your dog visible to cars from a distance. Fabric is water and stain resistant. The quick assist handle let's you take your walks off-road by giving you a way to help your dog up steep slopes or rocky terrain. Two convenient D-rings on the back allow you to attach a lead if necessary.

This backpack is great for working off energy in dogs both big and small (see sidebar). This is the only backpack for dogs that comes in an extra extra small. Our model is a five-month-old Miniature Dachshund. Max is modeling the extra extra small dog backpack, but it was snug on him. The backpack features adjustable straps that go around the chest and across the front of the dog.

How to Burn Off Pent-Up Energy in Small & Big Dogs with a Backpack

Pent-up energy can result in anxiety behaviors such as destructive chewing, barking, aggression toward animals or people, jumping or hurling themselves at doors or people, running in circles, and many other behaviors.

To manage high-energy dogs, put a backpack on the dog and fill it with something. For some dogs, the feeling of being "wrapped" in the backpack has a calming effect; these dogs do not require a breaking-in period to get used to it. However, if you feel your dog needs to get used to it, walk him or her first in the empty backpack.

Cesar Milan puts equal weights in each side of the backpack (a bottle of water, can of soda, jar of pickles, or whatever is appropriate to the dog's size). He lets the dog carry the load on a regular walk. For many dogs, this gives the dog a sense of purpose (Milan said in one episode of The Dog Whisperer, "That dog is going to take those pickles somewhere!"). It also helps them burn off pent-up energy in a constructive and physically active way.

Begin with short walks and watch your dog for signs of fatigue to be sure you're not overloading the backpack with weight. Enjoy the great outdoors with your dog!

Legal disclaimer: You should consult with a professional dog trainer before attempting any retraining or behavior modification technique.

Large shown at right. Extra small shown below. For more sizes, scroll down.

Sizing
We get a lot of exchanges because customers need the next size up or down. Here are some tips to help you pick the right size.

• The sizes shown on this page are as follows. Max, a five-month-old miniature Dachshund, is modeling the XXS. The six-month-old Italian Greyhound is wearing an XS. Dusty, the 18-lb adult Lhasa Apso, is wearing a small and has plenty of room. The adult Golden is wearing a large. Not pictured: an adult 35-pound Sheltie wears a small and a 55-lb Lab wears a medium.
• Please select your size using the measurements in the chart below.
•  There is a big difference from one size to the next. The medium and small sizes are bigger than you'd think.
• Please take your dog's build into account when ordering. A slender Dalmatian could take a small.
• If you need help selecting a size, call us at (972) 712-2812.

Length = front to back on the piece between the pockets. This measurement goes along the dog's spine.

Width = side to side between the pockets, on the dog's back.

Depth = the size of the pockets from top to bottom.

Around = the circumference from the dog's back, around the chest, and up to the back again. This measurement is adjustable, so we provide a range.

Photo of Max by Dianne Sapra.