Best Dog Carrier for Hiking: Top 6 Rides for Tired Paws

The Kurgo G-Train is the best dog carrier on the market for hiking with small and medium dogs that weigh 25 pounds or less. While at a higher price point than many of its competitors, this backpack comes with a lifetime warranty and is specifically designed for the trail. 

Doubling as a hiking pack, the Kurgo features padded shoulder straps, a chest strap, padded waist belt, adjustable load straps, and two outer holders for water bottles. It is made of weather-resistant fabric and has a waterproof bottom with a removable, washable pad.

This model has mesh sides and a zippered mesh flap and can be rolled open, though fully closed it does not offer the same airflow and breathability as other models. Fairly standard, there is also a safety clip to attach to your pup’s harness to avoid falling or jumping out. For urban adventures or commuting, there is also a padded laptop sleeve.

The K9 Sport Sack is the best dog backpack for hiking with larger breeds. It comes in six different styles, each with a range of 3-4 sizes. The Sport Sack is designed like a hiking pack, with padded back and shoulder straps, multiple storage compartments, and a hip belt. The largest size of the Rover 2 can accommodate dogs up to 80 pounds.

Developed in consultation with veterinarians, this model is designed to keep your pup safe and comfortable for hiking, biking, and urban adventures. All models have vet-approved safety features, mesh sides that allow for plenty of ventilation, and come in a range of styles, sizes, and colors. 

With this style of carrier, your pooch will be in what is essentially a heeling position. This is perfectly safe and comfortable for your pup, but not for extended periods of activity. According to the K9 team, while also determined by weather and activity, dogs should generally not be in a Sport Sack for more than 45 minutes at a time.

The Pecute Pet Carrier Backpack expands to nearly twice its size and can double as a mesh crate while taking a break on your adventures. The optional extra room for your pup to stretch out makes this one of the best dog backpack carriers for travel. 

Features include chest and waist straps, lightly padded straps, a safety clip to attach to your pup’s harness, and side pockets for storing pet gear and personal items. One side is designed to hold poop bags, dog treats, and a water bottle, while the other holds pet owner necessities such as a wallet and phone.

This model is incredibly well-designed and offers great value for money. It has excellent ventilation and visibility, and you can even opt for an acrylic or mesh window design. It also folds down for complete flat storage. Keep in mind this model is intended for smaller dogs, with a maximum weight of 18 pounds.

Thanks to its boxy design and solid bottom, the Petsfit Comfort offers support for small dogs who like to move around or curl up for a long nap while their human hikes. With this model, you will not have a sagging bottom or sides that cave in on your pup.

Four mesh windows and two entrances (one of which can be rolled up like a curtain) offer plenty of fresh air, versatility, and comfort for your pup to take in the surroundings. This pet backpack is safe for dogs up to 22 pounds but recommended for dogs weighing 15 pounds or less. 

Other features include side pockets, padded adjustable straps, and a removable bottom mat that can be washed. It is also fully collapsible and stores flat when not in use. The tall design allows for enough room to add a small blanket for pups who like to get real cozy.

Truly spoiled tiny pups will love the PetAmi Deluxe Pet Carrier. The sherpa-lined inside will keep your pooch nice and cozy, while still allowing them to enjoy the view and fresh air through the mesh windows.

Thoughtfully designed to meet both human and canine needs, this backpack has a side and back pocket to hold personal items, comes with a collapsible bowl, and is available in a selection of 12 color choices. The PetAmi features a safety leash and safety buckles to ensure your pup stays snugly inside. 

While rated for dogs up to 18 pounds, the soft siding does tend to sag under that much weight. This model is recommended for small dogs weighing 10 pounds or less.

If you have a small pooch and are looking for a legs-free carrier to get them through that last mile or two of trail, the Pawaboo Pet Backpack is well worth a place on your shortlist. 

This model doesn’t have much in the way of bells and whistles, but is easy to use, made with durable materials, and comfortable for both owner and pet.

This model is made with breathable mesh and polyester fiber, so dried quickly when wet and won’t have your pup overheating on summer hikes. The elastic leg openings stretch and it also has adjustable closures with enough give to accommodate your pup’s paunch if they’ve been hitting the Kibble a little too hard.

While the manufacturer’s recommended weight capacity for this dog carrier is 18 lbs, we wouldn’t recommend trying to squeeze any canine north of the 15-pound mark in there due to the lack of padding on the straps.