To make it easy to pack your dog’s packs, here’s my quick list for items that are great options for dog packs: Dog Bowl: Portable, collapsible dog bowls.
Water: Obviously the pup is going to need water.
Get a small Platypus or water reservoir for their pack.
Dog Food: My dog typically eats breakfasts and dinners.
I’ll be gone about a day and a half, so I separated food into three ziplock baggies for easy meals.
This also allows you to spread the weight evenly from side to side for your pup.
Dog Treats: No brainer.
Only thing to keep in mind is whether the bag is smell proof and making sure you have some on your person in ties when you have to call your dog and get his or her attention.
Trash Bags/Shopping Bags: Always a good idea to have trash bags, for dog shit and human shit.
Nozzle: I was able to snag a nozzle off of a regular water bottle for my dog’s water.
This makes it easier to swap out and give him a drink on the trail with less waste.
Bear Bag: Our bear bag is very lightweight and hard to destroy; the perfect item for a dog’s pack.
Plastic flasks: If you’re bringing a bit of booze, you can add this to your pup’s pack.
Make sure the container is nonbreakable and that you’re not increasing the load too much.
Rope: Can be used for a leash, lead, or emergencies and is relatively lightweight.
Hand warmers: Never hurts to have a few extra, especially if the dog carries them.
Walkie Talkies: This is a great option for storage before you get to the trail.
Just make sure to grab them for your crew before you begin.
Beanie/Hat: I put my hat in the side of his pack as extra cushion and easy access in case the weather changes.
Miscellaneous Small Items: I threw a few caribeaners, a lighter, a silicon bowl, a hack sack, sunscreen, and some drink mixes quick access to flavoring for water bottles.