Do dogs like carrying backpacks?
Major Bechtelar
2025-06-03 22:18:46
Count answers: 1
As soon as Henry and Wally see us organising and packing their hiking packs, they start getting excited and can’t wait to hit the trail – especially when it's for three days on the Scottish Mamores Munro Circuit. Backpacking has been our favorite activity together since I took Indy on his first overnight at one years old. He’s the best backpacking buddy I’ve ever had. When it comes to dog backpacking packs, it's best to keep the total carrying weight (including the pack and its contents) under 25% of your dog's body weight. You’ll want to go even lighter if your dog is just getting used to the pack. For a 45-pound (20-kg) dog, their pack should weigh no more than 11.25 pounds (5 kg) including food, water, gear, and the pack itself. With the right preparation and dog backpacking gear, you can set you and your dog up for a fun and memorable time in the backcountry.
Reuben Mraz
2025-06-03 20:37:51
Count answers: 3
Dogs have energy, and the backyard life for 99% of our pets is BORING! Going for a stroll each day, or worse, a couple of times a week just isn’t enough for some dogs. Some have high physical energy and some need real mental stimulation to tire them out. High-energy, nervous and anxious dogs seem to respond very well to ‘having a job to do’. For some nervous & reactive dogs, wearing a backpack causes them to focus on their ‘job’ and not be so triggered by their fears. Your dog will get more physical exercise from carrying a weight. Your dog will be in ‘work mode’ so the mental stimulation and focus will wear him out more and help him sleep when you are gone. They will not be as focussed on ‘pulling’ when wearing a backpack so the walk is more fun for the owner! Plus, it uses up to 3 times more energy than walking without a backpack so a 15-minute walk becomes the equivalent of a 45-minute walk when an appropriately weighted backpack is worn. Many dogs even become eager to put it on once they connect the backpack to a walk.
Jay Lakin
2025-06-03 20:13:19
Count answers: 4
It’s going to depend on the individual dog, there are some dogs who love to work and get excited. In my opinion, they get happy about it because that backpack is a predictor that they get to go on an adventure. The most important thing to keep in mind when hiking with your pup is that the outing is enjoyable for both of you. So make sure your dog actually likes wearing a backpack before you hit the trail. What you would do first is try to make the appearance of the backpack mean that good things are going to happen, show them the backpack, give them a treat. Playing games and providing food while your dog wears a backpack helps him see the gear in a positive light. Take it slow, and don't rush the process, so, buy the backpack and get it fitted well before the outing you hope to use it on. If a dog’s backpack is too heavy, they are more susceptible to foot injuries, she said. Overall, yes, it's OK if the dog has learned how to use it and if it's not overloaded and it fits them comfortably.
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