Do you own a small dog that weighs no more than 15 kilograms?
Then you’ll probably have the problem that your darling can’t keep up with his short legs on longer trips and wants to be carried.
I don’t know about you, but I find carrying a dog in my arms very uncomfortable in the long run. Carrying bags or a dog in your handbag often only work for short distances, since the strain is very one-sided.
A dog backpack, on the other hand, is comfortable to wear and easy on your pooch’s feet.
In this article, I will introduce you to my top 3 dog backpacks up to 15 kilograms and show you what to look out for if you want to buy one.
My dog backpack favorites
Product tests: dog backpack up to 15 kg
PREMIUM BIG&SLIM dog backpack
Dogs with a back length of up to 70 cm fit comfortably in the backpack, which was developed with the help of experts. Backpack designers worked together with veterinarians for a total of 2 years until the backpack was ready. Customer opinions were also included. The result is a premium product with many advantages.
The dog backpack from Dog Carrier is versatile. Whether hiking, cycling or shopping – this backpack cuts a fine figure in all areas of use. The backpack is also a good way to “stow” the dog safely when using public transport.
The fact that the manufacturer has really put a lot of thought into versatile use becomes clear in the next point. The backpack can also be used for small children up to 30 kilograms.
Such a backpack can, for example, also be used as a support during the first attempts at walking. In dogs, this is particularly useful after illnesses or operations, in order to gently train the musculoskeletal system and not put too much strain on it right away.
Trixie 28944 Timon Backpack
This dog backpack up to 12 kg from the company Trixie is a kind of dog carrier bag in the form of a backpack. The dog does not hang like a small child in the backpack like in the Dog Carrier model, but can sit comfortably in the bag.
For the dog owner, however, the backpack shape is much more comfortable than a carrier bag that only weighs on one shoulder. Especially when hiking, it is much easier to keep your balance with a backpack. The anatomically shaped and thickly padded back of the backpack and the ergonomic shoulder straps ensure it is comfortable to carry. The product is rounded off by a waist strap and a chest strap.
You can put your four-legged friend in from above or from the front. Thanks to the flexible access, you can fully adapt to the preferences of your furry friend.
With dimensions of 34*44*30cm, the dog backpack is well suited for small dogs. The maximum loading weight is 12 kilograms.
Trixie dog trolley
If a backpack is too heavy or impractical for you in everyday life, you can also use a dog trolley. At 21 kilograms, the loading weight is higher than most dog backpacks, which is because you don’t have to carry the trolley on your back, you just have to pull it behind you.
Of course, a trolley is unsuitable for hiking, cycling or moped riding. For these activities, only a real dog backpack comes into question. But if you need a means of transport for everyday use, i.e. for walking or shopping, then a trolley is a good alternative.
The advantage of the Trixie trolley is that you can remove the chassis so that the interior can also be used as a dog box at home or when travelling.
The four-legged friend is put in either from above or from the side. A practical short leash is integrated so that your darling does not jump out while driving.
Other practical features are the soft lambskin lining, additional compartments on the sides and a handle – for example for climbing stairs. The individually adjustable telescopic handle and the large mesh inserts are additional plus points.
If you like a dog trolley more than a dog backpack, check out my review of the best dog trolleys here.
Purchase advice
Why do you need a dog backpack up to 15 kg?
A dog backpack is a practical accessory for dog owners whose four-legged friends cannot walk long distances. This applies to small dog breeds as well as to puppies or injured dogs.
A little hint: A dog wheelchair is just as practical for injured dogs. A wheelchair for dogs can also be helpful for old dogs. They relieve the legs and help with hip and back problems.
But a dog backpack up to 15 kg can do a lot more: you can finally take your dog with you on a bike or moped and carry it comfortably on your back. Your dog is also safely “stowed away” on public transport.
In addition, dog backpacks are very often used when hiking. Especially when dangerous places such as rivers with strong currents, via ferratas or gorges have to be negotiated, it is practical if you can simply strap your dog to your back. Such a product is also ideal for steep stairs or climbing ladders.
As you can see, dog backpacks are very versatile. They have great advantages over the alternatives. In contrast to carrying bags or transporting your four-legged friend in your handbag, both shoulders are evenly loaded with a backpack. It’s more comfortable and healthier.
What should I look out for when buying a backpack for my dog?
1st size
So that your dog can be carried comfortably in the backpack, it is important that it is the perfect size and does not slip or pinch. Most dog backpacks are only designed for smaller dogs with a back measurement of around 70cm. If you want to carry larger dogs, you have to look for special models.
2. weight
The backpack should be suitable for the weight of your dog. Otherwise, if your dog is too heavy, the material may not hold up, which can have fatal consequences.
For a comfortable fit, it is important that the dog backpack weighs as little as possible up to 15 kg. Especially on longer tours, you will be grateful for every gram that the backpack is lighter.
3. Comfort
So that your four-legged friend is comfortable, you should make sure that the inner walls of the backpack are softly padded and air-permeable. The latter ensures that your dog does not sweat excessively.
In addition, good weather protection must be part of your standard equipment when you are out and about with a dog in a dog backpack. Your dog is exposed to all kinds of weather on your back, whether the sun is beating down in midsummer or it is pouring with rain. You should be prepared for all eventualities.
So that your back is relieved as much as possible, it is advisable to choose a model that has an additional waist belt. This makes wearing it much more comfortable.
4. Security
In order for your dog to reach its destination safely, it is important that the material is of high quality and that the buckles for attaching the dog cannot accidentally open.
5. Material
The most common dog backpack materials are polyester, cotton and nylon. While nylon is very breathable, water-repellent and tear-resistant, cotton backpacks, which are usually mixed with polyester, are more comfortable to wear.
Among the designer pieces there are also models made of leather or denim. However, these are often significantly more expensive.
Which material you like best is an individual decision. Each material has advantages and disadvantages. It’s best to just look at the different variants and then decide.
Conclusion: dog backpack up to 15 kg
In today’s test it is hardly possible to determine a winner, because the three tested products were very different.
While the Dog Carrier dog backpack shines with its high-quality workmanship, some customers report that the dog does not like this very atypical position or has even caused health problems.
Trixie’s dog backpack avoids this problem because the dog sits in it like in a carrier bag. However, this backpack is only suitable for very small dogs and, according to customer reviews, often has material defects.
The Trixie dog trolley, on the other hand, is not a classic dog backpack and is therefore not suitable for hikes or rides on a motorbike or bicycle. In everyday life, however, the trolley has the advantage that you don’t have to carry the dog on your back all the time.
You have to decide for yourself which product is best for you. First you should consider whether you want a backpack or a trolley. If you decide on a backpack, the position of the dog in it is a decisive selection criterion.