The Best Dog Carrier Backpacks of 2023

Size 23.4"L x 13.4"W x 16.5"H

Equipped with a large acrylic window, three breathable mesh windows and nine venting holes, you’ll be able to have a great view of your pooch while they enjoy plenty of fresh air in this pet backpack. Nicely structured with both a waist strap and chest buckle, this backpack has plenty of extra support, making it easy to maintain the stability of the backpack while your pet enjoys the ride.

The rear expandable design of this pet backpack makes it easier to ensure that your pet is comfortable, and it doubles as a solution for increased air circulation. Also included is an inner safety leash for pets who fancy themselves professional escape artists.

With a max load capacity of 18-pounds, this backpack is best for smaller animals. That being said, it’s suggested that you do measure your pet before purchase to ensure a good fit. Reviews mention that the quality of this backpack is great and those who have run into issues have had great customer service experiences.

Size: 24.4"L x 13.4"W x 17.3"H

Petcute offers an expandable pet carrier backpack to ensure extra room and comfort for your furry friend and easy storage for you; 300 denier oxford cloth and PVC composite lends to this backpack’s scratch resistance, making it a nicely built option. The mesh zippered skylight and acrylic side windows also ensure optimal viewing and airflow for your pet.

Because this carrier backpack is expandable it is a great option if you don’t want to invest in a backpack separate from your regular carrier and as such it can be used as both. While it is a great option as an all encompassing carrier, users mention that it will not fit underneath an airplane seat so it may not be a great option for air travel.

Some users of the Petcute backpack do report issues with the bottom platform sliding and causing discomfort in their lower back and say that the weight limit may be closer to 10 or 15 pounds, rather than the manufacturer recommended 20, so this may not be a pick if you have a larger dog. A one-way in and out and a retaining leash make it so dogs won’t scurry off once let out of the backpack, since the zipper locks are said to be so-so.

Size 12.5"L x 10.2"W x 16.3"H

Offering both front and side access for your pet, the PetAmi comes in a variety of colors. Removable sherpa lining offers additional comfort for your pet and large mesh windows ensure that your dog has plenty of fresh air during their ride-along. As is with some other dog carrying backpacks out there, the PetAmi does have padded straps for your comfort and chest and waist buckles make for a smoother transport for your dog.

While these additional features are meant to make you and your pet feel more secure, the materials (primarily polyester) do strike us as a little flimsy. For occasional use this would be a good choice but for longterm, rough outdoor use, we might suggest another option. The PetAmi carrier is recommended for pets up to 18 pounds, 10 inches long, and 14 inches tall while seated.

Size 13.4"L x 10.2"W x 16.9"H

Recommended for dogs up to 18 pounds, and up to 11 inches long and 15 inches tall, the Texsens Bubble Backpack is a sleek, ultra-modern backpack that’s approved for travel by most major airlines. Still PU leather overlay and grommeted air holes and breathable inserts for maximum ventilation make this a great dog carrier backpack for puppies and smaller breeds who may tire easily.

What we like most about the Texsens Bubble Backpack is its round mesh window that can easily be swapped or an included plastic bubble in cold or rainy weather. Large, zippered openings run the length of both sides, making for easy access for your pooch, and padded straps ensure comfort for the wearer.

One important thing to note about this dog carrier backpack is that pets are intended to sit rather than lay down due to its size. The Texsens Bubble Backpack comes in a variety of colors, making it even more fun to pick out your perfect pack.

Size Small 11"L x 7.5"W x 0.5"H

Medium 13"L x 9.5"W x 15"H

Large 14.7"L x 10.4"W x 0.5"H

Extra Large 16.5"L x 10.4"W x 0.5"H

The only convertible front-and-back-carry backpack we chose, the Pawaboo Pet Carrier Backpack is super lightweight and fits dogs from five to 18 pounds. This lightweight carrier backpack is easy to get on and off of your dog without hassle, and a size chart makes it simple to pick the right fit for your furry friend.

This is the most barebones option when it comes to pet carrier backpacks and though it does have padding for your comfort, reviewers say that it could be more comfortable given a little more thought.

The Pawaboo backpack doesn’t have any sort of enclosure and gives dogs less mobility so if you have a wiggly dog or are looking to hike in a variety of weather conditions, it might not be the right pick for you. If you’re looking for an easy lightweight option, this backpack is a great inexpensive choice.

Sizes vary depending on style

U.S.-based K9 Sport Sack makes the only vet-approved dog carrier backpack we found, for the most peace of mind. With multiple sizes and colors and a size chart to find the perfect fit, this backpack is suitable for dogs up to 30 pounds. Although this backpack does have padded straps as well as a padded back side intended for comfort, the lack of a hip strap has users feeling less secure than other backpacks on the market and some find it uncomfortable, especially with larger breeds.

This dog carrier backpack is not waterproof and won’t keep your dog covered in bad weather; it’s suggested that you pre-soak it to prevent color bleeding ahead of use. We recommend the K9 Sport Sack for occasional use with smaller dog breeds.

K9 Sport Sack offers a variety of different backpack options so we would suggest checking their size charts for styles before making your purchase.