How Dog Backpacks Can Help With Pulling

A backpack can serve a much greater purpose by giving your dog something to do. That's right - a job! This is an excellent way to slow and calm high powered, lively dogs by forcing them to pay attention to carrying what's on their back versus pulling or dragging you down the street.

Dogs love to work and this simple technique is good for you and good for your dog too!

The Right Size, Weight And Design

Key Points To Consider When Purchasing Dog Backpacks
1. First, determine exactly where you will be walking your dog. Walking your dog down the street vs hiking with your dog through the woods will determine the overall quality you may need.

   With that in mind, it's sometimes better to buy the top of the line product regardless, just so that you can walk your dog wherever you want. If taking your dog through the woods, you will need a sturdy, heavier fabric that can withstand walking through brush.

2. Again, all backpacks are not made the same.
Like this picture here with the dog and the backpack; you can see how the straps go up around the dog's shoulder. NOT RECOMMENDED!

It's a given that this type will slide and move around on your dog's back and may cause chafing. PAY ATTENTION TO DESIGN, IT'S VERY IMPORTANT!

According to feedback that we received from our subscribers; never buy a cheap backpack for your dog, the better ones are worth the money.

3. Look for a comfortable design that won't slide or move when your dog walks. We prefer the harness type dog backpacks that allow you to add or remove the saddlebags. This way you have a nice comfortable harness that easily attachs to your dog's leash and you have the option of either using the side saddle bags or not (the saddlebags are what make it a backpack).
4. Next, it's really important that you not make the backpack too heavy. The standard guide says the weight your dog carries should be no more than twenty-five percent of his body weight, but you should build up to that amount over time. Plus, you should balance the items in the gear so that it doesn't interfere with your dog's gait (normal walking pattern).
5. Finally, the right size is critical to your dog's comfort. Measure correctly by using a cloth tape measurer and go around the widest part of your dog's rib cage which is right behind his front legs and below the neck.

Using Dog Backpacks For Exercise