Finding the perfect dog carrier backpack for urban strolls or adventurous hikes can be a challenge, especially when prioritising your dog’s safety and comfort. For small breeds like Dachshunds, with their delicate spines, the choice becomes even more critical. As an editor for Dog Care Story and a dedicated dog owner who has extensively researched canine back health since 2016, I’ve spent years evaluating countless dog carrier backpacks to identify truly viable options. This comprehensive guide focuses on helping dog owners in the UK discover the best dog carrier backpack solutions that offer both practicality for the owner and crucial spinal support for their beloved companions.
My experience also includes working at a major outdoor gear retailer for six years, which has equipped me with the unique insight needed to critically assess outdoor equipment, including specialized gear for our four-legged friends. While my primary search was for a Dachshund carrier, the insights and recommendations shared here are highly applicable for owners of other small dog breeds as well. This article is regularly updated to reflect the latest evaluations and market insights.
Many of the dog carrying backpacks available today often compel small dogs, particularly Dachshunds, to sit upright. This position, depending on the specific design of the pack, can potentially place undue stress on their fragile spines or force them into an unnatural posture. Even the backpacks that I consider to be safer for a Dachshund’s back are often not without their compromises. Navigating these options can be daunting, leaving many dog owners in the UK to choose what feels like the lesser of several imperfect solutions. However, understanding the specific criteria for a truly safe and comfortable carrier can significantly narrow down the search and ensure your dog’s well-being during your shared adventures.
Reasons Your Dog May Need a Carrier Backpack
There are numerous reasons why a dog owner in the UK might be searching for a reliable dog carrier backpack. These reasons range from practical considerations for daily life to essential safety measures during outdoor pursuits. Understanding these needs can help you determine the best type of carrier for your situation.
1) Senior Dogs Get Tired Easily
As dogs age, their stamina and mobility naturally decline. My own Dachshunds, who have always embraced an adventurous lifestyle, began to struggle with longer walks and hikes in their senior years. For instance, when Chester became a senior, and now Gretel with her kidney disease and some mobility issues, carrying them in a backpack became essential. This allows them to continue experiencing the joy of the outdoors without overexertion, ensuring their golden years are still filled with cherished adventures alongside the family. A good carrier ensures that their adventurous spirit doesn’t have to wane, even if their bodies can’t keep up with the pace they once set.
2) Puppies May Not Be Ready for Long Journeys
Young puppies, much like senior dogs, have specific needs that make a carrier backpack an invaluable tool. Before they’ve completed their full vaccination schedule, puppies need protection from germs that can be found on trails and in public spaces. Beyond this, their developing bodies aren’t yet physically mature enough for sustained hiking or long walks. I started taking my puppy, Summit, on adventures in a hiking dog carrier as soon as her vaccinations were complete. This allowed her to safely acclimate to the stimulating sights, sounds, and smells of the natural world. During breaks, I would gently set her down to explore small, safe areas, and as she grew a little older, I’d let her walk for short distances. Given their smaller size and shorter spines, some carriers that might not be suitable for an adult Dachshund could work well for a puppy. This phased introduction to outdoor activities helps build their confidence and physical readiness without compromising their health.
3) Pre-existing Injuries and Health Issues
Dogs recovering from injuries or managing chronic health conditions often require restricted activity, but they still benefit greatly from mental stimulation and a change of scenery. A carrier backpack allows these dogs to leave the house, reducing their energy and stress levels, and keeping them engaged with the world, all while ensuring their physical safety. Whether it’s post-surgery recovery or managing a chronic condition, a carrier can be a vital part of their rehabilitation and mental well-being, enabling them to participate in family outings without risking further injury or discomfort. This is particularly important for breeds prone to spinal issues, where careful support is paramount.
4) Your Dog Gets Tired on Hikes
Just like humans, dogs need to gradually build up their fitness for hiking. Not every dog can immediately tackle long distances, and pushing them too hard can lead to exhaustion or injury. A carrier backpack offers a convenient solution for those times when your dog starts to show signs of fatigue, allowing them to rest and ride comfortably when they’ve had enough. This means you don’t have to limit your adventures to only short walks while your dog builds stamina. It’s also crucial to learn to recognise the signs of a tired dog, ensuring you can offer them a comfortable ride before they become overly exhausted. This proactive approach supports their physical conditioning while still enabling longer, more varied outings.
5) Emergencies
While we hope to never encounter one, emergencies can happen during outdoor activities. If your dog suffers an injury while hiking, having a carrier backpack can be essential for safely transporting them out of a difficult situation to receive help. I’ve experienced this firsthand, and in such moments, the immediate concern shifts from optimal spinal support to simply getting your dog to safety. While this article doesn’t specifically review emergency-only carriers, any of the recommended options below would serve as a crucial tool in an unexpected situation, allowing you to evacuate your dog effectively and get them the necessary care.
What Makes a Backpack Safe for Carrying a Dachshund?
When selecting a dog carrier backpack, especially for a breed like a Dachshund or any small dog with potential spinal vulnerabilities, safety is paramount. My background in outdoor retail and personal experience with dogs prone to back issues has led me to scrutinize carriers very closely. For a carrier to truly be effective and safe, it must meet specific criteria that protect your dog’s delicate back while also being practical for the human wearer.
The fundamental requirements for a backpack to be safe for a Dachshund’s back are:
- No Harm During Transit: The design must prevent any painful pressure points or uncomfortable positioning while the dog is being carried.
- Comfort and Security: The carrier needs to be snug enough to prevent excessive wiggling, which can lead to falls or destabilisation, ensuring your dog feels secure and at ease.
- Spinal Support: Ideally, the backpack should allow your dog to lay horizontally, with their entire body fully supported. This minimises stress on their spine, which is crucial for breeds susceptible to back problems like IVDD. If a horizontal position isn’t possible, the design should ensure they can sit in a way that allows them to support themselves with all four paws, with minimal spinal curvature.
Beyond the dog’s safety, the backpack must also be functional for the person carrying it, especially for hiking in the UK’s diverse landscapes. A carrier is not practical if it’s uncomfortable or prevents me from carrying my own essential gear.
Ideally, a Dachshund-carrying backpack should also feature:
- Sufficient Storage: Large enough to accommodate at least minimal hiking safety gear, snacks, and water. As a solo hiker, I often need to carry all supplies myself.
- Manageable Size: Not so bulky or cumbersome that it impedes movement on narrow trails or through city crowds.
- Adjustability: Adjustable straps are essential to ensure a comfortable fit for various body types, preventing chafing or uneven weight distribution.
- Waist Belt: A padded waist belt is critical for distributing the dog’s weight to the hips, taking pressure off the shoulders and making longer carries significantly more comfortable and sustainable.
I’ve rigorously evaluated numerous Dachshund carrier backpacks against these demanding criteria. Below, I’ve outlined what I consider to be the most viable options available, taking into account both the dog’s well-being and the owner’s practical needs for activities in the UK.
My Top Backpack Choices for Carrying a Dachshund
Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. This means that I may earn a small commission on any qualified items you purchase, at no extra cost to you. Please note that while the original article provided US-based links, I recommend checking for these products at UK retailers or their official UK websites for local availability and pricing, specifically focusing on the “best dog carrier backpack UK” market.
1) Roverlund Ready-for-Adventure Dog Backpack
The Roverlund Ready-for-Adventure Dog Backpack stands out as a top contender for safely carrying a Dachshund. Initially, I might have overlooked it due to its apparent similarity to other models, but I’m grateful I had the opportunity to test it. This backpack offers several distinct advantages that set it apart in the market for dog carrier backpacks, making it a strong candidate for owners seeking the best dog carrier backpack in the UK.
Key features that make it a winner:
- Roomier Interior: The main compartment boasts greater depth from front to back, offering more space for your dog to comfortably settle.
- Smart Pocket Design: Its small external pocket expands outwards when filled, rather than encroaching on the precious internal space reserved for your dog.
- Airline Compliant: It generally meets in-cabin requirements for most major airlines, providing a versatile option for travel, though always verify with your specific airline.
- Structured Body: A robust, structured body helps prevent the pack from slumping, maintaining its shape and support for your dog.
- Excellent Ventilation: The body is primarily constructed from mesh, ensuring superior airflow and keeping your dog cool, particularly important during warmer UK days or strenuous activity.
A small Dachshund sits comfortably inside a Roverlund Ready-for-Adventure Dog Backpack, looking forward intently
Additional practical features include:
- Laptop Sleeve: Located in the back panel, this sleeve provides extra structure to the pack and doesn’t impinge on the pet’s space.
- Built-in Leash Clip: A secure internal clip to keep your dog safely tethered within the backpack.
- Side Water Bottle Pockets: Two external pockets, although they could be deeper, are handy for small water bottles.
- Reflective Detailing: Enhances visibility during low-light conditions, improving safety during evening walks or hikes.
Despite its strengths, it’s important to acknowledge that this isn’t a flawless hiking pack if you need to carry a lot of your own gear, or if you have a larger Dachshund. While Roverlund states it can carry up to 25 lbs, my 14lb Dachshund, Gretel, fits snugly, and I wouldn’t recommend it for significantly heavier dogs. Its listed width of 13.4 inches matches Gretel’s length perfectly. The internal leash tether is quite long and non-adjustable, which I remedy by tying a knot to shorten it, ensuring it effectively prevents jumping. The shoulder straps are not width-adjustable and felt a bit wide for my frame, but the sternum strap effectively keeps them in place.
Overall, the Roverlund pack is comfortable enough for an hour or so of wear, and crucially, Gretel appears comfortable within it. Its primary appeal lies in allowing a Dachshund to ride in a position that supports their spine horizontally, making it a significant winner for back safety.
[Find the Roverlund dog backpack on UK retail sites] (Check availability with major UK pet and outdoor retailers).2) Kurgo G-Train Dog Carrier Backpack
The Kurgo G-Train Dog Carrier Backpack initially piqued my interest with its sleek design and perceived potential. However, I harboured concerns about its impact on a Dachshund’s spine due to the sitting position. Despite these reservations, I decided to test it, and to my pleasant surprise, it performed better than anticipated, offering a viable solution for many dog owners.
I acquired an earlier version of the pack, but Kurgo proactively sent me the updated model. I had heard that the initial version suffered from some sagging issues when carrying the dog’s weight, causing it to press against the wearer’s back. The newer iteration thoughtfully addresses this by incorporating two small internal stabilizer bars, significantly enhancing its supportive structure.
For our specific use case—hiking for less than an hour with an 11lb Dachshund that is 14 inches long (shoulder to tail base)—the Kurgo G-Train proved acceptable. While the listed weight limit is 25 lbs, feedback from other users suggests that performance and fit might diminish for dogs over 16 lbs. I cannot personally confirm this, but it’s a consideration for owners of slightly heavier small dogs.
Gretel was able to sit naturally in the pack, with all four paws on the base, appearing comfortable and rarely squirming unless we stopped and she anticipated getting out. Although she did occasionally slump slightly and lean against the side, the minimal spinal curvature this created didn’t cause me significant concern, as she could easily reposition herself. For smaller dogs or puppies, there’s even enough room to curl up for a nap.
From a human perspective, the backpack was comfortable to carry and offered some internal space for personal items. It features a removable, washable pad at the bottom for hygiene and a waist strap to aid in load distribution. However, it doesn’t provide enough space for all the gear I’d typically carry on a full day hike. For longer excursions (more than 1-2 hours) or if you require substantial supplies, you would likely need another person to carry the bulk of your equipment. A crucial design element to note is that the divider between the main compartment and the dog’s space is flexible; thus, the more supplies you pack, the less room your dog will have.
While not 100% ideal, the Kurgo G-Train remains one of the best options I’ve encountered for safely and efficiently carrying a Dachshund. It offers superior comfort for the wearer compared to some other models, though it doesn’t allow for a fully horizontal, spine-supported position like the Roverlund. Nevertheless, I believe it’s far less detrimental to a dog’s spine than vertical front carriers.
In summary, the Kurgo G-Train:
- Measures 12.9 inches wide (suitable for max Dachshund length), 10 inches deep at the bottom, and 21.7 inches tall.
- Is best suited for Dachshunds under 16 lbs, with a maximum limit of 25 lbs.
- Allows dogs to support themselves by standing on all four feet.
- Provides ample internal space for a Dachshund to shift into a comfortable position.
- Features a top opening for your dog to poke their head out and mesh side windows (though these are less useful if the pockets are full).
- Includes a removable, washable base pad and a supportive waist strap.
- Is comfortable for the wearer.
- Offers a separate compartment and small pockets for supplies, more than some alternatives, but less than a dedicated hiking backpack.
- Comes with adjustable sternum and waist straps for a custom fit.
3) Timbuk2 Muttmover
The Timbuk2 Muttmover, particularly the current Muttmover Luxe model, is another top-tier backpack choice for carrying a Dachshund, albeit with a few specific considerations. I first encountered this carrier style years ago and was immediately enthusiastic about its potential, leading Timbuk2 to kindly send me one for review.
The images from the original model depict the same dog positioning as the updated Muttmover Luxe, which is slightly larger, offering more internal room. A key advantage of the Muttmover Luxe is its dual side holes—an upper and a lower—allowing shorter dogs to comfortably peer out. Crucially, it’s designed to carry dogs horizontally across your back, mirroring a natural laying position. This sideways orientation is vital, as it provides consistent support along the entire length of a Dachshund’s spine, minimizing the risk of adverse pressure points. The front panel conveniently zips open completely, allowing your dog to easily step inside rather than being forced to slide in, enhancing user and dog experience.
However, the Muttmover is not without its drawbacks, especially when considering its suitability for extensive hiking versus city use. It’s more tailored for urban environments. The shoulder strap length is adjustable, but their width where they connect to the pack is fixed, feeling a bit too narrow for sustained comfort on rugged, steep trails. While it includes a waist strap, it’s a simple webbing strap, not a padded hip belt, meaning effective weight transfer from shoulders to hips is limited. Storage is also a concern; while there are small pockets for essentials like snacks and a water bottle, it lacks the capacity for significant hiking necessities such as an extra jacket, a comprehensive first-aid kit, or a headlamp.
Further considerations include:
- For my Dachshund Chester, who measures about 14 inches from shoulder blades to tail base, even the lower head hole was slightly too high, causing some pressure on his throat. I mitigated this by placing a towel at the bottom to raise him, making it perfectly comfortable.
- Despite the pack being 13.8 inches wide, Chester’s chest added a couple of inches to his perceived length, making the fit a little snug. However, the flexible sides allowed him to fit comfortably.
- This carrier is suitable for dogs under 20 lbs, or less than 14 inches from chest to rear.
- Note that this pack is generally too large for a Dachshund puppy.
In summary, the Timbuk2 Muttmover:
- Offers a horizontal laying position, making it one of the safest options for Dachshund spines.
- Measures 13.5 inches wide, 9.5 inches deep, and 18.7 inches tall.
- Is ideal for Dachshunds under 15 lbs, with a maximum limit of 20 lbs.
- Features a side hole for your dog to peek out.
- Has a Ripstop Nylon interior, which is easy to clean.
- Includes a few small pockets suitable for keys, a wallet, snacks, and minimal supplies.
- Comes with a collapsible, folding water dish.
- Features adjustable and removable sternum and waist straps.
Other Options I’ve Tried and What I Think About Them
Beyond my top recommendations, I’ve experimented with several other dog carrying solutions, each with its own set of pros and cons. My rigorous evaluation, driven by a deep understanding of canine spinal health and practical outdoor experience, reveals why these options may not be ideal for all situations, particularly for Dachshunds.
4) Your Regular Backpack
During a trip to Colorado, when navigating the steep and rocky sections of 14er mountains, we had to improvise to carry Chester. My husband carried him in a standard hiking backpack, specifically an Osprey Talon 44 (which remains my favourite personal day hiking pack). While it worked in a pinch, carrying your Dachshund in a regular backpack is far from ideal.
A small Dachshund, Chester, peeking out of an Osprey Talon backpack, being carried on a hiking trail
To make it work, we layered essential hiking gear at the bottom, followed by a blanket to create a soft base, and then another fluffed blanket to create a gentle slope. This setup allowed Chester’s upper body to be propped up to look out, while his lower body rested against the pack’s opposite side, offering a degree of back support. However, I observed an obvious curve in his spine when he was inside, and he seemed a little sore upon exiting. While it sufficed for that specific trip, I wouldn’t recommend carrying an adult Dachshund this way again unless it were an absolute emergency. For a very small puppy, however, with their shorter spine and lighter weight, this method could be a temporary consideration. This highlights the importance of purpose-designed carriers for spinal health.
5) The K9Sportsack
The K9 Sport Sack is a dog carrier backpack that frequently comes up in discussions among Dachshund owners. Despite my initial reservations about its design, I tested it to confirm my suspicions (they generously provided one for review). The original model was essentially just a bag for your dog. Recognizing the need for increased utility, K9 Sport Sack later developed models with additional storage, but the core dog-carrying design remains consistent across all versions.
The primary characteristic of this carrier, and indeed the obvious one, is that a dog must sit upright within the bag. The design offers minimal significant lateral support, which places dogs at risk of slouching. This slouching can cause their spine to curve, creating a compromised pressure point at the base of their spine, which is already under stress in this vertical position. The bag’s slim profile fits closely against the wearer’s back. If you are cycling or riding a motorcycle, where your upper body is slightly leaned forward, your back might offer some additional support, helping to keep your dog’s spine straighter.
I carried Chester in the K9 Sport Sack a few times, and he seemed fine for shorter durations. He didn’t appear uncomfortable or sore unless we walked for two hours or more.
A Dachshund sits on the ground inside a K9Sportsack backpack after a hike, looking tired but comfortable
While I know several Dachshund owners who successfully use the K9 Sport Sack for short hikes and scooter rides, I personally would not recommend it for carrying a Dachshund, especially one with a history of IVDD or other back problems. When I discussed this with a brand representative at a pet product trade show, even they agreed that a Dachshund should ideally only be in this pack for about an hour due to potential back issues. Nevertheless, it’s included on this list because of its popularity and use by some owners for very specific, short-duration activities.
The original K9 Sport Sack, now known as the Air, lacked additional storage. To address this, the company has introduced several options to enhance its utility for hiking and longer adventures:
- The Knavigate model, for example, includes a compartment attached to the bottom, an internal frame, and an added hip belt, making it more suitable for carrying additional gear.
6) Kurgo K9 Rucksack
The Kurgo K9 Rucksack shares a similar design philosophy with the Kurgo G-Train in terms of how your dog sits within it – allowing them to support themselves on all fours. Unlike the G-Train, however, the K9 Rucksack lacks the fiberglass supports, meaning its bottom is more prone to sagging under weight. Nevertheless, with an 11lb dog inside, I didn’t encounter significant issues during testing.
A small dog, possibly a Dachshund, sits inside a Kurgo K9 Rucksack dog carrier backpack, looking out
This bag is not among my top recommendations primarily because it offers very limited extra storage. Since my main objective was to find a backpack suitable for carrying a dog during hikes while also accommodating my essential gear, the lack of storage ruled this one out for me. However, for urban walks or short excursions where minimal extra items are needed, it could be a perfectly acceptable choice. Its design prioritizes the dog’s comfort in a seated position, but its practicality for extended outdoor adventures is constrained by its limited carrying capacity for human essentials.
Final Thoughts on the Best Dog Carrier Backpack UK
As you can see from my rigorous evaluations, my standards for dog carrier backpacks are exceptionally high, particularly when considering the unique needs of breeds like Dachshunds. My extensive search for the “perfect” solution—one that flawlessly combines optimal spinal support for the dog with comfort and ample storage for the human—has yet to yield an ideal, universally applicable product available for sale in the UK or globally.
However, the options I’ve reviewed, despite their individual compromises, represent the best available variations that are “good enough” for many dogs and their owners. Each offers a unique blend of safety, comfort, and practicality that might align with your specific needs, whether you’re navigating city streets or exploring the picturesque trails of the UK. The key lies in understanding your dog’s requirements and your own activity levels to select the most appropriate compromise.
The dream bag I envision, one that truly marries all desired features without any drawbacks, regrettably remains unrealised. In fact, I’m currently embarking on a personal project to assemble my ideal Dachshund carrier backpack from various components, and if I ever complete it, I plan to share detailed DIY instructions. The complexities and costs involved in designing and manufacturing such a specialized product are immense, often underestimated. So, unless by some stroke of luck a brand with a passion for Dachshunds and substantial resources decides to collaborate, my ideal carrier will remain a personal endeavour. If you happen to know any affluent investors who share a love for Dachshunds, do let me know!
Ultimately, choosing the best dog carrier backpack in the UK involves careful consideration of your dog’s health, comfort, and your specific lifestyle needs. Prioritise spinal safety, adjustability for the wearer, and practical storage, and you’ll find a carrier that makes your shared adventures safer and more enjoyable. Remember to always check product availability and pricing with UK retailers to ensure you’re getting the most suitable option for your locale.
