Burnt Hills Veterinary Hospital

The 6 Best Dog Backpack Carriers, Tested and Reviewed

"Veterinarians Dr. Heidi Gordon and Dr. Beverly Blinn-Knapp, based in Burnt Hills, New York, provided the article's expert guidance on choosing and using dog backpack carriers, stressing fit, safety, ventilation, and gradual acclimation. On fit and comfort they note: "It is important for the dogs to be able to choose positions so they can stay comfortable and avoid pressure sores," Dr. Gordon shares, and "The dog should be able to sit in it and move a little [so] they can be comfortable," Dr. Blinn-Knapp adds. Prioritizing airflow, Dr. Blinn-Knapp explains, "The carrier should have a lot of mesh in the sides so that they have plenty of ventilation." Regarding introduction and tolerance, Dr. Gordon advises: "Some dogs may not tolerate being in the carrier at all while others may enjoy being carried and associate it with an adventure. Like any new or different experience I would recommend a slow introduction and stop if the dog seems restless or uncomfortable." She also gives practical timing guidance: "I would start with brief carries, 5 to 10 minutes, to get the dog acclimated. If the dog becomes restless then it’s time for a break. Once a dog is comfortable in the carrier you could probably go one to three hours, but that length of time is something that would need to be worked up to." On travel use, Dr. Blinn-Knapp shares a tested example: "With ours, the dog was fully contained inside. It was the right size on its side to fit under a plane seat and then you can carry the dog through the airport on your back. My husband says it's easier than it seems and reasonably comfortable." - Lauren Breedlove Lauren Breedlove Lauren Breedlove is a New York-based travel writer, photographer, and content creator who focuses on off-the-beaten-path outdoor adventures. Her work has been featured in Afar, Time magazine, TravelPulse, Popsugar, Travel + Leisure, Elite Daily, and Thrillist. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines