Best Front-Facing & Backpack Dog Carriers in the UK | Buyer’s Guide
It is increasingly becoming more popular to take your furry friend with you when you go! But you need to be sure your dog is comfortable and happy going with you. If you have a puppy or a smaller/tiny dog, you really need to carry it. Their little legs cannot keep up with your pace or go as long a distance as you most likely intend to go. A dog backpack carrier is a good option to ensure you, your dog, and those around you are safe and comfortable.
You may want to carry your dog front-facing or back-facing with its “legs out”. You may want your dog completely contained and zipped up tightly. Or, you may want your dog securely contained but allow its head to poke out one of the openings (for visibility and air). Your decision depends on you and your dog’s personality, tolerance, and joy of being exposed to the public.
Different Types of Doggie Carriers
Before you decide what type of dog backpack carrier you need, determine how you intend to use it. Will you only use it for short walks or for camping and long hikes? Will you be traveling on an airplane? There are multi-function carriers that fold flat or convert from a backpack into a shoulder tote or a doggie car seat.
Back-Facing vs. Front-Facing
You commonly see cyclists or hikers with back-facing backpack carriers. They are sturdier carriers and many have multiple zippered mesh windows for airflow and pockets for carrying leashes, water bottles, and other essentials.
For walking or everyday errands, some of you may prefer a front-facing dog carrier. These are “designer carriers” that are generally less expensive, more whimsical, and may appear similar to a front baby carrier. These front-facing dog carriers have cutouts for dog legs and tails. These are called “legs out front” dog carrier designs.
Long-Distance Travel Backpack Carriers
It is becoming more common to take your dog with you on long trips and vacations that include planes, trains, ferries, or other communal transportation. However, carriers that are suitable for a walk, hike, or short car trip, may not be airline-approved, for instance.
There are multi-function dog carrier backpacks that are ideal for any type of travel. Most airlines have pet policies and regulate carrier types and sizes. Contact the airline or other transport before buying a backpack carrier to ensure which types of pet backpacks they accept and if it suits your daily as well as your long-travel needs.
What to Look For When Buying a Dog Backpack Carrier
Weigh and measure your dog. Accurate measurements are critical. Measure your pet’s chest, front/hind leg firth, and distance between the front legs to ensure a comfortable fit.
- Size and Weight. The dog backpack carrier must fit the size of your dog. If the carrier is too big, your dog may not feel secure and remain calm. If the carrier is too small, your dog might stress, overheat, or panic. Measure your dog carefully.
Even if the backpack carrier’s specifications say it can support your dog’s weight, you must ensure the carrier is big enough to comfortably accommodate your dog for a relatively long period.
- Comfort. You get a doggie backpack carrier to take your furry friend with you. You don’t want it to be stressful. Comfort is important for both of you. The size and weight of the carrier should fit your pet and be easy on you.
Padded straps allow you to carry your dog easier and longer. Adjustable straps also allow several people to share one backpack carrier without discomfort to a person or pup.
- Air Flow. Ventilation is an important factor of these pet carrier backpacks. Dogs easily overheat and dehydrate when they feel trapped with little airflow.
Most carrier backpacks are made of breathable/washable material. They may be mesh panels that allow airflow and animal visibility. The carrier should allow ample room for the animal to re-position. Cramped pets tend to stress, which raises their temperature.
Best Dog Backpack Carriers | Reviews
A good dog backpack carrier is comfortable for you as well as for your dog! It should be durable, have adequate ventilation, and have well-padded, adjustable straps for secure and balanced carry. Some products may include design/color, easy-care, and storage features.
PAWABOO Pet Carrier Backpack
This PAWABOO pet carrier backpack is a trendy, colorful, durable, front-facing, tail-and-legs-out bag. It fits pets up to 22 lbs. Your furry friend is secured inside by an inner collar while legs and tail hang free through flexible elastic openings. Hook/loop, zipper, and quick release buckles simplify installation and allow your pet to ride safely.
This carrier has two adjustable, easy-fit shoulder straps. Clips reduce pressure on your shoulders and neck. Breathable mesh and canvas allow maximum ventilation. There are also two mesh side panels for added airflow.
The downside is the lack of shoulder strap padding, which can make longer trips tedious over time. You may also not like the time it takes to put your pet into this carrier since it must be completely unzipped before putting your pet into it.
Recommendations:
This inexpensive colorfully trendy bag works best for short-haired pets and for shorter trips. It is recommended for shorter trips due to its “legs out front” design and lack of fully-padded straps. Due to its design, getting the correct size is also very important for your pet’s comfort.
K9 Sport Sack AIR
This durable, multi-function K9 Sport Sack AIR pet backpack is a front-facing, legs-in, veterinarian-approved safe-travel carrier for small- and medium-sized dogs up to 30 lbs. This carrier can convert to a shoulder strapped side bag, car seat, or handheld bag. It has a safety D-ring for secure collar hook-up and an easy-pull zipper.
It has two mesh-lined, Foam-Tek, slotted shoulder straps. A clip-on sternum strap attaches to reduce pressure. Breathable, washable micro-fiber allows maximum ventilation. It also features adjustable side pockets and Velcro strips for attaching safety lights, name tags, etc.
The main drawback is the lack of storage for personal items (i.e.: keys, cell, wallet, etc.). The XS size may also be too big for very small/teacup pets.
Recommendations:
This pet carrier backpack comes in a variety of colors and is veterinarian-approved and safe for travel. It is the USA Made with a 30-Day Quality Guarantee, but carrying any dog over 30 lbs. voids the K9 Sport Sack Warranty.
Mogoko Pet Dog Cat Puppy Portable Airline Travel Approved Carrier Backpack Bag
This Mogoko pet backpack is a front-facing, legs-in, airline-approved carrier that provides safe travel for long trips as well as for hiking, biking, and walks. It is suitable for a pet up to 15.5 lbs. This carrier has a safe interior rope and buckle that prevents your pet from escaping.
This carrier has two adjustable padded shoulder straps with buckles for stability. It is made of durable canvas with EPE foam-padded sides and back. The breathable mesh design allows maximum ventilation. It has two mesh panels for added visibility and meshes side pockets for extra leash, water bottle, etc. storage. The zippered top entry allows easy pet access and the elastic neckline window may be adjusted to fit the pet’s head. The removable pet cushion pad may be hand-washed with soap and water.
The main drawback is the over-flexibility of the bottom cushion. It may not provide adequate stability for heavier animals.
Recommendations:
This pet carrier backpack is airline-approved and an accepted pet carrier on most commercial airlines (i.e.: Southwest, American Airlines, JetBlue, Delta, United, etc.).
Best-Selling Dog Backpack Carriers in the UK | Comparison Table
Most Popular
morpilot Cat Carrier Backpack, Foldable Pet Carrier Backpack for Cats and Small Dogs, Dog Backpack Carrier with...
- Durable & Portable & Large Capacity: This foldable dog backpack carrier is made of eco-friendly polyester, wear-resistant and scratch-resistant, lightweight, and easy to carry. With roomy space: 13*11*16.5 inches. Recommend for pets up to 15lbs (Please measure the size and weight of your pet before purchasing this product). Providing the maximum convenience and comfort for your pet while hiking, traveling, camping.
- Comfortable Ventilation Design: This cat backpack adopts a four-sided ventilation mesh setting, which not only ensures the circulation of air in the pet backpack but also allows the pet to clearly observe the surrounding environment, thereby making the pet more comfortable and less anxious. The top of the pet backpack can be kept open to allow pets to stick out of the head; the sunshade can be folded and pasted to improve ventilation or can be placed normally to prevent sun exposure.
- Adjustable Shoulder Straps & Chest Strap & Waist Strap: The widened mesh shoulder straps are adjustable and comfortable for breathability. Ergonomic design and adjustable chest strap and the adjustable waist strap design can help reduce load and increase comfort so that the shoulders are evenly stressed and reduce backpressure. In order to use the pet backpack more comfortably, it is recommended to adjust the shoulder/chest/waist strap to the most comfortable state before use.
- Safety Design: The built-in safety strap can prevent the pet from escaping from the inside when opening the top, ensuring the safety of the pet. The top, bottom, and front zippers have a lockable function to ensure that your pet cannot open the door by itself, providing double protection. With the sturdy and comfortable bottom cushion with double-sided use, you can choose the side that your pet prefers. It can be removed and washed separately!
- Pockets on both sides of the pet bag provide more room for storage. You can store folding dog bowls, snacks, toys, garbage bags, etc. In addition, this pet travel backpack is also equipped with a blue foldable dog bowl.
Kurgo Dog Carrier Backpack for Small Dogs and by Amazon.co.uk
- PET BACKPACK: Small dog backpack is made for small dogs and cats who enjoy the outdoors; interior swivel tether latches onto harness to keep the pet confined in his area; dog travel backpack is airline and TSA approved; always check with your airline; dimensions are 33 W x 53 H x 25 D cm
- WATERPROOF BOTTOM: Airline dog backpack has a water-resistant fabric top with a waterproof Armorsole bottom; front-facing dog backpack is stain resistant and easy to wipe clean; removable, machine-washable interior pad
- VENTILATED AND PADDED SIGN: Dog carrying backpack is lightweight, rugged, and tough, yet has softly padded compartments for your pet and your belongings; comes with top and front grab handles; zippered organization pockets for storage
Pawaboo Pet Carrier Backpack, Adjustable Pet Front by Joiel EU
- 【Recommended for 5LB ＜ Small Dog & Cat ＜ 18LB 】: Pawaboo dog carrier backpack is designed for carrying small dogs/cats, we highly recommend for puppies less than 18 LB (The larger dog may bring too much weight-bearing for the owner). Please DO measure your pets and choose according to the size chart (fig.2).
- 【Considerate Detail-oriented Design】: Legs-out and tail-out design keep your pet safe and comfortable; Hook and loop, zipper and elastic openings allow you to fit your dog inside comfortably; Quick Release Buckles on the end of straps ensure quick installation with just one hand.
Other Popular
pecute Cat Carrier Dog Backpack Expandable, by cattpie
- 🐾【𝐄𝐗𝐏𝐀𝐍𝐃𝐑𝐁𝐋𝐄 𝐋𝐀𝐑𝐆𝐄 𝐒𝐏𝐀𝐂𝐄】: Newly designed with an extendable back, gives your pet more space to rest and increase air circulation. Allows your pet to move around more comfortably and reduces anxiety.
- 🐾【𝐄𝐗𝐂𝐄𝐋𝐋𝐄𝐍𝐓 𝐕𝐄𝐍𝐓𝐈𝐋𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍】: 1. Upgraded four sides mesh window, ensure for added ventilation to maximize airflow; 2. Mesh opening on the top for pets to stick their head out of, which can enjoy the scenery and interact with the outside world.
- 🐾【𝐄𝐀𝐒𝐄，𝐂𝐎𝐌𝐅𝐎𝐑𝐓，𝐒𝐀𝐅𝐓𝐘】: The carrier offers multiple ways to let your pet in and out with ease. For extra comfort, pet cushions are used on the bottom inside the bag, giving pets the perfect spot to rest while on the go. Design with a safety belt inside and the buckle zippers outside to keep your furry friend secure in the carrier.
Mogokoyo Comfortable Dog Cat Carrier Backpack, Puppy Pet Front Pack with Breathable Head Out Design and Padded...
- Size: 13.7"(L)*10.2"(W)*14.5"(H), (your pet back length should be close to 14.5 inch, allow ±2.0 inch ); recommend weight from 10.0 to 15.5 lbs (must measure the length of your pet and weigh together for accurate reference), suitable for a large cat, small or medium dog like Chihuahua, Yorkshire, Pomeranian and etc
- Durable & Comfortable Material: Made from breathable mesh and polyester fiber, lightweight and Comfortable， great ideal for outdoor trips, sightseeing, camping hiking and etc
- Peep Hole and Mesh Pockets Design: A drawstring opening neck hole on the top of the backpack to keep your pet stick their head out,make them ventilation and visible, enjoy the entertainment with their host, adjustable hole string and soft mesh padded hole edge to ensure its security and comfort. Mesh front pockets help store leash, whistle, water, snacks, treats and other necessities.
- Adjustable Straps & Interior Drawstring: Adjustable padded straps help to reduce the burden. extra waist strap with buckle keeps the backpack stable. Interior rope with clip can connect to your pet's collar/harness to prevent your pet from jumping out or hurting itself. keeps them more secure
- Padding Panels & Removable Bottom Cover: With EPE foam padded back and sides, reducing the burden and offering more comfort to you and your pet, this rucksack/knapsack help your pet enjoy a nice nap/trip. The removable sturdy bottom cover makes it easier to replace/clean.
NICREW Legs Out Front-facing Dog Carrier Backpack, Hands-Free Adjustable Pet Dog Backpack Carrier for Walking...
- 4 cm wide straps with great padding, the straps will never cut into your back/shoulders anymore
- Easy in and out design. Two side zippers on the long sides of the carrier and hook and loop fastener at the dog's neck
- Made from breathable cotton and polyester fiber, is durable and comfortable
- Great for walks, bike rides and even using in the car. You can take your beloved dog together anywhere and anytime when you want with the dog front backpack carrier
- Designed for carrying small medium dogs/cats, please use our size chart to determine the correct size (See the last picture)
Mogokoyo Airline Approved Cat Dog Backpack, Puppy Pet Carrier Front Bag with Breathable Head Out Design and...
- ❤Size M: backpack total height--13.1", recommend weight from 0.0 to 3.0 kg (must measure your pet's length and weight together for accurate reference), more size information, please check our size chart photo. suitable for Cat, small-medium dog, Mini poodle, Mini Schnauzer, Mini Teddy, Chihuahua
- ❤Durable & Comfortable Material: Made from breathable mesh and polyester fiber, lightweight and Comfortable，great ideal for outdoor trips, sightseeing, camping hiking and etc
- ❤Adjustable Straps & Interior Drawstring: Adjustable padded straps help to reduce the burden. extra waist strap with buckle keeps the backpack stable. Interior rope with clip can connect to your pet's collar/harness to prevent your pet from jumping out or hurt itself, keeps them more secure
- ❤Padding Panels & Removable Bottom Cover: With EPE foam padded back and sides, reducing the burden and offering more comfort to you and your pet, this rucksack/knapsack helps your pet enjoy a nice nap/trip. The removable sturdy bottom cover makes it easier to replace/clean.
- ❤Peep Hole Design for Ventilation & Visible, Mesh Pockets for Storage: a drawstring opening neck hole on the top of the backpack to keep pet stick their head out,make them ventilation and visible, enjoy the entertainment with their host, adjustable hole string and soft mesh padded hole edge to ensure its security and comfort. Mesh side and front pockets help store leash, whistle, water, snacks, treats and other necessities
Kurgo Dog Carrier Backpack for Small Pets, K9 Rucksack, Heather Grey, Waterproof Bottom for Pets up to 11 kg, Small
- Pet carrier backpack - backpack is made for small pets up to 11 kg who enjoy the outdoors. Interior tether adds extra security and attaches directly to pet harness. Measures 30 x 22 x 45 cm (W x D x H)
- Waterproof bottom - don't worry about setting your pack down. The armorsole bottom will keep muck out and comfort in. Easy to wipe clean and has a removable, machine washable interior pad, just in case
- Laptop and Ipad sleeve - interior zipper pocket for laptop, with a back pocket for an iPad. Laptop sleeve has fleece lining for extra protection
- Breathable mesh - ventilated through zippered top mesh opening (can be rolled away for extra ventilation) and the two side faux leather vents
- Lifetime Warranty - Product comes with the hassle-free Kurgo lifetime warranty against any manufacturer defects when purchased from authorised dealers
PETCUTE Pet Carrier Backpack Dog Travel Backpack Pet Carrying Bag for Small Dogs Cats Head Out Design Airline...
- Material - Made of high quality sandwich mesh fabric and oxford fabric. Soft shoulder adjustable straps is good to reduce the burden.
- Size XL: backpack total height--18.1",(your pets back length should be close to 18.1 inch, allow ±2.0 inch ); recommend weight from 4.5 to 6.8 kg (must measure your pets length and sitting position height together for accurate reference), more size information, please check our size chart photo. suitable for large cat, medium large dog, Chihuahua, Yorkshire, Pomeranian and etc
- Safe - The buckle design inside the carrier can connect with pet's collar which will prevent pet get out, and protect the safe of pet. Extendable strap with buckle keeps the backpack stable.
- Comfortable - The front hole is adjustable with drawstring according to your pets' size. Well ventilated design for optimal airflow and checking on pet, soft cozy lining bedding so your pet can relax and rest.
- Mesh Design - Mesh windows are ventilated and visible, making your pet breathe freely and relax. Zipped top entry allows for easy access. Mesh side pockets help store leash, whistle, water, snacks, treats and other necessities.
Lekesky Pet Backpack Carrier Expandable Cat Carrier Backpack Dog Backpack for Small Medium Dogs Cats Carrier with...
- Foldable and Expandable: This pet carrier backpack has a unique expandable design for extra space and air circulation, and it can fold flat for easy storage when not in use. Perfect for hiking, camping, travel and outdoor activities
- Pet Backpack Dimension: 30×26×43cm; when expand - 52×27×26cm; when flat - 38×32×5cm. Easily fits pets up to 15 pounds, Great trave pet carrier for small medium dogs, cats and rabbits etc
- Comfortable Ventilation Design: The dog carrier has 2 entrances (on top and front) for easy access, 4 mesh windows ensure visibility and ventilation, thereby making the pet less anxious. The top pad with roll up function, easy to use in rainy or sultry weather. The leash attachment inside will prevent pets from escaping
- Durable and Easy to Use: Made of high quality oxford fabric that is non-toxic, waterproof, anti-scratch and non-irritating. The soft padding is fully detachable and washable, the frame is well structured to keep its shape, the side pockets can store food and trash bags and other necessary accessories
- Satisfied Guarantee - All lekesky pet carrier backpack bag are guaranteed with 30-day money-back warranty and 180-day warranty for quality-related issues, friendly customer service
PETTOM Pet Backpack Carrier for Dogs Cats Puppies Bunny, Pet Carry Bag with Ventilated Design, Sun-proof...
- Premium Pet Carrier Backpack designed with most attention to detail & maximum comfort for you and your pet. Ideal pet carry bag for outdoor adventures, hiking, traveling. Capacity: approximately 34 * 26 * 40 cm
- Designed with Safety in Mind: Escape proof hook inside the pup / cat carrier secures your pet from jumping out. Ample breathable mesh makes sure pet bag has enough ventilation.
- Max Comfort for Owner & Pet: Pet backpack with padded shoulder strap and nicely supported back eases pressure on owner. Removable mat makes it cozy for pet to stay in. Unique curtain design is sun-proof, creates shade.
- Convenience Matters: Zippered pocket for storage of pet essentials. Two sided entry provides easy access for pet. Removable mat makes cleaning quick and easy. Can also be used as pet handbag, front pack.
- Premium Quality Construction: Dog puppy travel bag made with 600D Oxford Cloth with PVC coating, durable lightweight & lasts long. Built with unique and firm structure, falls completely flat when not in use, perfect for outdoor activities traveling walking hiking.
TOMKAS Small Dog Cat Carrier Sling
The TOMKAS pet carrier is a casual hands-free sling bag that is well-suited for short trips. This bag is not a purse! It is 23.6” x 11.8” making it suitable for a pet up to 12 lbs. (although it is not recommended for pets over 10 lbs.). The single shoulder strap’s length may be adjusted. A security lock attaches to the safe collar hook to ensure your pet sits and rides safely. The breathable, thick, soft polyester, reversible fabric maximizes ventilation and is machine washable.
The primary drawback is that it is not suitable for a pet over the recommended 10-lb. limit. If your pet is bigger, you may have to shop for a bigger backpack carrier.
Recommendations:
The stylish TOMKAS reversible sling bag design distributes the (pet) load well. It also allows you to always be in close contact with your pet. It is recommended for short trips and for first-time pet carrier buyers mainly because it is an inexpensive, compact, soft, and easy care product.
Soft-Sided Pet Carrier Backpack for Small Dogs and Cats by Pawfect Pets
The Pawfect foldable pet carrier is a front-facing, legs-in, soft-sided 17” H x 11” W x 11” D backpack designed with walks, hikes, long trips, and flying in mind. It is suitable for pets up to 10 lbs. This carrier has escape-proof mesh and zipper buckles. It has a safety leash tether/collar hook for securing your pet when the top panel is open for air.
This carrier has two thickly-padded adjustable shoulder straps. Breathable, washable micro-fiber allows maximum ventilation. It has two mesh (top and front) zippered panels for entrance and airflow. The two removable fleece pet cushion pads may also be hand-washed with soap and water.
The main drawback can be its size that may be too small for bigger and longer pets. Always accurately measure your pet before purchasing your pet carrier backpack.
Recommendations:
This is the largest airline-approved (i.e.: Southwest, JetBlue, American Airlines, Delta, United, etc.) backpack pet carrier. It is recommended if your pet flies with you due to its escape-proof, ventilation, visibility, durability, and portability/storage characteristics. It folds flat.
What First-Time Dog Backpack Carrier Users Should Know
If you are unfamiliar with choosing and using a dog backpack, buy a less expensive one first. After you and your pet adapt to using it, you can upgrade to a more durable carrier or one that is made for longer trips.
Pros & Cons
The primary benefit is the relief of not having to leave your furry friend home alone. Most models also have pockets/space to carry most of what your dog and you need while outdoors. There are no restriction on how long you stay out since your tired puppy has a “ride” home after a long day of activity.
Most of these carriers are for smaller pets. Not all of them are machine washable, have storage or well-padded straps, or are accepted on airlines.
Conclusion
A hands-free dog backpack carrier lets you safely take your furry friend with you. Lighter weight, and more comfortable, self-clean/easy-care, and durable materials are constantly being invented/discovered. Similarly, these products in the future will all be escape-proof, have wi-fi connections, and provide your pet a motionless, pressurized/climate controlled compartment.
Read also: 14 Dog Repellent Sprays & Deterrent Devices.
