Anyone who spends time outdoors with their dog knows: You need gear you can rely on. Especially when your four-legged friend needs to be carried occasionally—whether due to age, steep terrain, or long distances—the carrying system plays a crucial role.
At TARIGS, we have deliberately chosen the principle of the contact back. In this article, you’ll learn why a dog backpack with a contact back is the best choice for you and your dog.
What Does Contact Back Mean?
The term refers to a carrying system in which the backpack fits broadly and closely against the back. Unlike mesh-back systems that leave a gap for ventilation, the contact back forms a functional unit with the body. The weight is not carried solely by the shoulders but is distributed evenly across the entire back and hips.
Close Fit for Optimal Load Control
Carrying a dog is completely different from carrying a classic, well-packed trekking backpack. Your dog moves, shifts its weight, or looks left and right. An ergonomic dog carrier backpack with a contact back ensures that the “living weight” stays evenly distributed and your dog is transported safely.
- Optimal load control: The close fit keeps your dog’s center of gravity as close as possible to your own.
- Stability instead of wobbling: A contact back prevents the backpack (and therefore your dog) from swinging back and forth with every movement.
- Spinal relief: The closer the load sits to your back, the less leverage is exerted on your shoulders, reducing strain.
Breathable Materials for Comfortable Carrying
A common concern with contact backs is the worry about sweating. Modern systems, like those we use at TARIGS, show that this doesn’t have to be an issue.
Breathable back pads with special air channels and open-cell foam provide continuous ventilation without compromising the close, contact-fit.
Direct Comparison: Contact Back vs. Mesh Back
When choosing the ideal dog backpack, you’re usually faced with the decision: mesh back or contact back? Many hikers appreciate the maximum ventilation provided by the mesh back of lightweight daypacks. But as soon as it comes to carrying your dog, this system quickly reaches its limits.
Since the key difference lies in weight distribution and center of gravity, the carrying system becomes the crucial factor for your comfort: a mesh back relies on distance, while a contact back creates a stable unit between you and your dog. It’s this control that determines how effortlessly you can tackle challenging trails together.
| Feature: | Mesh Back | Contact Back (TARIGS) |
| Center of Gravity: | Far from the back (lever effect) | Close to the body (energy-saving) |
| Stability: | Backpack may sway with movement | Maximum stability, no swinging |
| Control: | Indirect carrying feel | Direct feedback with every movement |
| Ventilation: | Maximum through free airflow | Optimized with ventilation channels |
The Problem with Mesh Backs: The curved back plate of a mesh system causes your dog’s weight to pull backward. This is not only more tiring for you, but it can also become dangerous in rough terrain if you lose your balance.
When a Contact Back is the Better Choice
A dog carrier backpack with a contact back is especially worthwhile wherever precision, stability, and secure load control are required. Whether on a mountain hike or during winter sports, the close fit ensures that you and your dog move as a unit.
1. Challenging mountain hikes & climbing sections
When the trail narrows, your backpack shouldn’t have a mind of its own. The contact back fits closely against your back, keeps the center of gravity near your body, and ensures you can carry your dog’s weight safely without either of you losing balance.
2. Relaxed hikes & outdoor activities
Whether at a brisk pace or on uneven trails, the precise load control of the contact back keeps the TARIGS dog carrier backpack snug and secure, without bouncing against your back with every movement. Meanwhile, your dog maintains a calm and stable position inside—even when the trail gets a bit more dynamic.
3. Winter sports & high-altitude tours
An often underestimated advantage: the contact back keeps body heat close and prevents icy wind from circulating between your back and the backpack. This saves energy and keeps both you—and indirectly your dog—warm.
How TARIGS Uses Contact Backs
During the development of our backpacks, one goal was paramount: to create a carrying system that doesn’t become a burden on longer tours, neither for you nor for your dog.
Specifically Designed for Small and Medium-Sized Dogs
Dogs up to 20 kg place special demands on a backpack’s structure. Our contact-back design optimally absorbs this weight and distributes it over the hip fins to the pelvis. This not only ensures stability while carrying but also a comfortable balance, even on uneven trails.
Ergonomic Fit for Dog & Owner
Not only should you carry the backpack comfortably, but your dog should also sit securely. The sturdy back and frame of the backpack prevent the base from sagging, maintaining your dog’s ergonomic seating position. This ensures that your four-legged friend sits safely, stably, and comfortably.
High-Quality, Breathable Materials
To prevent you from struggling on demanding sections, our carrying system is equipped with a breathable mesh cover and special ventilation channels. This design allows continuous airflow and reliably wicks away moisture. You can enjoy the unbeatable load control of the contact back without sacrificing a pleasantly fresh carrying experience.
Combination of Comfort, Safety & Stability
A TARIGS dog carrier backpack is far more than just a transport aid. The thoughtful combination of wide straps, load-control belts, and the proven contact-back principle creates outdoor gear that sets new standards. Comfortable, safe, and stable—for both you and your dog.
Are you ready for your next adventure?
Discover the TARIGS dog carrier backpacks now and experience how effortless “living weight” can feel with the right system.
And don’t forget: Tag us on your adventures! #tarigs