Dog carrier backpacks are extremely practical. They are immediately ready for use and still easy to store. Plus, they can be used in any terrain. Muddy forest trails, sandy beaches and rough terrain are no problem. You always have your hands free and can stow food and other stuff in the backpack in addition to the dog. Nevertheless, dog backpacks are only suitable for small to medium-sized dogs. Because the dog backpack weight is limited! But why?
We often receive messages like: Can I use your backpack for my 33 kg dog? Can you make a backpack for my son’s 15 year old Labrador? Which backpack fits my 36 kg Rottweiler?
Rule of thumb
Unfortunately, the answer is always that we do not offer and do not produce appropriate backpacks. Because the weight of the backpack should not be underestimated.
The dog backpack weight consists of the weight of the backpack itself and everything you stow in the backpack. This is the sum of the weight of the dog / dogs, plus food, change of clothes and more.
The rule of thumb for weight is:
- Body weight : 4 (well trained)
- Body weight : 5 (trained)
This means that a trained person should carry a maximum of 20 to 25 percent of their own body weight on their back. By the way, this rule of thumb was developed by the backpack manufacturer Deuter. Nevertheless, even this rule of thumb is only a rough guide. Because what are “trained people”? The Tatra Sherpas are the last European porters. They carry food, drinks and material to the mountain huts in the High Tatras. They carry around 80 kilograms per tour on wooden carrying frames.
Carrying System & Usage
The weight of a dog carrier backpack should not be much more than 2 kg. In addition, the backpack should have a good carrying system. This means that the backpack must be stable and well padded. Important: Some backpacks feel better padded than others at first. However, the thickness of the padding does not affect the wearing comfort. What matters is the density.
The dog carrier backpacks by TARIGS are suitable for dogs up to 16 kg (February 2022). They also offer enough space for the dog, food and more. The rule of thumb is only a guide. How long should the dog be carried? Which tours do you hike? How many breaks are planned? In the end, purpose and personal resilience are more important than the rule of thumb. The latter can be increased step by step through training.
Don’t forget: Tag us on your adventures! #tarigs
Looking for the right size or the perfect model? We are happy to help you! Email us at info@tarigs.com or contact us via social media. The more information, the better! However, we definitely need the shoulder height, back length, weight and breed of your dog, as well as the age if your dog is not yet fully grown.